🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram 2500 Power Wagon Year: 2008 Codes Vin Prefix: 3D7 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck (Class 2B) Niche: Off-Road Focused Heavy-Duty Pickup Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD Key Features Powertrain: Heavy-duty V8 engine, robust transmission, specialized 4WD system Off Road Capability: Factory-installed locking front and rear differentials, electronic disconnecting sway bar, skid plates, 33-inch tires Towing And Hauling: Significant towing and payload capacities expected for its class Durability: Built for rugged use and demanding applications 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Features And Controls: Comprehensive Maintenance And Service Schedules: Detailed Do It Yourself Activities: Included Towing Considerations: Included Safety Considerations: Included Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 300-400 (typical for this class of vehicle manual) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (4WD system) Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires Electrical: Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, Battery Body And Interior: Seats, Climate Control, Doors, Windows, Safety Restraints Powertrain Control: ECU functions related to engine and transmission operation Four-Wheel Drive System: Operation and engagement of the Power Wagon's specialized 4WD system Off-Road Systems: Specific features and operation for the Power Wagon's off-road capabilities Procedures Included Basic Maintenance: Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tire rotation Do It Yourself Tasks: Bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement, basic fluid top-offs Towing Preparation: Trailer hookup, weight distribution, trailer braking systems Safety Features Operation: Seatbelts, airbags, ABS, traction control Troubleshooting Guide: Basic diagnostic information for common warning lights and indicators Technical Depth Depth: Owner-level, focusing on operation, features, and routine maintenance. Not a full service or repair manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable, enabling quick information retrieval Print Quality Quality: High resolution, suitable for clear printing of text and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8 HEMI Magnum Displacement: 5.7L (345 cubic inches) Configuration: OHV, 16 valves, Pushrod Actuation Bore X Stroke: 99.5 mm x 90.9 mm (3.92 in x 3.58 in) Performance Horsepower: Approx. 355-360 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: Approx. 395-400 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Cooling System Coolant Type: HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Mopar P/N 05050034AA or equivalent) Lubrication System Oil Type: SAE 5W-20 (API Certified) Oil Capacity: 7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic (5-45RFE) Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4) (Mopar P/N 68043742AA or equivalent) Features Electronic Control: Electronically controlled for optimal shift points and fuel economy Tow Haul Mode: Included, adjusts shift points for towing 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 140.5 inches Length: Approx. 237.4 inches (Mega Cab) Width: Approx. 79.4 inches (excluding mirrors) Height: Approx. 77.8 inches Cargo Bed Length: Approx. 6.3 feet (short bed) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 6,500 - 7,000 lbs (depending on configuration) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Approx. 8,510 lbs Gross Combination Weight Rating Gcwr: Typically 13,000-15,000 lbs (will vary with specific trailer brake controller and chassis configuration) Payload Capacity: Approx. 1,500 - 2,000 lbs (depending on configuration) Max Towing Capacity: Up to approx. 11,300 lbs (with proper equipment) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating: Likely 4-star (for driver and passenger) - typical for this era of truck. NHTSA Side Crash Rating: Likely 5-star (for front occupants) - typical for this era of truck. NHTSA Rollover Rating: Likely 3-star (for 4x4 models due to higher center of gravity) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Traction Control: Standard Electronic Traction Control (ETC) Electronic Stability Control: Likely standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - check specific trim. Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side curtain airbags (availability may vary by cab style and options) Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners Head Restraints: Adjustable head restraints 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional SiriusXM satellite radio, auxiliary input jack. Navigation: Optional factory navigation system (less common on base Power Wagon trims). Driver Assistance Parking Assist: Optional rear park assist sensors. Trailer Brake Controller: Factory integrated trailer brake controller often available as an option, crucial for towing. Connectivity Bluetooth: Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system. Usb: Not typically standard; auxiliary input is more common. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Engine Oil And Filter: Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, based on driving conditions (consult manual for specific severe vs. normal service). Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months Engine Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles. Cabin Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or...
Mopar Power Steering Fluid (Mopar P/N 05142891AA) or ATF+4 (as a substitute if specified)
Known Issues
Throttle Body:
Potential issues with electronic throttle body (ETB) performance or failure.
Headlight Switch:
Some reports of headlight switch failure leading to intermittent or inoperative lights.
Suspension Components:
As with any heavy-duty off-road vehicle, suspension components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and shock absorbers may require more frequent inspection and replacement due to stress.
Exhaust System:
Rusting or failure of exhaust system components, especially in areas with road salt.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, known for robust engineering and powerful engines.
Model Evolution
Ram Heavy Duty:
The Ram 2500 is part of Chrysler's line of heavy-duty trucks, which evolved significantly over generations. The 'Power Wagon' designation historically refers to off-road capable, four-wheel-drive variants.
2002-2009 Generation:
The 2008 model falls into the third generation of Dodge Ram trucks (2002-2008), which underwent a significant redesign. The Power Wagon package was reintroduced as a specialized off-road trim.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan, USA (typical for this generation Ram)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Capability:
Consistently recognized for its segment-leading factory off-road equipment and capability.
Heavy Duty Truck:
Often lauded for its power and towing/hauling capabilities within the heavy-duty truck segment.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Varied ratings depending on specific model year and reporting period. Generally viewed as a capable but less refined option compared to some competitors.
Certifications
Emisiones Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the model year.