RAM Ram Dakota 2005-2011 Suspension Specifications
Explore the comprehensive suspension specifications for the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota. This guide covers front and rear suspension components, alignment settings, and ride height details, essential for maintenance, repair, and upgrades.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and information about the suspension system of the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota. It includes sections on front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, and maintenance tips. Use this guide to understand the technical aspects of the suspension system, perform routine checks, and ensure optimal vehicle performance.
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Navigate through the document using the section titles and subsections. Click on a section to expand it and view detailed information about specific suspension components or procedures.
Key Specifications
Front Spring Rate
180 lb/in
Rear Spring Rate
250 lb/in
Front Damping Force
1,500 N
Rear Damping Force
1,200 N
Axle Weight Capacity
3,000 lbs
Available Specifications
Front Suspension
The front suspension system of the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota is designed for durability and performance. This section covers the key components, including the coil springs, shock absorbers, and control arms, along with their specifications and functions.
Front Suspension
The front suspension system of the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota is designed for durability and performance. This section covers the key components, including the coil springs, shock absorbers, and control arms, along with their specifications and functions.
Coil Springs
- Material: High-strength steel
- Diameter: 14.5 mm
- Spring rate: 180 lb/in
- Load capacity: 1,200 lbs
Shock Absorbers
- Type: Gas-charged
- Stroke length: 6.5 inches
- Damping force: 1,500 N
- Mounting type: Eyelet and pin
Control Arms
- Material: Forged steel
- Bushing type: Rubber
- Length: 18 inches
- Weight capacity: 1,500 lbs
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Ram Dakota ensures stability and load-bearing capacity. This section details the leaf springs, shock absorbers, and axle components, providing essential information for maintenance and upgrades.
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Ram Dakota ensures stability and load-bearing capacity. This section details the leaf springs, shock absorbers, and axle components, providing essential information for maintenance and upgrades.
Leaf Springs
- Number of leaves: 3
- Material: High-carbon steel
- Spring rate: 250 lb/in
- Load capacity: 1,800 lbs
Shock Absorbers
- Type: Hydraulic
- Stroke length: 7 inches
- Damping force: 1,200 N
- Mounting type: Eyelet and eyelet
Axle
- Type: Solid rear axle
- Diameter: 3.5 inches
- Weight capacity: 3,000 lbs
- Material: Cast iron
Alignment Specifications
Proper alignment is crucial for vehicle handling and tire wear. This section provides the recommended alignment settings for the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota, including camber, caster, and toe angles.
Alignment Specifications
Proper alignment is crucial for vehicle handling and tire wear. This section provides the recommended alignment settings for the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota, including camber, caster, and toe angles.
Camber
- Front: -0.5° to +0.5°
- Rear: -1.0° to +0.5°
- Adjustment: Via control arms
- Effect on handling: Stability and tire wear
Caster
- Front: +2.5° to +3.5°
- Rear: Not adjustable
- Effect on handling: Steering stability
- Measurement: Using alignment tools
Toe
- Front: 0° to +0.2°
- Rear: 0° to +0.1°
- Adjustment: Via tie rods
- Effect on handling: Straight-line stability
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Independent Front Suspension, Solid Rear Axle
- Configuration
- Front: Coil Spring, Rear: Leaf Spring
- Platform
- Body-on-Frame
- Material
- Steel
- Location
- Front and Rear Axles
Dimensions
- Front Coil Spring Length
- 15.7 in (398.78 mm)
- Rear Leaf Spring Length
- 54.3 in (1379.22 mm)
- Front Shock ABSorber Length
- 22.5 in (571.5 mm)
- Rear Shock ABSorber Length
- 24.8 in (629.92 mm)
- Track Width Front
- 63.7 in (1617.98 mm)
- Track Width Rear
- 63.5 in (1612.9 mm)
- Ground Clearance
- 8.1 in (205.74 mm)
Materials
- Coil Springs
- High-Strength Steel
- Leaf Springs
- Composite Steel
- Shock ABSorbers
- Steel and Rubber
- Control Arms
- Forged Steel
- Bushings
- Polyurethane
Features
- Durability
-
- Heavy-duty coil springs
- Reinforced leaf springs
- Corrosion-resistant coating
- Performance
-
- Precision-tuned shock absorbers
- Stabilizer bar for reduced body roll
- Improved load-carrying capacity
- Handling
-
- Independent front suspension for better control
- Rear solid axle for stability
- Optimized geometry for off-road performance
- Comfort
-
- Progressive-rate coil springs
- Multi-leaf rear springs for smoother ride
- Hydraulic shock absorbers
- Customization
-
- Lift kit compatibility
- Adjustable shock absorbers
- Upgraded bushings available
Safety Features
- Structural integrity
-
- Reinforced control arms
- High-strength steel components
- Stability
-
- Front stabilizer bar
- Rear sway bar
- Braking
-
- Integrated ABS compatibility
- Suspension designed for optimal brake performance
Comfort Features
- Ride Quality
-
- Progressive-rate springs
- Hydraulic shock absorbers
- Noise Reduction
-
- Insulated bushings
- Rubber isolators
- Vibration Dampening
-
- Tuned shock absorbers
- Multi-leaf rear springs
- Load Handling
-
- Heavy-duty leaf springs
- Reinforced suspension mounts
Accessories
- Performance
-
- Lift kits
- Adjustable shocks
- Upgraded bushings
- Protection
-
- Suspension skid plates
- Shock absorber covers
- Rust-proof coatings
- Customization
-
- Leveling kits
- Coil spring spacers
- Leaf spring helpers
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect shock absorbers
- Check coil and leaf springs
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Inspect bushings
- Tighten suspension bolts
- Check alignment
- Maintenance Notes
- Regular inspections required for off-road use. Replace worn components promptly to avoid damage.
