🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500 Series

Year:

1995

Vin Decode Guide Availability:

Likely included within the electrical or general information sections.

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet C/K Series, GMC Sierra.

Vehicle Platform:

Second generation Dodge Ram (often referred to as the BR/BE platform).

Design Emphasis:

Bold styling, spacious interior, robust build for work and utility.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Mechanical, electrical, and bodywork repairs and maintenance.

Body Styles Covered:

Likely includes Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab).

Drivetrain Configurations Covered:

2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive).

Estimated Page Count:

Likely between 800-1500 pages, typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era.

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Intended Audience:

Professional Mechanics, DIY Enthusiasts.

Language:

English

Format:

Print (Paperback or Spiral-bound - typical for original manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals (including disassembly, inspection, assembly), fuel system (injection, pumps, injectors), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (e.g., A500, A518), transfer case (for 4WD), drive shafts, axles, differential.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard for many configurations), ABS system (if equipped), brake hydraulics, parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (e.g., Independent Front Suspension - IFS with torsion bars for some models, or solid front axle for specific configurations), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system (power steering, steering gear), wheel alignment.

Electrical Electronic:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), wiper system, horn, fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams (crucial detail).

Body Chassis:

Body panel repair, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seat removal, frame repair, rust prevention and repair, glass replacement, weatherstripping.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (with safety precautions).

Fuel Tank Exhaust:

Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel lines, exhaust system components.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake), filter replacements, lubrication, inspection points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service.

Installation:

Installation procedures for common replacement parts and accessories (e.g., alternators, starters, water pumps, alternators).

Specifications Tolerances:

Detailed torque specifications for fasteners, engine bearing clearances, piston ring end gap, valve lash adjustments (if applicable).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Information on standard mechanic's tools, specialized tools (e.g., bearing pullers, ring compressors), and diagnostic equipment (e.g., multimeter, scan tool if OBD-I diagnostics are detailed).

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Physical printed book.

Paper Quality:

Typically good quality, durable paper designed for workshop environments. May vary depending on original publisher (e.g., Chilton, Haynes, or OEM).

Image Resolution:

Black and white line drawings and diagrams, often with photographic illustrations. Clarity is generally good for understanding procedures.

Binding:

Often paperback or spiral-bound to allow the manual to lay flat on a workbench.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1:

5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cu in)

Engine Options 2:

5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cu in)

Engine Options 3:

3.9L Magnum V6 (239 cu in) - less common in 1500 models, more in 1500 variations or lower trims.

Engine Options 4:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (likely reserved for 2500/3500 models, but manual might cover engine basics).

Horsepower 5.2L:

Approximately 230 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque 5.2L:

Approximately 310 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Horsepower 5.9L:

Approximately 245 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque 5.9L:

Approximately 335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).

Engine Family:

Chrysler Magnum V-engine series.

Spark Plugs:

Refer to manual for specific gap and torque (e.g., Champion Copper).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Manual transmission (e.g., NV3500 5-speed).

Type Automatic:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE 4-speed or A500/A518 4-speed).

Fluid Type Automatic:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual for exact spec for 1995).

Fluid Type Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90).

Overdrive:

Available on 4-speed automatics and 5-speed manuals.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

Approximately 118.7 inches.

Wheelbase Club Cab:

Approximately 135 inches.

Bed Length Standard:

Approximately 6.5 feet.

Bed Length Long:

Approximately 8 feet (may be available on certain configurations).

Gvwr Range:

Varies by configuration, but typically in the 6000-6500 lbs range for 1500 series.

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 4200-4800 lbs depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Generally rated 3 or 4 stars for frontal impact for this era, though specific crash test data for 1995 might be limited. Manual will not contain explicit NHTSA ratings but will detail safety system designs.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard, passenger airbag likely optional.

Seatbelts:

Lap and shoulder belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear. Manual details proper use and adjustment.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, and CD player (optional) available. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available as standard or optional feature.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available options on higher trim levels.

OBD Interface:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation). Diagnosis requires specific connectors and procedures detailed in the manual, not standard OBD-II readers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gas:

Approximately 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Manual will specify exact intervals and recommended oil viscosity.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Approximately 30,000 miles or 2 years. Manual will specify coolant type.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines, depending on ambient temperature. Manual will confirm.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, likely Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) depending on the specific formulation for 1995. Refer to manual for correct type and mixture.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, brake pads/rotors, radiator, water pump, TPS (Throttle Position Sensor), lift pump (for diesel, less common in 1500), fuel injectors.

Potential Electrical Gremlins:

Corrosion in connectors, failing relays, intermittent sensor issues. Wiring diagrams are critical for diagnosis.

Rust Prone Areas:

Rocker panels, cab corners, rear fender lips, frame rails (especially in rust-belt regions).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, establishing a strong reputation in the pickup market.

Second Gen Ram Introduction:

The second generation Ram was introduced for the 1994 model year, featuring a significant redesign with its signature 'big rig' styling.

1995 Updates:

Minor updates likely occurred from 1994 to 1995, potentially including slight feature packaging changes or minor mechanical refinements. The core platform remained consistent.

Manufacturing Location:

Typically produced in North America, with major assembly plants historically in the United States.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

The second generation Ram series generally received positive reviews and awards during its tenure, contributing to Dodge's strong pickup sales and reputation. Specific 1995 awards are less commonly cited than the generation's overall success.