Market Position:
The 2005 Dodge Ram Truck was a significant player in the full-size pickup truck segment, known for its robust styling, powerful engine options, and towing capabilities. This manual positions itself as the definitive resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair these vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra. The Ram's unique coil-spring rear suspension in some configurations offered a smoother ride compared to traditional leaf springs. This manual provides the specific technical data needed to service these differentiating features.
Key Features:
Emphasis on V8 engine power, towing and payload capacity, and the available innovative rear suspension system. The manual covers the nuances of these key attributes.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Powertrain, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical System, Body & Interior, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Maintenance Schedules, Specifications
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, component removal and installation, diagnostics, torque specifications, electrical circuit tracing, repair procedures for all major systems.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel repair.
Primary Engine:
4.7L Magnum V8 (P Performance Engine)
Engine Options:
5.7L HEMI V8 (Optional), 3.7L Magnum V6 (Base)
Horsepower 4.7L:
235 hp @ 4500 rpm
Torque 4.7L:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower 5.7L:
345 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque 5.7L:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Codes:
E.g., P (4.7L), E (5.7L HEMI), J (3.7L)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug for V8s.
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan clutch or electric fan.
Standard Transmission 2Wd
Standard Transmission 2Wd:
4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/48RE)
Standard Transmission 4Wd
Standard Transmission 4Wd:
4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/48RE)
Optional Transmission:
6-Speed Manual (NV3500) for some engine configurations
Transmission Features:
Electronic controls, overdrive, torque converter lock-up. The 48RE is an enhanced version of the 45RFE, often paired with the HEMI.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Cab Styles:
Regular Cab, Quad Cab, Mega Cab
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Wheelbase Shortbed Regularcab
Wheelbase Shortbed Regularcab:
124.6 inches
Wheelbase Longbed Regularcab
Wheelbase Longbed Regularcab:
138.7 inches
Wheelbase Quadcab:
140.5 inches
Wheelbase Megacab:
154.7 inches
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically 4,500 - 5,500 lbs+
Front Airbags:
Standard dual front airbags.
Side Impact Airbags:
Optional or standard on higher trims/Quad Cab/Mega Cab.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on certain configurations.
Rollover Protection:
Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) available on some models.
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA frontal impact ratings were generally good for the era. Manual details specific results and testing procedures.
Infotainment:
Basic AM/FM/CD audio systems, optional CD changer, available navigation system on premium trims.
Driver Assistance:
Limited by modern standards; primarily ABS, optional traction control, and potentially parking sensors on higher trims.
Connectivity:
Basic connectivity through auxiliary inputs for audio devices on some models.
Service Intervals Oil:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (as specified in the manual).
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for ATF+4 fluid, dependent on usage. Manual provides exact intervals.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Service Intervals Spark Plugs:
Varies by engine, e.g., 100,000 miles for HEMI with specific spark plug types.
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grades (e.g., 5W-20, 5W-30) and API service classifications. Often required synthetic or synthetic blend for HEMI.
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Fluid Specifications Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 5/150 coolant or equivalent (typically a HOAT coolant).
Known Issues 4.7L V8:
Spark plug thread issues (especially if overtightened), occasional oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan.
Known Issues 5.7L Hemi:
Piston slap on cold start (often considered normal for early HEMIs), fuel pump issues, cylinder head issues (less common but documented).
Known Issues General:
Interior trim wear, potential for minor electrical gremlins, rear main seal leaks on older models.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the 'Ram' nameplate signifying ruggedness and utility since its introduction in 1981.
Model Evolution:
The 2005 model is part of the third generation of Dodge Ram trucks (2002-2008), which introduced significant styling changes (like the crosshair grille) and powertrain updates, including the introduction of the HEMI engine.
Production Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA
