🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: RAM 3500 Truck Year: 2008 Engine Type: Diesel Codes Chassis Code: DR (Fourth Generation RAM) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck Target Audience: Commercial users, fleet operators, and individuals requiring towing and hauling capabilities. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Super Duty F-250/F-350, Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500HD/3500HD, GMC Sierra HD 2500HD/3500HD. Key Features Towing Hauling: Designed for substantial towing and hauling capacities, crucial for its target market. Diesel Powertrain: Emphasis on the robust Cummins Turbo Diesel engine for torque and durability. Four Wheel Drive Availability: Likely available with four-wheel drive systems, enhancing off-road and traction capabilities. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Vehicle operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting for the 2008 Dodge RAM 3500 Diesel. Specific Topics: Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting safety defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine compartment, Engine oil, Battery, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Part numbers, Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Accessories. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by specific edition, but factory manuals for this era typically range from 400 to 600 pages. Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Details on diesel engine operation, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust systems. Does not cover in-depth repair procedures. Chassis: Information on steering, suspension (front and rear), braking system operation, and wheel/tire care. Electrical: Covers instrument cluster functions, lighting controls, basic electrical system warnings, and accessory operation. Interior: Detailed explanations of climate control systems, infotainment options (radio, CD player), seating adjustments, safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts), and driver controls. Body: Information on locks, security features, power windows, mirrors, and cleaning procedures. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance checks and procedures, including fluid level checks (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, and battery care. Includes basic instructions for replacing air filters and wiper blades. Operation: Guidance on starting and operating the vehicle, proper use of transmission, braking techniques, towing, and driving in various conditions. Troubleshooting: Basic troubleshooting for dashboard warning lights and common operational issues. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Owner-level information focused on safe operation, routine maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Not intended for in-depth mechanical repair or diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Quality: Digital reproduction of factory manual, quality dependent on original scan/creation. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Model: Cummins Turbo Diesel (Likely the 6.7L ISB) Engine Configuration: Inline 6-Cylinder Turbo Diesel Performance Horsepower: Approximately 350 hp (This is an estimate for the 6.7L in 2008, actual may vary by configuration). Torque: Approximately 650 lb-ft (This is an estimate for the 6.7L in 2008, actual may vary by configuration). Fuel System Fuel Type: Diesel Fuel Injection System: Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: Refer to manual for specific API CJ-4 or equivalent. Viscosity typically 15W-40 or 5W-40 for diesel engines. Fluid Capacities Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 12 quarts (11.4 liters) with filter change (for 6.7L). Maintenance Air Filter Part Number: Part numbers vary by manufacturer (e.g., Mopar, Fleetguard). Manual will list specific OEM or equivalent part numbers. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Likely the G56 6-speed manual transmission was standard on some configurations, with the 48RE 4-speed automatic optional or standard on higher trims. Optional Transmission Type: Optional was the 48RE 4-speed heavy-duty automatic transmission. Features Torque Converter Lockup: Automatic transmission features torque converter lockup for improved highway efficiency. Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Refer to manual for specific ATF+4 or equivalent specifications. Fluid Capacities Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 12.5 quarts (11.8 liters) for the 48RE. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Mega Cab), Crew Cab. Bed Lengths: Likely 8-foot bed standard on most configurations, with a shorter 6.3-foot bed available on some crew cabs. Weights Gvwr: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) typically above 10,000 lbs, often around 11,500 - 12,000 lbs for the 3500 series. Curb Weight: Varies significantly by configuration (cab type, 2WD/4WD, bed length), but typically in the 6,000 - 7,500 lb range. Towing Max Conventional Towing Capacity: Up to approximately 15,000 - 17,000 lbs, depending on configuration and hitch type. Max Gooseneck Towing Capacity: Up to approximately 18,000 - 23,000 lbs, depending on configuration. Dimensions Wheelbase: Varies by cab and bed configuration, e.g., 140.5 inches (Regular Cab, 8ft Bed), 160.5 inches (Crew Cab, 6.3ft Bed), 171.7 inches (Crew Cab, 8ft Bed). 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Rating: Typically 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance for similar trucks of this era. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)...
Commercial users, fleet operators, and individuals requiring towing and hauling capabilities.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Super Duty F-250/F-350, Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500HD/3500HD, GMC Sierra HD 2500HD/3500HD.
Key Features
Towing Hauling:
Designed for substantial towing and hauling capacities, crucial for its target market.
Diesel Powertrain:
Emphasis on the robust Cummins Turbo Diesel engine for torque and durability.
Four Wheel Drive Availability:
Likely available with four-wheel drive systems, enhancing off-road and traction capabilities.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting for the 2008 Dodge RAM 3500 Diesel.
Specific Topics:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting safety defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine compartment, Engine oil, Battery, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Part numbers, Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Accessories.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, but factory manuals for this era typically range from 400 to 600 pages.
Manual Type
Type:
Owner's Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Details on diesel engine operation, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust systems. Does not cover in-depth repair procedures.
Chassis:
Information on steering, suspension (front and rear), braking system operation, and wheel/tire care.
