🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler / Dodge

Model:

Ram Pickup Heavy Duty

Year:

2008

Model Line:

Ram Pickup Heavy Duty

Series:

1500 Job Rated, 2500 Job Rated

Body Style:

Conventional Cab/Cab Chassis, Mega Cab, Quad Cab Full Rear Doors

Drivetrain:

4x2, 4x4

Product Name:

2008 Chrysler Dodge Ram Pickup Parts Catalog Manual

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size Heavy Duty Pickup Truck.

Target Audience:

Owners, fleet managers, service technicians, parts departments, and DIY enthusiasts requiring accurate part information for 2008 Ram Heavy Duty trucks.

Competitors:

Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.

Manual Benefit:

Saves time and money by enabling accurate part ordering and identification.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential, accurate, and detailed part number information with visual aids, crucial for maintaining and repairing these robust vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete part information and numbers for all Model Year 2008 Chrysler Dodge Ram Pickup Heavy Duty vehicles.

Specific Systems Covered:

VIN Plate Decoding, iPod Integration, Step Kits, Housing & Vent Systems, Overhead Modules, Rear Lamps, Seat Wiring, Antenna Systems, Rear Floor Consoles, Navigation Systems, Gear Shift Levers, Front Washer Systems, Doors, Tailgates, Grilles, Front Door Trim Panels, and many more.

Estimated Page Count:

Indeterminate (PDF content is variable, but catalog format implies extensive part listings).

Type:

Illustrated Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Accessibility:

Instant Download, Printable, Viewable on all devices (Windows, Mac, iOS, BB, Android).

📖 Manual Coverage

Core Systems:

Chassis, Powertrain, Body, Electrical, Interior Components.

Major Assemblies:

Engine (all variants), Transmission (likely), Drivetrain (front/rear axles, differentials, transfer cases), Suspension (front/rear), Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System.

Body And Interior:

Exterior panels (doors, fenders, hood, tailgate, bumpers), interior trim (dash, door panels, consoles, seats), lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior lights), glass, mirrors, weatherstripping, audio system components, HVAC components.

Electrical And Accessories:

Wiring harnesses, sensors, modules, power distribution, antennas, charging system, starting system, ignition system, infotainment system components, optional accessories like navigation and iPod integration.

Primary Focus:

Accurate part identification and procurement.

Implied Procedures:

Part lookup and cross-referencing, understanding component relationships, ordering correct replacement parts.

Depth:

Detailed parts identification with part numbers, exploded views for assembly comprehension.

Scope:

Comprehensive for all factory-offered parts for the specified model year and configurations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

PDF

Compatibility:

All major operating systems and devices (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, BlackBerry).

Viewing Requirements:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (latest version recommended).

Printability:

All pages are printable.

Illustration Quality:

Detailed illustrations and exploded views.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

5.7L V8:

5.7L 8-cylinder SMPI Gasoline (Engine Code: EZA). Known for its HEMI performance and reliability, a popular choice for towing and daily driving.

5.9L I6 Turbo Diesel:

5.9L 6-cylinder Turbo Diesel High Output (Engine Code: ETH). Renowned for its legendary durability and torque, often referred to as the 'ISB' or 'Cummins 5.9'.

6.7L I6 Turbo Diesel:

6.7L 6-cylinder Turbo Diesel (Engine Code: ETJ). Introduced as the successor to the 5.9L, offering increased displacement, horsepower, and torque, with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) for emissions compliance.

5.7L V8 Hemi:

Horsepower: Approx. 355 hp @ 5600 rpm. Torque: Approx. 395 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Features Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for fuel economy.

5.9L Cummins I6:

Horsepower: Approx. 325 hp @ 2900 rpm. Torque: Approx. 600 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm. (Actual figures can vary by specific tuning).

6.7L Cummins I6:

Horsepower: Approx. 350 hp @ 3000 rpm. Torque: Approx. 610 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm. (Later models or specific configurations may have higher ratings).

Gasoline Engine:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMPI).

Diesel Engines:

High-pressure common rail fuel injection system.

🔧 Transmission

5.7L V8:

Likely the 5-speed automatic 545RFE (for gasoline models).

Diesel Engines:

Likely the 6-speed manual G56 or the 6-speed automatic 48RE (for 5.9L) or Aisin AS68RC (for 6.7L, though some 6.7L may have had manual options).

Diesel Engines:

Various automatic and manual transmission options depending on configuration and trim level.

Heavy Duty Durability:

Transmissions are designed to handle the significant torque and towing demands of heavy-duty truck applications.

📐 Dimensions

Cab Configurations:

Conventional Cab (often referred to as Regular Cab), Quad Cab (four doors, rear-hinged access to rear seats), Mega Cab (extended rear passenger space).

Bed Lengths:

Typically available in 8-foot (standard) and potentially a shorter bed for specific configurations (e.g., Mega Cab).

Gvwrs:

Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings will vary significantly by series (1500/2500) and configuration, but typically range from 8,510 lbs to 9,600 lbs for 2500 models and higher for 3500 series (though this manual specifies 1500/2500). This manual would detail specific GVWRs based on VIN.

Curb Weights:

Curb weights vary widely based on cab, bed, engine, and drivetrain configuration, generally ranging from 6,000 lbs to over 8,000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 2008:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 2008 Ram HD models would need to be consulted for individual configurations. Generally, heavy-duty trucks of this era focused on structural integrity for towing and payload. Expect good frontal and side impact ratings, but rollover ratings can be a factor for tall vehicles.

Traction Control:

Likely available, especially on 4x4 models, to manage wheel slip.

Electronic Stability Control:

May be available on certain trims or as an option, enhancing vehicle control during adverse conditions.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags. Side curtain airbags may have been available on certain configurations, particularly Quad Cab and Mega Cab.

Seatbelts:

Standard 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Factory radios with AM/FM, CD player, and auxiliary input. Higher trims may offer premium audio systems and satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on select trims, likely integrated into the dashboard head unit.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking sensors may have been an available option.

Ipod Integration:

Mentioned in the contents, indicating some form of iPod connectivity or integration was offered, likely through the audio system.

Bluetooth:

May have been available as an option for hands-free calling on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gasoline:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months for the 5.7L HEMI, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Refer to the owner's manual for exact intervals.

Oil Change Diesel:

Typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or 12 months for the Cummins diesels, with more frequent changes recommended for heavy towing or severe use. Use API CJ-4 rated diesel oil.

Transmission Fluid:

Automatic transmission fluid changes are usually recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per specific service intervals for each transmission type. Diesel manual transmissions also have fluid change recommendations.

Engine Oil Gasoline:

Likely SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specifications.

Engine Oil Diesel:

Cummins recommendations typically call for SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (synthetic) diesel engine oil meeting API CJ-4 or CK-4 specifications.

Coolant:

Proprietary HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent, with a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific color may vary (e.g., orange or pink).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Gasoline Issues:

Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional electronic throttle body issues, and the MDS system can sometimes cause slight hesitation or misfires if not perfectly maintained.

Common Diesel Issues 5.9L:

While very robust, can experience issues with VP44 injection pumps (if not replaced with later models), injector failures, and turbocharger wear over time. Proper maintenance is key.

Common Diesel Issues 6.7L:

The 6.7L introduced emissions controls like the DPF. Issues can arise with DPF clogging, EGR cooler failures, and sometimes injector failures. Ensure proper regeneration cycles.

General Hd Issues:

Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings) can wear due to the weight and work the trucks perform. Brake pad and rotor wear is also common with heavy use.

📚 Vehicle History

Ram Trucks:

The Ram brand, originally part of Dodge, has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, particularly in the heavy-duty segment. Known for its robust chassis, powerful engines (especially the Cummins diesel), and towing prowess.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2008 model falls within the third generation of Ram trucks (2002-2008), which saw significant design updates, powertrain improvements (including the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins), and increased focus on interior comfort and features. This generation is noted for its distinctive crosshair grille and 'big rig' styling.

Manufacturing Locations:

Chrysler Group LLC trucks were primarily assembled in North America, with specific plant locations for the Ram HD lineup potentially including Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Recognition:

While specific awards for the 2008 model year need detailed research, Ram Heavy Duty trucks have consistently been recognized for their towing and payload capabilities, as well as the renowned Cummins diesel engine's longevity and performance. The 5.9L Cummins, in particular, is a highly respected powertrain.