🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 1500, 2500, 3500 Model Years Covered: 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 Primary Engine Covered In Product Name: 3.7L Additional Engines Covered In Description: 4.7L, 5.7L HEMI, 5.9L Cummins Diesel Chassis Types Covered: 1500, 2500, 3500 Manual Origin: OEM Factory Service Repair Information Codes Product Type: Service Repair Manual 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Professional automotive technicians, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge of their Dodge Ram trucks. Value Proposition: Provides OEM-level technical information, enabling accurate diagnosis, repair, and maintenance, saving time and money compared to guesswork or less comprehensive guides. Competitive Analysis Advantage: Directly sourced from Dodge (OEM), ensuring accuracy and completeness, unlike aftermarket Haynes or Chilton manuals which may offer less detail on specific components or diagnostic procedures. Key Features Feature 1: Authoritative OEM factory repair data for accuracy. Feature 2: Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and exploded views for visual clarity. Feature 3: Comprehensive coverage across multiple model years and engine options. Feature 4: Searchable PDF format for efficient information retrieval. Feature 5: Print-on-demand capability for specific repair tasks. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Comprehensive coverage for all major systems and components of the Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks from 2002-2008. Engine Coverage: 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6. Transmission Coverage: Manual and automatic transmissions for the specified engines. Chassis And Body Coverage: Suspension, steering, brakes, frame, body panels, interior trim, HVAC, and electrical systems. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely several thousand pages when printed, typical for OEM service manuals covering multiple years and configurations. Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) Delivery Medium: Standard Disc (CD/DVD) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly/disassembly, internal components, cylinder heads, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing. Engine Performance: Fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system. Transmission Drivetrain: Manual transmission (NV3500, NV4500, G56), Automatic transmissions (42RLE, 48RE, 47RE, 68RFE potentially), transfer case, differentials, driveshafts, axles. Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension components (coil springs, leaf springs, shocks, control arms), steering gear, power steering system, steering linkage. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc, drum), ABS system, parking brake. Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power distribution, body control modules (BCM), engine control modules (ECM). Body Interior: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, glass, doors, tailgate, bumpers, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning). Diagnostic And Testing: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures, component testing, circuit testing. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance procedures, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication. Removal And Installation: Step-by-step procedures for removing and installing all major components and systems. Assembly Disassembly: Detailed instructions for taking apart and putting back together various assemblies. Tune Ups: Procedures for engine tune-ups, ignition system adjustments, and emissions control. Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Systematic approaches to identifying and resolving common and complex issues. Technical Depth Depth: Extensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex component overhaul and electrical diagnostics. Detail Level: High-resolution images, detailed illustrations, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and step-by-step instructions. Diagnostic Capability: Advanced diagnostic procedures, including symptom-based troubleshooting and electrical circuit analysis. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Software Requirement: Adobe Reader (or compatible PDF viewer) Compatibility: Windows and MAC operating systems Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images for clear viewing of details ('Hi-Res images for zooming and viewing every nut & bolt clearly'). Printability: Printable pages (allows users to 'print only the pages you need'). Binding Type Binding: Not applicable (digital format on disc) Paper Type Paper Quality: Not applicable (digital format on disc) Browsing Features Navigation: Searchability, navigation links, table of contents. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 3.7L Magnum V6 Engine 1 Displacement Liters: 3.7 Engine 1 Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV) V6 Engine 1 Approx Horsepower 2002-2003: 215 hp @ 5200 rpm (varies slightly by year) Engine 1 Approx Torque 2002-2003: 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by year) Additional Engine Engine 2: 4.7L Magnum V8 Engine 2 Displacement Liters: 4.7 Engine 2 Configuration: Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) V8 Engine 2 Approx Horsepower 2002-2003: 235 hp @ 4800 rpm (varies slightly by year) Engine 2 Approx Torque 2002-2003: 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (varies slightly by year) Engine 3: 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine 3 Displacement Liters: 5.7 Engine 3 Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV) V8 with HEMI cylinder heads and Multi-Displacement System (MDS) introduced later in the generation. Engine 3 Approx Horsepower 2003: 345 hp @ 5000 rpm Engine 3 Approx Torque 2003: 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Engine 4: 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 Engine 4 Displacement Liters: 5.9 Engine 4 Configuration: Inline 6-Cylinder Turbo Diesel with Bosch VP44 injection pump (early models) or common rail (later models). Engine 4 Approx Horsepower 2002-2003: 250 hp @ 2900 rpm (varies...
Professional automotive technicians, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge of their Dodge Ram trucks.
Value Proposition:
Provides OEM-level technical information, enabling accurate diagnosis, repair, and maintenance, saving time and money compared to guesswork or less comprehensive guides.
Competitive Analysis
Advantage:
Directly sourced from Dodge (OEM), ensuring accuracy and completeness, unlike aftermarket Haynes or Chilton manuals which may offer less detail on specific components or diagnostic procedures.
Key Features
Feature 1:
Authoritative OEM factory repair data for accuracy.
Feature 2:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and exploded views for visual clarity.
Feature 3:
Comprehensive coverage across multiple model years and engine options.
Feature 4:
Searchable PDF format for efficient information retrieval.
Feature 5:
Print-on-demand capability for specific repair tasks.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
General Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage for all major systems and components of the Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks from 2002-2008.
