🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 3500 HD Pickup

Year:

2012

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2012 Dodge Ram 3500 HD Pickup was positioned as a heavy-duty workhorse designed for towing, hauling, and demanding commercial or personal use. It competed in the robust segment of the full-size pickup truck market.

Competitors:

Key competitors in 2012 included the Ford F-350 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD, and GMC Sierra 3500 HD.

Features:

Known for its robust chassis, powerful engine options (especially the Cummins turbodiesel), strong towing and payload capacities, and a focus on utility and durability.

Benefit:

Provides owners and technicians with the essential information to diagnose, repair, and maintain the 2012 Dodge Ram 3500 HD, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. The digital format offers instant access and portability.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2012 Dodge Ram 3500 HD Pickup Truck

Secondary Coverage:

Related Ram HD models (potential for overlap in shared components, consult specific sections)

Estimated Page Count:

Significant; typical comprehensive factory service manuals for this era exceed 2000 pages. Exact count unavailable without the manual.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Electronic Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine repair, diagnostics, specifications, and overhaul procedures for all applicable 2012 Ram 3500 HD engines.

Fuel System:

Fuel delivery, injectors, fuel pump, high-pressure fuel system (if applicable to engine), fuel tank, and evaporative emissions control.

Lubrication And Cooling:

Engine oil system, lubrication components, cooling system operation, radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, and fan clutch/electric fan.

Transmission Drive Chain Sprockets:

Service and overhaul for automatic and manual transmissions, transfer case operation, drive shafts, U-joints, differentials (front and rear), and axle components.

Steering System:

Power steering system, steering gear/rack and pinion, steering linkage, and wheel alignment procedures.

Shocks Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers/struts, coil springs, leaf springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and suspension diagnostics.

Body Work:

Exterior and interior body panels, doors, hoods, tailgates, bumpers, trim, glass replacement, and basic body repair techniques.

Intake And Exhaust:

Intake manifold, air intake system, turbocharger (if equipped), exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, and emissions components.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Advanced Troubleshooting:

In-depth diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and advanced repair techniques for complex issues.

Routine Maintenance:

Detailed guidance on oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, and other scheduled maintenance items.

Engine Repair Installation:

Engine removal and installation procedures, internal engine component repair (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshaft), cylinder head service, and timing component replacement.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid changes, filter replacement, clutch service (for manual transmissions), and internal transmission component repair.

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and replacement, parking brake adjustment, and ABS system diagnostics.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting wiring faults, component testing, diagnostic connector pinouts, and using scan tools for module communication and data analysis.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of all major vehicle systems. Expected to include detailed torque specifications, clearances, and specialized tool requirements.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Quality:

Digital PDF, quality dependent on original scan/source. Typically high-resolution for clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely includes the 5.7L HEMI V8 gasoline engine and the highly popular 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel inline-6 engine. Specific engine codes should be verified from the manual.

Hemiv8 Power:

Estimated 383 hp @ 5600 rpm, 400 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (typical for 2012 5.7L HEMI). Exact specifications must be confirmed.

Cummins Power:

Estimated 350 hp @ 3000 rpm, 650 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (typical for 2012 6.7L Cummins). Exact specifications must be confirmed. Higher output variants might exist.

Cummins Type:

High-pressure common rail (HPCR) direct injection system.

Engine Identification:

Refer to VIN and engine block markings. Manual will provide definitive identification procedures.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Likely a 6-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 68RFE for diesel, possibly 66RFE for gasoline) and a 6-speed manual transmission (e.g., G56 for diesel).

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system with a 2-speed transfer case (NV273 or similar) is standard or widely available.

Transmission Fluid:

Specific fluid types (e.g., ATF+4 for automatics, gear oil for manuals) and capacities will be detailed in the manual. Filter replacement intervals are critical.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Available in various configurations, including Regular Cab, Crew Cab, and Mega Cab, with different wheelbase lengths (e.g., 140.5", 160.5", 170.5"). Dual rear wheel (DRW) option is standard for 3500 HD. Specific measurements in manual.

Bed Length Options:

Typically offered with 8-foot (long bed) and 6.4-foot (standard/short bed) configurations.

Gvwr:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating will be specified, typically around 11,500 lbs to 13,500 lbs for a 3500 HD. Manual will provide exact figures per configuration.

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly based on configuration (cab type, drivetrain, engine, options), but generally starts around 6,000 lbs and can exceed 7,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

While specific NHTSA ratings for 2012 HD trucks are less common than for passenger cars, the manual will cover safety-related systems. Expect robust construction due to the HD nature.

Braking:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Trailer Brake Controller might be an option. Manual will detail ABS system operation and diagnostics.

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger are standard. Side curtain airbags may be optional depending on cab configuration. Manual will detail airbag system operation and SRS warning lights.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Depending on trim level, could feature the Uconnect infotainment system with touch screen, navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and auxiliary audio inputs.

Assistance Features:

While heavy-duty trucks of this era were less focused on advanced driver-assistance systems, features like a rear backup camera (optional) and trailer tow mirrors were common. Integrated Trailer Brake Controller could be factory-fitted.

Connectivity Options:

USB ports, auxiliary input jacks, and Bluetooth for phone integration were available. The manual will detail the operation of these systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months for gasoline engines under normal conditions. Severe duty intervals will be shorter. Consult manual for specific mileage and oil type.

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

For the 6.7L Cummins, intervals can be longer, often 7,500-15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on usage and oil quality. Manual will specify based on service intervals for oil and filter.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter changes are typically recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, especially if used for towing or heavy loads. Manual will provide precise intervals and procedures.

Engine Oil Gasoline:

Likely SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Manual is crucial for exact viscosity and spec.

Engine Oil Diesel:

Likely SAE 15W-40, meeting Cummins CES 20081 or similar heavy-duty diesel engine oil specification. Manual will specify exact grade and API service category.

Coolant:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically the pink Mopar OAT coolant for this era. Manual will specify correct type and mixture ratio.

Common Wear Items:

Potential wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, U-joints, brake components, and potentially EGR systems or turbocharger issues on diesel models if not maintained properly. Manual will guide diagnosis and repair.

Cummins Emissions:

For the 6.7L Cummins, issues related to the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration system or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve may arise with mileage. Manual will provide diagnostic steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Ram Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing tough and capable trucks, with the Ram line establishing itself as a leader in the heavy-duty segment known for durability and powertrain options.

Fourth Generation Ram:

The 2012 Ram 3500 HD is part of the fourth generation of Ram trucks (DS platform), which debuted in 2009. This generation brought significant updates in styling, interior comfort, and powertrain technology.

Manufacturing Location:

The 2012 Ram trucks were primarily manufactured at Chrysler's Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan, and Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2012 model year might vary, the Ram truck line consistently received praise for its powertrains, especially the Cummins diesel, and its towing capabilities from automotive publications during this generation.