🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

2002

Platform Code:

DR (Third Generation Ram)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance, professional technicians.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Manual Value Proposition:

Comprehensive, factory-originated technical data essential for accurate diagnosis and repair of the 2002 Dodge Ram.

Model Significance:

The 2002 model year represents the beginning of the highly regarded third generation of the Dodge Ram, known for its bold styling and robust construction.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Engine Coverage:

All engine variants for 2002 production models

Model Coverage:

All trim levels and configurations for 2002 production models

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engines including timing, valve train, piston assembly, crankshaft, cooling system, lubrication system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection systems, ignition systems, emissions control systems, exhaust systems, turbocharger/supercharger (if applicable).

Transmission Manual:

Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of manual transmissions, clutch system, shifter mechanisms, and related components.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions, torque converter, valve body, internal components, and transmission control modules.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (if applicable), rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive systems, transfer case, drive shafts, CV joints, universal joints, differentials, axles.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, EBD, parking brake, hydraulic components, brake fluid specifications.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (independent/solid axle), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckle, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power distribution.

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, windows, locks, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, tailgate/tailgate assist.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor).

Body Control Modules:

Body control module (BCM) functions, related sensors, and actuators (e.g., power windows, power locks, interior lighting).

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system components, sensors, control module, seat belts, pre-tensioners.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting trees, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with explanations and repair strategies.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, steering rack replacement.

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing specific parts like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, ignition coils, sensors, etc.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Testing circuits, diagnosing shorts, opens, voltage drops, using multimeters and oscilloscopes.

Troubleshooting Guide:

Systematic approach to identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle problems.

Torque Specifications:

Essential torque values for critical fasteners across all vehicle systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Depth Level:

Factory-level comprehensive coverage

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures and fault code interpretation.

Rebuild Instructions:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for major components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P-Code), 5.9L Magnum V8 (Y-Code), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (C-Code)

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm

4.7L V8 Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L V8 Horsepower:

245 hp @ 4000 rpm

5.9L V8 Torque:

335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L Cummins Horsepower:

235 hp @ 2700 rpm

5.9L Cummins Torque:

460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Bosch VP44 High-Pressure Injection Pump for Diesel

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended), Diesel fuel

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed automatic (42RE, 48RE), 5-speed manual (NV3500, NV4500)

Heavy Duty Transmission:

48RE automatic (typically with 5.9L engines), NV4500 manual (typically with 5.9L engines)

4Wd System:

Part-time 4WD with electronic transfer case shift on demand (NV244/NV242) or manual shift lever (NV241).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab), Crew Cab

Bed Lengths:

6.3 ft, 8.0 ft

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically 6,000 - 8,800 lbs (2722 - 3992 kg)

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (2041 - 2495 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3-star (may vary by configuration)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, and premium audio systems available on higher trims.

Navigation:

Limited to aftermarket units for this model year; factory navigation was not widely available or standard.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Trailer Brake Controller:

Factory integrated trailer brake controller was not standard but available as an option on some configurations.

Auxiliary Inputs:

No standard auxiliary audio input jacks; aftermarket solutions required for MP3 players.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendation, especially for 5.9L Cummins).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on transmission type and service classification (e.g., severe vs. normal driving).

Engine Oil Gasoline:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature, consult manual). API Certified.

Engine Oil Diesel:

API CG-4 or CH-4 rated heavy-duty diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic. Consult manual for specific Cummins recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9224)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity depends on manual transmission model, e.g., NV3500/NV4500).

Coolant:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid

4.7L V8 Issues:

Cylinder head cracking, spark plug ejection, oil sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected, plenum gasket leaks.

5.9L Cummins Issues:

VP44 injection pump failure (often due to low fuel pressure), lift pump failure, injector issues, valve spring issues on some early models.

Transmission Issues:

Overheating of automatic transmissions (especially with towing), occasional rough shifting.

Front End Wear:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, steering stabilizer issues, particularly on 4WD models.

Rust:

Rust through on rear wheel wells, cab corners, and bed sides.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Ram nameplate was introduced in 1981.

Third Generation Introduction:

The 2002 Dodge Ram marked the debut of the third generation (2002-2008), featuring a completely redesigned exterior and interior, significantly larger and more aggressive styling, and improved chassis dynamics.

Manufacturing Locations:

St. Louis Assembly (Fenton, Missouri, USA) and Saltillo Truck Assembly (Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward 40 Best Engines:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel was frequently recognized for its durability and performance, although specific awards for the 2002 model year are not broadly documented.

Konsumen Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports ratings for the 2002 Ram typically showed average to above-average reliability, with specific issues noted for the 4.7L V8 engine.