Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet owners.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Tundra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, powerful engine options (especially HEMI), towing capability, spacious interior, off-road prowess (in certain trims).
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling users to perform complex tasks efficiently and correctly.
Diagnostic Coverage:
Engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, ABS, SRS, body control modules, chassis control modules.
Mechanical Coverage:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust.
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories, HVAC controls, instrument cluster, infotainment system.
Body Coverage:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, chassis frame.
Estimated Page Count:
2500+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
5.7L HEMI (EVM), 3.7L Magnum (EER), 4.7L Magnum (ENH) - cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emission control, starting, charging.
Transmission Systems:
42RLE Automatic (4-speed), NV3500 Manual (5-speed) - removal, installation, repair, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front axle, rear axle, propeller shafts, universal joints, differentials.
Suspension Systems:
Front independent suspension (short-long arm), rear solid axle, springs, shocks, control arms, sway bars.
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, power steering fluid specifications.
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, starter, alternator, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuses, relays, lighting (headlamps, tail lamps, interior), power windows, locks, mirrors.
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control operation and repair.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, ABS.
Body And Chassis:
Frame diagnostics and repair, body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake pad/rotor replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement (ball joints, tie rod ends), exhaust system repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and resolution, component testing procedures.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Using wiring diagrams, tracing circuits, testing sensors and actuators, diagnosing electrical faults.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
124.7 inches
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
140.5 inches
Wheelbase Crew Cab:
140.5 inches (some configurations)
Overall Length Regular Cab:
217.8 inches
Overall Length Extended Cab:
233.5 inches
Overall Width:
79.1 inches
Overall Height:
74.7 inches (approx.)
Bed Length Short Bed:
6.3 feet (75.9 inches)
Bed Length Long Bed:
8.0 feet (96.0 inches)
Curb Weight Range:
4,800 - 5,600 lbs (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 9,200 lbs (properly equipped)
Payload Capacity:
Up to 1,700 lbs (properly equipped)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions - refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At each oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
Approx. 100,000 miles (NGK Platinum/Iridium recommended).
Spark Plug Replacement Magnum:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (for automatic, check condition; manual may vary).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years.
Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:
7.0 quarts (with filter) - SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service classification).
Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:
6.0 quarts (with filter) - SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:
5.0 quarts (with filter) - SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler MS-9769 or equivalent).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Hemi Lifter Tick:
Some HEMI engines can develop a ticking noise from the valve train, often related to lifters or MDS (Multi-Displacement System) components. Manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Transmission Issues:
42RLE automatic can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting or solenoid issues. Manual provides diagnostic flowcharts.
Brake Wear:
Front brake pad and rotor wear can be significant due to the truck's weight and typical usage. Manual details replacement procedures and specifications.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints and tie rod ends can wear over time, affecting steering and tire wear. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older vehicles can develop minor electrical issues; the comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are essential for diagnosis.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks dating back to the 1930s, with the Ram nameplate becoming prominent in the 1980s.
Third Generation Introduction:
The third generation (2002-2008) represented a significant redesign, featuring a larger cab, improved aerodynamics, and the introduction of the powerful HEMI V8 engine.
2005 Updates:
For 2005, the Ram received minor styling tweaks and some feature updates, but the core mechanicals remained consistent with the preceding years of this generation.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.