Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Truck owners, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Vehicle Attributes:
Robust construction, towing and hauling capability, versatile configurations (2WD/4WD, cab styles, bed lengths)
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and technicians to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks accurately and efficiently, saving time and money.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, internal component repair (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshaft), cylinder head service, timing systems, oil pump, oil pan, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging (if applicable), engine diagnostics
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE, 48RE), manual transmission (e.g., NV3500, NV4500), clutch system, transfer case, driveline components
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake, hydraulic system, brake component replacement
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (e.g., torsion bar or coil spring), rear solid axle, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering linkage
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, steering wheel removal/installation
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrumentation, power windows/locks, wipers, horn, fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), blower motor
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, door/hood/tailgate adjustments, interior trim, bumpers, frame repair (if applicable)
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic tools and procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Tune Up:
Detailed procedures for tune-up components and adjustments
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Rebuilding Procedures:
Overhaul and rebuilding instructions for engines, transmissions, and other major assemblies
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic approaches to identifying and resolving malfunctions
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8 (260-275 hp, 325-335 lb-ft torque), 5.9L Magnum V8 (305-325 hp, 335-450 lb-ft torque), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (250 hp, 460-525 lb-ft torque)
Horsepower Range:
250 hp to 325 hp (gasoline), 250 hp (diesel)
Torque Range:
325 lb-ft to 450 lb-ft (gasoline), 460 lb-ft to 525 lb-ft (diesel)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended), Diesel Fuel
Cylinders:
V8 or Inline-6
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (42RE, 45RFE, 48RE), 5-speed Manual (NV3500, NV4500)
Transmission Options:
Varies by engine and trim level
Overdrive:
All automatic transmissions feature overdrive
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system with manual or electronic shift (NV241, NV271, NV273 depending on configuration)
Wheelbase:
134.1 inches (Standard Cab), 140.5 inches (Quad Cab)
Overall Length:
Approx. 229.1 inches (Standard Bed)
Width:
Approx. 79.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 75.9 inches
Bed Length Options:
6.3 feet (Standard Bed), 8.0 feet (Long Bed)
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration (approx. 4,500 - 6,000 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw R:
Varies by configuration (approx. 6,000 - 8,800 lbs)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, and premium speaker systems available.
Navigation:
Not typically available from the factory for the 2003 model year, aftermarket solutions were common.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Tpms:
Not typically available from the factory for the 2003 model year.
Power Outlets:
12V auxiliary power outlets
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
75,000-100,000 miles for conventional/platinum plugs, 100,000+ miles for iridium plugs (engine dependent).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage (heavy towing requires more frequent changes).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API certified (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix).
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (for automatics), Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) for manuals (refer to manual for specific type and capacity).
Common Problems:
Catalytic converter issues, exhaust manifold cracks (V8 engines), death wobble (front suspension components), transmission solenoid issues, ball joint wear, rust on body panels (especially in certain climates).
