Dodge Ram 3500 1981-1993 Brakes Specifications
Explore the complete brake specifications for the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500. This guide covers rotors, drums, pads, calipers, and more, providing essential details for maintenance, repair, and upgrades. Perfect for mechanics and enthusiasts.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the braking system of the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500. It is designed to assist mechanics, enthusiasts, and owners in understanding the brake components, maintenance requirements, and performance characteristics. Use the search functionality to locate specific details or navigate through the sections for a comprehensive understanding of the braking system.
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Key Specifications
Front Rotor Diameter
12.5 inches
Rear Drum Diameter
12 inches
Brake Fluid Type
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Master Cylinder Bore Size
1 inch
Brake Pad Thickness (New)
0.5 inches
Available Specifications
Front Brake System
This section covers the front brake system of the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500, including the brake calipers, rotors, and pads. It provides details on specifications, maintenance intervals, and common issues.
Front Brake System
This section covers the front brake system of the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500, including the brake calipers, rotors, and pads. It provides details on specifications, maintenance intervals, and common issues.
Brake Calipers
- Type: Single-piston floating calipers
- Material: Cast iron
- Bore Size: 2.75 inches
- Compatibility: Standard with OEM rotors and pads
- Maintenance: Inspect every 12,000 miles
- Common Issues: Sticking pistons, fluid leaks
Brake Rotors
- Type: Vented rotors
- Diameter: 12.5 inches
- Thickness: 1.25 inches (new), 1.1 inches (minimum)
- Material: Cast iron with anti-corrosion coating
- Replacement Interval: Every 50,000 miles or as needed
- Common Issues: Warping, excessive wear
Brake Pads
- Type: Semi-metallic or ceramic
- Thickness: 0.5 inches (new), 0.125 inches (minimum)
- Friction Material: High-temperature resistant
- Replacement Interval: Every 30,000 miles
- Compatibility: Works with OEM calipers and rotors
- Common Issues: Noise, uneven wear
Rear Brake System
This section details the rear brake system, including drum brakes, shoes, and wheel cylinders. It provides information on specifications, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.
Rear Brake System
This section details the rear brake system, including drum brakes, shoes, and wheel cylinders. It provides information on specifications, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.
Drum Brakes
- Type: Leading-trailing drum brakes
- Diameter: 12 inches
- Width: 2.5 inches
- Material: Cast iron with heat dissipation fins
- Maintenance: Inspect every 15,000 miles
- Common Issues: Squeaking, reduced braking power
Brake Shoes
- Type: Semi-metallic lining
- Thickness: 0.25 inches (new), 0.0625 inches (minimum)
- Replacement Interval: Every 40,000 miles
- Compatibility: Fits OEM drums
- Common Issues: Glazing, cracking
Wheel Cylinders
- Type: Dual-piston design
- Bore Size: 1 inch
- Material: Cast iron with corrosion-resistant coating
- Maintenance: Inspect every 20,000 miles
- Common Issues: Fluid leaks, seized pistons
Brake Hydraulics
This section focuses on the hydraulic components of the braking system, including the master cylinder, brake lines, and fluid. It provides details on specifications, maintenance, and performance.
Brake Hydraulics
This section focuses on the hydraulic components of the braking system, including the master cylinder, brake lines, and fluid. It provides details on specifications, maintenance, and performance.
Master Cylinder
- Type: Dual-circuit design
- Bore Size: 1 inch
- Material: Cast aluminum with protective coating
- Maintenance: Inspect every 25,000 miles
- Common Issues: Internal leaks, spongy pedal feel
Brake Lines
- Type: Steel braided or rubber hoses
- Diameter: 3/16 inches
- Material: Corrosion-resistant steel or reinforced rubber
- Replacement Interval: Every 10 years or as needed
- Common Issues: Cracking, leaks
Brake Fluid
- Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4
- Capacity: 32 ounces (full system)
- Replacement Interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
- Compatibility: Works with all OEM components
- Common Issues: Contamination, moisture absorption
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Brakes Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Hydraulic Disc/Drum
- Configuration
- Front Disc, Rear Drum
- Platform
- Dodge RAM-3500
- Material
- Cast Iron, Steel, Composite
- Location
- Front and Rear Axles
Dimensions
- Front Rotor Diameter
- 12.5 inches / 317.5 mm
- Front Rotor Thickness
- 1.25 inches / 31.75 mm
- Rear Drum Diameter
- 12 inches / 304.8 mm
- Rear Drum Width
- 2.5 inches / 63.5 mm
- Brake Pad Length
- 6.2 inches / 157.5 mm
- Brake Pad Width
- 2.8 inches / 71.1 mm
- Brake Shoe Length
- 10.5 inches / 266.7 mm
- Brake Shoe Width
- 2.25 inches / 57.2 mm
Materials
- Rotors
- Cast Iron
- Drums
- Cast Iron
- Brake Pads
- Composite Friction Material
- Brake Shoes
- Composite Friction Material
- Calipers
- Cast Aluminum
Features
- Performance
-
- High-temperature resistance
- Progressive braking force
- Reduced brake fade
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant rotors
- Reinforced brake lines
- Long-lasting friction material
- Control
-
- Dual-circuit hydraulic system
- Proportioning valve
- Self-adjusting rear brakes
- Maintenance
-
- Wear indicators
- Easy-access calipers
- Replaceable brake shoes
- Safety
-
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) optional
- Parking brake integrated
- Emergency brake assist
Safety Features
- Primary Safety
-
- Dual-circuit hydraulic system