Warranty
- Basic
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Parts and labor
- Powertrain
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Suspension components
- Corrosion
- Miles: 100,000Years: 5Coverage: Rust perforation
- Roadside Assistance
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Towing and emergency services
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Chrysler Group LLC
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Forging of steel components
- Heat treatment for durability
- Precision assembly
- Quality Control
- Testing: Dynamic load testinginspection: 100% component inspectionStandards: ISO 9001 certified
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled steel usage
- Eco-friendly coatings
- Waste reduction initiatives
- Production Metrics
- Units Per Day: 500Defect Rate: 0.1%Energy Efficiency: 15% improvement
Service Information for suspension Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Inspect shock absorbers
- Check coil and leaf springs
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Inspect bushings
- Tighten suspension bolts
- Check alignment
Regular inspections required for off-road use.
- Replace shock absorbers if needed
- Inspect and replace bushings
- Check suspension mounts
- Test stabilizer bars
- Verify alignment specifications
Use manufacturer-recommended parts for replacements.
- Overhaul suspension system
- Replace coil and leaf springs if worn
- Inspect and replace all bushings
- Check and replace control arms if necessary
- Perform full alignment check
Critical to ensure all components are in optimal condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 Are the suspension components for the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota compatible with other models?
Are the suspension components for the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota compatible with other models?
The suspension components for the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota are specifically designed for this model and may not be directly compatible with other vehicles. Key specifications include a front independent suspension with coil springs and a rear leaf spring setup. Always verify compatibility using your vehicle's VIN or consult with a professional to ensure proper fitment and performance.
Q2 What are the maintenance requirements for the suspension system?
What are the maintenance requirements for the suspension system?
Regular maintenance for the Ram Dakota suspension includes inspecting shock absorbers, struts, and bushings every 30,000 miles. Lubricate suspension components as needed and check for wear or damage. Replace worn parts promptly to avoid further issues. Additionally, ensure proper wheel alignment and tire rotation every 6,000-8,000 miles to extend suspension life and maintain optimal handling.
Q3 How do I replace the suspension components on a 2005-2011 Ram Dakota?
How do I replace the suspension components on a 2005-2011 Ram Dakota?
To replace suspension components, first, secure the vehicle on a lift or jack stands. Remove the wheels and disconnect the sway bar links, shock absorbers, and control arms. Use a spring compressor for coil springs. Install new components in reverse order, ensuring all bolts are torqued to manufacturer specifications. Perform a wheel alignment after installation to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Q4 What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
Common suspension issues include noisy shocks, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. To troubleshoot, inspect for loose or worn components, check fluid leaks from shocks, and assess the condition of bushings and ball joints. Test ride height and alignment. Replace damaged parts and ensure all connections are secure. If issues persist, consult a professional mechanic for a detailed diagnosis.
Q5 How can I optimize the suspension performance of my Ram Dakota?
How can I optimize the suspension performance of my Ram Dakota?
Optimize suspension performance by upgrading to high-quality aftermarket components like performance shocks or heavy-duty leaf springs. Maintain proper tire pressure and alignment. Avoid overloading the vehicle beyond its rated capacity. Regularly inspect and lubricate suspension parts. For off-road use, consider installing a lift kit and reinforced components to enhance durability and handling on rough terrain.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
2005-2011 Ram Dakota Service Manual
Coming SoonThis comprehensive manual provides detailed instructions for maintaining and repairing the suspension system, including diagrams and torque specifications.
Suspension System Technical Bulletin
Coming SoonThis bulletin addresses common suspension issues and provides updated repair procedures for the 2005-2011 Ram Dakota.
Ram Dakota Parts and Accessories Guide
Coming SoonThis guide lists all OEM and compatible aftermarket suspension parts, including part numbers and descriptions.
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Technical Information
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