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TSB 13-001-03

Frame Alterations

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Date: Feb, 7, 2003

Models: 2003 (DR) Ram Pickup

Overview:
This bulletin is to support the 2003 Body Builders Guide and presents guidelines that must be followed during modifications or alterations to any 2003 Dodge Ram Pickup frame.

Symptom/Condition:
During certain modifications for various after market applications a Dodge Ram Pickup frame may require modification or alteration.

Repair Procedure: 

The following general industry standard procedures are recommended for proper Installation of special bodies and/or equipment on the Ram Pickup frame, such as 5th wheel hitches, snow plows. etc. Failure to follow these recommendations could result In damage to the basic vehicle and possible injury to occupants.

NOTE: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION DOES NOT RECOMMEND ANY MODIFICATIONS OR ALTERATIONS TO THE FRAME ASSEMBLY. MODIFICATIONS OR ALTERATIONS (I.E., HOLE DRILLING WELDING, ETC.) TO THE FRAME ASSEMBLY ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PERSONS PERFORMING THESE MODIFICATIONS OR ALTERATIONS. ANYONE ALTERING THE FRAME MUST ASSURE COMPLETE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ASSEMBLY, PERFORMANCE RELIABILITY AND COMPLIANCE OF APPLICABLE FMSS REQUIREMENTS.

CAUTION: USE OF PROPER SAFETY EQUIPMENT IS RECOMMENDED WHEN PERFORMING ANY MODIFICATIONS OR ALTERATIONS.

HOLES:
Holes are not to be drilled in the top or bottom of the frame rails. Holes to mount outriggers, brackets, and supports must be drilled in the web (vertical sides) of the frame rail with the following restrictions:

1.   Hole diameter should not exceed 20mm (0.75 in.).
2.   Material between edge of hole and top or bottom of frame rail must not be less than 40mm (1 .60 in.).
3. The minimum edge distance between any two (2) holes must be larger than twice the diameter of the larger hole.
4. Any through frame fasteners that torque down on both external surfaces of the frame rail must use an Internal spacer/reinforcement to prevent crushing the rail tube.
5. All holes should be drilled In the frame using appropriate safety precautions.
6. Avoid drilling holes near the fuel tank, fuel and brake lines and other lines and wires to avoid damage to them.

WELDING:
Prior to welding, the following must he done.

1. Avoid welding near,the fuel tank, fuel and brake lines or other components that may be damaged by the heat of welding, If R is necessary to remove the fuel tank, lines or other components, do it In accordance with applicable service manual procedure.
2. Components near the welding area which could be damaged by excessive heat must be removed or adequately shielded.
3. Disconnect the battery(ies)
4. Precautionary measures should be used to prevent electrical system components or wiring damage.
5. Frame E-coating must be removed from the weld area prior to welding. Use proper welding techniques to avoid stress risers that may adversely affect frame performance.

AFTER WELDING:

1. Carefully inspect electrical components and wiring for shorts or other damage.
2. Apply an anti corrosion protective coating to the areas where the coating was removed.

Policy:    Information Only.

This page was edited on: May 3, 2004