🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 3500 Year: 1996-1997 Codes Platform Code: Second Generation Ram (BR/BE) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Heavy-duty pickup truck Target User: Mechanics, service technicians, fleet operators, and knowledgeable DIY owners. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD. Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Renowned for its powerful engines, robust chassis, and towing/hauling capabilities. Manual Value Proposition: Provides in-depth, factory-level repair and maintenance information crucial for this heavy-duty vehicle. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Page Count Page Count: 1985 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed overhaul, diagnostics, and component specifications for all gasoline and diesel engines. Engine Management: ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection system repair, ignition system troubleshooting. Transmission Manual: Repair and overhaul procedures for NV4500 manual transmissions. Transmission Automatic: Diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for 46RE and 47RE automatic transmissions. Drivetrain: Front and rear axle repair, differentials, transfer case service, driveshaft balancing and U-joints. Suspension: Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment procedures, shock absorber and spring service. Steering: Power steering system repair, steering column, tie rod, and ball joint replacement. Brakes: Front and rear disc brake systems, anti-lock braking system (ABS) diagnostics and repair, parking brake. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting systems, accessory circuits. Body And Frame: Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, frame inspection. HVAC: Air conditioning system diagnostics and repair, heater core replacement, ventilation system servicing. Restraints: Airbag system diagnostics and component replacement. Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting charts for common and intermittent faults. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points. Component Overhaul: Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and differentials. Diagnosis Testing: Troubleshooting guides for electrical faults, engine performance issues, and mechanical failures. Component Replacement: Removal and installation procedures for all major vehicle components. Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearance measurements, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive and detailed electrical schematic diagrams for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, designed for clear printing of text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download - PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download - PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 5.2L V8 Magnum, 5.9L V8 Magnum, 8.0L V10 Magnum, 5.9L Cummins I6 Turbo Diesel. Engine 5 2L V8 Engine Code: P52 Displacement: 5.2 L (318 cu in) Horsepower: 230 hp @ 4000 rpm Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Engine 5 9L V8 Engine Code: P59 Displacement: 5.9 L (360 cu in) Horsepower: 245 hp @ 4000 rpm Torque: 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Engine 8 0L V10 Engine Code: V10 Displacement: 8.0 L (488 cu in) Horsepower: 300 hp @ 4000 rpm Torque: 450 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm Engine 5 9L Cummins Engine Code: 53C Displacement: 5.9 L (359 cu in) Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder, Turbocharged Diesel Horsepower: 180-215 hp @ 2500 rpm (depending on model year and tune) Torque: 400-420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (depending on model year and tune) Fuel System Gasoline Injection Type: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Diesel Injection Type: Bosch VE Rotary Injection Pump (for 1996), Bosch VP44 Injection Pump (for 1997 models) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Transmission Type: NV4500 5-speed Manual Transmission (standard on many models) Optional Transmission Transmission Type: 46RE 4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional) Transmission Type 2: 47RE 4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional on heavier duty models, esp. diesel) Features Transfer Case Options: New Process Gear (NP) 241, 241HD (Heavy Duty) manual shift transfer case. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Standard: 134.0 inches (Regular Cab) Wheelbase Long: 160.0 inches (Club Cab) Overall Length: Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 230-250 inches) Weights Gvwr Gas Models: Up to 9,000 lbs Gvwr Diesel Models: Up to 10,000 lbs (or higher with specific configurations) Curb Weight: Varies significantly based on configuration (approx. 5,500 - 7,000 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact: Not extensively rated by NHTSA for this era of heavy trucks; generally considered robust. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on 4x4 and some 4x2 models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag standard. Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Factory Audio: AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Basic analog gauges. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option on most trims. Connectivity OBD Ii: On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) compliant for emissions and engine diagnostics. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Gasoline: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Oil Change Diesel: Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever...