Positioning:
Mid-size pickup truck positioned as a versatile workhorse and lifestyle vehicle
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Distinguishing Features:
Available V8 engine option (5.9L Magnum), distinctive styling, often considered a strong value proposition
Purpose:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs, saving time and money compared to dealership service.
General Coverage:
Complete collection of workshop repair information
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific publisher, but typically 1500+ pages for comprehensive coverage
Type:
Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially print versions available
Engine Management:
Engine diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, axles, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear disc/drum), ABS
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control modules
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, doors, tailgate, bumpers, structural repairs
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, mechanical problems
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for all major systems
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system troubleshooting, and bodywork
Digital Format:
PDF (searchable text is highly desirable)
Print Quality:
Clear, legible diagrams and text. High-resolution images are a plus.
Binding Type:
N/A (for digital), Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (for print)
Paper Type:
N/A (for digital), Durable, coated paper stock (for print) to withstand shop use
Engine Option 1:
3.9L Magnum V6
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
3906 cc (238 ci)
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
~175-180 hp
Engine Option 1 Torque:
~220-230 lb-ft
Engine Option 2:
4.7L Magnum V8
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
4701 cc (287 ci)
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
~230-245 hp
Engine Option 2 Torque:
~295-310 lb-ft
Engine Option 3:
5.9L Magnum V8 (Heavy Duty Models)
Engine Option 3 Displacement:
5899 cc (360 ci)
Engine Option 3 Horsepower:
~250 hp
Engine Option 3 Torque:
~330 lb-ft
Engine Management System:
Electronic, sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Pressure Spec:
Refer to manual for specific pressure values (typically 35-45 psi)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RE/44RE/45RFE)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (NV3500)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent Dexron III for earlier models - manual will specify)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific capacities (typically 7-10 quarts for refill)
Wheelbase Short Bed:
111.9 inches
Wheelbase Long Bed:
124.5 inches
Bed Lengths:
6.25 ft (short bed), 8 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Range:
Up to approx. 7,000 - 7,500 lbs (with V8 and proper towing package)
NHTSA Driver Side Frontal:
Refer to NHTSA archives for specific model year ratings (likely 4-star)
NHTSA Passenger Side Frontal:
Refer to NHTSA archives for specific model year ratings (likely 4-star)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some base trims
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo, optional CD player, cassette player
Speaker Configuration:
Standard 4-speaker, optional 6-speaker system
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions - refer to manual)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage - refer to manual)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature - refer to manual for exact specs)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific capacities (e.g., 4.7L V8 typically around 5 quarts)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology)
Common Issue Ignition:
Spark plug ejection (especially 4.7L V8), coil pack failures
Common Issue Transmission:
Torque converter shudder, transmission fluid leaks
Common Issue Suspension:
Ball joint wear, front end shimmy
Common Issue Electrical:
Instrument cluster failures (gauges dropping out)
Common Issue Engine:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (4.7L V8)
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, building on the Ram truck lineage.
Second Generation An Platform:
Introduced in 1997, this generation featured a significant styling update and the introduction of the optional V8 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico
Production Years For Platform:
1997-2004 (model years covered by this manual are within this range)
