🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

2005

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2005 Dodge Ram represented a significant step in the evolution of the full-size pickup truck market, competing with models like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado. It emphasized ruggedness, towing capability, and a range of powertrain options.

Competitors:

Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250), Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.

Vehicle Features:

Robust frame and suspension, powerful engine options, available multi-displacement system (MDS) on HEMI V8, comfortable interior, strong towing and payload capacities.

Utility:

Provides dealership-level repair information, enabling owners and independent shops to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs, saving time and money compared to dealer service.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All U.S. and Canadian Market Dodge Ram Trucks (Light Duty, Heavy Duty, Chassis Cab)

Specific Trims:

ST, SLT, Laramie, Power Wagon, TRX, SXT (where applicable)

Estimated Page Count:

3000+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, as per description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical (all variants), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine diagnostics, powertrain control module (PCM) operation.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (NV3500, G56), Automatic transmission (45RFE, 48RE) diagnostics, repair, and overhaul. Transfer case operation and repair.

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle (Dana 44, Dana 60), driveshafts, universal joints, propeller shafts, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent, solid axle on some 4x4s), rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, steering linkage, steering column.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes (depending on configuration), anti-lock braking system (ABS), hydraulic system, parking brake.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows/locks, mirrors, horn, wipers, horns, exterior/interior lighting.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, and service.

Body:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, structural components.

Chassis:

Frame, steering system (rack and pinion, recirculating ball), exhaust system, fuel tank and lines, trailer tow wiring.

Driver Controls:

Pedals, shifter, steering wheel, switches, and controls.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, sensor testing, component testing.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt and hose inspection/replacement.

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake pad/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, circuit testing procedures, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults.

Specification Tables:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, component dimensions, electrical values.

Diagnostic Charts:

Fault code diagnostic trees, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Special Tools:

Identification and use of special tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format), often searchable and printable.

Image Clarity:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Digital Access:

Downloadable file or accessible via a digital platform.

Original Format:

Original documentation was likely printed on heavy-duty paper for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P-Code)

Optional Engine 1:

5.7L HEMI V8 (M-Code) with MDS

Optional Engine 2:

3.7L Magnum V6 (G-Code)

Optional Engine 3:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (ISB/QSB) (for Heavy Duty models)

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235 hp @ 4500 rpm

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.7L Hemi Horsepower:

Approx. 345 hp @ 5000 rpm

5.7L Hemi Torque:

Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (regular and premium for HEMI), Diesel fuel (for Cummins).

V6 Code:

G

4.7L V8 Code:

P

5.7L Hemi Code:

M

Cummins Code:

C

🔧 Transmission

Light Duty Standard:

45RFE 4-Speed Automatic (often standard on V8 models)

Manual Transmission:

NV3500 5-Speed Manual (often standard on V6 models)

Heavy Duty Automatic:

48RE 4-Speed Automatic (typically with 5.9L Cummins Diesel)

Heavy Duty Manual:

G56 6-Speed Manual (typically with 5.9L Cummins Diesel)

Transfer Case:

Command-Trac NV244 (full-time 4WD), NP241DHD (part-time 4WD) depending on model and configuration.

45Rfe Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA)

48Re Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

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

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 139.0" for Quad Cab, 140.5" for Mega Cab)

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., approx. 228.7" for Quad Cab short bed)

Bed Lengths:

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

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration (e.g., approx. 4,700 lbs for Quad Cab 4x4 4.7L)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model (e.g., 6,000 lbs to 10,500 lbs for Heavy Duty models)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

Generally good for its class in 2005, with 4-star ratings for driver and passenger in frontal impacts.

IIHS Ratings:

Varies; some configurations received 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in frontal offset tests.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system (TCS).

Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was optional on some models.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags for driver and passenger. Optional side curtain airbags on some models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with CD player, optional premium audio systems, Sirius Satellite Radio readiness.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Trailer Brake Controller:

Optional integrated trailer brake controller (ITBC) on some models.

Auxiliary Input:

Limited connectivity options by modern standards; some models may have an auxiliary audio input jack.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available remote keyless entry.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on engine, oil type, and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid change every 30,000-60,000 miles, manual transmission fluid inspection/change at similar intervals (refer to manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 100,000 miles for most gasoline engines (e.g., 5.7L HEMI).

Engine Oil Specification:

5W-20 or 5W-30 API SN/GF-5 (check manual for exact viscosity and spec based on engine).

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) OAT coolant, typically Mopar part number 68048553AA (or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4 (check manual).

Common Issue 1:

Heater core leaks (especially on trucks with the 4.7L V8).

Common Issue 2:

Rattling or knocking noise from the 5.7L HEMI engine (often related to valve lifters or exhaust manifold issues).

Common Issue 3:

Premature wear on front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to vehicle weight and use.

Common Issue 4:

Actuator failures in the HVAC system.

Common Issue 5:

ABS sensor failures, leading to ABS warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s, with the Ram nameplate becoming iconic for its strength and reliability.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2005 model is part of the third generation of Dodge Ram trucks (2002-2008), which introduced significant updates including a revised chassis, more powerful engine options (notably the HEMI), and modern styling.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily St. Louis, Missouri, and Warren, Michigan, USA.

Sales Figures:

The Dodge Ram was a strong seller throughout its third generation, consistently ranking among the top-selling pickup trucks in North America.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Recognition:

The third-generation Ram often received positive reviews for its styling, powerful HEMI engine, and comfortable ride for a truck.

Segment Awards:

Competed in a segment that frequently saw vehicles recognized for towing capability and overall value.