🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Model Line: 1500, 2500, 3500 Year: 1996-1997 Codes Chassis Code: Second Generation Ram (BR/BE) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Full-size pickup truck. Key Selling Points: Renowned for robust construction, powerful engine options (especially the Cummins diesel), and significant towing/hauling capability. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet/GMC C/K Series. Key Features Cab Configurations: Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab). Bed Lengths: Short Bed (approx. 6.5 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft). Drive Configurations: Two-wheel drive (2WD), Four-wheel drive (4WD). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Coverage Scope: Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 models from 1996-1997. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era). Manual Type Manual Classification: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: Instant Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, and specifications for all engine variants including V8 Magnum (5.2L, 5.9L) and Cummins Turbo Diesel (5.9L). Engine Performance: Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems. Transmission Manual: Repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting for manual transmissions (e.g., NV4500 5-speed for HD models, NV3500 5-speed for light duty). Transmission Automatic: Repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting for automatic transmissions (e.g., A500/42RE, A518/46RE, A727/37RH for diesel). Drivetrain: Front and rear axle assemblies, differential service, driveshaft and U-joint repair, 4WD system (transfer case) diagnostics and repair. Suspension: Front and rear suspension systems (independent front suspension on 1500, solid front axle on 2500/3500), component replacement, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system diagnostics, pump and steering gear repair, linkage components. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories. Body And Frame: Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, door and window mechanisms, chassis component service. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt and hose inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement. Troubleshooting Guides: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures. Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems. Rebuilding Procedures: Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, and differentials. Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical resistance values, and more. Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: Advanced diagnostic procedures, including pinpoint tests for electrical systems and scan tool usage (OBD-I/OBD-II transition). Repair Complexity: Covers everything from basic roadside repairs to complete engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for both novice DIYers and professional mechanics. Special Tools: Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital File Type: PDF Print Quality Digital Resolution: High-resolution, allowing for clear viewing of diagrams and text; printable. Binding Type Physical Manual Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Physical Manual Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1500 Gas: 5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8 Engine 1500 2500 Gas: 5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8 Engine 2500 3500 Diesel: 5.9L (359 cu in) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 Performance 5.2L Magnum Hp: Approx. 230 hp @ 4,000 rpm 5.2L Magnum Torque: Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm 5.9L Magnum Hp: Approx. 245 hp @ 4,000 rpm 5.9L Magnum Torque: Approx. 335 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm 5.9L Cummins Hp: Approx. 180-215 hp @ 2,500 rpm (depending on model/year variant) 5.9L Cummins Torque: Approx. 420-440 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm (depending on model/year variant) Fuel System Gasoline Fuel Delivery: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) Diesel Fuel Delivery: Direct injection with rotary injection pump (VE or P7100 variants exist in this period, P7100 preferred for HD). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission 1500 Std: 4-speed automatic (A500/42RE) Transmission 2500 3500 Std: 4-speed automatic (A518/46RE for gas, A727/37RH for diesel) Optional Transmission 1500 Opt: 5-speed manual (NV3500) Transmission 2500 3500 Opt: 5-speed manual (NV4500) Features Overdrive Gears: 4-speed automatics feature overdrive (4th gear). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Std Cab Short Bed: 134.0 inches Wheelbase Std Cab Long Bed: 155.2 inches Wheelbase Club Cab Short Bed: 143.2 inches Wheelbase Club Cab Long Bed: 164.3 inches Cargo Bed Length Short: Approx. 78.7 inches Bed Length Long: Approx. 98.7 inches Weights Gvwr 1500: Typically 6,300 - 6,500 lbs Gvwr 2500: Typically 7,700 - 8,700 lbs Gvwr 3500: Typically 9,000 - 10,000 lbs (often with dual rear wheels option) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver 1996: N/A (Tests not performed in the same format as today) IIHS Frontal Offset 1996: Acceptable (IIHS testing reports for this era indicate this rating for the Ram). Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard on 2500/3500, optional on 1500. Passive Features Airbags: Driver side airbag standard....