Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
Consumers and professional mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for the 2001 Dodge Ram Truck.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust powertrains, strong towing and payload capacity, comfortable ride for its class, distinctive styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides authoritative, factory-level technical data essential for DIY repairs, preventative maintenance, and advanced diagnostics, saving time and money on vehicle upkeep.
Engine:
All gasoline and diesel engines including Magnum V8 (5.2L, 5.9L), V10 (8.0L), and Cummins Turbo Diesel (5.9L)
Transmission:
Automatic transmissions (42RE, 44RE, 46RE, 47RE) and manual transmissions (NV3500, NV4500)
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive systems (NV235, NV241DHD), transfer case, rear axle, front axle, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front suspension (solid axle with leaf springs), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system, shock absorbers, steering linkage
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (and optional rear disc brakes), ABS system, brake hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system, lighting, instruments, gauges, body control modules, fuse box diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, refrigerant R-134a, climate controls
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags
Chassis:
Frame construction, body mounts, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, radiator, coolant hoses, clamps
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, troubleshooting flowcharts
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, exhaust system repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems
Rebuilding:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission rebuild procedures, differential overhaul
Installation:
Component installation and replacement procedures, including timing belt/chain replacement, accessory drive belt replacement
Adjustment:
Valve adjustments (where applicable), parking brake adjustment, clutch adjustment (manual transmissions)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic flowcharts.
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500)
Optional Transmission 1:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE - for 5.2L V8, some 5.9L V8, light duty 4x4)
Optional Transmission 2:
4-Speed Automatic (44RE - for 5.9L V8, heavy duty applications)
Optional Transmission 3:
4-Speed Automatic (46RE - for V10 and Diesel, heavy duty towing)
Optional Transmission 4:
5-Speed Manual (NV4500 - for Cummins Diesel and V10 applications)
Overdrive:
All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD systems with 2-speed transfer cases (e.g., NV235, NV241DHD)
Wheelbase 1500:
134.0 inches (Standard Cab, Long Bed), 117.7 inches (Standard Cab, Short Bed), 140.5 inches (Club Cab, Short Bed), 154.5 inches (Club Cab, Long Bed)
Wheelbase 2500:
134.0 inches (Standard Cab, Long Bed), 139.0 inches (Club Cab, Short Bed), 154.5 inches (Club Cab, Long Bed)
Wheelbase 3500:
134.0 inches (Standard Cab, Long Bed), 154.5 inches (Club Cab, Long Bed)
Bed Length Options:
Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)
Gvwr Range:
6,000 lbs (1500) to 9,500 lbs (3500) depending on configuration
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 lbs to 6,500 lbs depending on configuration
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months for severe service; 7,500 miles or 6 months for normal service (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
100,000 miles (Platinum Plus spark plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on usage and transmission type (refer to manual for specific intervals and fluid types).
Engine Oil V8 5.9L:
API SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for temperature ranges and synthetic options). 7 quarts capacity.
Engine Oil Cummins 5.9L:
API CG-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 (preferred), or 5W-40 synthetic. 10 quarts capacity.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. (Purple color, ethylene glycol based).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 42RE, 44RE, 46RE transmissions.
Manual Transmission Fluid Nv3500:
GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. (Refer to manual for specific approved types).
Manual Transmission Fluid Nv4500:
GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. (Refer to manual for specific approved types).
Rear Axle Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-140 synthetic gear oil (depending on axle and service).
Common Problems V8:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, EGR valve issues, distributor and rotor failure, piston ring wear leading to oil consumption.
Common Problems Diesel:
Lift pump failure, injector issues (especially on early versions), exhaust manifold cracking, camshaft wear.
Common Problems Transmission:
Torque converter shudder, overdrive band failure (automatics), clutch wear (manuals).
Common Problems Suspension:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, leaf spring sag (especially in heavy-duty models).
Common Problems Electrical:
Instrument cluster failure, power window motor failure, ABS sensor issues, headlight switch problems.