Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet owners, enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet C/K Series, GMC Sierra
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, strong towing and hauling capability, reputation for durability, available V8 engines
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, step-by-step instructions and factory specifications essential for accurate and efficient maintenance and repair of the 1989-1991 Dodge Ram.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmissions (A500, A518, Getrag 360), Automatic transmissions (TF727, NP205 transfer case for 4x4), driveline, differentials, CV joints
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc options), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, audio system, charging system, starting system
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, bumpers, mirrors, tailgate, frame, underbody
Body Interior:
Seating, dashboard, trim, headliner, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, differential), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, mechanical failures, guided fault finding charts
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, bodywork repair
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I) interpretation, trouble codes, sensor testing, component testing
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Body Repair:
Procedures for dent repair, panel replacement, rust repair, frame straightening basics
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic flowcharts
Component Specs:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, pressure readings, and other critical data for component assembly and repair.
Engine Options:
3.9L V6 Magnum (193 cu in), 5.2L V8 Magnum (318 cu in), 5.9L V8 Magnum (360 cu in)
Horsepower Range:
125-230 hp (approximate, varies by engine and year)
Torque Range:
200-330 lb-ft (approximate, varies by engine and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 3.9L V6 and early 5.2L V8, Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for later 5.2L V8 and all 5.9L V8
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol (Green, traditional) - typically 50/50 mix with distilled water
Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 recommended for most conditions (check specific year/engine for exact spec)
Engine Identification:
Engine codes are typically found on the engine block or a data plate; manual will detail how to identify specific engines.
Standard Transmission:
Getrag 360 (5-speed manual) available on some configurations
Automatic Transmission:
A500 (4-speed automatic with overdrive), A518 (4-speed automatic with overdrive and lock-up torque converter)
Transfer Case 4X4:
NP205 (203,000 miles typically rated, heavy duty)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Bed Lengths:
6.5 ft (short bed), 8 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
4,000 - 5,500 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Up to 6,500 - 8,000 lbs (depending on payload package)
NHTSA Crash Test Data:
Limited data available for this era, focus was on structural integrity and occupant protection through passive restraints.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard; optional rear disc brakes on some models
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990 onwards; passenger airbag not typically available on these models.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants (if applicable)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (check manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum - refer to manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (meeting FMVSS 116)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 12-14 quarts (varies by engine)
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks, heater core issues, vacuum leaks, minor electrical gremlins, worn suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), starter motor issues
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, cab corners, frame rails (especially in rust-belt regions)
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks dating back to the early 20th century.
Second Generation Ram:
The 1989-1993 model years represent the second generation of the Dodge Ram, marked by a significant redesign from the previous generation, including a more aerodynamic and modern exterior, and the introduction of the 'Magnum' engine family.
Key Changes 1989:
Introduction of the 'Magnum' V8 engines (5.2L and 5.9L) with improved power and efficiency, aerodynamic redesign, updated interior.
Key Changes 1990:
Driver-side airbag became standard.
Key Changes 1991:
Continued refinement, introduction of ABS options.
Manufacturing Plants:
St. Louis Assembly Plant, Missouri, USA
Production Years For Generation:
1989-1993
