Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Tundra
Truck Design:
Robust body-on-frame construction, emphasis on hauling and towing capability
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, factory-authorized procedures for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine:
Yes (all variants)
Transmission:
Yes (automatic and manual)
Brakes:
Yes (ABS, hydraulic, parking brake)
Suspension:
Yes (front and rear)
Steering:
Yes (power steering system)
Electrical:
Yes (wiring diagrams, charging, starting, lighting, accessories)
HVAC:
Yes (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Fuel:
Yes (fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank)
Exhaust:
Yes (catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes)
Cooling:
Yes (radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat)
Body:
Yes (exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim)
Diagnostics:
Yes (OBD-II diagnostics, trouble codes)
Maintenance:
Yes (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (diagnostic charts, common issues)
Repair:
Yes (component replacement, system overhaul)
Adjustment:
Yes (brake adjustments, clutch adjustments)
Installation:
Yes (component installation, accessory fitting)
Disassembly:
Yes (detailed breakdown of components)
Reassembly:
Yes (step-by-step reassembly guidance)
Specifications:
Yes (torque values, clearances, fluid capacities)
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced (includes OBD-II scanning, sensor data interpretation)
Electrical Diagrams:
Detailed (component-level wiring schematics)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (42RE/44RE/45RFE)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual (NV3500 for V6, NV4500 for V8)
Transmission Cooling:
External transmission cooler typically integrated with radiator
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD System (NV241 DLD/DHD) or Full-time 4WD System available
Wheelbase Options:
134.5 inches (Standard Cab), 154.5 inches (Club Cab/Quad Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 8,800 lbs (when properly equipped)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2002 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2002 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for 2002 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2002 model year)
ABS:
Standard on all models (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage (refer to manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles for certain types)
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for exact weight and API service classification (e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 often recommended)
Coolant Specification:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) for automatic transmissions
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Problems:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8 engines), rear main seal leaks, transmission solenoid issues, water pump leaks, minor electrical gremlins
Brand Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building durable trucks, dating back to the early days of automotive manufacturing.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2002 model year is part of the third generation of the Dodge Ram, which debuted in 2002 with a complete redesign. This generation introduced more aggressive styling and improved aerodynamics.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan
