Bulletin 03DR120902 Issue Date: December 9, 2002
Dodge Ram Truck Bulletin No: 021 Page 1 of 2
Engineering Bulletin
Dodge Truck Engineering
SUBJECT: Dodge Ram Truck Models Frame Alteration Information
APPLICABLE
MODEL LINE(S): Dodge Ram Pickups
APPLICABLE
MODEL YEAR(S): 2003
Forward
The following section shows suggested guidelines on modification of Dodge Ram frames
for various after market applications.
Information
Caution: Use of proper safety equipment is recommended when performing any
modifications or alterations.
The following recommendations are consistent with industry standards:
DaimlerChrysler Corporation doesn’t 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 persons performing these modifications or alterations.
Anyone altering the frame must assure complete responsibility for assembly, performance,
reliability and compliance of applicable FMVSS requirements.
The following procedures and specific precautionary instructions are recommended for
proper installation of special bodies and/or equipment on the Ram Frame. Failure to follow
these recommendations could result in damage to the basic vehicle and possible injury to
occupants.
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 20 mm (0. 75 in. ).
2) Material between edge of hole and top or bottom of the frame rail must not be less
than 40 mm (1. 60 in. ).
3) The minimum edge distance between any two (2) holes must be larger than twice
the diameter of the larger hole.
Additional questions or comments on this subject... contact DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Truck Platform Engineering, Modified Vehicles Engineering Department.
FAX HOTLINE ... (800) 899-8068
DaimlerChrysler Corporation reserves the right to make changes without notice or obligation
Bulletin 03DR120902 Issue Date: December 9, 2002
Dodge Ram Truck Bulletin No: 021 Page 2 of 2
Engineering Bulletin
Additional questions or comments on this subject... contact DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Truck Platform Engineering, Modified Vehicles Engineering Department.
FAX HOTLINE ... (800) 899-8068
DaimlerChrysler Corporation reserves the right to make changes without notice or obligation
Dodge Truck Engineering
4) Any thru-fastener that torques down on both external surfaces of the rail must use
an internal spacer to prevent crushing the rail tube.
5) All holes should be drilled in the frame using appropriate drilling practice and 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 any welding, the following must be 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 it is necessary to weld near these areas, use
wet cloths to cover these components. If it 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 welding and surrounding area.
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 protective coating to areas where coating was removed.
------------
Thanks Casey, I copied and pasted it here but the PDF file is better to have...
Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