Electrical:
Covers instrument cluster functions, lighting controls, basic electrical system warnings, and accessory operation.
Interior:
Detailed explanations of climate control systems, infotainment options (radio, CD player), seating adjustments, safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts), and driver controls.
Body:
Information on locks, security features, power windows, mirrors, and cleaning procedures.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks and procedures, including fluid level checks (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, and battery care. Includes basic instructions for replacing air filters and wiper blades.
Operation:
Guidance on starting and operating the vehicle, proper use of transmission, braking techniques, towing, and driving in various conditions.
Troubleshooting:
Basic troubleshooting for dashboard warning lights and common operational issues. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Owner-level information focused on safe operation, routine maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Not intended for in-depth mechanical repair or diagnostics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Quality:
Digital reproduction of factory manual, quality dependent on original scan/creation.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Model:
Cummins Turbo Diesel (Likely the 6.7L ISB)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-Cylinder Turbo Diesel
Performance
Horsepower:
Approximately 350 hp (This is an estimate for the 6.7L in 2008, actual may vary by configuration).
Torque:
Approximately 650 lb-ft (This is an estimate for the 6.7L in 2008, actual may vary by configuration).
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Diesel Fuel
Injection System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific API CJ-4 or equivalent. Viscosity typically 15W-40 or 5W-40 for diesel engines.
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 12 quarts (11.4 liters) with filter change (for 6.7L).
Maintenance
Air Filter Part Number:
Part numbers vary by manufacturer (e.g., Mopar, Fleetguard). Manual will list specific OEM or equivalent part numbers.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Likely the G56 6-speed manual transmission was standard on some configurations, with the 48RE 4-speed automatic optional or standard on higher trims.
Optional
Transmission Type:
Optional was the 48RE 4-speed heavy-duty automatic transmission.
Features
Torque Converter Lockup:
Automatic transmission features torque converter lockup for improved highway efficiency.
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF+4 or equivalent specifications.
Fluid Capacities
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 12.5 quarts (11.8 liters) for the 48RE.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Mega Cab), Crew Cab.
Bed Lengths:
Likely 8-foot bed standard on most configurations, with a shorter 6.3-foot bed available on some crew cabs.
Weights
Gvwr:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) typically above 10,000 lbs, often around 11,500 - 12,000 lbs for the 3500 series.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration (cab type, 2WD/4WD, bed length), but typically in the 6,000 - 7,500 lb range.
Towing
Max Conventional Towing Capacity:
Up to approximately 15,000 - 17,000 lbs, depending on configuration and hitch type.
Max Gooseneck Towing Capacity:
Up to approximately 18,000 - 23,000 lbs, depending on configuration.
Dimensions
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration, e.g., 140.5 inches (Regular Cab, 8ft Bed), 160.5 inches (Crew Cab, 6.3ft Bed), 171.7 inches (Crew Cab, 8ft Bed).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Typically 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance for similar trucks of this era.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on front and rear wheels.
Traction Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control systems likely available or standard.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger. Side curtain airbags may be optional or standard on certain trims/cab configurations.
Seatbelts:
Three-point active seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
Child Safety
Latch Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for child seat installation in rear seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory radio with AM/FM, CD player, and possibly auxiliary input. Premium sound systems may have been optional.
Navigation:
Navigation systems were typically optional and integrated into the infotainment unit.
Driver Assistance
Trailer Brake Controller:
Integrated trailer brake controller was a popular option for towing, allowing manual control of trailer brakes.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Likely included an auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music players.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months for diesel, but consult manual for severe service intervals and specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Diesel fuel filter replacement intervals are critical for diesel engines. Typically recommended every 15,000 to 25,000 miles, or as indicated by the manual/filter minder.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect regularly, replace every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or when indicated by performance degradation or restriction indicator.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange. Refer to manual for specific Mopar part number (e.g., MS-9769).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual, likely ATF+4 or a specific power steering fluid.
Known Issues
Diesel Particulate Filter:
While the 6.7L had a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), its implementation and reliability were improving. Regeneration cycles and potential clogging are common diesel concerns.
Injector Issues:
High-pressure common rail injectors can be sensitive to fuel quality and contamination. Regular fuel filter changes are crucial.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Egr:
EGR system can be prone to soot buildup, potentially affecting performance and emissions.
Part Numbers
Cabin Air Filter:
Manual may list Mopar part numbers for cabin air filters (e.g., 5058074AA for some applications, but verify for this exact model).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, with the RAM brand evolving into a distinct entity known for its utility and performance.
Model Evolution
Fourth Generation:
The 2008 model year falls within the fourth generation of Dodge Ram trucks (2002-2008), characterized by a bold new design and significant mechanical upgrades, including the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins engine in 2007.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing plant for Dodge RAM trucks during this period was Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico and Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Diesel Engine Award:
The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine itself has a strong reputation for durability and power, often recognized within the heavy-duty truck segment.
Ratings
Towing Hauling Awards:
The RAM 3500 series often receives positive reviews and awards for its towing and hauling capabilities from automotive publications specializing in trucks.
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