🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Pickup

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

DR (for 2WD), BE (for 4WD)

Platform:

Third Generation Ram (2002-2008)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, a highly competitive segment in the North American automotive market

Key Competitors:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra

Unique Selling Points:

Bold styling, powerful engine options, capable towing and hauling, comfortable interior for its class, extensive dealer network

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

North America (primarily US and Canada, adaptable for other regions with metric conversion)

Trim Levels Covered:

All available trims for 2005 Dodge Ram Pickup (e.g., ST, SLT, Laramie, Sport, SXT)

Estimated Pages:

Over 2000 pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (typically PDF, may also be available in printed format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, emission controls

Engine Performance:

Engine management systems, ignition system, fuel injection, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), engine tuning

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission service, clutch system, gearshift linkage, overhaul procedures

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission service (e.g., 42RLE, 45RFE/545RFE), hydraulic control systems, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM)

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive system (NV244/NV247 transfer case), rear axle, front axle, driveshafts, differentials, CV joints

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (solid axle), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, steering knuckles, sway bars

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, tie rods, drag link, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system, parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system, lighting system, exterior and interior lights

Body And Chassis:

Frame construction, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seals, corrosion protection

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control module

Infotainment And Accessories:

Audio system, power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, cruise control, trailer towing features

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control (TCS), electronic stability control (ESC - if equipped)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation and pressure checks, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for various systems, symptom-based troubleshooting, common problems and solutions

Repair And Rebuild:

Complete engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing common parts like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, radiators, sensors

Diagnostic Procedures:

Wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) lookup and interpretation, use of scan tools, circuit testing

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical schematics

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams

Diagram Resolution:

High-resolution, clear and legible diagrams and schematics

Binding:

Not applicable for digital format; for print, typically spiral-bound or saddle-stitched for durability

Paper Quality:

Not applicable for digital format; for print, typically heavy-duty, gloss or semi-gloss paper to withstand workshop conditions

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8

3.7L V6 Specs:

Displacement: 3.7L (226 cu in); Horsepower: ~215 hp @ 5200 rpm; Torque: ~235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm; Bore x Stroke: 3.66 x 3.57 in; Compression Ratio: 9.1:1

4.7L V8 Specs:

Displacement: 4.7L (287 cu in); Horsepower: ~235-245 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm; Torque: ~295-330 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm; Bore x Stroke: 3.66 x 3.31 in; Compression Ratio: 9.0:1

5.7L Hemi V8 Specs:

Displacement: 5.7L (345 cu in); Horsepower: ~345-360 hp @ 5000-5400 rpm; Torque: ~375-390 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm; Bore x Stroke: 3.92 x 3.58 in; Compression Ratio: 9.6:1

Engine Management:

Integrated Powertrain Control Module (IPCM), OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for all engines

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for optimal performance with HEMI)

Oil Capacity 3.7L:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

Oil Capacity 4.7L:

5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) with filter change

Oil Capacity 5.7L:

7.0 US quarts (6.6 L) with filter change

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 13.7-14.7 US quarts (13.0-14.0 L) depending on engine and configuration

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (NV3500) for V6 and some V8 models

Optional Transmission Auto:

4-speed automatic (42RLE) for 3.7L V6, 4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) for 4.7L V8 and 5.7L HEMI V8

Tow Haul Mode:

Available on automatic transmissions to optimize shift points for towing and heavy loads

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (check specific manual for exact spec)

42Rle Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

45Rfe/545Rfe Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Drive Type:

2WD (Rear-wheel drive) and 4WD (Part-time 4WD with electronic transfer case, e.g., NV244 or full-time 4WD with NV247)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

133.0 inches (standard cab/short bed), 140.5 inches (extended cab/short bed), 154.7 inches (extended cab/long bed)

Overall Length Approx:

203.4 to 225.3 inches (depending on configuration)

Overall Width Approx:

79.1 inches

Overall Height Approx:

74.5 to 77.4 inches (depending on configuration and drivetrain)

Bed Length Options:

6.3 feet (short bed), 8.0 feet (long bed)

Curb Weight Approx:

4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)

Max Gvwr Approx:

6,350 - 7,400 lbs (depending on configuration)

Max Towing Capacity Approx:

Up to 8,800 lbs (with proper configuration and equipment)

Max Payload Capacity Approx:

Up to 1,700 - 2,000 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars (2005 Model Year - General Motors vehicles typically receive high ratings for this era)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars (2005 Model Year)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars (2005 Model Year)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars (2005 Model Year)

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4 Stars (Specific rating varies by configuration, but trucks generally have higher rollover risk)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models

Electronic Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) not widely available or standard on this model year, may be optional on higher trims or later models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-curtain airbags optional or standard on higher trims

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional CD changer, Sirius Satellite Radio capability

Navigation:

Aftermarket navigation systems were common; factory navigation was not widely integrated or available for this model year

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Parking Assist:

Rear parking assist sensors available as an option on some trims

Bluetooth:

Not typically factory integrated for this model year; aftermarket solutions were common

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, power mirrors available on most trims

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (3-6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for severe vs. normal duty)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement:

3.7L/4.7L: 100,000 miles (if using original equipment platinum plugs); 5.7L HEMI: 30,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., original copper vs. later platinum/iridium)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on driving conditions (severe duty recommended for towing/heavy use)

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on coolant type, typically HOAT or OAT)

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-20 (3.7L/4.7L), SAE 5W-30 (5.7L HEMI), meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Chrysler MS-5901 (power steering fluid)

Hemi Recomendaciones:

Some early 5.7L HEMI engines experienced lifter/camshaft wear issues, often related to oil viscosity or oil change intervals. MDS (Multi-Displacement System) deactivation can sometimes cause rough running or codes if not functioning correctly.

Transmission Issues:

42RLE transmission can sometimes exhibit torque converter shudder or transmission solenoid issues.

Cooling System Issues:

Radiator end tank leaks and water pump failures can occur with age and mileage.

Interior Wear:

Typical interior wear and tear on seats, armrests, and trim pieces common for trucks of this age.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long-standing history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line becoming an iconic brand within Dodge.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2005 model belongs to the third generation of the Dodge Ram Pickup (2002-2008), which introduced a significant redesign with a bolder grille, more aggressive styling, improved interior comfort, and updated powertrains, including the introduction of the legendary 5.7L HEMI V8.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jdpowe:

While specific awards for the 2005 model year are less documented, the Ram lineup generally received mixed reviews in initial quality studies, often improving in long-term dependability.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports ratings for this generation of Ram pickup were often mid-pack compared to competitors, with particular attention paid to powertrain reliability and minor electronic issues.

Emission Standards:

Meets EPA emission standards for the 2005 model year