Market Position:
Heavy-duty pickup truck designed for demanding towing, hauling, and commercial applications.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes directly with Ford Super Duty F-250/F-350 and Chevrolet Silverado HD/GMC Sierra HD series.
Key Features:
Robust chassis, powerful engine options, advanced towing technologies, high payload and towing capacities.
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical, electrical, and body systems for Dodge RAM 3500 HD models 2012-2013
Page Count:
Extensive (exact number not specified, typical for full factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Manual Purpose:
Essential tool for technicians, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts performing maintenance and repairs.
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Accessibility:
Instant download to computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Systems Covered:
Engine (Gasoline & Diesel), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS & Non-ABS), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, ECUs, Sensors), HVAC, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Emission Control Systems:
Detailed coverage of emission control systems, including catalytic converters, diesel particulate filters (DPF), and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems for diesel.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Removal & Installation, Reassembly, Specifications, Torque Values, Wiring Schematics, Exploded Views, Overhaul Procedures
Diagnostic Troubleshooting Charts:
Detailed diagnostic trouble code (DTC) tables and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners, critical for ensuring component integrity.
Wheel Alignment Specifications:
Specifications for front and rear wheel alignment angles.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Electrical Schematics Detail:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including component locations.
Rebuild Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Chassis And Body Repair:
Information on body panel replacement, structural repairs, and chassis component alignment.
Primary Engine Options:
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, 5.7L HEMI V8 Gasoline
6.7L Cummins Hp:
350 hp @ 3,000 rpm
6.7L Cummins Torque:
650 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm
5.7L Hemi Hp:
383 hp @ 5,600 rpm
5.7L Hemi Torque:
400 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel System Diesel:
High-pressure common rail (HPCR) injection system
Fuel System Gas:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPFI)
Engine Description Diesel
Engine Description Diesel:
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: I6, OHV, 24 valves. Renowned for its durability and low-end torque.
Engine Description Gas:
5.7L HEMI V8: V8, OHV, 16 valves. Features MDS (Multi-Displacement System) for improved fuel economy.
Standard Transmission Diesel:
68RFE 6-speed Automatic
Optional Transmission Diesel:
G56 6-speed Manual (Less Common)
Standard Transmission Gas:
68RFE 6-speed Automatic
Optional Transmission Gas:
NV4500 5-speed Manual (Less Common)
Transmission Features:
Tow/Haul mode, manual shifting capability (automatic), integrated exhaust brake (diesel models)
Wheelbase Options:
140.5 inches (Regular Cab), 160.5 inches (Crew Cab), 172.4 inches (Mega Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6'4" (Short Bed), 8'0" (Long Bed)
Gvwr Range:
Over 10,000 lbs (varies by configuration)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 6,500 - 7,500 lbs
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally good for its class, specific ratings may vary by configuration and year.
Active Safety Features:
Trailer Sway Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS, Traction Control
Passive Safety Features:
Front Airbags, Front Side Curtain Airbags (optional/standard depending on cab), Seatbelt Pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Uconnect infotainment system with available touchscreen displays, navigation, and satellite radio.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear Park Assist (optional), Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (optional)
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Engine Management System:
ECM (Engine Control Module) with advanced diagnostics and sensor monitoring.
Transmission Control System:
TCM (Transmission Control Module) for managing shift points and torque converter lock-up.
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, or as indicated by the oil change monitor (synthetic oil recommended).
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil recommended).
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Diesel
Engine Oil Spec Diesel:
API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 15W-40 (or 5W-40 synthetic for extreme cold)
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Gas
Engine Oil Spec Gas:
API SN, SAE 5W-20 (or 5W-30 for heavy duty use/towing)
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink (MS-9769)
Fluid Specifications Transmission Auto
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Fluid Specifications Transmission Manual
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (Refer to manual for specific viscosity)
Fluid Specifications Differentials
Differential Fluid Spec:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (GL-5)
Known Issues:
Potential for EGR cooler issues in early diesel models, DEF system (AdBlue) maintenance on diesel, U-joint wear under heavy load, some electrical gremlins reported.
Oil Filter Part Number Diesel:
Mopar MO-899 / Fleetguard LF16035 (example)
Oil Filter Part Number Gas:
Mopar MO-349 / Fram PH10575 (example)
Maintenance Schedule Overview
Maintenance Schedule Overview:
Covers scheduled maintenance items at various mileage and time intervals, including fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building tough, capable trucks, with the RAM line being a cornerstone of their commercial and personal heavy-duty offerings.
Model Evolution:
The 2012-2013 models represent the fourth generation of the RAM Heavy Duty trucks, which underwent significant updates in 2010.
Production Location:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico
