🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

2004

Platform Code:

DR

Chassis Type:

Truck

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance departments

Competitors:

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

Value Proposition:

Provides the essential technical information required for professional and accurate servicing of the 2004 Dodge Ram, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

Manual Scope:

Covers all models and engines produced for the 2004 model year, offering a complete resource.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline engines

Transmission Coverage:

All transmissions (manual and automatic)

Chassis Coverage:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires

Body Coverage:

Exterior, interior, doors, windows, seats, HVAC

Electrical Coverage:

Engine control, lighting, accessories, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams

Model Variant Coverage:

All trim levels and body styles (e.g., 1500, 2500, 3500, Regular Cab, Quad Cab, Mega Cab)

Estimated Pages:

1500-2500 (typical for complete factory service manuals)

Type:

Complete Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain components (driveshafts, axles, differentials)

Chassis:

Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear brakes, parking brake, ABS), wheels and tires

Body And Interior:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, power accessories (windows, locks)

Electrical And Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, warning indicators, infotainment system, power distribution, wiring diagrams for all systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, lubrication services

Repair:

Component removal and installation, diagnostics and troubleshooting, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, identification of common faults

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (searchable text is highly probable, making navigation efficient)

Image Quality:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics for clarity

Binding:

Not applicable (digital format)

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 3.7L Magnum V6 (availability may vary by model and trim)

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

4.7L V8 Torque:

305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)

5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port fuel injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

4.7L Engine Code:

P (VIN 2nd digit typically)

5.7L Hemi Engine Code:

D (VIN 2nd digit typically)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE, 48RE depending on engine/model)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual (e.g., NV3500 for lighter duty models)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions, consult manual for specific part number like Mopar ATF+4)

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD, full-time 4WD, or 2WD configurations available

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 131.1" for Regular Cab SWB, 140.5" for Quad Cab SWB, 160.5" for Long Bed)

Overall Length Options:

Varies by cab and bed configuration

Bed Length Options:

6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long bed)

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration (approx. 4,500-6,000+ lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

5 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)

ABS:

Standard on all models

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags. Side curtain airbags may be optional on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (optional), premium sound system options

Navigation:

Aftermarket or dealer-installed navigation systems were available, not typically integrated from factory in base trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Trailer Towing Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller wiring provisions, tow hooks, trailer towing packages available

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal driving conditions, consult manual for severe conditions)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendation based on transmission type and usage)

Engine Oil Type:

5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic (check owner's manual for specific recommendation based on engine and climate)

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) or Mopar Power Steering Fluid

Typical Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, wheel bearings, exhaust components, brake pads/rotors

Engine Specific Issues 4.7L:

Lifter tick, spark plug ejection (especially with aftermarket plugs not installed to spec), oil sludge if maintenance is neglected

Transmission Specific Issues:

Torque converter shudder, worn clutch packs in automatic transmissions if fluid is not maintained

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate being a key part of that heritage since its introduction in 1981.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2004 model year belongs to the third generation of the Dodge Ram (2002-2008), characterized by a significant redesign including a more aggressive styling, larger interior, and improved chassis.

Major Updates 2004:

Introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine as an option for the Ram 1500, replacing the older 5.9L Magnum V8 in some configurations. The Quad Cab configuration became more prominent.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, and also Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Class Awards General:

While specific awards for the 2004 model year are numerous, the Ram line consistently received recognition for its bold styling and robust capability.

Konsumen Reports Rating General:

Consumer Reports typically provided average to above-average ratings for Dodge Ram trucks in terms of overall reliability during this generation, with some noted exceptions depending on engine and transmission.