🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Model Line: Ram Pickup Body Style: Full-size Pickup Truck Cab Style: Dodge Ram DC (Double Cab) Year: 2008 Codes Platform: Dodge Ram (2nd Generation, DS/DR platform refresh) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size pickup truck, targeting commercial and personal use markets. Competitors 2008: Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan. Key Features Vehicle Engine Options: Renowned for its powerful HEMI V8 option. Cab Configuration: Double Cab offered significant rear-seat space for its era. Durability: Known for robust construction and towing capabilities. Manual Value Proposition Benefit To Owner: Ensures correct part ordering for repairs, maintenance, or customization, saving time and avoiding incorrect purchases. Benefit To Mechanic: Essential tool for quick identification of OEM part numbers, facilitating efficient service and inventory management. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: All mechanical and electrical components, body parts, and accessories for the 2008 Dodge Ram DC. Engine Coverage: 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8. Transmission Coverage: 4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE), 5-Speed Automatic (68RFE - though less common in 2008 DC models). Chassis Coverage: Suspension (front/rear), steering, brakes (front/rear discs), exhaust system, fuel system. Electrical Coverage: Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starting system, body control modules, instrument cluster, audio systems. Body Coverage: Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, tailgate, windows, seats, HVAC components, cooling system. Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive parts catalog). Manual Type Type: Parts Catalog / Parts List Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF, CD-ROM, or online access) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, exhaust manifolds, intake manifolds. Drivetrain: Transmission assembly (internal components), torque converter, transfer case (if applicable, 4x4), driveshafts, axles, differentials, CV joints. Suspension Steering: Front suspension components (control arms, ball joints, springs, shocks), rear suspension components (leaf springs, shocks), steering gear, power steering pump, tie rods, steering column. Brakes: Brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake system. Electrical Engine: Alternator, starter motor, battery, ignition system components (coils, plugs), sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, O2 sensors), ECU/PCM connectors. Electrical Body: Headlights, taillights, interior lights, turn signals, hazard lights, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, interior lighting, fuse boxes, relays, switches, horn. HVAC: Condenser, evaporator, compressor, heater core, blower motor, control panel, ducting. Body Exterior: Front/rear bumpers, grille, hood, fenders, doors, door handles, mirrors, tailgate, bed components, glass, windshield wiper system, exterior trim. Body Interior: Dashboard, seats, seat belts, steering wheel, interior door panels, headliner, floor mats, carpeting, console components. Procedures Included Part Identification: Detailed exploded views with part numbers and descriptions for every component. Interchangeability: Indicates if parts are interchangeable across different sub-models or options. Assembly Disassembly: Provides the order and types of fasteners for component installation and removal (implied by exploded views). Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive parts catalog for ordering, replacement, and identification. Not a repair manual, but essential for correct part sourcing. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Likely PDF with searchable text and high-resolution images. Searchability: High (for digital formats, allowing quick lookup by part number or description). Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution for clear exploded diagrams and part identification. Binding Type Binding: N/A (if digital). If printed, would typically be a durable comb or spiral binding for workshop use. Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (if digital). If printed, typically on heavy-duty paper resistant to shop grease and oil. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Name: 4.7L Magnum V8 Engine 1 Displacement: 4.7 Liters (285 cu in) Engine 1 Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV), 90-degree V8 Engine 1 Horsepower: Approximately 310 hp @ 5600 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune). Engine 1 Torque: Approximately 330 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune). Engine 1 Fuel System: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine 1 Bore X Stroke: 3.37 in x 3.37 in (85.6 mm x 85.6 mm) Engine 1 Compression Ratio: 9.1:1 Engine 1 Oil Capacity: 7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change. Engine 1 Oil Type: SAE 5W-20 API SN or newer. Secondary Engine Engine 2 Name: 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine 2 Displacement: 5.7 Liters (345 cu in) Engine 2 Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV), 90-degree V8, with HEMI cylinder head design and Multi-Displacement System (MDS). Engine 2 Horsepower: Approximately 345 hp @ 5400 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune). Engine 2 Torque: Approximately 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune). Engine 2 Fuel System: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine 2 Bore X Stroke: 3.92 in x 3.08 in (99.5 mm x 78.0 mm) Engine 2 Compression Ratio: 9.6:1 Engine 2 Oil Capacity: 7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change. Engine 2 Oil Type: SAE 5W-20 API SN or newer (check specific model year recommendations). 🔧 Transmission...
Transmission assembly (internal components), torque converter, transfer case (if applicable, 4x4), driveshafts, axles, differentials, CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension components (control arms, ball joints, springs, shocks), rear suspension components (leaf springs, shocks), steering gear, power steering pump, tie rods, steering column.
Detailed exploded views with part numbers and descriptions for every component.
Interchangeability:
Indicates if parts are interchangeable across different sub-models or options.
Assembly Disassembly:
Provides the order and types of fasteners for component installation and removal (implied by exploded views).
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive parts catalog for ordering, replacement, and identification. Not a repair manual, but essential for correct part sourcing.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Likely PDF with searchable text and high-resolution images.
Searchability:
High (for digital formats, allowing quick lookup by part number or description).