- ABS (optional)
- Secondary Safety
-
- Parking brake
- Emergency brake assist
- Monitoring
-
- Wear indicators
- Brake fluid level sensor
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Anti-squeal shims
- Vibration dampening
- Pedal Feel
-
- Smooth engagement
- Adjustable pedal height
- Heat Management
-
- Vented rotors
- Heat-resistant pads
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Performance rotors
- Ceramic brake pads
- Stainless steel brake lines
- Tools
-
- Brake caliper tool
- Drum brake spring tool
- Brake bleeder kit
- Maintenance Kits
-
- Brake pad replacement kit
- Brake shoe replacement kit
- Brake fluid flush kit
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect brake pads and shoes
- Check brake fluid level
- Inspect rotors and drums
- Test parking brake
- Bleed brake system
- Maintenance Notes
- Replace brake fluid every 24,000 miles or 2 years
Warranty
- Parts Warranty
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Brake pads, shoes, and rotors
- Labor Warranty
- Miles: 12,000Years: 1Coverage: Installation and adjustments
- Corrosion Warranty
- Miles: UnlimitedYears: 5Coverage: Rust perforation
- Extended Warranty
- Miles: 100,000Years: 7Coverage: Optional extended coverage
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Dodge
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Casting for rotors and drums
- Compression molding for brake pads
- CNC machining for calipers
- Quality Control
- inspection: 100% rotor and drum inspectionTesting: Brake system pressure testingCertification: ISO 9001 certified
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials in friction components
- Eco-friendly brake fluid
- Reduced waste in manufacturing
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: 0.1%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for brakes Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Inspect brake pads and shoes
- Check brake fluid level
- Inspect rotors and drums
- Test parking brake
- Bleed brake system
Ensure proper torque on all bolts
- Replace brake fluid
- Inspect brake lines
- Check caliper function
- Test ABS system
Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
- Replace brake pads and shoes
- Resurface or replace rotors
- Inspect master cylinder
- Test emergency brake
Replace all components in pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 Are brake components for the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500 compatible with other models?
Are brake components for the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500 compatible with other models?
Brake components for the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500 are specifically designed for this model and may not be compatible with other vehicles. Always verify part numbers and specifications before purchasing. For example, the front disc brake rotors are 12.5 inches in diameter, and the rear drum brakes are 13 inches. Cross-referencing with manufacturer catalogs or consulting a professional is recommended.
Q2 What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the brakes on a 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500?
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the brakes on a 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500?
Regular brake maintenance is crucial for safety. Inspect brake pads and shoes every 12,000 miles or annually. Replace pads if thickness is below 3mm. Check brake fluid levels monthly and replace every 2 years. Rotors and drums should be inspected for wear and resurfaced or replaced as needed. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for optimal performance.
Q3 How do I replace the brake pads on a 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500?
How do I replace the brake pads on a 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500?
To replace brake pads, lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the wheels and locate the brake caliper. Unbolt the caliper and carefully remove it without straining the brake line. Slide out the old pads, compress the caliper piston, and install new pads. Reattach the caliper, tighten bolts, and reinstall the wheels. Test brakes before driving.
Q4 What should I do if my brakes are squeaking or grinding?
What should I do if my brakes are squeaking or grinding?
Squeaking or grinding noises often indicate worn brake pads or contaminated rotors. Inspect the pads for wear and replace if necessary. Clean rotors with brake cleaner to remove debris. If grinding persists, check for rotor damage or misalignment. Ensure all components are properly lubricated and torqued to specifications.
Q5 How can I optimize the braking performance of my 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500?
How can I optimize the braking performance of my 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500?
To optimize braking performance, use high-quality brake pads and rotors designed for heavy-duty use. Ensure proper bedding-in of new pads by following manufacturer instructions. Regularly check and maintain brake fluid levels. Upgrade to slotted or drilled rotors for better heat dissipation. Avoid overloading the vehicle to reduce strain on the braking system.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500 Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500.
Technical Service Bulletin: Brake System Updates
Coming SoonDetails updates and improvements to the brake system for the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500, including part revisions and installation tips.
Dodge RAM-3500 Brake Parts Catalog
Coming SoonCatalog listing all brake components, including pads, rotors, drums, and calipers, for the 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-3500.
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Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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