Market Position:
A highly capable and popular full-size pickup truck, known for its robust construction and towing capabilities.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with other established full-size pickups such as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500. The Dodge Ram 1500 distinguished itself with its bold styling and strong emphasis on powertrain options.
Key Features:
Comfortable ride for a truck, powerful V8 engine options, distinctive exterior styling, spacious interior, available in various cab and bed configurations.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Transfer Case, Axles), Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Frame, Interior Components, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service, Brake System Repair, Steering and Suspension Alignment, Electrical System Diagnostics, HVAC System Repair, Emission Control System Service, Body Panel Repair, Drivetrain Component Rebuilding.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance and diagnostics to full component overhaul and rebuilding procedures.
Engine Options:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8 (24V)
3.7L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 215 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.7L V6 Torque:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 235 hp @ 4600 rpm
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 245 hp @ 4000 rpm
5.9L V8 Torque:
Approx. 335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Control Module:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE for V6, 44RE for 4.7L V8, 48RE for 5.9L V8)
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for V6, NV4500 for V8 applications, though less common in later models)
Transmission Features:
Electronic overdrive, torque converter lock-up.
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (RWD), 4WD (Part-time or Full-time, depending on configuration)
Transfer Case Type:
New Process Gear (NP) 235 (part-time 4WD), NP243 (full-time 4WD)
Wheelbase Options:
134.7 inches (standard), 154.7 inches (long bed)
Overall Length Approx:
229.7 inches (standard), 249.7 inches (long bed)
Overall Width Approx:
79.1 inches
Seating Capacity:
3 (Regular Cab), 5-6 (Club Cab/Quad Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 feet (standard), 8.0 feet (long bed)
Curb Weight Approx:
4,700 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gvwr Approx:
6,050 - 7,200 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Max Approx:
Up to 8,000+ lbs (with appropriate engine and towing package)
NHTSA Driver Side Frontal Impact:
Not Rated / Poor (IIHS frontal offset for 2001 models was poor)
NHTSA Passenger Side Frontal Impact:
Not Rated
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on front wheels, optional on rear. Available integrated trailer brake controller (later models).
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, seatbelt pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depends on transmission type and usage).
Engine Oil Spec:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual/manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Varies by engine (approx. 5-7 quarts for V6, 6-7 quarts for V8).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant (typically pink or orange).
Known Issues:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8s), transmission solenoid/println issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, potential for rust on cab corners and rocker panels, front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods).
Spark Plug Type 5.9L V8:
Champion copper core (e.g., RC12LYC) or equivalent platinum/iridium plugs recommended by service manual.
Air Filter Part Number Example
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Fram CA6717, Wix 42845 (verify against specific VIN/engine).
Brand Heritage:
Dodge has a long history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate representing their full-size pickup offering.
Third Generation Ram:
These models represent the first half of the third generation (2002-2008), which introduced significant updates in styling, interior comfort, and powertrain options.
Production Period:
2001-2002 model years.
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA