🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 50 Year: 1987 Market Segment: Compact Pickup Truck Generation Generation Designation: Second Generation (D50/Ram 50) Codes Chassis Code: D50 Series 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Dodge Ram 50 owners, DIY mechanics, automotive repair shops, restoration enthusiasts. Competitive Analysis Unique Selling Proposition: Vehicle-specific, factory-level repair information, identical to what dealership technicians use, delivered in a convenient digital format. Key Features Convenience: Single, easy-to-use PDF manual; print only necessary pages; no risk of greasy or torn paper manuals. Detail Level: Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications. Accessibility: Printable pages for use in the workshop or garage, zoomable images. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas All Models Covered: True Repair Scope: A-Z (All Repairs) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (Exact count not provided, but described as complete for all repairs) Manual Type Type: Factory Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete service, diagnosis, and repair for all engine variants. Control System: Engine control unit (ECU) and related systems. Mechanical: All mechanical components and assemblies. Fuel Service Specifications: Detailed fuel system diagnostics, repair, and specifications. Emission Control: Emission control systems, diagnosis, and component service. Intake Exhaust Cooling: Cooling system, intake, and exhaust manifold service. Lube: Lubrication system maintenance and specifications. Ignition Starting Charging: Ignition system, starting system, and charging system service and diagnosis. Auto Transmission Clutch: Automatic transmission and clutch service, adjustment, and repair. Manual Transmission: Manual transmission service, adjustment, and repair. Transfer Propeller Shaft: Transfer case and propeller shaft service and U-joint replacement. Drive Shaft: Drive shaft alignment, service, and repair. Differential: Front and rear differential service, fluid specifications, and repair. Axle Suspension: Front and rear axle and suspension system diagnosis and repair. Tire Wheel: Tire and wheel specifications, rotation, and balancing. Brake Control: Brake system control and hydraulic component service. Brake: Complete brake system service, including pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum service, and bleeding. Parking Brake: Parking brake system adjustment and repair. Steering Column: Steering column assembly, ignition switch, and tilt mechanism service. Power Steering: Power steering system diagnosis, fluid specifications, and component replacement. Air Condition: Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, and component repair. Suppl Restraint System: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - likely airbags, though less common in 1987 models, and related safety components. Seat Belt: Seat belt system inspection, adjustment, and repair. Engine Immobilizer: Engine immobilizer system (if equipped). Cruise Control: Cruise control system diagnosis and repair. Wiper Washer: Wiper and washer system service and troubleshooting. Door Lock: Door lock mechanisms, power lock systems, and keyless entry (if applicable). Meter Audio Visual: Instrument cluster, gauges, and audio system service. Horn: Horn system diagnosis and repair. Windshield Glass Mirror: Windshield, glass, and mirror replacement and adjustment. Instrument Panel: Instrument panel removal, installation, and component service. Seat: Seat adjustment mechanisms and interior trim related to seats. Engine Hood Door: Hood and door latch mechanisms, hinges, and adjustment. Exterior Interior: Body panels, trim, bumpers, and interior trim components. Electrical: Comprehensive electrical system troubleshooting, component testing, and wiring diagrams. Multiplex Can Communication: Multiplex/CAN communication systems (likely limited or absent on a 1987 model, but listed for completeness of the product description). Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements. Diagnostics: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems. Repair: Complete repair procedures for component replacement and system overhauls. Installation: Procedures for installing new or replacement parts. Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level detail, from basic maintenance to complex component rebuilds and electrical diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Readability Features: Searchable text, zoomable images, printable pages. Print Quality Print Capability: High-resolution, printable pages allowing for enlarged diagrams. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) Software Requirements Required Software: Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (or equivalent unzipping software) Compatibility Operating Systems: Windows (Vista32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: Likely includes 2.0L and 2.6L Mitsubishi inline-4 gasoline engines. Specific engine codes will be detailed in the manual. Performance Horsepower Range: Typically in the 80-100 hp range, depending on engine and configuration. Torque Range: Torque figures vary by engine; detailed specifications in manual. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Carbureted fuel systems (e.g., Weber, Mikuni) and potentially early fuel injection depending on specific market and configuration. Manual will detail types and service. 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission: Likely a 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission. Optional Automatic Transmission: Optional automatic transmission, likely a 3-speed unit. Features Transfer Case: Available in RWD and 4WD configurations; manual will cover transfer case service. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Regular Cab (long and short bed configurations). Weights Curb Weight Range: Varies by configuration, typically in the 2500-3000 lb range. Manual will provide specific weight data. 🛡️ Safety...
High-resolution, printable pages allowing for enlarged diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Software Requirements
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (or equivalent unzipping software)
Compatibility
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
Likely includes 2.0L and 2.6L Mitsubishi inline-4 gasoline engines. Specific engine codes will be detailed in the manual.
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Typically in the 80-100 hp range, depending on engine and configuration.
Torque Range:
Torque figures vary by engine; detailed specifications in manual.
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted fuel systems (e.g., Weber, Mikuni) and potentially early fuel injection depending on specific market and configuration. Manual will detail types and service.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission:
Likely a 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission.
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
Optional automatic transmission, likely a 3-speed unit.
Features
Transfer Case:
Available in RWD and 4WD configurations; manual will cover transfer case service.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Regular Cab (long and short bed configurations).
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Varies by configuration, typically in the 2500-3000 lb range. Manual will provide specific weight data.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited independent crash test data available for this specific model year; manual focuses on system functionality.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Manual details inspection and service procedures.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Standard seat belts. Manual covers adjustment and replacement.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player. Manual covers removal, installation, and speaker service.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was not standard or widely available on this model. If equipped, manual will cover it.
Connectivity
Diagnostic Ports:
Limited onboard diagnostics, typically relying on visual inspection and multimeter testing. Manual guides these processes.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months. Manual will specify exact interval based on engine and driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual will provide specific intervals and fluid types.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Manual will provide exact OEM specification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant. Manual will specify type and mixture ratio.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Exhaust system components, suspension bushings, brake wear items, ignition components (spark plugs, wires). Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, and cab corners can be susceptible to rust depending on climate. Manual does not cover body rust repair specifically but covers body panel replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
Dodge is a brand of Chrysler Corporation. The Ram 50 was a rebadged Mitsubishi Forte (also known as the Mitsubishi Mighty Max).
Model Evolution
Generation Notes:
The 1987 model falls into the second generation of the D50/Ram 50, which saw significant styling updates and powertrain refinements from its predecessor.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Produced by Mitsubishi in Japan and sold through Dodge dealerships in North America.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
The Dodge Ram 50 (as a rebadged Mitsubishi) was generally well-regarded for its reliability and value in its segment during the late 1980s. Specific awards are not widely documented.
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