🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 1500 Series Model Years Covered: 1996, 1997 Vehicle Type: Full-Size Pickup Truck Codes Chassis Code: BR/BE 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Full-size pickup truck, popular for work, towing, and personal use Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Robust construction, powerful engine options, towing capability, available 4x4, versatile platform Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners and technicians to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs, saving time and money 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Content Focus: Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and diagnostics Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system Engine Performance: Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis Transmission Manual: NV3500, NV4500 manual transmission service and repair Transmission Automatic: 42RE, 44RE, 47RE automatic transmission service and repair, including hydraulic system and torque converter Drivetrain: Driveshaft, U-joints, axle shafts, differentials (front and rear), transfer case (4x4 models) Suspension: Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf spring), steering components, shock absorbers, springs Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and diagnosis, parking brake Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage, steering gear/rack and pinion Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, horn, wipers, power accessories Body And Frame: Frame construction, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, glass, weatherstripping HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair Body Electronics: Instrument cluster, dashboard controls, body control module (BCM) functions Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components Rebuilding Procedures: Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical system wiring diagrams for easy tracing and diagnosis Specification Charts: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical data Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: Advanced diagnostic procedures utilizing OBD-II scan tools and troubleshooting flowcharts Repair Complexity: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls Information Source: Official factory service information, providing the most accurate and complete data 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Portable Document Format (PDF) Searchability: Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval Printability: Printable pages for on-the-go reference Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics Binding Type Binding Type: Digital (N/A for PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: Digital (N/A for PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Displacement: 5.2L (318 cu in) Engine 1 Configuration: Magnum V8, OHV, 2 Valves per Cylinder Engine 1 Horsepower: 230 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.) Engine 1 Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Optional Engine 1 Engine 2 Displacement: 5.9L (360 cu in) Engine 2 Configuration: Magnum V8, OHV, 2 Valves per Cylinder Engine 2 Horsepower: 235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.) Engine 2 Torque: 330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Optional Engine 2 Engine 3 Displacement: 3.9L (239 cu in) Engine 3 Configuration: Magnum V6, OHV, 2 Valves per Cylinder Engine 3 Horsepower: 175 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.) Engine 3 Torque: 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (NV3500) - common on V6 and 5.2L V8 models Optional Transmission 1 Optional Transmission Type 1: 4-Speed Automatic (42RE) - common on V6 and 5.2L V8 models Optional Transmission 2 Optional Transmission Type 2: 4-Speed Automatic (44RE) - typically paired with 5.9L V8 Optional Transmission 3 Optional Transmission Type 3: 4-Speed Automatic (47RE) - heavy-duty, typically paired with 5.9L V8 (often found on 2500/3500 but could be optional on heavy-duty 1500 applications) Optional Transmission 4 Optional Transmission Type 4: 5-Speed Manual (NV4500) - Heavy-duty, often found on 2500/3500, but possible on heavy-duty 1500 applications Features Transfer Case 4X4: Command-Trac (NV231) or Selec-Trac (NV244) for 4x4 models 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase 2Wd: 131.1 inches (Regular Cab), 143.1 inches (Club Cab/Quad Cab) Wheelbase 4Wd: 131.1 inches (Regular Cab), 143.1 inches (Club Cab/Quad Cab) Bed Lengths: 6.5 ft (standard), 8 ft (long bed) Weights Curb Weight Range: 4,200 - 5,000 lbs (approx., varies by configuration) Towing Capacity Max: Up to 8,000 lbs (approx., depends on engine, configuration, and axle ratio) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Resistance: 3-star (varies by configuration) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, optional 4-wheel ABS Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger airbags 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim. Driver Assistance Cruise Control:...