🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Truck Generation: Second Generation (BR/BE) Model Years Covered: 1996, 1997 Codes Chassis Code: BR/BE 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size pickup truck Target Demographic: Work truck buyers, fleet operators, towing and hauling enthusiasts, general consumers seeking robust utility vehicles Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra (later in the decade) Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Strong towing capacity, powerful engine options, durable construction, spacious interior options (Quad Cab) Manual Value Proposition: Provides essential, detailed information for maintaining and repairing a rugged and reliable pickup truck, reducing reliance on potentially costly dealership services. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Repair and overhaul of Dodge Ram Truck 1996-1997 models Intended Audience: Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, transmission, drivetrain, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system Chassis: Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires Electrical: Body electrical systems, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, charging system, starting system Body: Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, HVAC system, body hardware Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting Repair: Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, calibrations Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to major component rebuilds. Assumes general automotive knowledge. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Portable Document Format (PDF) Searchability: Typically searchable text within the PDF for easy navigation Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options 1: 5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8 (Optional) Engine Options 2: 5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8 (Optional) Engine Options 3: 8.0L (488 cu in) Magnum V10 (Optional) Engine Options 4: 5.9L (359 cu in) Cummins Turbo Diesel (Optional) Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 230 hp to 300 hp (V8s and V10) and 175 hp (Diesel), depending on specific engine and tuning. Torque Range: Approximately 295 lb-ft to 460 lb-ft, depending on engine and tuning (Diesel notably high torque). Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (for V8/V10), Diesel (for Cummins) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: Manual transmission (e.g., 5-speed Getrag/New Process) on some models, particularly lower trims or specific configurations. Optional Transmission Type Optional 1: 4-speed automatic (e.g., 46RH, 47RH, 48RE) Transmission Type Optional 2: 5-speed manual transmission Features Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Transfer Case: Manual or electronic shift transfer case for 4WD models 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Varies by cab configuration (e.g., 114.7 inches for standard cab, 134.7 inches for extended cab, 139.0 inches for club cab) Overall Length: Varies by cab and bed configuration Bed Lengths: Available in 6.5 ft and 8 ft bed lengths Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 4,000 lbs to 6,000+ lbs depending on configuration and engine. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Ranges from approximately 5,400 lbs to over 8,800 lbs, depending on payload class (e.g., 1500, 2500, 3500). 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test: Likely rated 3 or 4 stars in frontal crash tests for this era, with specific results varying by configuration and test methodology. (Refer to specific NHTSA data for exact ratings.) Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on front wheels, optional or standard on rear depending on model and year. Often a 4-wheel ABS system. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag became optional or standard during this generation. Seatbelts: Three-point front seatbelts, manual rear seatbelts or integrated restraints depending on cab configuration. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium sound systems available on higher trims. Navigation: Not available on factory models of this era. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on most models Trailer Brake Controller: Aftermarket or factory-installed options available, but not standard integrated tech like modern systems. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited connectivity features typical of the mid-to-late 1990s. May include power windows, power locks, and power mirrors on higher trims. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oil, or up to 7,500 miles for synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact intervals based on engine and oil type. Tire Rotation: Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles Spark Plugs: Intervals vary by engine; e.g., 30,000 to 100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium). Transmission Fluid: Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on...