Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
Mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, fleet managers, owners seeking in-depth knowledge
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Vehicle Reputation:
Known for robust build, towing capacity, and variety of configurations
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-accurate repair and maintenance information to save on labor costs and ensure proper upkeep.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul procedures for all gasoline engines
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection, emission controls, sensors, wiring diagrams
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul of manual transmissions
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE, 48RE)
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive system operation and repair, differentials, driveshafts, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering gear
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc and drum brake repair, ABS system diagnostics and repair
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), interior and exterior lighting diagnostics
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation, diagnosis, and repair
Chassis Electrical:
Instrument cluster, warning lights, cruise control, trailer wiring
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, glass replacement, frame inspection and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic tools, and strategies
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling components
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment angles
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits
Level:
Expert-level, covering basic adjustments to complete overhauls and advanced diagnostics
File Type:
Typically PDF for digital versions, allowing for searchability and printing
Print Quality:
High-quality, suitable for professional use; clear diagrams and text
Binding:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for print versions, ensuring durability and ease of use
Paper Quality:
Durable paper stock to withstand workshop conditions
Engine Options:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (though the manual is for the gasoline Ram, the diesel is a significant variant to note for the model range)
3.7L V6:
Approx. 215 hp, 235 lb-ft torque
4.7L V8:
Approx. 235-245 hp, 305-330 lb-ft torque
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Regular 87 octane recommended for most engines)
Transmission Availability:
Availability varied by engine and trim level
Automatic Transmissions:
42RE (3-speed, for 3.7L/4.7L), 45RFE (4-speed, for 4.7L/5.9L), 48RE (4-speed overdrive, for 5.9L Cummins)
Manual Transmissions:
NV3500 (5-speed, for 3.7L), NV4500 (5-speed heavy-duty, for 4.7L/5.9L Cummins)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system (BW 4405, BW 4410) or Quadra-Trac 4WD system available
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab), Crew Cab
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly based on configuration (e.g., ~4,500 - 6,000+ lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Varies by model and configuration (e.g., 6,000 lbs to 8,800 lbs+ for heavy-duty models)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
Good (for driver in frontal offset tests, but varies by specific year and configuration, consult individual vehicle data)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics)
Engine Air Filter:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on dusty conditions
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) flush and filter change every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, manual transmission fluid inspection/change as per manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature and engine)
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4 compatible fluid
Transmission Slippage:
Common in older automatic transmissions, often related to solenoid packs or fluid issues.
Headlight Condensation:
Some models may experience condensation in headlight assemblies.
Rust:
As with many trucks of this era, rust can be an issue in certain climates, particularly on rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel wells.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Some 4.7L V8 engines may develop exhaust manifold cracks.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2003 model is part of the third generation Ram (1994-2001 for second gen, 2002-2008 for third gen). This generation introduced significant styling and mechanical updates.
Manufacturing Locations:
St. Louis, Missouri; Warren, Michigan (for North American production)
