🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 1500 Series Year: 1996, 1997 Codes Platform Code: BR/BE (2nd Generation Ram) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size pickup truck Target Audience: Owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra Key Features Vehicle Attributes: Robust construction, powerful engine options, towing and hauling capability, spacious cabin, available 4x4. Manual Value Proposition: Essential resource for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Dodge Ram 1500, offering detailed factory-level information. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: All Dodge Ram 1500 Series models Covered Engines: All engine variants for 1996-1997 Ram 1500 Covered Trims: All trim levels (e.g., ST, SLT, Laramie) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, emissions controls, engine electrical, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, differentials, axles. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear), wheels and tires. Body And Electrical: Body and paint, interior trim, exterior trim, HVAC system, electrical system (wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories, charging system, starting system), instrument panel, diagnostics, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts). Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine inspections, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), lubrication, tire rotation, battery maintenance. Repair: Engine overhaul/rebuild, transmission repair and replacement, brake system repair (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), steering system repair, exhaust system repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, body panel repair and replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, mechanical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, emissions system diagnostics. Technical Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures). 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF (allowing for quick keyword searches). Print Quality Quality: Professional, high-resolution scans/digital files suitable for printing. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 5.2L Magnum V8 (318 ci) Engine 1 Displacement: 5.2 Liters (318 Cubic Inches) Engine 1 Configuration: V8, Overhead Valve (OHV) Engine 1 Horsepower: Approx. 230 hp @ 4800 rpm Engine 1 Torque: Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Optional Engine Engine 2: 5.9L Magnum V8 (360 ci) Engine 2 Displacement: 5.9 Liters (360 Cubic Inches) Engine 2 Configuration: V8, Overhead Valve (OHV) Engine 2 Horsepower: Approx. 245 hp @ 4800 rpm Engine 2 Torque: Approx. 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Engine 3: 8.0L Magnum V10 (488 ci) - Available on some 1997 models Engine 3 Displacement: 8.0 Liters (488 Cubic Inches) Engine 3 Configuration: V10, Overhead Valve (OHV) Engine 3 Horsepower: Approx. 300 hp @ 4000 rpm Engine 3 Torque: Approx. 450 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission 1: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 46RE) Optional Transmission 2: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., NV3500, NV4500 for HD applications) Features Transfer Case: Available 4x4 with part-time transfer case (manual or electronic shift options). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Options: 131 inches (standard), 154.5 inches (long wheelbase) Bed Length Options: 6.5 ft (standard bed), 8 ft (long bed) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration) Gvwr Range: Approx. 6,000 - 6,500 lbs (for 1500 series) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: Not rated or 4-star (refer to specific year and configuration). NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: Not rated or 4-star (refer to specific year and configuration). Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, optional 4-wheel ABS. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/standard on some later models. Seatbelts: Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts for center seating positions. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player, available premium audio systems. Navigation: Not available from factory. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available cruise control. Connectivity Usb Aux: Not available from factory. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Engine Oil And Filter Change: Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations). Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection. Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on driving conditions (severe service may require more frequent changes). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Service SG, SH, or SJ rated oil; viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on temperature...