🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Generation: Second Generation (BR/BE) Codes Chassis Code: BR/BE 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Full-Size Pickup Truck Target Audience: DIY Enthusiasts, Independent Repair Shops, Fleet Maintenance Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra (early models) Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Robust construction, strong towing and hauling capabilities, wide range of engine options, comfortable ride for a truck of its era Manual Value Proposition: Provides factory-accurate information for DIY repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics, saving on labor costs and ensuring correct procedures. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicle Years Covered: 1996, 1997 Body Styles Covered: 1500, 2500, 3500 Series (Light Duty and Heavy Duty) Cab Configurations Covered: Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab) Drivetrain Covered: 2WD (Rear Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 2000+ (typical for a complete factory service manual) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable sections 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (Front Axle, Rear Axle, Transfer Case) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheels & Tires Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Gauges, Audio System, Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Starter, Fuses & Relays Body: Body & Frame, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Cruise Control Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Tune-up Procedures, Belt & Hose Inspections Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Charts, Electrical System Diagnostics Repair Rebuild: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Differential Service, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, HVAC Component Repair Installation Replacement: Component Replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, radiator), Sensor Replacement, Exterior/Interior Trim Installation Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive Factory Level Diagnostics, Repair, and Overhaul Procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Searchable Text Recommended) Print Quality Image Quality: High Resolution (for clear diagrams and photos) Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Digital Paper: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1: 3.9L (239ci) Magnum V6 (e.g., 3.9L OHV) Engine Option 2: 5.2L (318ci) Magnum V8 (e.g., 5.2L OHV) Engine Option 3: 5.9L (360ci) Magnum V8 (e.g., 5.9L OHV) Engine Option 4: 8.0L (488ci) Magnum V10 (for heavy-duty models, especially 2500/3500) Engine Option 5: 5.9L (359ci) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (for heavy-duty models, especially 2500/3500) Performance Horsepower Range: Approx. 175-300 hp (depending on engine) Torque Range: Approx. 230-470 lb-ft (depending on engine) Fuel System Injection Type: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (for V6/V8), Diesel (for Cummins) Engine Management ECU: PCM (Powertrain Control Module) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Option 1: 4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 46RE, 47RE) Optional Transmission Option 2: 5-Speed Manual (e.g., NV4500 for heavy duty, Getrag for lighter duty) Features Overdrive: Yes (on automatic transmissions) Transfer Case Types: Command-Trac (Part-time 4WD), Selec-Trac (Full-time 4WD available) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Options: Varied based on cab and bed length (e.g., 115", 135", 145") Bed Length Options: e.g., 6.5 ft (short bed), 8 ft (long bed) Weights Gvwr Range: Approx. 6000 lbs to 11000+ lbs (depending on model/configuration) Payload Capacity Range: Approx. 1500 lbs to 5000+ lbs (depending on model/configuration) Towing Capacity Range: Approx. 4000 lbs to 10000+ lbs (depending on model/configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings 1996: Mixed - Frontal impact ratings were generally good, but side impact and rollover resistance varied. NHTSA Ratings 1997: Mixed - Similar to 1996. Active Features ABS: Available/Standard on some models (Rear-wheel ABS standard on most, 4-wheel ABS optional) Passive Features Airbags: Driver side airbag standard, Passenger side airbag optional or standard on higher trims for some years. Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts, 2-point lap belts for rear passengers (center may vary). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio Systems: Factory AM/FM/Cassette, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available/Standard on many models. Antilock Brakes: As noted in Safety section, available/standard. Connectivity Aux Inputs: None (pre-USB/Bluetooth era). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type recommendations). Engine Coolant Flush: Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years. Transmission Fluid Change: Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: typically much longer or as needed based on use. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Service SG/SH or better (e.g., SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40 depending on temperature and engine). Refer to manual for precise spec. Transmission Fluid Type Auto: ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent. Transmission Fluid Type Manual: GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90, 75W-140 depending on application). Coolant Type: Chrysler Corporate Type 2 (HOAT) or similar. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, exhaust components, brake pads/rotors, radiator, water pump. Powertrain Considerations:...
Varied based on cab and bed length (e.g., 115", 135", 145")
Bed Length Options:
e.g., 6.5 ft (short bed), 8 ft (long bed)
Weights
Gvwr Range:
Approx. 6000 lbs to 11000+ lbs (depending on model/configuration)
Payload Capacity Range:
Approx. 1500 lbs to 5000+ lbs (depending on model/configuration)
Towing Capacity Range:
Approx. 4000 lbs to 10000+ lbs (depending on model/configuration)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings 1996:
Mixed - Frontal impact ratings were generally good, but side impact and rollover resistance varied.
NHTSA Ratings 1997:
Mixed - Similar to 1996.
Active Features
ABS:
Available/Standard on some models (Rear-wheel ABS standard on most, 4-wheel ABS optional)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver side airbag standard, Passenger side airbag optional or standard on higher trims for some years.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point lap belts for rear passengers (center may vary).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available/Standard on many models.
Antilock Brakes:
As noted in Safety section, available/standard.
Connectivity
Aux Inputs:
None (pre-USB/Bluetooth era).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type recommendations).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: typically much longer or as needed based on use.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG/SH or better (e.g., SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40 depending on temperature and engine). Refer to manual for precise spec.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90, 75W-140 depending on application).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Corporate Type 2 (HOAT) or similar.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, exhaust components, brake pads/rotors, radiator, water pump.
Powertrain Considerations:
Transmission issues (especially 46RE/47RE in heavy use), potential for plenum gasket leaks on Magnum V8s, injector issues on some early EFI systems, head gasket leaks on some Magnum engines.
Electrical Quirks:
Intermittent gauge operation, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, power window/lock issues, PCM failures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the early 1900s.
Model Evolution
Second Gen Launch:
The second-generation Ram (BR/BE) was introduced for the 1994 model year, marking a significant redesign with a bolder, more aggressive styling and improved interior comfort.
Key Updates 1996-1997:
Minor updates, potential for new trim levels or feature packaging. The core design and powertrains remained consistent with the early second generation.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan; St. Louis, Missouri (various assembly plants were used).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Truck Of The Year Awards:
While specific awards for the '96-'97 models might be less prominent than later generations, the second-gen Ram received acclaim for its styling and capability upon introduction.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied, with some praise for powertrain reliability (especially Magnum V8s) but criticisms sometimes directed at electrical components and interior build quality.
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