Dodge Ram 3500 1994-2002 Suspension Specifications
Explore detailed suspension specifications for the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500, including front and rear components, spring rates, shock absorbers, and alignment settings. Ideal for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed suspension specifications for the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM-3500. It includes comprehensive information on front and rear suspension systems, components, and key technical details. Use this guide to understand the suspension setup, identify parts, and ensure proper maintenance or upgrades. The content is organized into sections for easy navigation and quick reference.
How to Use
Use the search functionality to find specific terms or components within the document. Enter keywords like 'shock absorbers' or 'leaf springs' to quickly locate relevant information.
Navigate through the document using the section titles. Each section is divided into subsections with detailed technical points. Use the table of contents or scroll to find the desired section.
Key Specifications
Front Spring Rate
450 lbs/in
Rear Spring Rate
600 lbs/in
Shock Absorber Travel
8 inches
Steering Ratio
16:1
Caster Angle
3.5° +/- 0.5°
Available Specifications
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM-3500 is designed for durability and load-bearing capacity. It features a solid axle setup with coil springs or torsion bars, depending on the model year. This section covers key components and their specifications.
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM-3500 is designed for durability and load-bearing capacity. It features a solid axle setup with coil springs or torsion bars, depending on the model year. This section covers key components and their specifications.
Coil Spring Suspension
- Spring rate: 450 lbs/in
- Spring material: High-strength steel
- Shock absorber type: Hydraulic
- Shock absorber travel: 8 inches
- Upper control arm material: Forged steel
- Lower control arm material: Cast iron
Torsion Bar Suspension
- Torsion bar diameter: 1.25 inches
- Adjustment range: +/- 2 inches
- Shock absorber type: Gas-charged
- Shock absorber travel: 7.5 inches
- Upper control arm material: Cast aluminum
- Lower control arm material: Forged steel
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system is built to handle heavy loads and provide stability. It uses a leaf spring configuration with optional helper springs for increased capacity. This section details the components and their technical specifications.
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system is built to handle heavy loads and provide stability. It uses a leaf spring configuration with optional helper springs for increased capacity. This section details the components and their technical specifications.
Leaf Spring Suspension
- Leaf spring count: 4-6 leaves
- Spring rate: 600 lbs/in
- Shock absorber type: Heavy-duty hydraulic
- Shock absorber travel: 9 inches
- U-bolt material: Grade 8 steel
- Axle mounting: Solid axle
Helper Springs
- Helper spring rate: 300 lbs/in
- Activation load: 1,500 lbs
- Material: High-strength steel
- Mounting: Integrated with main leaf springs
Steering and Alignment
Proper steering and alignment are critical for vehicle stability and tire wear. This section covers the steering system components and alignment specifications for the Dodge RAM-3500.
Steering and Alignment
Proper steering and alignment are critical for vehicle stability and tire wear. This section covers the steering system components and alignment specifications for the Dodge RAM-3500.
Steering Components
- Steering gear type: Recirculating ball
- Steering ratio: 16:1
- Pitman arm material: Forged steel
- Tie rod material: High-strength steel
- Drag link material: Forged steel
Alignment Specifications
- Camber angle: 0.5° +/- 0.5°
- Toe-in: 0.1° +/- 0.1°
- Caster angle: 3.5° +/- 0.5°
- Steering axis inclination: 7°
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Solid Axle Front and Rear
- Configuration
- 4-Wheel Drive
- Platform
- Heavy-Duty Truck
- Material
- Steel and Aluminum Components
- Location
- Front and Rear Axles
Dimensions
- Front Track Width
- 67.5 inches (1714.5 mm)
- Rear Track Width
- 67.5 inches (1714.5 mm)
- Front Spring Length
- 48 inches (1219.2 mm)
- Rear Spring Length
- 52 inches (1320.8 mm)
- Shock ABSorber Length
- 22 inches (558.8 mm)
- Axle Diameter
- 3.5 inches (88.9 mm)
- Ground Clearance
- 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Materials
- Springs
- High-Tensile Steel
- Shock ABSorbers
- Steel with Rubber Bushings
- Control Arms
- Forged Steel
- Axle Housing
- Cast Iron
- Bushings
- Polyurethane
Features
- Durability
-
- Heavy-Duty Leaf Springs
- Reinforced Axle Housings
- Corrosion-Resistant Coatings
- Performance
-
- Gas-Charged Shock Absorbers
- Stabilizer Bars
- Adjustable Ride Height
- Load Capacity
-
- Up to 4,000 lbs Front Axle Capacity
- Up to 6,000 lbs Rear Axle Capacity
- Heavy-Duty Towing Package
- Off Road
-
- High-Clearance Suspension
- Skid Plates
- Heavy-Duty Steering Linkage
- Comfort
-
- Progressive Rate Springs
- Hydraulic Dampers
- Isolated Cab Mounts
Safety Features
- Structural integrity
-
- Reinforced Frame Connections
- Heavy-Duty Crossmembers
- Stability
-
- Electronic Stability Control
- Anti-Roll Bars
- Braking
-
- ABS-Compatible Suspension
- Heavy-Duty Brake Calipers
Comfort Features
- Ride Quality
-
- Dual-Stage Shock Absorbers
- Isolated Suspension Mounts
- Noise Reduction
-
- Rubber Bushings
- Sound-Dampening Materials
- Vibration Control
-
- Hydraulic Engine Mounts
- Balanced Driveshaft
- Adjustability
-
- Adjustable Shock Damping
- Load-Leveling Suspension
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Lift Kits
- Heavy-Duty Shocks
- Air Suspension Kits
- Protection
-
- Skid Plates
- Suspension Covers
- Rust Inhibitors
- Performance
-
- Performance Springs
- Adjustable Sway Bars
- Off-Road Shocks
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect Shock Absorbers
- Check Bushings for Wear
- Lubricate Suspension Components
- Inspect Leaf Springs
- Check Alignment
- Maintenance Notes
- Regularly inspect for rust and corrosion, especially in harsh environments.
