🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500, 2500, 3500

Model Generation Covered By Manual:

Third Generation (2002-2008) and Fourth Generation (2009-2018). The 'ONWARDS' implies potential coverage for early Fifth Generation (2019+) models, although definitive coverage requires manual confirmation beyond 2018.

Platform Codes 1500:

DR (2002-2008), DS (2009-2018)

Platform Codes 2500 3500:

DH (2002-2009), D2 (2010-2018)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size pickup truck. The Ram line is known for its robust construction, towing and hauling capabilities, and a range of powertrain options catering to both work and lifestyle use.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250, F-350), Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra (1500, 2500HD, 3500HD), Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides professional-grade, in-depth technical information mirroring factory service data. Essential for accurate diagnostics, efficient repairs, and proper maintenance, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

Vehicle Strengths Covered:

The manual covers the inherent strengths of the Ram trucks, such as their powerful Hemi and Cummins engine options, durable transmissions, and robust chassis design, detailing how to maintain and repair these key attributes.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage for all repair and maintenance aspects of Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks from 2001 onwards. This includes mechanical, electrical, body, and chassis systems.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely exceeding 1,500 pages. Professional service manuals for heavy-duty trucks covering multiple model years and configurations are typically extensive. Actual count may vary depending on specific edition.

Type:

Factory-level Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), fuel systems, exhaust systems, cooling systems, lubrication systems, engine overhaul, timing, emissions controls.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE, 48RE, 68RFE, 8HP70), manual transmissions (e.g., NV3500, NV4500, G56), transfer cases (e.g., NP241, NP243, NV244, NV271, NV273), drivelines, axles, differentials, CV joints, U-joints, axle ratios.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (independent, solid axle configurations), rear suspension (leaf spring, coil spring configurations), shock absorbers, struts, ball joints, control arms, sway bars, steering gear, power steering systems, steering columns, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc, drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake fluid specifications, caliper replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake line routing, bleeding procedures, parking brake system.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), ignition system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, body control modules (BCM), powertrain control modules (PCM), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, power windows, locks, mirrors, instrument cluster, audio systems, HVAC controls, trailer wiring.

Body Chassis:

Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, tailgate operation, interior trim, weatherstripping, bumper systems, chassis lubrication, rust prevention and repair.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, service), heating system, climate control modules, blower motor, vents, cabin air filter replacement.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotations and pressure checks, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance, brake pad/shoe inspection, coolant flushes.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for various symptoms (e.g., engine performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, transmission slippage), use of diagnostic tools, interpretation of DTCs, symptom-based diagnostic trees.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation. This includes major overhauls of engines, transmissions, and differentials.

Diagnostics:

Specific procedures for diagnosing electrical circuits, fuel injection systems, emission control systems, ABS, and HVAC controls using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and scan tools.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, electrical component resistance values, component clearances, fluid capacities, tire pressures, wheel lug nut torque, alignment angles.

Depth:

Factory-level, highly detailed. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF. Searchable text functionality is highly probable, allowing for quick access to specific information. High-resolution pages for clear image and diagram viewing.

Printability:

Designed to be printable. Users can select specific sections or the entire manual for printing. High-quality diagrams and illustrations suitable for print reproduction.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital PDF). If a printed version were available, it would likely be a comb-bound or spiral-bound format for ease of use in a workshop setting.

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (digital PDF). If a printed version were available, it would typically be on durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Magnum 5.2L V8 (e.g., EZB), Magnum 5.9L V8 (e.g., EPG, ESV), 4.7L Magnum V8 (e.g., PGA, PGH)

Displacement:

5.2 L, 5.9 L, 4.7 L

Horsepower Torque Approx:

5.2L: ~230 hp / 300 lb-ft; 5.9L: ~245-250 hp / 330-345 lb-ft; 4.7L: ~235-260 hp / 295-325 lb-ft

Engine Code:

3.7L Magnum V6 (e.g., ESG), 4.7L Magnum V8 (e.g., PSA), 5.7L HEMI V8 (e.g., TRX, TRZ), 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (e.g., EXF)

Displacement:

3.7 L, 4.7 L, 5.7 L, 3.0 L

Horsepower Torque Approx:

3.7L: ~215 hp / 235 lb-ft; 4.7L: ~310 hp / 330 lb-ft; 5.7L HEMI: ~390-395 hp / 410-416 lb-ft; 3.0L EcoDiesel: ~240 hp / 420 lb-ft

Engine Code:

5.7L HEMI V8 (e.g., TRX), 6.7L Cummins I6 Turbo Diesel (e.g., CRD, CSD, CSD), 8.3L Viper V10 (early 3rd gen)

Displacement:

5.7 L, 6.7 L, 8.3 L

Horsepower Torque Approx:

5.7L HEMI: ~345-390 hp / 375-410 lb-ft; 8.3L V10: ~500 hp / 500 lb-ft; 6.7L Cummins: ~305-370 hp / 555-800 lb-ft (depending on model year and tuning)

Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI), Direct Injection (for some diesel variants). Turbocharged and common rail injection for Cummins diesels.

Engine Cooling:

Pressurized coolant system. Manual covers radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant types (e.g., Mopar OAT, HOAT, Diesel-specific).

Engine Lubrication:

Wet sump lubrication. Manual details oil pump, oil filter part numbers (e.g., Mopar MO-090, MO-349 for HEMI, LF16022 for Cummins), oil viscosity specifications (e.g., 5W-20, 5W-30 for gasoline, 15W-40, 5W-40 for diesel).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Varies by model year and configuration. Common: 4-speed automatic (e.g., 45RFE), 5-speed automatic (e.g., 545RFE, 5-speed manual NV3500), 6-speed automatic (e.g., 65RFE, 8HP70).

