🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Truck Model Lineup: 1500, 2500, 3500 Production Year: 1996 Codes Chassis Code: BR/BE (Second Generation Ram) Engine Codes Overview: Various, dependent on specific engine option 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size pickup truck Target Audience: Owners, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance personnel Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra Key Features Vehicle Design Era: Represents the introduction of the iconic second-generation Dodge Ram design, known for its bold styling and aggressive grille. Manual Value Proposition: Provides essential technical information for maintaining and repairing a robust and popular workhorse vehicle. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Comprehensive service and repair procedures Included Models: 1500, 2500, 3500 Series Trim Levels Covered: All applicable trim levels for 1996 models Page Count Estimated Pages: Varies by publisher; typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive manuals of this era Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed (traditional binding) or Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic) Chassis: Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (front & rear), driveline, wheels, tires Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, accessories, body electrical controls, power distribution Body: Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) Repair: Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for all major systems Rebuilding: Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all fasteners across all systems Clearances And Tolerances: Specific measurements for component alignment, wear, and fitment 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (often searchable, with bookmarking capabilities for digital versions) Print Quality Print Quality Description: High-resolution scans or original print quality, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text Binding Type Binding Type Description: Perfect bound or spiral bound for printed versions, facilitating lay-flat use in a workshop environment Paper Type Paper Type Description: Durable, often heavier stock paper for printed manuals to withstand workshop conditions ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Base Engine 1500: 5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8 Optional Engine 1500: 5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8 Base Engine 2500/3500: 5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8 Optional Engine 2500/3500: 5.9L (359 cu in) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 Performance 5.2L V8 Horsepower Est: 230 hp @ 4,000 RPM 5.2L V8 Torque Est: 295 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM 5.9L V8 Horsepower Est: 245 hp @ 4,000 RPM 5.9L V8 Torque Est: 335 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Horsepower Est: 190 hp @ 2,500 RPM 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Torque Est: 440 lb-ft @ 1,600 RPM Fuel System Fuel Injection Gasoline: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel System Diesel: Inline injection pump (VE or P7100 depending on specific configuration) Recommended Fuel Gasoline: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline Recommended Fuel Diesel: API CD or CE rated Diesel Fuel 🔧 Transmission Standard 1500 Series Std Trans: 4-Speed Automatic (46RE) 2500/3500 Series Std Trans: 4-Speed Automatic (47RH / 47RE) Optional 1500 Series Opt Trans: 5-Speed Manual (NV4500 for some configurations) 2500/3500 Series Opt Trans: 5-Speed Manual (NV4500) Features Transfer Case: Part-time 4WD (New Process NP241 DHD) or Full-time 4WD available 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Std: 134.9 inches (3426 mm) Wheelbase Long: 154.9 inches (3934 mm) Overall Length Reg Cab: Approximately 230 inches (5842 mm) Overall Length Club Cab: Approximately 250 inches (6350 mm) Bed Lengths: 6.5 ft (short bed) and 8 ft (long bed) Weights Gvwr 1500 Est: 6,050 - 6,500 lbs (2744 - 2948 kg) Gvwr 2500 Est: 7,200 - 8,800 lbs (3266 - 3992 kg) Gvwr 3500 Est: 9,000 - 10,500 lbs (4082 - 4763 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Rating Est: Generally considered average for trucks of its era; specific ratings may vary Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on rear wheels, optional 4-wheel ABS on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard. Seatbelts: Three-point front seat belts with shoulder belt adjusters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Climate Control: Manual or optional automatic climate control systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option on most trims. Connectivity Towing Features: Integrated trailer wiring harnesses and optional trailer brake controller provisions. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Gasoline: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (traditional recommendation); 6,000 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (check manual for specific guidance). Oil Change Interval Diesel: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on service...