🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500

Model Generation:

Third Generation (DR/DH/D1/DC/DM)

Applicable Years:

2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

Platform Code:

DR (for 1500), DH (for 2500/3500)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Ram series in this era was a dominant player in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its robust build, towing capacity, and diverse powertrain options.

Competitors:

Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250, F-350), Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra (1500, 2500HD, 3500HD), Toyota Tundra (less competitive in heavy-duty at this time).

Vehicle Appeal:

Strong towing and hauling capabilities, variety of engine choices, comfortable interiors, and a reputation for durability.

Value:

This workshop manual provides essential technical information for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Dodge Ram trucks of this generation, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 Pickup Trucks

Regional Coverage:

North America (USA, Canada)

Estimated Page Count:

2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain (RWD, 4WD), Differentials, Axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), Frame

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Distribution, Starting and Charging System, Ignition System, Instrumentation, Body Control Modules, HVAC Controls, Audio System

Body:

Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Body Panels, Bumpers, HVAC System (mechanical components), Cooling System

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagram interpretation

Repair:

Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for all major systems

Technical Data:

Specifications, torques, clearances, electrical values, fluid capacities

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Likely searchable PDF with high-resolution illustrations and diagrams

Quality:

Illustrations are clear and step-by-step, ensuring ease of understanding for complex procedures.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1500:

3.7L Magnum (EER)

Displacement 1500:

3.7 Liters (226 cu. in.)

Configuration 1500:

V6, SOHC

Horsepower 1500:

215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 1500:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 2500 3500 Gas:

4.7L Magnum (N8)

Displacement 2500 3500 Gas:

4.7 Liters (287 cu. in.)

Configuration 2500 3500 Gas:

V8, SOHC

Horsepower 2500 3500 Gas:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque 2500 3500 Gas:

300 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Engine Code 2500 3500 Diesel:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (C)

Displacement 2500 3500 Diesel:

5.9 Liters (359 cu. in.)

Configuration 2500 3500 Diesel:

Inline-6, OHV, Turbocharged

Horsepower 2500 3500 Diesel:

305 hp @ 2800 rpm (for 2006 models)

Torque 2500 3500 Diesel:

555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (for 2006 models)

Fuel System Gas:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel System Diesel:

High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) Injection

Ignition System Gas:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

Cooling System:

Pressurized, glycol/water coolant, radiator, fan (mechanical or electric depending on model/engine), water pump

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1500:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/48RE)

Transmission 1500 Manual:

6-Speed Manual (NV3500)

Transmission 2500 3500 Gas:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/48RE)

Transmission 2500 3500 Diesel:

5-Speed Manual (NV5600), 4-Speed Automatic (48RE)

Transmission Features:

Overdrive gearing, torque converter lock-up (automatic), PTO provision (on some manual transmissions for heavy-duty applications)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for NV3500/NV5600)

Transfer Case Fluid:

NV244 / NV243 Transfer Case: ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 1500:

139.0 inches (3531 mm) Regular Cab, 140.5 inches (3569 mm) Quad Cab

Bed Length 1500:

6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)

Wheelbase 2500 3500:

139.0 inches (3531 mm) Regular Cab, 154.7 inches (3930 mm) Quad Cab 8' Bed, 171.8 inches (4364 mm) Quad Cab Long Bed

Bed Length 2500 3500:

6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)

Gcwr 1500:

Up to 13,500 lbs (varies by configuration)

Max Towing Capacity 1500:

Up to 8,750 lbs (varies by configuration)

Gcwr 2500 3500:

Up to 23,000 lbs (for 3500, varies by configuration)

Max Towing Capacity 2500 3500:

Up to 13,050 lbs (for 2500), Up to 13,700 lbs (for 3500, varies by configuration)

Payload Capacity 2500 3500:

Up to ~3,300 lbs (for 2500), Up to ~5,000 lbs (for 3500, varies by configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not rated specifically for all configurations, but generally performed well for its class.

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

Not rated specifically for all configurations.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags. Supplemental side-curtain airbags became available on later models within this generation.

Seatbelts:

Three-point active seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory-installed audio systems with CD player. Optional upgraded stereo systems with cassette and CD changers. Some higher trims may have offered basic navigation systems in later years.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited compared to modern vehicles. Primarily basic ABS. Cruise control standard on most trims.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports. Auxiliary audio input available on some higher-end stereos. Aftermarket solutions are common for modern connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gas:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual for specifics).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (or as recommended by Cummins for optimal performance).

Engine Oil Filter Part Number Gas:

MO-899 (Wix), PH3950 (Fram) or equivalent.

Fuel Filter Part Number Diesel:

FS53000 (Fleetguard), WK8020 (Mann-Filter) or equivalent.

Air Filter Part Number:

PA4368 (Fram), A35530 (Wix) or equivalent.

Engine Oil Spec Gas:

API SP, SAE 5W-20 (preferred for 3.7L and 4.7L, consult manual for specific viscosity).

Engine Oil Spec Diesel:

API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 15W-40 (or 5W-40 for extreme cold).

Coolant Spec:

Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9769), typically purple.

Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters)

Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:

6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters)

Engine Oil Capacity 5.9L Cummins:

10.5 US quarts (9.9 liters)

Common Issues Gas Engines:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (4.7L), lifter tick, ignition coil failures, piston slap (4.7L).

Common Issues Diesel Engine:

Injector failures (early models), VP44 injection pump failures (pre-2003, but can affect later models if not addressed), HVAC blend door actuator failures, death wobble (suspension/steering components).

Common Issues Transmission:

Overheating and failure of the 48RE automatic transmission with heavy towing; clutch wear on manual transmissions.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and steering gear (contributes to 'death wobble').

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the Power Wagon in the 1940s. The Ram nameplate was introduced in 1981.

Third Gen Introduction:

The third generation Dodge Ram (DR/DH/D1/DC/DM) was introduced for the 2002 model year and received updates and redesigns throughout its production run.

Manufacturing Locations:

Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan; St. Louis, Missouri (for earlier models or specific configurations).

Market Share:

The Ram trucks consistently held a significant share of the full-size pickup market during this period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Nominations:

The Dodge Ram series has received numerous 'Truck of the Year' awards and accolades from automotive publications over its history, including during this generation.

Cummins Reputation:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine consistently received praise for its durability, power, and reliability, often cited as a key selling point.