Warranty
- Basic
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Parts and Labor
- Powertrain
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Suspension Components
- Corrosion
- Miles: 100,000Years: 7Coverage: Rust-Through Protection
- Roadside Assistance
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: 24/7 Assistance
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Dodge
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Forging
- Casting
- Heat Treatment
- Assembly
- Quality Control
- inspection: 100% Component TestingStandards: ISO 9001 CertifiedTesting: Durability and Load Testing
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled Materials
- Energy-Efficient Manufacturing
- Waste Reduction Programs
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 50,000 UnitsDefect Rate: Less than 0.5%Lead Time: 4 Weeks
Service Information for Suspension Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to the suspension system
- Inspect shock absorbers for leaks
- Check bushings for wear and tear
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Inspect leaf springs for cracks
- Check wheel alignment
Ensure all bolts are torqued to specification.
- Replace worn bushings
- Inspect and replace shock absorbers if necessary
- Check suspension mounts for looseness
- Inspect and tighten all suspension bolts
- Test ride quality and adjust as needed
Use manufacturer-recommended parts for replacements.
- Replace shock absorbers
- Inspect and replace leaf springs if necessary
- Check and replace suspension links
- Perform full suspension alignment
- Inspect and replace any corroded components
Major service may require specialized tools and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What suspension components are compatible with the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
What suspension components are compatible with the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
The 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500 is compatible with a range of suspension components, including coil springs, leaf springs, shock absorbers, and control arms designed for heavy-duty applications. Ensure compatibility by checking part numbers and specifications, as variations exist between 2WD and 4WD models. Always verify load capacity and fitment with your vehicle's VIN or consult a professional for accurate recommendations.
Q2 What maintenance is required for the suspension system of a 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
What maintenance is required for the suspension system of a 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
Regular maintenance for the suspension system includes inspecting shocks, struts, and bushings for wear every 12,000 miles. Lubricate suspension components as recommended, and check for loose bolts or damaged parts. Replace worn-out components promptly to avoid further damage. Additionally, align the wheels after any suspension repairs to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Q3 How do I replace the rear leaf springs on a 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
How do I replace the rear leaf springs on a 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
To replace rear leaf springs, safely lift and support the truck. Remove the wheels and disconnect the shocks and U-bolts securing the axle to the springs. Carefully lower the axle and remove the old leaf springs. Install the new springs, ensuring proper alignment, and reattach the U-bolts and shocks. Torque all bolts to manufacturer specifications and perform a wheel alignment.
Q4 What should I do if my Dodge RAM 3500 suspension feels unstable or noisy?
What should I do if my Dodge RAM 3500 suspension feels unstable or noisy?
If your suspension feels unstable or noisy, inspect for worn shocks, broken springs, or loose components. Check for leaks in shock absorbers and examine bushings for cracks or wear. Tighten any loose bolts and replace damaged parts. If the issue persists, consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and resolve the problem.
Q5 How can I optimize the suspension performance of my 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
How can I optimize the suspension performance of my 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500?
To optimize suspension performance, upgrade to high-quality shocks and springs designed for heavy-duty use. Consider adding a sway bar for improved stability. Regularly inspect and maintain components, and ensure proper tire inflation and alignment. Adjust suspension settings based on load requirements to enhance ride quality and handling.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500 Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive service manual covering suspension, engine, and electrical systems for the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500.
Technical Service Bulletin: Suspension Noise Fix
Coming SoonTSB addressing common suspension noise issues in 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500 models, including recommended repairs.
Dodge RAM 3500 Suspension Parts Catalog
Coming SoonCatalog listing OEM and aftermarket suspension parts for the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500, including part numbers and compatibility details.
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Technical Information
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