DODGE RAM TRUCKS

OVERVIEW

• Manufacturer:

Chrysler Corporation (1980–1998)

DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)

Chrysler LLC (2007-2009)

Chrysler Group LLC (2009-2014)

FCA US LLC (2014-2021)

Stellantis North America (2021-present)

• Production: 1980–present

BODY AND CHASSIS (PRESENT)

• Class: Full-size pickup truck
• Layout:

Front-engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive

Chronology

• Predecessor: Dodge D Series

DIMENSIONS (PRESENT)

• Wheelbase:

140.5 in (3,569 mm) (Quad Cab)

144.6 in (3,673 mm) (Crew cab/short bed)

153.5 in (3,899 mm) (crew cab/long bed)

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DODGE RAM TRUCKS

Ram Trucks, stylized as RAM and formally known as the Ram Truck Division, is an American brand of light to mid-weight commercial vehicles, and a division of Stellantis (previously Fiat Chrysler Automobiles).

Ram Trucks’ logo was originally used as Dodge’s logo. Ram “Classic” trucks are made at the Warren Truck Plant in Warren, Michigan and at the Saltillo plant in Saltillo, Mexico.

New series Ram pickups are made at Sterling Heights Assembly in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Since its inception, the brand has used the slogan “Guts. Glory. Ram.”

HISTORY

• First generation (1981–1993; D/W)

The first-generation Ram trucks and vans introduced in October 1980 feature a Ram hood ornament first used on Dodge vehicles from 1932 to 1954.[2] Not all of the first-generation trucks have this ornament and is most commonly seen on four-wheel-drive models. Dodge kept the previous generation’s model designations: D or Ram indicate two-wheel drive while W or Power Ram indicate four-wheel drive.

• Second generation (1994–2002; BR/BE)

The second-generation Ram began development in 1986. The original concept, dubbed the “Louisville Slugger” by Chrysler’s Advanced Packaging Studio, was to be a modular platform that would accommodate a full-size truck and full-size van, which would have provided a roomy cab and cargo bed.

• Third generation (2002–2009; DR/DH/D1/DC/DM)

In development from 1996 (styling by Cliff Wilkins finalized in 1998), the third-generation Ram was unveiled on February 7, 2001 at the 2001 Chicago Auto Show,[24] and debuted for 2002 model year on 1500 models and 2003 on 2500 and 3500 models. This was a major update including an all new frame, suspension, powertrains, interiors, and sheet metal.

• Fourth generation (2009–present); DS/DJ/D2)

The fourth generation Dodge Ram was introduced at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.[36] This latest generation was sold as the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 starting in Fall 2008. The 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 models were later added to the lineup. In 2010, the Ram Trucks brand was separated from Dodge.

• Fifth generation (2019-present; DT)

The fifth-generation Ram made its debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan on January 15, 2018 while its HD version made its debut at the same show on January 14, 2019.

The 2019 Ram 1500 will reach Ram Truck dealers in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2018 as an early 2019 model year vehicle. The starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price will be $31,695 plus $1,645 destination fee.

The 2019 Ram 1500 pickup truck will offer just seven trim levels, compared to the previous 11 different trim levels.

HOW TO CLEAN-UP YOUR DODGE RAM TRUCKS?

• Step 1 – Grab a bucket of soapy water and a bucket of clean water

Scrub away contaminants such as old wax residue, dirt and grime. It’s recommended that you use the two-bucket washing method when washing your truck for the deepest clean. Start at the top of your truck and work your way down to the bottom where dirt is most likely to collect.

• Dampen or wet a high quality wash mitt with soapy water.
• Wet your paint with the solution using a straight motion.
• When you are done scrubbing the panel to a dirt-free finish, dunk your wash mitt into the bucket filled with clear water (no soap).
• Slosh the mitt around inside the bucket until all contaminants are removed from the wash mitt.
• When you are done, go in for another grab of soapy water; this time using the same bucket of soapy water as before.
• The two-bucket cleaning method allows you to properly rinse your cleaning tools as you go, without transferring dirt back onto your paint.
• Clean the entire paintwork before moving on to your wheels.

Pro Tip

Always work from the rear of your Dodge Ram to the front. You might want to hose down the truck bed before washing it with soapy water or a heavy-duty, bottled cleaning product. Bed liner gels act as a paint restorer. Specifically designed for this hard-worn area of a truck, bed liner gel improves shine for months without touch ups. Apply as directed.

• Step 2 – Hose off the wheels and give them a scrub

Similar to the truck bed, your wheels require special attention.

• Hose off caked on dirt, hidden grime and stubborn contaminants.
• Clean the entire wheel using a high quality wheel cleaner; allow the cleaner to take effect for 3 to 5 minutes before wiping away excess product using a microfiber cloth.
• Rinse your wheels once more.
• Pat each wheel dry using a microfiber cloth.

Pro Tip

This step should only be performed after you’ve washed the top of your truck.

• Step 3 – Check the paint for blemishes

Hidden contaminants may still be present on your truck. Wet the surface of the paint with a lubricant, and then run your hand over the whetted surface using a straight line. If you feel lumps and bumps or scratches against your skin, you are dealing with hidden contaminants on your paint and they will need to be removed for uninterrupted shine.

• Grab the lubricant and a section of clay bar.
• Move around your Dodge Ram, incrementally clay barring every inch of paint.
• It’s important that you work slowly and maintain a back-and-forth motion.
• The clay bar works on whetted surfaces, not dry ones, so add more lubricant as needed.
• Continue until all contaminants are removed from your paint; you might need to grab new pieces of clay bar as old ones become too dirty.

Pro Tip

The lubricant should create a gliding effect.

• Step 4 – Improve overall shine

You have a couple of options when it comes to waxing a Dodge Ram. You can either perform the tedious task on your own, or pay to have the truck polished and waxed by a certified automotive technician. Because you’ve just cleaned and prepped your paint, you might receive a lower rate. When opting to apply a store bought polish and wax to your truck, be sure to choose a high performing product, such as Meguiar’s High-Tech Yellow Wax liquid, Meguiar’s Gold Class Carnuba Plus Paste Wax or Turtle Wax’s Ice Paste Wax.

• After applying several drops of polish onto the surface of your paint, rub the solution in using a clean microfiber cloth.
• Wipe away any swirls before applying your wax.
• The key is to apply the product and then wipe away any swirls for a professional-quality finish.

Pro Tip

Finish this job by wiping down interior panels and removing dirt and debris from carpets, as well as from in between your seats.

Source: wikipedia, dodgeforum.