Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, catering to commercial and personal use with strong towing and hauling capabilities.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.
Design Philosophy:
Robust construction, powerful engine options, versatile utility, and a distinct Dodge styling.
Trim Levels:
Typically included ST, SLT, TRX, Laramie, Sport, and potentially specialized trims.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for all engine variants, including disassembly, inspection, assembly, torque specifications, and component testing.
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis and repair of engine performance issues, fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control systems.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul procedures for manual transmissions, clutch service, and driveline components.
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions, including fluid service and torque converter replacement.
Brakes:
Service and repair for ABS, traction control, brake fluid, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, and drum brake systems.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, replacement, alignment procedures, shock absorbers, and springs.
Steering:
Power steering system service, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, and alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of electrical faults, lighting, charging system, starting system.
Body Exterior:
Body panel replacement, door mechanisms, hinges, latches, glass replacement, bumpers, and exterior trim.
Body Interior:
Interior trim removal and installation, seating systems, dashboard components, airbags, and HVAC system components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, and heater core.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and component inspections.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving malfunctions using symptom-based guides and diagnostic trees.
Rebuilding:
Comprehensive guidelines for rebuilding key components such as engines, transmissions, and differentials.
Calibration:
Procedures for recalibrating various electronic modules and sensors after repair or replacement (e.g., throttle body, ABS sensors).
Depth Level:
In-depth factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on required diagnostic tools, scan tools, and special equipment for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Engine 1:
4.7L Magnum V8 (e.g., P/N 53022302, 53022302AA)
Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 310 hp @ 5650 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
Engine 2:
5.7L HEMI V8 (e.g., P/N 5037350AA, 5037350AB)
Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 390 hp @ 5600 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 407 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3:
3.7L Magnum V6 (Less common in 1500 for this year, but available)
Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 215 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 4.7L, Multi-displacement HEMI (MDS) with MPI for 5.7L
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual spark plugs per cylinder.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for optimal performance)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Typically 26 gallons (approx. 98 liters)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (NV3500) on some configurations
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., W5A580 or 545RFE)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic overdrive, Tow/Haul mode, Electronic range selection.
Manual Transmission Features:
Heavy-duty clutch assembly, appropriate gear ratios for towing and hauling.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear lubricant (verify specific manual recommendation)
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 139.5 inches for Quad Cab 6'4" bed, 140.5 inches for Crew Cab 5'7" bed, 160.5 inches for Quad Cab 8' bed)
Length:
Varies by configuration (approx. 227-259 inches)
Width:
Approx. 79.1 inches (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 74.6 inches
Bed Lengths:
Available in 5'7" (short bed) and 6'4" and 8' (long bed) configurations.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically 4,700 - 5,300 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically 6,800 - 7,200 lbs
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Generally received 4 stars for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests (from IIHS and NHTSA data of the era).
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
Generally received 5 stars for front and rear side-impact tests.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Electronic Traction Control (ETC) available/standard depending on trim.
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) became more prevalent and available on this generation.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side curtain airbags available on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
Radio Options:
Available with AM/FM stereo, CD player, MP3 capability, auxiliary input. Higher trims featured Uconnect infotainment system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system integrated into the Uconnect interface on premium trims.
Parking Sensors:
Rear park assist system available as an option or standard on higher trims.
Camera:
Rearview camera integrated with the Uconnect system available on some models.
Bluetooth:
Uconnect hands-free communication system with Bluetooth connectivity available on many trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Coolant Change:
Typically every 60,000 miles or 5 years for the initial change, then every 30,000 miles or 3 years (check manual for exact specification, often HOAT coolant).
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for severe service, or consult manual for standard intervals. Fluid condition is a key indicator.
Spark Plug Replacement:
5.7L HEMI: Typically 100,000 miles (Long Life Platinum or Iridium plugs). 4.7L: Approximately 100,000 miles as well.
Engine Oil Specification:
5W-20 or 5W-30 for HEMI, potentially 5W-30 for 4.7L. API SN or higher certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.7L HEMI: 7 quarts (7.0 L) with filter. 4.7L: 6 quarts (5.7 L) with filter.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap or manual)
Hemi Desel Noise:
Some owners report a ticking or 'diesel-like' noise from the HEMI engine, often attributed to valve train components or the MDS system. Not always indicative of a major fault.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Occasional reports of hard shifting in the automatic transmission, often related to solenoid issues or fluid degradation.
Throttle Body Issues:
Electronic throttle body (ETB) can sometimes cause idle issues or stumbling; cleaning or replacement may be necessary.
Suspension Wear:
As with many heavy-duty trucks, suspension components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can experience wear over time, especially under heavy use.