Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
Reputation:
Known for robust construction, powerful engine options (especially Cummins diesel), and towing capability.
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners and mechanics to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively, covering a wide range of potential issues.
Cost Savings:
Empowers DIY repairs, potentially saving significant labor costs.
Engine:
Yes (3.9L V6, 5.2L V8 Magnum, 5.9L V8 Magnum, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel)
Transmission:
Yes (42RE, 44RE, 46RE Automatic; NV3500 Manual)
Drivetrain:
Yes (2WD and 4WD systems, transfer case, axles, differentials)
Suspension:
Yes (Front independent front suspension, rear solid axle, leaf springs)
Brakes:
Yes (Front disc, rear drum; ABS)
Steering:
Yes (Power steering system)
Electrical:
Yes (Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, instrument cluster)
HVAC:
Yes (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system)
Body:
Yes (Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, tailgate, glass)
Chassis:
Yes (Frame, body mounting)
Fuel System:
Yes (Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors)
Cooling System:
Yes (Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump)
Emission Controls:
Yes (Catalytic converter, EGR, O2 sensors)
Maintenance:
Yes (Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, tune-ups)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, common issues)
Repair:
Yes (Component removal and installation, component repair)
Overhaul:
Yes (Engine and transmission overhaul procedures)
Diagnostics:
Yes (System diagnostics, electrical testing)
Alignment:
Yes (Wheel alignment specifications and procedures)
Disassembly Assembly:
Yes (Detailed step-by-step instructions)
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics)
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and DIY Mechanics
Base Engine:
3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6
Optional Engine 1:
5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8
Optional Engine 2:
5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8
Diesel Engine:
5.9L (359 cu in) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (ISB)
Hp 39L V6 Approx:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 39L V6 Approx:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Hp 52L V8 Approx:
220 hp @ 4400 rpm
Torque 52L V8 Approx:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Hp 59L V8 Approx:
230 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque 59L V8 Approx:
330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Hp 59L Cummins Approx:
215-235 hp @ 2500 rpm (depending on year/spec)
Torque 59L Cummins Approx:
420-460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (depending on year/spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline; Direct Injection for Cummins Diesel
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended), Diesel Fuel
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual NV3500 (for V6 and some V8 models)
Optional Transmission 1:
4-Speed Automatic 42RE (for 3.9L V6 and 5.2L V8)
Optional Transmission 2:
4-Speed Automatic 44RE (for 5.9L V8)
Optional Transmission 3:
4-Speed Automatic 46RE (for 5.9L V8 and 5.9L Cummins)
Optional Transmission 4:
6-Speed Manual G360 (for 5.9L Cummins - rarer)
Overdrive:
Yes (for all automatic transmissions)
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Mercon V or equivalent (NV3500); SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil (G360)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
117.1 inches
Wheelbase Club Cab:
134.7 inches
Bed Lengths:
6.5 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Approx:
4,500 - 6,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
6,000 - 8,800 lbs (depending on model and configuration)
Towing Capacity Max Approx:
Up to 13,000 lbs (with proper equipment and configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good (Second Generation generally received good ratings for its time)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on others
Airbags:
Driver side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on some models.
Seatbelts:
Front seat shoulder belts, rear seat belts
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo, cassette player, optional CD player, available premium sound systems.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, oil pressure, coolant temperature; warning lamps.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims
Towing Features:
Factory trailer wiring harness provision, integrated trailer brake controller (optional on some models/years)
Connectivity Options:
Limited to basic entertainment and power accessories; no integrated Bluetooth or USB ports for this era.
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (severe service recommendations may vary)
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and usage)
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (severe service: 15,000-30,000 miles)
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Gas:
Varies by plug type (e.g., copper: 30k miles, platinum: 60k miles, iridium: 100k miles)
Engine Oil Viscosity Gas:
10W-30 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Viscosity Diesel:
15W-40 (API CI-4 or CJ-4)
Coolant:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent (green coolant)
Common Issues:
Ball joint wear, steering box looseness, rear main seal leaks (especially on V8s), heater core leaks, intermittent wiper issues, ABS sensor failures, minor electrical gremlins, automatic transmission solenoid issues.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Injector pump issues (VP44 on later models), occasional overheating if cooling system is neglected, wear on engine mounts.
Dodge Truck History:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with heavy-duty capability and towing prowess.
Second Gen Launch:
The second-generation Ram was introduced for the 1994 model year, revolutionizing the pickup truck design with its aggressive, 'big rig' styling. This generation saw significant updates through its lifespan, including engine enhancements and trim level expansions.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Mexico
Model Significance:
This generation established the Ram as a major contender in the full-size truck segment, known for its distinctive styling and the potent Cummins turbodiesel option.