Positioning:
The 2002 Dodge Ram represented a significant evolution in the full-size pickup truck market, introducing the third generation with a more aggressive styling and enhanced capabilities. It competed directly with the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Design:
Bold, muscular styling with a distinctive grille and integrated bumper design.
Capability:
Renowned for its towing and hauling capabilities, offering a robust platform for commercial and personal use.
Powertrain Options:
A range of powerful V8 and the signature Magnum V6 engines.
Covered Models:
All Dodge Ram models for 2002 (including 1500, 2500, 3500 series)
Covered Trims:
All trim levels
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (typical for comprehensive OEM service manuals)
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, drivelines, axles, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, body control modules, comfort and convenience systems, instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, glass, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), OBD-II procedures
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Bodywork:
Panel replacement, frame straightening (where applicable), collision repair information
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and component replacement to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair procedures.
Engine 1:
4.7L Magnum V8 (P-Code)
Engine 2:
5.9L Magnum V8 (Q-Code)
Engine 3:
3.7L Magnum V6 (X-Code) - Introduced for 2002
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 235 hp @ 4500 rpm
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approximately 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 245 hp @ 4000 rpm
5.9L V8 Torque:
Approximately 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
3.7L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 215 hp @ 5200 rpm
3.7L V6 Torque:
Approximately 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT (50/50 mix)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RE for 4.7L, 48RE for 5.9L)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (NV3500 for 4.7L)
Transfer Case:
Command-Trac NV241DHD (part-time 4WD) or electronically controlled (242HD/247)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-5)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Refer to specific NHTSA testing for 2002 model year and configuration.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models, 4-wheel disc brakes on some configurations.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (optional), and premium audio systems.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
OBD Ii:
Equipped with the OBD-II diagnostic system for emissions and engine monitoring.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on towing/heavy-duty use.
Engine Oil Weight:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on temperature range and engine, refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., MS-6395 compliant for 4.7L).
Power Steering Fluid:
Power Steering Fluid (Mopar)
Engine 4.7L:
Rattling noise from cylinder heads (lifter tick), potential for head gasket failure, intake manifold vacuum leaks.
Transmission Auto:
Potential for torque converter shudder, premature wear of transmission clutches, solenoid issues.
Electrical:
Instrument cluster failures, power window motor failures, TIPM (Total Integrated Power Module) issues (though TIPM became more prevalent in later years).
Suspension:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, shock absorber fatigue.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line dating back to the 1980s, evolving from the D-Series. Known for their distinctive styling and powerful engines.
Third Generation Introduction:
The 2002 model year marked the beginning of the third generation (2002-2008), a significant redesign over the previous generation with a completely new chassis, interior, and updated styling.
Manufacturing Locations:
St. Louis Assembly Plant, Missouri, USA; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico
Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:
While the *previous generation* Ram won MotorTrend Truck of the Year in 1994, the 2002 model year, as the start of a new generation, was highly competitive in its segment.
Towing Capacity:
Significant towing and payload capacities, often exceeding 10,000 lbs for properly equipped heavy-duty models.