Engine Coverage:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6.
Transmission Coverage:
Manual and automatic transmissions for the specified engines.
Chassis And Body Coverage:
Suspension, steering, brakes, frame, body panels, interior trim, HVAC, and electrical systems.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several thousand pages when printed, typical for OEM service manuals covering multiple years and configurations.
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including symptom-based troubleshooting and electrical circuit analysis.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (or compatible PDF viewer)
Compatibility:
Windows and MAC operating systems
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images for clear viewing of details ('Hi-Res images for zooming and viewing every nut & bolt clearly').
Printability:
Printable pages (allows users to 'print only the pages you need').
Binding Type
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format on disc)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
Not applicable (digital format on disc)
Browsing Features
Navigation:
Searchability, navigation links, table of contents.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1:
3.7L Magnum V6
Engine 1 Displacement Liters:
3.7
Engine 1 Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V6
Engine 1 Approx Horsepower 2002-2003:
215 hp @ 5200 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Engine 1 Approx Torque 2002-2003:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Additional Engine
Engine 2:
4.7L Magnum V8
Engine 2 Displacement Liters:
4.7
Engine 2 Configuration:
Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) V8
Engine 2 Approx Horsepower 2002-2003:
235 hp @ 4800 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Engine 2 Approx Torque 2002-2003:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Engine 3:
5.7L HEMI V8
Engine 3 Displacement Liters:
5.7
Engine 3 Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V8 with HEMI cylinder heads and Multi-Displacement System (MDS) introduced later in the generation.
Engine 3 Approx Horsepower 2003:
345 hp @ 5000 rpm
Engine 3 Approx Torque 2003:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 4:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6
Engine 4 Displacement Liters:
5.9
Engine 4 Configuration:
Inline 6-Cylinder Turbo Diesel with Bosch VP44 injection pump (early models) or common rail (later models).
Engine 4 Approx Horsepower 2002-2003:
250 hp @ 2900 rpm (varies by model year and configuration)
Engine 4 Approx Torque 2002-2003:
460 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (varies by model year and configuration)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Delivery Diesel:
High-pressure injection system (VP44 or common rail depending on year).
🔧 Transmission
Standard Transmission
Manual Options:
NV3500 (5-speed) for light-duty, NV4500 (5-speed heavy-duty), G56 (6-speed manual for later models).
Optional Transmission
Automatic Options:
42RLE (4-speed automatic for 3.7L/4.7L), 47RE/48RE (4-speed automatic for 5.9L Diesel and 4.7L/5.7L V8), potentially 68RFE (6-speed automatic for later Cummins).
Features
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD (e.g., BW 4488) or Full-time 4WD options.
Rear Axle:
Various gear ratios depending on engine, transmission, and chassis configuration (e.g., Dana 44, Dana 60, Corporate 9.25).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab.
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft).
Weights
Gvwr Range:
Ranges from approximately 6,500 lbs (1500) to over 10,500 lbs (3500 Diesel).
Curb Weight Range:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically 4,500 lbs to 7,500 lbs.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings Typical:
Generally good to acceptable for its era. Frontal crash test ratings often 4-star or 5-star. Side impact and rollover ratings can vary. Consult NHTSA records for specific year/configuration.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Optional traction control system on some models, especially later years and 4WD.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Standard front airbags. Optional side curtain airbags or seat-mounted side airbags on some configurations and later model years.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity), CD changers, satellite radio preparation.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation systems became available in later years of this generation.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors on some models.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system introduced in later years.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Gasoline:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (check manual for specifics).
Oil Change Diesel:
Typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or 6-12 months for the Cummins, depending on usage and oil quality.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on load and driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Recommended every 50,000-100,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Gasoline:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified, meets Chrysler MS-6395). Refer to specific engine and owner's manual.
Engine Oil Diesel:
CJ-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (depending on temperature). Refer to Cummins specifications and owner's manual.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific weight varies by transmission model, e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 75W-140).
Coolant:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Known Issues
Common Issue Diesel:
VP44 injection pump failures (early 5.9L Cummins), injector issues, potential for head gasket leaks under heavy load if not maintained.
Common Issue Gasoline Engines:
Valve spring issues in early 5.7L HEMI, oil leaks (valve covers, oil pan), coolant leaks (water pump, radiator), occasional transmission hard shifting.
Common Issue Chassis:
Front-end wear (ball joints, tie rods), rear main seal leaks, exhaust manifold leaks, power steering pump noise.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line becoming a distinct brand within Chrysler. Known for their power, towing capacity, and durability.
Model Evolution
Third Generation Ram:
This generation (2002-2008, often referred to as 'DR' or 'DN' platform) represented a significant redesign from the previous generation, featuring a bolder styling, improved interior, and the introduction of the HEMI V8 and the renowned Cummins turbodiesel.
Key Updates:
Major update in 2006 included revised styling, interior upgrades, introduction of the 5.7L HEMI as a widespread option, and the move to a common-rail fuel system for the Cummins diesel.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Primarily Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Engine Awards:
The 5.7L HEMI engine received significant acclaim for its power and performance, often cited in 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' lists.
Diesel Engine Reputation:
The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel consistently earned a reputation for exceptional durability, reliability, and towing prowess.