🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 3500 Series Model Generation: Second Generation (BR/BE) Model Year: 1996, 1997 Codes Chassis Code: BR (2WD), BE (4WD) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck Target Audience: Owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on Dodge Ram 3500 trucks. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD. Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Renowned for its robust construction, powerful engine options, and towing/hauling capabilities. Manual Value Proposition: Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining and repairing these durable trucks, saving time and money. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Trims: All Models/Engines Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: All gasoline and diesel engine overhauls, diagnostics, component testing, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emission control systems. Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, overhaul, diagnostics, clutch service, driveline components. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system service, ABS diagnostics and repair, front and rear brake component replacement, fluid specifications. Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension component repair and replacement, steering system diagnostics, power steering service, alignment specifications. Electrical: Complete electrical schematics, lighting systems, starting and charging systems, instrument cluster, comfort and convenience features, body control modules, wiring diagrams. Body Chassis: Body panel repair, door and latch mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, frame straightening, collision repair information. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement. Emissions: Emission control system components, diagnostics, and specifications. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid level checks, filter replacements, lubrication points. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, including component removal and installation. Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostic codes, testing procedures for sensors and actuators, diagnostic tool usage. Rebuilding: Complete engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, including torque specifications and assembly instructions. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchable: Yes (typically, for well-digitized manuals) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution digital scans, suitable for printing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1: 5.9L Magnum V8 (360 ci) Gasoline Engine Option 2: 8.0L Magnum V10 (488 ci) Gasoline Engine Option 3: 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (359 ci) Performance 5.9L Magnum V8 Horsepower: Approx. 230 hp @ 4400 rpm 5.9L Magnum V8 Torque: Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm 8.0L Magnum V10 Horsepower: Approx. 300 hp @ 4000 rpm 8.0L Magnum V10 Torque: Approx. 450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm 5.9L Cummins Horsepower: Approx. 190-230 hp @ 2500-2800 rpm (depending on specific engine code/tune) 5.9L Cummins Torque: Approx. 400-460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (depending on specific engine code/tune) Fuel System Gasoline Engines: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Diesel Engine: Rotary injection pump (VE or P7100 depending on sub-model/year for 5.9L Cummins), electronically controlled injection pump (ECI) on later 5.9L models. Engine Code Gasoline V8: 360 Gasoline V10: 488 Diesel: 5.9L Cummins (Various specific engine codes apply) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-Speed Manual (NV4500 for most models, especially diesel) Optional Optional Transmission 1: 4-Speed Automatic (47RH for early 5.9L Cummins, 48RE for later models/gasoline) Optional Transmission 2: 4-Speed Automatic (for Gasoline V8/V10) Features Manual Transmission Features: Heavy-duty construction, integrated overdrive, optional PTO provision (NV4500). Automatic Transmission Features: Torque converter lock-up for improved efficiency, electronically controlled shift points (on 48RE). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Options: 135" (Regular Cab), 160" (Club Cab/Quad Cab), 174" (Crew Cab) Bed Length Options: 8.0 ft (Standard Bed), 9.25 ft (Long Bed) Weights Gvwr Range: 10,000 lbs to 13,500 lbs (depending on configuration) Curb Weight Range: Approximately 5,500 lbs to 7,500 lbs (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Side Impact: Refer to specific model year and configuration NHTSA data; generally good for its class, but side airbags were not standard. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels for 2WD, four-wheel ABS available/standard on 4WD models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS). Seatbelts: Front and rear seat belts, shoulder belts with pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Upgraded speaker systems available. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional depending on trim level. Connectivity Phone Integration: None from factory; aftermarket solutions required. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Gasoline: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific recommendations based on oil type and driving conditions). Oil Change Diesel Cummins: Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (using appropriate diesel oil). Cummins recommended 10W-30 synthetic blend or 15W-40. Transmission Fluid Change Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles,...