Market Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, catering to work, towing, and family hauling needs.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust chassis, powerful engine options, comfortable interior, significant towing and payload capacity, distinctive styling.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, fleet managers, professional technicians, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their 2003 Dodge Ram.
Primary Coverage:
Full service and repair procedures for 2003 Dodge Ram Trucks.
Trim Level Coverage:
All trim levels including ST, SLT, Laramie, Sport, etc.
Region Coverage:
North American models
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 pages (typical for this generation's comprehensive service manual)
Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely Digital (PDF) or Printed Book
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, power accessories
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, exterior trim
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, troubleshooting charts, testing procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuilding procedures for major systems
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, valve train adjustments, timing component replacement.
Transmission Repair:
Automatic transmission disassembly/assembly, manual transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, transfer case service.
Brake System:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum service, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake line inspection and replacement, bleeding procedure.
Suspension Steering:
Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber/strut replacement, power steering pump and gear replacement, alignment procedures.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams for all major systems, starter motor testing, alternator testing, battery diagnostics, fuse and relay identification and testing.
HVAC System:
HVAC component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core), refrigerant charging, diagnostic procedures for heating and cooling issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostic strategies.
Digital Format Details:
Searchable text, hyperlinked sections, printable pages. High-resolution scans for clarity.
Print Quality:
Professional printing with clear text and diagrams (if applicable).
Binding Type:
Durable binding suitable for workshop use (e.g., spiral, perfect bound) or digital PDF.
Paper Type:
Heavy-duty, oil-resistant paper for printed versions.
Engine Options:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8 (Gasoline), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6
3.7L V6 Horsepower:
215 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.7L V6 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4800 rpm (early 2003), 260 hp @ 5200 rpm (late 2003)
4.7L V8 Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (early 2003), 330 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (late 2003)
5.9L V8 Horsepower:
245 hp @ 4000 rpm
5.9L V8 Torque:
345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L Cummins Horsepower:
235 hp @ 2900 rpm
5.9L Cummins Torque:
460 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; High-pressure common rail (HPCR) for Cummins diesel
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended), Diesel fuel
Wheelbase Options:
131.3 in (Regular Cab), 140.5 in (Club Cab 6'4" bed), 160.5 in (Club Cab 8' bed), 164.1 in (Quad Cab 6'4" bed)
Bed Length Options:
6'4" (short bed), 8'0" (long bed)
Gvwr Range:
6,000 lbs to 9,000 lbs depending on configuration
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,800 lbs to 6,500 lbs
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on engine and usage (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Change:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years (Mopar OAT).
Engine Oil 3.7L/4.7L:
API SP/SN SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil 5.9L:
API CG-4/CH-4 SAE 15W-40 Diesel Oil (for Cummins)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar part #05013457AA)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) - refer to manual for specific type and grade.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/100
Common Problems Gas V8:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, spark plug blowout (early models), rear main seal leaks.
Common Problems Cummins:
Injector pump issues (VP44), lift pump failure, overheating (especially under heavy load).
Common Problems General:
Cracked dashboards (sun exposure), power window regulator failures, brake wear, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on diesels).
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2003 model is part of the third generation (2002-2008) Ram, which introduced a significant redesign with a larger, more aggressive exterior and improved interior comfort and features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA
