🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

1998

Platform:

BR/BE

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1998 Dodge Ram represented a significant step forward in pickup truck design and capability, particularly with its distinctive 'Big Rig' styling. It competed directly with Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado trucks, focusing on robust construction and towing prowess.

Competition:

Competed against the redesigned 1997 Ford F-150 and the existing Chevrolet C/K series (Silverado). The Ram's unique styling and powertrain options provided a distinct market differentiation.

Styling:

Iconic 'Big Rig' frontal styling with large grille and prominent headlights.

Powertrain:

Choice of Magnum V6 and V8 engines, with the Cummins Turbo Diesel becoming a highly sought-after option for heavy-duty models.

Interior:

More car-like interior compared to previous generations, offering improved comfort and ergonomics, especially in higher trim levels like the Laramie.

Towing Capacity:

Renowned for its towing and hauling capabilities, particularly the heavy-duty models equipped with the Cummins diesel engine.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service and repair for all Dodge Ram models (1500, 2500, 3500) for the 1998 model year.

Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 1500-2500 pages for a comprehensive set.

Manual Type:

Factory Authorized Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission controls, engine diagnostics, performance tuning.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmissions (NV3500, NV4500), automatic transmissions (42RE, 46RE, 47RE), transfer cases (241HD, 271D, 273D), driveline components, differentials, axles.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS, parking brake, hydraulic system, bleeding procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (leaf springs, torsion bars, solid axles), steering gear, power steering, wheel alignment.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio systems, wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, refrigerant handling, component testing.

Body Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, towing information.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including rebuild specifications and torque values.

Troubleshooting Specific:

Detailed troubleshooting for common Ram issues like ignition misfires, transmission slippage, ABS faults, and HVAC malfunctions.

Engine Diagnostics:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine performance issues, including fuel trim analysis, sensor testing (MAP, TPS, O2, crankshaft, camshaft position sensors), and ignition system diagnosis.

Transmission Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting for automatic transmission shifting complaints, solenoid testing, hydraulic pressure checks, and diagnostic flowcharts.

ABS Diagnostics:

ABS system fault diagnosis, including sensor testing, wheel speed sensor troubleshooting, and hydraulic modulator testing.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes and inspections to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and wiring diagrams.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams covering all major vehicle systems, including engine control, chassis electrical, body electrical, and HVAC.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque specifications for all fasteners related to engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and driveline components.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital images and text, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

5.2L (318 ci) Magnum V8

Engine 1 Specs:

Overhead Valve (OHV), Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), 16 valves. Power: ~230 hp @ 4800 rpm. Torque: ~300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.

Engine 2:

5.9L (360 ci) Magnum V8

Engine 2 Specs:

OHV, SFI, 16 valves. Power: ~245 hp @ 4800 rpm. Torque: ~335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.

Engine 4 Base:

3.9L (239 ci) Cummins Turbo Diesel I4 (Less common in 1500 series, more prevalent in 2500/3500 in earlier years/specific configurations, but possible for '98).

Engine 4 Specs:

Turbocharged, Direct Injection, 12 valves. Power: ~160 hp. Torque: ~400 lb-ft. (Note: Cummins availability varied by specific GVWR and market).

Engine 3:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Engine 3 Specs:

Turbocharged, Direct Injection, 12 valves. Power: ~215 hp @ 2800 rpm. Torque: ~440 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm. (Specific ratings varied slightly by application and transmission).

Engine Cooling:

Pressurized, thermostat-controlled coolant system. Fan clutch or electric fan depending on engine and configuration.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (for V8s), Diesel fuel (for Cummins).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Bosch VE or P7100 injection pump for diesel engines.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1500:

4-speed automatic (42RE)

Transmission 2500/3500:

5-speed manual (NV3500, NV4500)

Transmission Optional Auto:

4-speed automatic (46RE, 47RE for heavier duty applications).

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

Transfer Case:

Available in 2WD or 4WD. 4WD systems utilize part-time transfer cases (e.g., NP241D, NP271D, NP273D) with optional electronic or manual shift.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varied by configuration: Regular Cab (117.7 in / 2990 mm), Extended Cab (134.7 in / 3421 mm). Long Bed options extended wheelbase.

Length:

Varied by configuration, typically 209.7 in (5326 mm) for standard bed Regular Cab, up to 229.7 in (5834 mm) for Long Bed Extended Cab.

Bed Lengths:

Standard bed (6.3 ft / 1.9 m), Long bed (8.0 ft / 2.4 m).

Gvwr:

Ranged from approximately 6,050 lbs (2744 kg) for 1500 models to over 10,000 lbs (4536 kg) for 3500 models with Cummins diesel.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Side Frontal Impact:

4-star (Good, depending on specific test parameters and occupant size, refer to NHTSA archives for precise scores).

NHTSA Passenger Side Frontal Impact:

4-star (Good, depending on specific test parameters and occupant size).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on higher trims/heavy-duty models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants (if equipped).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette or CD player with optional premium sound systems. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Power Accessories:

Optional power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 7,500-15,000 miles (12,000-24,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil quality and operating conditions.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on load and usage. Manual transmissions typically require inspection and occasional fluid change (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles).

Engine Oil Gasoline V8:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API Certified (GF-2 or later). Check dipstick for exact type.

Engine Oil Diesel:

API CG-4 or CH-4 rated synthetic or semi-synthetic diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 recommended for most conditions.

Transmission Fluid 42Re/46Re/47Re:

Chrysler ATF+3 (MS-7176E) or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Nv3500:

GM Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III ATF for some models, verify specific fill).

Transmission Fluid Nv4500:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant recommended.

Transmission Slippage:

Common on automatic transmissions (especially 46RE/47RE) due to worn clutch packs or valve body issues. Torque converter lock-up solenoid failures are also common.

Heater Core Leaks:

Can lead to coolant loss and interior fogging, often requires dashboard removal for replacement.

Ignition Coil Failure:

Can cause misfires and rough running, especially on the 5.9L Magnum V8.

Idle Air Control Valve Iacv:

Can cause rough idle or stalling. Cleaning or replacement is often required.

Front Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and track bar bushings can wear prematurely due to the vehicle's weight and design, leading to steering wander.

Cummins Injector Pump:

Early VE rotary pumps could be prone to wear; later P7100 pumps are generally robust but can develop leaks or internal wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, known for producing robust and capable vehicles since the early 20th century.

Second Generation Ram:

The 1994-2001 generation (second generation) marked a significant redesign, introducing the iconic 'Big Rig' styling and significantly improving interior comfort and engineering over its predecessor.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary assembly plants included Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Michigan, USA) and St. Louis Assembly Plant (Missouri, USA).

Production Years For Generation:

1994-2001

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While specific awards for the 1998 model are not as widely documented as later years, the second-generation Ram consistently received positive reviews for its bold styling and robust engineering, contributing to its strong sales and market presence.