
The fuel tank capacity of a vehicle is an important consideration for any owner, influencing how far you can travel before needing to refuel. For owners of the 2nd generation Dodge Ram, produced between 1994 and 2002, the fuel tank capacity is a particular concern, with some models having a capacity of 26 gallons, while others can hold up to 35 gallons. This variation in fuel tank size is determined by the truck's bed length, with short beds typically featuring smaller fuel tanks than their long bed counterparts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| 2nd Gen. Dodge Ram Years | 1994-2002 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 gallons (short bed) 35 gallons (long bed) 26 gallons (half tons) |
| Additional Information | 5.2 gallons are put in the fuel tank by the factory so that loaders can drive it off and on the freight train |
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What You'll Learn

Long bed fuel tank capacity
The fuel tank capacity of a vehicle is an important consideration for any owner, influencing the frequency of fill-ups and the range of the vehicle. For owners of the 2nd generation Dodge Ram, a powerful truck with a large fuel tank, understanding the fuel capacity is essential for planning trips and managing fuel costs.
The 2nd generation Dodge Ram, produced from 1994 to 2002, is known for its robust design and impressive performance. This generation of Dodge Ram trucks is particularly notable for their large fuel tanks, which offer a substantial capacity that sets them apart from many other vehicles on the market.
When it comes to the long bed fuel tank capacity of the 2nd generation Dodge Ram, owners can expect a substantial volume of 35 gallons. This capacity is consistent across various models within the 2nd generation range, providing a reliable fuel reserve for long-distance journeys and heavy-duty usage.
However, it's worth noting that some owners have reported discrepancies in the actual fuel volume they are able to fill their tanks with. In certain cases, owners have shared experiences where they were only able to fill their tanks with around 26 gallons, despite the specified capacity of 34 or 35 gallons for the short and long bed variants, respectively. This discrepancy may be attributed to a variety of factors, including fuel density, calibration issues, or design considerations.
To ensure an accurate understanding of their vehicle's fuel capacity, owners of the 2nd generation Dodge Ram are advised to refer to their owner's manual or seek guidance from official Dodge resources. Additionally, online forums dedicated to the Dodge Ram community can provide valuable insights and shared experiences related to fuel tank capacity and other technical aspects of the vehicle.
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Short bed fuel tank capacity
The fuel tank capacity of a truck depends on the make and model of the truck. For 2nd Gen Dodge Ram trucks, which were manufactured between 1994 and 2002, the fuel tank capacity depends on the length of the bed. Short beds typically have a 34-gallon fuel tank capacity, while long beds have a 35-gallon capacity. However, there is an exception for half-ton trucks, which have a 26-gallon capacity for short beds and a 35-gallon capacity for long beds.
Some owners of 2nd Gen Dodge Ram trucks have reported discrepancies between the expected fuel tank capacity and the actual amount of fuel that can be filled. For example, some users with trucks coded for a 34-gallon fuel tank have only been able to fill up to 26 gallons. This discrepancy may be due to the design of the fuel tank or the gauge system.
It is important to note that letting the fuel tank run completely empty can damage the fuel pump. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the fuel level above the fuel pump to ensure it remains cool and lubricated. Running the tank too low can burn out the fuel pump, leading to an expensive replacement.
There are aftermarket options available that offer larger fuel tank capacities for the 2nd Gen Dodge Ram. For example, S&B offers a 52-gallon fuel tank that can directly replace the OEM 31-gallon tank without any modifications. This larger fuel tank allows for longer trips without the need for frequent refuelling.
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Fuel tank capacity for 1994-2002 models
The fuel tank capacity for 2nd generation Dodge Ram trucks varies depending on the model year and the bed type.
For the 1994 model, sources indicate that the long bed has a fuel tank capacity of 35 or 36 gallons, while the short bed has a capacity of 34 gallons. The exception is the half-ton model with a short bed, which has a capacity of 26 gallons.
For the 1995 model, the long bed has a capacity of 35 gallons, and the short bed has a capacity of 34 gallons.
From 1998 to 2001, the fuel tank capacity for the quad cab short bed models is 26 gallons.
For the 2002 model, the quad cab short bed has a capacity of 34 gallons, and the long bed has a capacity of 35 gallons.
It is worth noting that some owners of these trucks have reported discrepancies between the expected fuel tank capacity based on the model specifications and the actual amount of fuel that can be filled, with some individuals reporting that they are only able to fill their tanks to around 26 gallons even when the tank capacity is specified as 32 or 34 gallons.
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Fuel pump issues
The fuel tank capacity of a 2nd Gen Dodge Ram varies depending on the model year and configuration. For instance, the long bed models typically have a 35-gallon fuel tank capacity, while the short bed models have a capacity of 34 gallons. The exception is the half-ton models, with the short beds offering 26 gallons and the long beds offering 35 gallons.
Now, let's discuss fuel pump issues in 4-6 paragraphs.
