Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
Owners, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance departments.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.
Vehicle Platform:
Third-generation Dodge Ram (2002-2008), known for its robust construction and powerful engine options.
Manual Utility:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing one of the most popular and durable pickup trucks of its era.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, powertrain control modules (PCM).
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, diagnostics, and repair (e.g., NV3500, NV4500, NV5600, 45RFE, 48RE).
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle assemblies, transfer cases, driveshafts, U-joints, CV joints.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, coil springs, shocks, control arms), power steering system, steering gear, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS system, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts).
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting procedures for all major systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, tire rotation.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually every component on the vehicle.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Extensive use of wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts for electrical systems.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes procedures for using scan tools and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners, critical for proper assembly and safety.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specific measurements and tolerances for engine and transmission components during rebuilds.
Engine Options:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins I6 Turbo Diesel (for 2500/3500 models).
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 345 hp @ 5000 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approximately 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
5.9L Cummins Horsepower:
Approximately 305 hp @ 2900 rpm
5.9L Cummins Torque:
Approximately 555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; High-pressure common rail direct injection for Cummins diesel.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab.
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed).
Gvwr Range:
Approximately 6,050 lbs (1500) to 11,500 lbs (3500).
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 4,500 lbs to 7,000+ lbs depending on configuration and drivetrain.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Likely 'Good' or 'Acceptable' based on typical IIHS/NHTSA ratings for this generation. Specific ratings vary by cab configuration.
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Likely 'Good' or 'Acceptable'. Specific ratings vary by cab configuration.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available traction control system (TCS).
Airbags:
Standard front airbags for driver and passenger.
Seatbelts:
Height-adjustable front seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts.
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).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000 to 100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type (e.g., HOAT).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmissions: 30,000-60,000 miles; Manual transmissions: 60,000-100,000 miles. Consult manual for specific intervals and fluid types.
Engine Oil Gasoline:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on engine and climate) meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification.
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CJ-4 or CI-4 rated, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (synthetic) meeting Cummins CES 20078 specification.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) for 45RFE/48RE transmissions.
Transfer Case Fluid:
Typically Mopar ATF+4 or equivalent for most models.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, steering components, exhaust systems (rust/corrosion), rear main seal leaks (HEMI).
Diesel Specific Issues:
Injection pump failures, injector issues, fuel heater concerns, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) issues can occur with high mileage.
Electrical Quirks:
Window regulator failures, instrument cluster issues, and occasional TIPM (Total Integrated Power Module) problems have been reported.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable pickup trucks, with the Ram line evolving significantly over decades.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2005 model year falls within the third generation (2002-2008), which introduced a more aggressive styling, a stiffer frame, and updated powertrains including the HEMI V8 and the legendary Cummins turbodiesel for heavy-duty models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico, and Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.
Truck Of The Year:
While specific awards for the 2005 model might not be readily available in general searches, the Ram platform has consistently been recognized for its towing and hauling capabilities, often appearing on 'best truck' lists by automotive publications.
Towing Hauling Capability:
The Ram 2500 and 3500 models, especially with the Cummins diesel, are highly regarded for their robust towing and payload capacities, often exceeding competitors in their class.
