🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 1500 Year: 2002 Generation Generation Designation: Third Generation (DR/DH/D2) Generation Years: 2002-2008 Codes Chassis Code: DR 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Full-size Pickup Truck Target Audience: DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 2002: Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Tundra, GMC Sierra 1500 Key Features Vehicle Design Philosophy: Robust, heavy-duty construction, proven mechanicals, strong towing and hauling capabilities Manual Value Proposition: Provides expert-level repair and maintenance guidance, empowering owners to maintain their vehicle effectively and economically. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Full Service and Repair Secondary Coverage: Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics Page Count Estimated Page Count: 2000+ Manual Type Manual Type: Professional Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (Likely PDF or similar e-book format) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair of all engine variants Engine Management: Fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics Transmission Manual: Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions Transmission Automatic: Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter Drivetrain: Front and rear axles, differentials, CV joints, driveshafts, transfer case (4WD) Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shocks, struts, springs Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake, hydraulic system Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, frame inspection, noise insulation HVAC: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair Restraints: Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication Scheduled Maintenance: Detailed maintenance schedules based on mileage or time Component Replacement: Step-by-step guides for replacing common wear items and major components Troubleshooting Guides: Systematic approaches to diagnose and resolve common and uncommon issues Rebuild Procedures: Detailed instructions for overhauling engines, transmissions, and other major assemblies Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all critical fasteners Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds Diagnostic Capability: Advanced diagnostics, including reading sensor data and diagnosing complex electrical faults Repair Methodology: Professional-level repair procedures, suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIYers 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (likely, with search functionality and bookmarks) Print Quality Digital Quality: High resolution for clear diagrams, photos, and text Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Digital Paper: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Base Engine: 4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC) Optional Engine 1: 3.7L Magnum V6 (SOHC) Optional Engine 2: 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (24V ISB) - Ram 2500/3500, but essential for context of engine families Performance 4.7L V8 Horsepower: Approximately 235 hp @ 4800 rpm 4.7L V8 Torque: Approximately 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm 3.7L V6 Horsepower: Approximately 215 hp @ 5200 rpm 3.7L V6 Torque: Approximately 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended) Engine Code Identification 4.7L Engine Code: P (on VIN) 3.7L Engine Code: P (on VIN - though often differentiated by 8th digit) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (42RE/44RE) Optional Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (NV3500, typically with V6) Features Transfer Case: Part-time 4WD system (NV235/NV244, depending on configuration) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar) Fluid Capacities Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 11.5 quarts (dry fill), 7.0 quarts (service fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Options: 134.5 inches (Standard Cab), 140.5 inches (Quad Cab) Overall Length Options: Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 224.6" for standard cab/6.3ft bed) Width Options: Approximately 79.1 inches Height Options: Approximately 74.5 inches Cargo Bed Length Options: 6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs Gvwr Range: Approximately 6,000 - 7,200 lbs Towing Capacity Max: Up to 8,900 lbs (properly equipped) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: Good (for driver and passenger, when tested) NHTSA Side Impact Rating: Not extensively rated for this year/generation in standardized testing. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Passive Features Airbags: Standard front driver and passenger airbags Seatbelts: Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, premium speaker systems available. Climate Control: Manual climate control standard, optional automatic climate control on higher trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Remote Keyless Entry: Optional remote keyless entry and remote start. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not standard, typically requires aftermarket modification for auxiliary audio input. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and...
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 224.6" for standard cab/6.3ft bed)
Width Options:
Approximately 79.1 inches
Height Options:
Approximately 74.5 inches
Cargo
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs
Gvwr Range:
Approximately 6,000 - 7,200 lbs
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 8,900 lbs (properly equipped)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Good (for driver and passenger, when tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
Not extensively rated for this year/generation in standardized testing.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Passive Features
Airbags:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, premium speaker systems available.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional remote keyless entry and remote start.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard, typically requires aftermarket modification for auxiliary audio input.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, 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.
Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L:
Approximately 100,000 miles (using appropriate OE spec plugs)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred for 4.7L V8), SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 3.7L V6 (check manual for exact specifications based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant meeting Chrysler MS-9769.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on 4.7L V8) due to heat cycles and material fatigue.
Common Issue 2:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, water pump, heater core) common in older vehicles.
Common Issue 3:
Power window regulator failures.
Common Issue 4:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failures, leading to various drivability issues.
Common Issue 5:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to vehicle weight and typical usage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, evolving from the original Power Wagon.
Model Evolution
Third Gen Launch:
The 2002 model year marked the introduction of the third generation Ram, featuring a completely redesigned exterior and interior, including the distinctive crosshair grille.
Chassis Platform:
Built on a completely new chassis with hydroformed frame rails for increased rigidity and improved ride quality.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Truck Of The Year:
The Dodge Ram platform has historically received numerous 'Truck of the Year' awards from various automotive publications, though specific awards for the 2002 model year would need verification.