The 2nd Gen Dodge Ram, covering model years 1994 through 2002, is known for its ruggedness and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common issues, including some that are related to the fuel system. One of the most prevalent problems reported by owners is a faulty fuel gauge. This issue can manifest in different ways, such as the gauge being stuck on a quarter tank or the low fuel light coming on even when there is enough fuel in the tank. In some cases, the gauge may not work at all, leaving owners unsure of the fuel level. This problem is often attributed to faulty sending units, which can wear out over time due to the contact between the field and the contactor on the arm. Additionally, floats inside the fuel tank can malfunction, causing them to no longer rise in the fuel.
To diagnose a faulty fuel gauge, owners can perform a few tests. One method is to pull the wiring from the tank and use the factory service manual (FSM) and wiring diagrams to jumper the sending unit wiring. If the gauge responds, it confirms that the issue lies within the sending unit rather than the gauge itself. Another approach is to remove the gauge cluster to inspect and test it mechanically. If the cluster is faulty, refurbishment or replacement may be necessary.
Beyond the fuel gauge issues, 2nd Gen Dodge Ram owners have reported problems with the fuel pump. It is recommended to avoid running the fuel tank too low, as this can cause the fuel pump to burn out. Keeping the fuel level above the fuel pump is believed to prolong its lifespan, as the fuel helps keep the pump cooler. Some owners have shared that they aim to maintain at least three gallons of fuel in the tank to ensure the pump remains covered. Running the tank dry can lead to pump failure, and in certain cases, it may even need to be replaced.
While not directly related to the fuel pump, the fuel capacity and range of the 2nd Gen Dodge Ram have been a topic of discussion among owners. Some have expressed concerns about the accuracy of the fuel gauge and the calibration of the tank capacity. In certain instances, owners have reported that their trucks show empty or reserve while still having a significant amount of fuel left in the tank. This discrepancy can be concerning, especially when planning longer trips, as it affects the confidence in the vehicle's actual range. Calibration adjustments have been suggested as a potential solution to improve the accuracy of the fuel gauge and provide a more precise representation of the available fuel and remaining mileage.
In conclusion, while the 2nd Gen Dodge Ram is a dependable vehicle, it is not immune to fuel system issues. Owners should be vigilant about keeping an adequate fuel level to maintain the fuel pump's health and avoid running the tank dry. Additionally, addressing any fuel gauge inaccuracies and understanding the vehicle's true fuel capacity and range can help prevent unexpected fuel-related issues. Regular maintenance and proactive troubleshooting can ensure that the 2nd Gen Dodge Ram remains a reliable companion for many miles to come.
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Fuel gauge accuracy
The fuel tank capacity of a 2nd Gen Dodge Ram depends on the model year and configuration. For instance, 1994-2002 2nd Gen Dodge Ram trucks with long beds have a 35-gallon fuel tank capacity, while those with short beds have a 34-gallon capacity. However, short bed quad cabs have a 26-gallon capacity.
While the fuel tank capacity of the 2nd Gen Dodge Ram is specified by the manufacturer, the accuracy of the fuel gauge in determining the amount of fuel in the tank has been questioned by several owners. Some owners have reported inconsistencies between the amount of fuel their vehicle can hold and the fuel gauge reading. For example, some owners with a 32-gallon fuel tank option have observed that when the fuel gauge reads close to empty, they are only able to fill up around 25-29 gallons of fuel. Similarly, an owner of a 2017 Laramie Longhorn 2500, which is supposed to have a 31-gallon capacity, has reported that when the truck shows empty, it generally takes only about 26 gallons to fill up.
These discrepancies in fuel gauge readings can be attributed to various factors, including fuel density, temperature, and the design of the fuel tank and gauge system. For instance, the shape of the fuel tank can affect the accuracy of the gauge, as seen in the comparison between 3rd and 4th generation Dodge Ram trucks. Additionally, some owners have suggested that the fuel pump and level sensors may impact the accuracy of the fuel gauge. It is recommended to keep the fuel level above the fuel pump to prevent it from burning out and to ensure accurate readings.
To improve fuel gauge accuracy, some owners have resorted to resetting the parameters using tools like AlphaOBD. This allows them to set the proper liter capacity and, consequently, improve the accuracy of the fuel gauge readings. Others have suggested running the tank down to empty and then filling it up to accurately determine the fuel tank capacity and gauge accuracy. However, it is important to exercise caution when running the tank down to empty, as it can lead to fuel pump issues and potentially leave you stranded.
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Frequently asked questions
The 2nd gen Dodge Ram 1500 fuel tank capacity is 26 gallons.
The 2nd gen Dodge Ram long bed fuel tank capacity is 35 gallons.
The 2nd gen Dodge Ram short bed fuel tank capacity is 34 gallons.











































