🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500, 2500, 3500

Year:

2002

Generation:

Second Generation (DR/DH/D2 Platform)

Platform Code:

DR/DH/D2

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Truck Attributes:

Renowned for robust construction, strong towing and payload capacities, versatile powertrain options, spacious interiors in crew cab configurations.

Purpose For Buyers:

Essential for diagnosing and resolving complex issues across various vehicle systems, ideal for independent repair shops, fleet maintenance, and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Sets Covered:

Gasoline Powertrain, Transmission, Body, Chassis

Estimated Total Pages:

Not Specified (Multiple Manuals)

Type:

Diagnostic Service Manuals

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Quality:

High-resolution PDF, likely searchable text if digitally created, printable.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Gasoline Systems:

Engine control (ECM/PCM), fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging system, exhaust system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, wiring diagrams for these systems.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission diagnostics (e.g., 42RE, 44RE, 45RFE, NV3500 manual), transmission control module (TCM), shift solenoids, torque converter, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, hydraulic circuits, wiring diagrams.

Body Systems:

Interior and exterior lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, instrument cluster, HVAC system, wipers, horn, security systems, airbags, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, wiring diagrams.

Chassis Systems:

Braking system (ABS, standard), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), driveline, axles, wheels and tires, frame, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, alignment specifications, wiring diagrams.

Diagnostic Procedures:

System diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, circuit testing, component testing, pressure testing, scan tool usage, wiring harness inspection.

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, calibration procedures, system checks, specific repair instructions for various components within each covered system.

Depth:

Advanced diagnostics, in-depth component testing, detailed wiring schematics, pinpoint tests, system operation explanations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

PDF format allows for text searching if OCR'd, enabling quick access to specific topics.

Printability:

PDFs are generally printable, allowing for hard copy reference.

Scope:

Comprehensive diagnostic coverage for powertrain, transmission, body, and chassis systems. Essential for in-depth troubleshooting.

Focus:

Diagnostic Manuals, focusing on identifying causes of problems rather than step-by-step repair procedures for all components, though repair information is often intertwined with diagnostics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P-Code), 5.9L Magnum V8 (Q-Code), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (C-Code - predominantly 2500/3500 models)

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235 hp @ 4500 rpm

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 245-250 hp @ 4000 rpm

5.9L V8 Torque:

Approx. 335-340 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L Cummins I6 Horsepower:

Approx. 235 hp @ 2400 rpm

5.9L Cummins I6 Torque:

Approx. 460 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; Direct Injection (High-Pressure Common Rail - HPCR) for 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel.

Engine Block Material 4.7L:

Aluminum Alloy

Engine Block Material 5.9L V8:

Cast Iron

Engine Block Material 5.9L Cummins:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Std Gasoline:

4-speed automatic (42RE for 1500, 44RE for 2500/3500) or 5-speed manual (NV3500)

Transmission Std Diesel:

5-speed manual (NV5600) or 4-speed automatic (47RE)

Transmission Opt Gasoline:

4-speed automatic (45RFE on some 1500 models)

Transmission Features:

Overdrive gears for fuel efficiency, robust designs for heavy-duty applications, available 4WD systems (part-time with electronic or manual transfer case).

Atf Type 42Re 44Re:

ATF+3 (Mopar)

Atf Type 45Rfe:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Atf Type 47Re:

ATF+3 (Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-140 (depending on application)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

134.0 inches (Standard Bed), 155.0 inches (Long Bed), 166.0 inches (Dually - 3500)

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab), Quad Cab (Crew Cab)

Bed Length Options:

6.5 ft (Standard), 8.0 ft (Long)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,500 - 7,000 lbs (varies significantly by configuration and drivetrain)

Max Gvw Range:

Approx. 6,050 - 10,500 lbs (depending on model and configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 10,000+ lbs (when properly equipped, especially diesel models)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 Stars (for 2WD models, typical for trucks of this era)

IIHS Frontal Offset Test:

Acceptable (typically for models tested)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some earlier configurations.

Traction Control:

Optional on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (optional), and optional premium audio systems. Speaker configurations varied by trim and cab style.

Navigation:

Aftermarket or dealer-installed navigation systems were available, not typically integrated from the factory.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Parking Sensors:

Rarely offered, typically aftermarket.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions required for auxiliary audio input.

Gauge Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems. Some higher trims offered more comprehensive clusters.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Typically 7,500 miles or 6 months for synthetic blend oil.

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter change every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage (towing, heavy loads). Check manual for specifics.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Spark Plugs Gasoline:

Varies by plug type; typically 30,000-100,000 miles. Check for original equipment (OE) recommendation.

Engine Oil Type Gasoline:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on temperature and engine, consult manual). API certified.

Engine Oil Type Diesel:

API CI-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic blend/full synthetic.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, often Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170 or MS-9769).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems Gasoline:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially 4.7L), camshaft/crankshaft position sensor failures, P0442 (EVAP leak), transmission cooler line leaks, ball joint wear.

Common Problems Diesel:

Injector pump issues (VP44 on earlier models), overheating, power steering issues, lift pump failures (on some Cummins models).

Common Problems Body Chassis:

Rust (especially on rocker panels, cab corners, frame rails), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, power window motor failures, wheel bearing failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.

Second Gen Ram Launch:

The second generation Ram was introduced for the 1994 model year, featuring a significant redesign including a distinctive 'big rig' grille. The 2002 model year represents the later phase of this generation, incorporating updates and refinements.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.

Production Years 2Nd Gen:

1994-2002

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

The Ram pickup was awarded MotorTrend's Truck of the Year in 1994, marking a significant win for the second generation.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings for the 2002 Ram typically fell around average to below average, with some specific powertrain and electrical components being noted weaknesses.

Epa Fuel Economy:

EPA estimates for 2002 Ram 1500 4WD with 4.7L V8 were around 12 MPG city / 17 MPG highway. Diesel models offered better fuel economy.