🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Year Range: 1996-1997 Codes Vin Decoder Info: Manual likely contains information to decode VIN for specific vehicle configuration 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size Pickup Truck Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Robust chassis, powerful engine options, towing capability Manual Value Proposition Target Audience: DIY Mechanics, Independent Repair Shops, Fleet Maintenance 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive Service, Maintenance, and Repair Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Book (assumed from description, digital PDF often available) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: All gasoline and diesel engines Transmission: Automatic and Manual Transmissions Drivetrain: 4x2 and 4x4 Systems, Differentials, Axles, CV Joints Brakes: Hydraulic and ABS Systems Suspension: Front and Rear Suspension, Steering Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Accessories Body And Frame: Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Frame Components Climate Control: HVAC System Operation and Repair Fuel System: Fuel Tank, Pump, Lines, Injectors, Emissions Control Cooling System: Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses Exhaust System: Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, DTC Interpretation Repair: Step-by-Step Repair Procedures for all Major Components Overhaul: Engine and Transmission Rebuild Procedures Adjustment: Wheel Alignment, Brake Adjustment, Clutch Adjustment Replacement: Component Replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump) Specifications: Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities Diagnostics Codes: On-board diagnostic (OBD-II) system information and trouble codes (for 1996+) Technical Depth Depth: Detailed Diagnostic Procedures, Exploded Views, Component-Level Repair 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Options: PDF (likely available for digital versions) Print Quality Print Quality: High-quality printing with clear diagrams and text (typical for OEM manuals) Binding Type Binding: Stapled, Perfect Bound, or Wire-O (depends on publisher) Paper Type Paper Quality: Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments Content Detail Illustrations: Exploded views, diagrams, and illustrations for clarity Troubleshooting Charts: Detailed charts to diagnose common problems ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Gas Engine Code: 3.9L Magnum (12-valve V6) Displacement Liters: 3.9 Horsepower Hp: 175 @ 4800 RPM Torque Lb Ft: 230 @ 3200 RPM Optional Engine Gas Engine Code: 5.9L Magnum (16-valve V8) Displacement Liters: 5.9 Horsepower Hp: 230-245 @ 4000-4400 RPM Torque Lb Ft: 335-350 @ 3200 RPM Optional Engine Diesel Engine Code: 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 Displacement Liters: 5.9 Horsepower Hp: 180-215 @ 2500 RPM Torque Lb Ft: 420-440 @ 1600 RPM Fuel System Fuel Delivery Gas: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Delivery Diesel: Inline Injection Pump (VE or P7100 depending on variant) Engine Management ECU Type: Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for V6/light-duty V8, NV4500 for heavy-duty V8/Diesel) Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (46RE for V8/Diesel, A500/A518 for V6) Features Transfer Case: Manual or Electronic Shift 4x4 Transfer Case 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab) Bed Lengths: 6.5 ft, 8 ft Weights Gvwr Range: 5,000 lbs to 8,800 lbs (depending on configuration) Curb Weight Range: 4,200 lbs to 6,500 lbs (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Test: Not extensively tested by NHTSA for this era, generally considered robust. Active Features ABS: Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or 4-wheel Passive Features Airbags: Driver Airbag standard, Passenger Airbag optional on some models Seatbelts: 3-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo, Cassette player, CD player (optional) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims Connectivity Phone Integration: None (pre-Bluetooth era) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Gas: 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions) Oil Change Diesel: 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (diesel specific oil recommended) Tune Up: Spark plugs every 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on type), air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles. Transmission Fluid: Change every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on transmission type and usage). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Gas: API SG/SH SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature) Engine Oil Diesel: API CG-4 or CH-4 SAE 15W-40 (diesel specific) Coolant: Mopar OAT or HOAT coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water (check specific type for your model) Transmission Fluid Auto: ATF+4 (or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON for earlier models before ATF+4 standardization) Transmission Fluid Manual: Gear oil, SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Brake Fluid: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Problems: Cracked exhaust manifolds (V8s), fuel pump failures, heater core issues, rear main seal leaks (especially on Cummins), transmission hard shifts (46RE), aging rubber components (hoses, bushings). Diesel Specific Concerns: Injectors, injection pump wear, turbocharger issues on higher mileage units, exhaust manifold cracking. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Dodge Truck Legacy: Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks. Model Evolution Third Generation Ram: This generation (1994-2001)...