🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 2500 Model Generation: Second Generation (BR/BE) Model Years Covered: 1996, 1997 Codes Vehicle Platform Code: BR/BE 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Heavy-duty pickup truck, designed for towing, hauling, and demanding work applications. Competitive Analysis Primary Competitors: Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD. Key Features Durability And Capability: Known for robust construction, powerful engine options, and significant towing and payload capacities. Utility: Designed for work and commercial use, offering practical features and a focus on functionality. Manual Value Proposition Target Audience: DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet owners, and enthusiasts seeking detailed repair and maintenance information. Benefit: Empowers users to perform accurate diagnostics, efficient repairs, and proper maintenance, saving time and money. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Workshop Service Manual Language: English Format: PDF (Digital Download) Page Count Page Count: 1985 Manual Type Download Method: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Full coverage including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components. Engine Management: Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection, ignition, emission control systems, and powertrain control modules (PCMs). Transmission Automatic: Repair and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, and planetary gear sets. Transmission Manual: Repair and overhaul procedures for manual transmissions, including clutch, gearbox, and drive shaft components. Drivetrain: Front and rear axle service, differential repair, driveshaft balancing, and universal joint replacement. Suspension: Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment specifications (incl. coil springs, leaf springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends). Steering: Power steering system repair, steering gear box adjustment and replacement, and steering column service. Brakes: Complete brake system diagnosis and repair, including ABS, disc and drum brake components, hydraulic lines, and parking brake. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, and accessory circuits. Body Interior: Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, door and window mechanisms, and seat adjustment systems. Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC: Diagnosis and repair of HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, and climate control operation. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement and repair. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and inspections. Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Systematic fault finding for common and complex vehicle issues with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and symptom-based troubleshooting. Component Repair Rebuild: Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major vehicle components. Replacement Procedures: Guidelines for replacing wear items, damaged parts, and upgrades. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive, detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all fasteners to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage. Special Tools: Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1: 8.0L (488ci) Magnum V10 OHV Engine Option 2: 5.2L (318ci) Magnum V8 OHV Engine Option 3: 5.9L (360ci) Magnum V8 OHV Engine Option 4: 5.9L (359ci) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 OHV Performance V10 Horsepower: Approx. 300-310 hp @ 4000 rpm V10 Torque: Approx. 450-455 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm Cummins Horsepower: Approx. 180-215 hp @ 2500 rpm (depending on variant) Cummins Torque: Approx. 420-460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (depending on variant) Fuel System Fuel Delivery Gasoline: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) Fuel Delivery Diesel: Direct injection, Bosch rotary injection pump (VE or P7100 depending on specific Cummins model/year variant) Cooling System Engine Coolant Capacity: Refer to manual for specific engine fill amounts (typically 14-18 quarts with 50/50 mix). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Option 1: 4-speed Automatic (46RH/47RH/48RE depending on engine) Optional Transmission Option 2: 5-speed Manual (NV4500 for diesel, Getrag 5-speed for gasoline) Features Transmission Fluid Automatic: ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to manual for specific fill requirements) Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity recommended in manual, e.g., 75W-90). Transfer Case: Part-time 4WD system with manual or electronic shift-on-the-fly engagement. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 134.7 inches for Regular Cab Short Bed, 164.7 inches for Crew Cab Long Bed). Overall Length: Varies by configuration (e.g., 216.5 inches for Regular Cab Short Bed, 246.5 inches for Crew Cab Long Bed). Width: Approx. 79.1 inches (excluding mirrors). Height: Approx. 75.7 inches (depending on configuration). Weights Curb Weight: Varies significantly by configuration and engine, typically ranging from 5,500 lbs to over 7,000 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Ranges from approximately 8,800 lbs to 10,000 lbs or more depending...