🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Model Generation:

Second Generation (DN)

Model Codes:

DN Series

Applicable Years:

1989, 1990

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Ram Truck was a significant player in the full-size pickup truck market, competing directly with Ford F-Series and Chevrolet/GMC C/K series trucks. Known for its distinct styling and robust performance, it appealed to buyers seeking a workhorse and a capable personal vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

During the 1989-1990 model years, the Ram competed in a highly competitive segment. Its strengths included powerful engine options, especially the Magnum V8s, and a generally rugged construction. The manual provides the necessary technical data to maintain and repair these specific attributes.

Key Features:

This workshop manual is a critical resource for owners and technicians of the 1989-1990 Dodge Ram. Its 1611 pages offer unparalleled depth in covering all operational and repair aspects, crucial for preserving the longevity and performance of these trucks.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, chassis, drivetrain, engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, HVAC, fuel system, emissions, diagnostics, troubleshooting, maintenance, repair procedures, specifications.

Page Count:

1611

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (including V6 & V8 gasoline, and diesel), Engine Control Systems (EFI/MPI), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case (4x4 models), Driveline (Axles, Driveshafts, U-Joints), Steering System, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Brake System (Front Disc/Rear Drum & Rear Disc options), ABS, Body Electrical, HVAC System, Climate Control, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Safety Systems (Seatbelts, Airbags if applicable to the era), Diagnostics and Troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly of major and minor components, torque specifications, electrical wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, repair procedures for all major systems, bodywork repair, alignment procedures, emission control system service, clutch service, brake bleeding, ABS diagnostics, power steering service, engine rebuilding procedures.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic trees, schematics, and component-level repair instructions suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear reproduction of diagrams, schematics, and text. Designed to be printable.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.9L Magnum V6 (239 cu in), 5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cu in), 5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cu in), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (in some configurations).

Horsepower Torque Ranges:

Varies by engine: 3.9L V6 (approx. 125-140 hp), 5.2L V8 (approx. 170-185 hp), 5.9L V8 (approx. 200-230 hp). Diesel variants offered significant torque.

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for gasoline engines; Direct Injection for Cummins Diesel.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Manual transmissions (e.g., A500/A518 for overdrive automatics, NP435 4-speed manual, Getrag G360 5-speed manual).

Optional Transmission:

Automatic transmissions (e.g., A500, A518, A727) with 3-speed or 4-speed (overdrive) options depending on engine and configuration.

Transmission Features:

Overdrive gears on automatic transmissions (A518) improve fuel efficiency and reduce highway noise. Heavy-duty manual transmissions for towing applications.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Multiple wheelbases available, including standard cab, club cab, and chassis cab configurations. Common wheelbases range from 112" to 131" and beyond for longer bed/cab configurations.

Overall Length:

Varies significantly based on configuration (Regular Cab, Club Cab, Long Bed, Short Bed).

Bed Length Options:

Typically 6.5 ft (short bed) and 8 ft (long bed) were offered for most configurations.

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, engine, and drivetrain, generally ranging from approximately 4,000 lbs to over 5,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

NHTSA ratings for this era are generally available, but specific crash test data might vary. Focus was on structural integrity and basic safety features.

Active Safety Features:

Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some later models offered rear discs). Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) became available, particularly on higher trims or specific configurations.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts), reinforced cab structure, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. Optional features included premium sound systems and CD players. Digital displays were minimal, focusing on analog gauges.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited. ABS was an option. Cruise control was commonly available.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Connectivity was limited to basic electrical systems and ignition components.

🔧 Maintenance

Routine Maintenance Schedule:

Oil and filter change: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months. Air filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Spark plugs: Typically 30,000 miles for standard plugs, 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs. Coolant: Flush and replace every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years. Transmission fluid: Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) change every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on usage, manual transmission fluid inspection and change as per manual recommendations. Brake fluid: Inspect and replace every 2-3 years. Differential fluid: Inspect periodically, change every 50,000-100,000 miles depending on usage and type (limited-slip requires specific fluid).

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for gasoline engines (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature). Diesel engines may require API Service CD or CE, SAE 15W-40.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Automatic transmissions typically require ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check specific application). Manual transmissions typically use gear oil (e.g., GL-5 75W-90 or 80W-90).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a green color. Use a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water for optimal freeze and corrosion protection.

Common Issues:

Rust on body panels (especially fenders, cab corners, and rocker panels), aging suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, bushings), potential for radiator leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks on Magnum V8s, transmission cooler line leaks, aging electrical connectors and grounds leading to intermittent issues, exhaust manifold leaks on V8 engines, transfer case chain stretch on 4x4 models, minor oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan gaskets.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust trucks, with the 'Ram' nameplate becoming iconic for its durability and capability in the pickup market.

Model Evolution 1989 1990:

The 1989 and 1990 model years represent the later stages of the second-generation Ram (DN chassis). This generation saw significant updates including the introduction of the highly popular 'Magnum' engine series (3.9L V6 and 5.2L/5.9L V8), which significantly improved performance and efficiency over previous engines. The exterior styling featured a bold grille and aerodynamic improvements.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in the United States, with key assembly plants in Warren, Michigan, and St. Louis, Missouri, among others.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1989-1990 models are less documented than modern vehicles, the Ram Truck line consistently received accolades for its powertrain options and towing capabilities throughout this generation, particularly with the introduction of the Magnum engines.