Full-size pickup truck, positioned as a robust and capable workhorse and family vehicle.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed directly with Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan.
Key Features
Engine Options:
Renowned for its powerful HEMI engine option, offering significant towing and hauling capabilities.
Design:
Distinctive bold styling, comfortable and spacious interior for its class, and a reputation for durability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the critical information needed to maintain and repair this generation of Ram trucks efficiently and accurately.
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions, including torque specifications and clearances.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format Details:
Likely a searchable PDF document or a dedicated executable software with integrated search functionality.
Print Quality
Print Capability:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections as needed. Clear diagrams and illustrations.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Software)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Software)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Name:
4.7L Magnum V8
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.7 Liters (285 cu in)
Engine 1 Configuration:
SOHC V8
Engine 1 Horsepower:
260 hp @ 4,500 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3,400 rpm
Engine 1 Fuel Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Performance
Engine 2 Name:
5.7L HEMI V8
Engine 2 Displacement:
5.7 Liters (345 cu in)
Engine 2 Configuration:
OHV V8 with HEMI head design
Engine 2 Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5,000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Engine 2 Fuel Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Pump Type:
In-tank electric
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission 1:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE/45RFE/545RFE)
Optional
Transmission 2:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500)
Features
Automatic Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with overdrive.
Manual Transmission Features:
Synchronized gears, durable case construction.
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar Part Number 05013457AA or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific type)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
134.7 inches (standard cab/short bed), 140.5 inches (Quad Cab/short bed or standard cab/long bed), 160.5 inches (Quad Cab/long bed)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 228 - 258 inches)
Overall Width:
Approx. 79.9 inches (excluding mirrors)
Overall Height:
Approx. 75.2 inches
Bed Lengths:
6.3 feet (short bed), 8.0 feet (long bed)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration (approx. 4,700 - 5,700 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration (approx. 6,400 - 7,500 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 8,750 lbs (with proper configuration and trailer brake controller)
Payload Capacity:
Varies by configuration (approx. 1,300 - 2,000 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 out of 5 stars (for 4WD models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on some trims (Electronic Stability Control - ESC availability varies)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available side curtain airbags on some models/trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Base models featured a basic AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims could include premium audio systems, satellite radio, and in some cases, early forms of navigation or touchscreen interfaces (though less common for 2005).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. ABS was standard. Optional features might include parking sensors on some trims, but advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist were not available.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Basic connectivity through audio systems. Optional satellite radio. Bluetooth hands-free calling was not a common factory feature for this model year.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage. Manual transmission fluid inspection at similar intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
4.7L V8: ~100,000 miles (if using original copper plugs, likely needs checking sooner). 5.7L HEMI: ~100,000 miles (using platinum or iridium plugs).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7L: 5.5 quarts (5.2 L) with filter. 5.7L HEMI: 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) with filter.
Engine Oil Type:
5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic, depending on climate and driving conditions (refer to owner's manual).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) extended life coolant (Mopar Part Number 05103532AA or equivalent, typically a long-life red coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Known Issues
Known Issue 1:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 4.7L V8).
Known Issue 2:
Transmission solenoid issues or torque converter shudder (common on higher mileage automatic transmissions).
Known Issue 3:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (particularly on HEMI engines).
Known Issue 4:
Water pump leaks or failures.
Known Issue 5:
Power steering pump noise or leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, establishing the 'Ram' nameplate as a formidable competitor in the pickup market.
Model Evolution
Third Generation:
The 2005 model year falls within the third generation (2002-2008) of the Dodge Ram pickup, which introduced significant styling and mechanical updates, including the iconic HEMI engine.
Key Updates For 2005:
The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine became widely available across the Ram lineup, including the 1500 series, significantly boosting performance and towing capabilities.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Typically manufactured at Chrysler's Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico or Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Launch Reception:
The third-generation Ram generally received positive reviews for its bold styling, powerful engine options (especially the HEMI), and comfortable ride for a truck.
Competitor Awards Impact:
While specific awards for the 2005 Ram 1500 might be limited, its class competitors often received accolades for utility, power, and value, influencing market perception.