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution for clear exploded diagrams and part identification.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (if digital). If printed, would typically be a durable comb or spiral binding for workshop use.
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (if digital). If printed, typically on heavy-duty paper resistant to shop grease and oil.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Name:
4.7L Magnum V8
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.7 Liters (285 cu in)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 90-degree V8
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approximately 310 hp @ 5600 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).
Engine 1 Torque:
Approximately 330 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
3.37 in x 3.37 in (85.6 mm x 85.6 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.1:1
Engine 1 Oil Capacity:
7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change.
Engine 1 Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 API SN or newer.
Secondary Engine
Engine 2 Name:
5.7L HEMI V8
Engine 2 Displacement:
5.7 Liters (345 cu in)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 90-degree V8, with HEMI cylinder head design and Multi-Displacement System (MDS).
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approximately 345 hp @ 5400 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).
Engine 2 Torque:
Approximately 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
3.92 in x 3.08 in (99.5 mm x 78.0 mm)
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
9.6:1
Engine 2 Oil Capacity:
7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change.
Engine 2 Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 API SN or newer (check specific model year recommendations).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Model Standard:
45RFE / 545RFE
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Automatic (less common for 2008 DC, more prevalent in later years or heavy-duty applications)
Transmission Model Optional:
68RFE
Features
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 10.7 US quarts (10.1 Liters) for 45RFE/545RFE (check manual for exact capacity).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mopar ATF+4 (Type 9574) or equivalent.
Transfer Case Type:
NV244 (part-time 4WD with electronic shift) or NV244 (full-time 4WD with electronic shift) depending on configuration.
Transfer Case Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 2.0 US quarts (1.9 Liters) for NV244. Fluid type: Mopar NV244 Transfer Case Fluid or equivalent.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase 2008 Dc:
140.5 inches (3569 mm).
Overall Length 2008 Dc:
237.7 inches (6037 mm).
Overall Width 2008 Dc:
79.3 inches (2014 mm).
Overall Height 2008 Dc:
74.7 inches (1897 mm).
Front Track 2008 Dc:
67.8 inches (1722 mm).
Rear Track 2008 Dc:
67.3 inches (1709 mm).
Ground Clearance 2008 Dc:
Approximately 8.3 inches (211 mm).
Weights
Curb Weight Approx 2008 Dc:
5,000 - 5,500 lbs (2268 - 2495 kg) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw Approx:
6,500 - 7,300 lbs (2948 - 3311 kg) depending on configuration.
Payload Capacity Approx:
1,500 - 2,000 lbs (680 - 907 kg) depending on configuration.
Towing Capacity Max Approx:
Up to 8,000 - 9,000 lbs (3629 - 4082 kg) depending on configuration, engine, axle ratio, and towing package.
Cargo
Bed Length 2008 Dc:
6'4" (Short Bed) is common for Double Cab.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver 2008:
5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger 2008:
5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver 2008:
5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger 2008:
5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger 2008:
5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).
NHTSA Rollover Resistance 2008:
3 Stars (specific model and test may vary).
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System).
Traction Control:
Available on higher trims or optional.
Electronic Stability Control:
Not standard on all 2008 models, typically optional or on higher trims.
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Available side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants (optional).
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants; three-point belts for rear occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
Base AM/FM with CD player, optional premium audio systems with amplifiers, subwoofer, and in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Navigation System:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Trailer Tow Mirrors:
Optional larger tow mirrors, often power-adjustable and heated.
Connectivity
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets for accessory charging.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on most trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-6,000 miles (4,800-9,600 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
4.7L V8: Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using original equipment (e.g., Champion copper plugs). 5.7L HEMI V8: Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using original equipment (e.g., Champion copper plugs designed for MDS).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on severe usage. Refer to owner's manual for exact interval.
Coolant Flush Interval:
First flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter. Use Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for optimal performance and component longevity.
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid (Type MS-5915) or equivalent (ATF+4 may be specified for some models).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3.
Known Issues
Radiator Failure:
Plastic end tanks can crack over time, leading to coolant leaks.
Transmission Shift Issues:
545RFE transmission can sometimes develop delayed shifts or harsh engagement, often related to solenoid packs or fluid condition.
Heater Core Leaks:
Prone to leaking, often resulting in coolant smell inside the cabin and fogged windows.
Throttle Body Issues:
Electronic throttle bodies can become dirty or fail, causing rough idle or stalling.
Front End Component Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can wear prematurely due to the truck's weight and typical use.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks dating back to the 1930s.
Model Evolution
Ram Generation 2008:
The 2008 model represents the latter part of the second generation Ram (DS/DR platform, introduced in 1994 with a significant refresh in 2002).
Key Updates 2002 Refresh:
The 2002 refresh brought a completely new exterior design, updated interior, revised powertrains (including the introduction of the HEMI), and improved chassis dynamics.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Competitor Comparisons 2008:
Frequently ranked highly in comparisons for power and towing capacity.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied, often praised for powertrain but noted for ride quality and interior refinement compared to some competitors.
Certifications
Emission Standards:
Meets U.S. EPA and California LEV II emission standards for its respective engine options.