Type:

5-speed manual (NV3500), 6-speed manual (NV4500, G56 for heavier duty models), 4-speed automatic (42RE), 5-speed automatic (45RFE, 48RE), 6-speed automatic (68RFE, 8HP70).

Type:

For 2500/3500: Heavy-duty 4-speed automatic (48RE), 6-speed manual (NV4500, G56), 6-speed automatic (68RFE). Diesel models typically feature the 48RE or 68RFE.

Type:

V10 models may have different automatic transmissions. Early 3rd gen had 48RE, later 3rd gen and 4th gen often had the 68RFE for diesel. 6-speed manual G56 is common on Cummins trucks.

Fluid Specifications:

ATF+4 (for most automatics), gear oil for manual transmissions and differentials (e.g., Mopar SAE 75W-90). Manual will list precise fluid types and capacities for each transmission and transfer case model.

Transfer Case:

Coverage for various transfer case models including NP241DHD, NV271D, NV273D. Includes removal, installation, and fluid specifications (e.g., Mopar NV244 Transfer Case Lubricant).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Commonly 120.5-inch (regular cab), 139.0-inch (Quad Cab/extended cab), 159.5-inch (Mega Cab/crew cab). Specifics vary by year.

Bed Length Options:

Typically 5'7" (short bed), 6'4" (standard bed), 8'0" (long bed).

Wheelbase Options:

Similar to 1500 but often including longer wheelbases for heavier duty models, e.g., 140.5-inch, 160.5-inch, 172.4-inch.

Bed Length Options:

Similar to 1500, with standard and long bed configurations being most common.

Gvwr Options:

GVWR varies significantly by configuration, ranging from around 6,350 lbs for lighter 1500 models to over 10,000 lbs for 3500 dually models.

Curb Weight Approx:

Ranges from approximately 4,500 lbs to over 7,500 lbs depending on configuration (engine, cab, drivetrain, bed).

Towing Payload Capacity:

The manual will detail specific towing and payload ratings based on configuration, engine, axle ratio, and drivetrain. Ram trucks are known for high capacities, especially 2500/3500 models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

The manual may not contain specific NHTSA ratings, but it covers safety systems that contribute to these ratings. Early models might have fewer stars than later ones due to evolving standards.

ABS Esp:

Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), including wheel speed sensors, ABS module, and hydraulic control unit.

Airbags:

Coverage for airbag system operation, sensors, control module (ORC - Occupant Restraint Controller), and replacement procedures. Safety precautions for working with airbag systems will be highlighted.

Seat Belts:

Information on seat belt pre-tensioners and retraction mechanisms, and associated system diagnostics.

💡 Technology Features

Uconnect System:

The manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures for the Uconnect infotainment system, including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and audio systems. Troubleshooting for screen issues, audio faults, and voice command problems.

Parking Sensors Camera:

Coverage for the installation, calibration, and troubleshooting of parking assist sensors and rearview cameras.

Trailer Brake Controller:

The manual will cover the integrated trailer brake controller systems, including their operation, diagnostics, and wiring.

Trailer Towing Features:

Information on trailer sway control, trailer brake controller integration, and the heavy-duty electrical systems designed for towing.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Schedule:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles for gasoline engines, or as indicated by the Oil Change Indicator system. Diesel engines (Cummins) often recommend every 7,500-10,000 miles with specific diesel-rated oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles, or more frequently under dusty conditions. Cabin air filter typically every 15,000-20,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

HEMI engines may have iridium plugs with longer intervals (e.g., 100,000 miles). Older Magnum engines might have shorter intervals (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles).

Transmission Service:

Automatic transmissions typically require service every 30,000-60,000 miles, including fluid and filter change. Diesel transmissions may have different intervals. Transfer case fluid change every 50,000-100,000 miles.

Engine Oil Gasoline:

Consult manual for exact spec. Common: 5W-20, 5W-30 (API SN/SP certified).

Engine Oil Diesel:

Consult manual for exact spec. Common: SAE 15W-40, 5W-40 (API CK-4 or CJ-4 certified for Cummins).

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT for newer engines, HOAT for some older ones). Refer to manual for specific color and type. Capacity around 12-15 quarts.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on model year and specific system requirements. Manual will specify.

Common 1500 Issues:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (HEMI), death wobble (front end issues on solid axle models), WCM (Wireless Control Module) failure, rust on rear fenders/rockers, ball joint wear.

Common 2500 3500 Issues:

Cummins injector issues (older generations), EGR/DPF problems (later emissions-controlled diesel), transmission cooler issues (especially under heavy load), fuel heater issues on diesels, water pump failures, and front suspension wear are common topics covered.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with heavy-duty performance and a strong work ethic.

Third Generation Changes:

Significant redesign from the second generation. Introduced the HEMI 5.7L V8, improved interior comfort and technology, and refined styling. Later introduced the Mega Cab configuration.

Fourth Generation Changes:

Major platform overhaul. New styling, completely revised interiors, introduction of the 8-speed automatic transmission, 3.0L EcoDiesel engine option, and significant advancements in technology and safety features.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily assembled in North America, with major assembly plants including Warren Truck Assembly in Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo Truck Assembly in Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

Ram trucks have received numerous 'Truck of the Year' awards from various automotive publications and organizations throughout these generations, highlighting their design, capability, and value.