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Dodge

Dodge Ram 1500 Series 1996 1997 Service Repair Manual

Dodge Ram 1500 Series 1996 1997 Service Repair Manual

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Vehicle data plateRef 488045
Brand
Dodge
Vehicle
Truck
Models covered
Misc, Ram 1500 Series
Years
1996, 1997
Format
PDF, searchable, print-ready
Delivery
Instant download after checkout
Language
English

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🏷️ 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:
Optional cruise control system available.
Connectivity
OBD Ii Standard:
OBD-II compliant for diagnostic scanning.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (ATF+4 or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (gear oil).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 for most conditions, 10W-30 for warmer climates (refer to manual for precise OEM recommendation).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent, often ATF+4 compatible.
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5 (75W-90 or 80W-90, depending on temperature and axle type)
Known Issues
Common Complaints Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor issues (older ignition systems), oil filter adapter leaks.
Common Complaints Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid issues, torque converter shudder, potential overdrive clutch wear in 46RH/RE transmissions.
Common Complaints Suspension Steering:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, steering gear play, U-joint wear.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Instrument cluster failures (especially odometer), power window motor failures, blower motor resistor failures.
Common Complaints Body:
Rust issues (particularly around wheel wells and cab corners), tailgate hinge wear, door panel detachment.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of building durable and capable trucks dating back to the 1930s.
Model Evolution
Second Generation Ram:
The 1994-2001 (second generation) Dodge Ram introduced a significantly bolder styling, earning it the nickname 'Big Rig' and revolutionizing the pickup truck market.
Production
Assembly Locations:
St. Louis, Missouri; Warren, Michigan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Truck Of The Year Reviews:
While specific awards for the 1996-1997 models are not widely publicized, this generation of Ram was critically acclaimed for its bold styling and improved capability, revitalizing Dodge's truck line.

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Check the model year and engine before you buy

Manufacturers change procedures, wiring and part numbers between model years and engine options. If your VIN plate shows a year or engine code that is not listed on the data plate above, contact us with the model, year and VIN and we will confirm coverage before you order.

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