Vehicle Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, known for its robust construction, towing capacity, and versatility.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra (though Tundra was newer to the market in '99).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling owners and technicians to accurately diagnose and repair issues, maintain optimal performance, and extend the vehicle's lifespan.
Digital Advantage:
Instant access and searchability of information, eliminating the need for physical storage and allowing for quick lookups of specific procedures or specifications.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system (injection, pumps, injectors), ignition system, emissions control systems, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul procedures for manual transmissions (if equipped).
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, seals.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axles, differentials, drive shafts, U-joints, CV joints (if applicable), transfer case (for 4x4 models).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., independent front suspension, solid rear axle), ball joints, control arms, springs, shock absorbers, steering linkage.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), hydraulic components, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, ignition switch.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers, frame specifications.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and safety precautions, seat belts.
Diagnostic Tools:
OBD-II diagnostic procedures, trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups.
Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing components for repair or replacement.
Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for reassembling components.
Cleaning:
Procedures for cleaning specific parts during disassembly and reassembly.
Reinstallation:
Detailed instructions for correctly reinstalling repaired or replaced components.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and uncommon problems.
Specifications:
Critical torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Diagnostic Charts:
Systematic approaches to diagnose malfunctions.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, designed for professional technicians but accessible to advanced DIYers with mechanical aptitude. Covers from basic maintenance to complex component overhauls and diagnostics.
Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians and experienced do-it-yourself mechanics.
Engine Options:
Commonly available engines included the 3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8, and 5.9L Magnum V8. A 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel was also a popular option for 2500/3500 models.
3.9L Magnum V6:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
5.2L Magnum V8:
Approx. 230 hp @ 4400 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L Magnum V8:
Approx. 245-250 hp @ 4000 rpm, 335-345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel:
Approx. 215 hp @ 2700 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (standard output for '99).
Fuel Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines. Direct injection for Cummins diesel.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6/V8), Diesel fuel for Cummins.
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or distributor-based systems depending on exact engine configuration.
Coolant Type Specification:
Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water) or equivalent HOAT coolant. Consult manual for exact Mopar part numbers.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (NV3500 for V6 and light-duty V8, NV4500 for heavy-duty V8/Diesel).
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (44RE for V6/light-duty V8, 47RE for heavy-duty V8/Diesel).
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system with electronic or manual shift transfer case (e.g., NV241DHD for heavy duty).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Synchromesh transmission fluid (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant) or API GL-3/GL-4 rated gear oil. Consult manual for specific viscosity and type.
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration (e.g., Regular Cab, Club Cab, long bed, short bed). Common short bed regular cab ~119 inches, long bed regular cab ~135 inches, Club Cab ~135 inches.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and cab configuration, typically ranging from 4,500 to 6,500+ lbs.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Ranges from 6,050 lbs (GVWR for 1500) up to 8,000+ lbs (GVWR for 3500).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on engine and oil specification (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline, 15W-40 for diesel).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmissions: every 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual transmissions: typically less frequent, check manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Varies by engine. 3.9L V6: approx. 5 quarts. 5.2L V8: approx. 5 quarts. 5.9L V8: approx. 5 quarts. 5.9L Cummins Diesel: approx. 10-11 quarts (with filter).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Gasoline: 5W-30 or 10W-30. Diesel: 15W-40 (API CI-4 or CH-4).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+3.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Rear main seal leaks, fuel pump failures, exhaust manifold cracks (on some V8s), transmission cooler line leaks, rust in common areas (wheel wells, cab corners), dashboard cracks, radiator support issues.