Skip to Content

Dodge Ram Compatible Years? [ Updated Guide 2022 ]

Dodge Ram Compatible Years? [ Updated Guide 2022 ]

The Dodge Ram is a full-size pickup vehicle in production from 1980 to 2010. After that, it was sold under the Ram brand name. The early Dodge Rams have merely restyled variants of a different truck Dodge released in 1972. The Ram had a minor facelift in 1986, which included the addition of its signature crosshair grille.

The pickup’s dramatic big-rig appearance debuted in 1994, with a prominent vertical grille and hood positioned above the front fenders. Sales more than doubled in a short period, then doubled again. In 2002 and 2009, there were more redesigns. After the 2011 model year, the Dodge Ram label was abandoned, making the 2012s the first Ram-branded pickups. The newest Ram is the 2019 model, in quad- and crew-cab configurations. Its noteworthy features include more space, upgraded interiors, and a smoother ride.

What year are Dodge Ram parts interchangeable?

According to consumer feedback, Dodge Ram parts from 1981 to 1993 can be interchanged. Similarly, Dodge Ram vehicles from 1994 to 2003 belong to the same generation, and their parts can be swapped. They have body and engine parts compatible from 2004 to 2009. Electronics and computer modules, on the other hand, are distinctive to each model year and require changes to be interchanged.

Ways to find interchangeable parts for Dodge Ram

Dodge Ram parts from different model years are interchangeable. However, to get the best fit for your car, you should complete the steps below:

The part’s physical dimensions should match the original, and the placement and fitting of bolts should be consistent with your pickup model. Use your vehicle model’s configuration, VIN, and specs to find compatible components. Look for a replacement that has the same part number as the one on your car.

1. Engine

If your pickup’s engine has the same displacement as yours and there is no substantial upgrade difference between the two motors, you can switch them out. Mechanical components such as the exhaust manifold, mounts, and wiring may differ, but mechanics can work around this by making appropriate modifications.

You can’t compensate for changes in electronics or engine operating principles, and the engines can’t be swapped. Dodge Ram 1500 models from 2003 through 2008 have 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engines, but these engines cannot be swapped between 2003 and 2005 trucks.

The 5.7L Hemi engine had a multi-displacement system from 2006 to 2008 that allowed it to function at half valves while cruising at cruise speeds to optimize mileage. Furthermore, the 2009 version of the same engine features variable valve technology. As a result, you won’t be able to utilize them in older vehicles. Furthermore, the 4.7L Dodge engine is compatible with the same-engined trucks from 2009 to 2013. However, it is preferable to alter the wiring and a few sensors to make the engine operate.

2. Suspension system

Dodge Ram 1500’s suspension systems have seen substantial changes from the 2nd to the 3rd generation. Earlier models had a dependent suspension system with a single shaft connecting all four wheels laterally. Other versions, such as the 2500 and 3500, offer replaceable suspension between the two groups. For example, you can’t modify it between a 1999 Ram 1500 and a 2002 or later model.

3rd generation variations from 2002 to 2008, on the other hand, have independent front suspension, meaning each wheel moves vertically independently of the other three. Coil springs replace leaf springs in the 2009-2012 model years, which are interchangeable. Air suspension with electronic stability control is available on some models starting in 2013.

You can swap them out for pickups from the third or preceding generations. The suspension system of a 1994-2001 Dodge Ram 1500 can also be swapped for a 2500 or 3500. You’ll need to bend the mounting ears because the leaves on 2500 and 3500 trucks are wider than those on 1500 vehicles.

3. Parts of the body

Unless there has been a considerable body uplift, body pieces such as windows, doors, and fenders are interchangeable across models of the same generation. Because all models from 1994 to 2001 are the same size, you may replace the entire windowpane as a single unit. For example, 2nd generation cars from 1994 to 1996 feature identical rear windows with two sliders in the middle. From 1996 until 2001, there was only one slider.

It’s also possible to swap parts between Dodge Ram 1500 and 2500 models from the same year or generation. The doors and windows in both designs are the same sizes, and size flares, for example, are variances in body style. The headlights can also be swapped between generations, and Aftermarket headlights can also replace halogen bulbs with LED lights and DRL choices.

4. Harnesses for wiring

Wiring harnesses that connect engine computers to various parts and sensors play an essential role in the cars’ proper operation. Furthermore, the maker adds a few new features via modifying circuits instead of big hardware modifications each year.

As a result, the wiring connectors on successive years of vehicles differ. As a result, whenever you replace any key item in your pickup, you must also replace the wiring harness. If a matching wire harness is not available, you can make one yourself. You can also engage a professional mechanic who is well-versed in engine wires and color codes. He will create one for you, but it will be time-consuming and expensive.

They usually aren’t interchangeable amongst trucks of the same model year. You may, however, swap them out by reprogramming them with your truck’s data. Due to additional sensors, trucks from 2001-2002 are consistent with their model years and incompatible with preceding years. A few options will have to be skipped, or wiring alterations will be made. The 2003 ECM is unique to 3rd generation automobiles and is incompatible with later versions. Between the years 2004 and 2005, you can resurface them. Similarly, the same module was compatible in 2006 and 2007.

5. System of transmission

The transmission system is essentially the same throughout model years with the same engines. For example, from 1994 to 2002, 5.9L Magnum V8 engines had 4-speed automatic transmissions 46RH/RE. The first is hydraulic, whereas the second is electrically controlled. You can swap them out if both have the same bell housing and bolt placements.

After 2002, you can use the 3rd generation transmissions, such as the 45RFE and 545RFE, compatible with 5.7L Hemi engines. They also provide an option for overdrive. As a result, V8 engines with the same mechanical elements, such as the 5.2L Magnum used in the 2nd generation trucks, can be used to replace them. Even so, there may be an issue with the electronics and smooth gear shifting.

Conclusion

The Dodge Ram is among a few of the most well-named vehicles on the market, thanks to its dependability, features (both inside and out), and ability to handle any task. One of the most known full-size pickup trucks is the Dodge Ram. This truck, now known as the Ram Pickup, continues to impress people from all walks of life worldwide.

The Ram name was first used in the year 1981, which made this model approximately 35 years old. While today’s Ram has more features than the original model that went off the production lines many years ago, each generation has had its unique features. So it’s best to well examine before interchanging the Dodge Ram.