🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2008

Platform Code:

DR

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics, fleet owners, restoration specialists

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Value Proposition:

Cost-effective alternative to dealership service, empowering owners to perform repairs and maintenance confidently.

Unique Selling Points:

Factory Original (OEM) information, detailed illustrations and diagrams, comprehensive coverage, printable pages.

Illustrations Quality:

Detailed illustrations and diagrams enhance understanding of complex procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (OEM FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Applicability:

Covers all Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 models for the 2008 model year, across all engine and trim variants.

Manual Scope:

Complete Factory Service Manual covering repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 2000+ pages for full factory manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Exhaust System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Automatic Transmission

Chassis:

Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Steering, Frame & Bumpers, Tires/Wheels

Electrical And Body:

Audio/Video, Chime/Buzzer, Clock, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Navigation/Telecommunication, Wiring, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control

Specific Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, ignition system, fuel delivery, emissions control systems, cooling system, lubrication system.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, interior trim, and related hardware.

Climate Control:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling procedures.

Vehicle Security:

Vehicle theft security system operation, diagnostics, and key fob programming.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid checks and changes

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, DTC index, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical troubleshooting with wiring diagrams

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed removal, installation, disassembly, and assembly procedures for all major components and systems

Component Diagnostics:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing and testing individual components like sensors, actuators, alternators, starters, etc.

Electrical System Repair:

Diagnosis and repair of power distribution, lighting, accessories, and comfort systems.

Assembly And Disassembly:

Step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling all major mechanical and electrical components.

Wheel Alignment And Tires:

Specifications for wheel alignment angles, tire pressure recommendations, and wheel/tire service procedures.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagnostic Tools:

Information for using diagnostic scan tools and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems

Torque Specifications:

Crucial torque specifications for all fasteners during assembly and disassembly are provided.

Illustrations Diagrams:

Richly illustrated with detailed diagrams, photos, and exploded views to clarify procedures.

Diagnostic Charts:

Trouble shooting flow charts and symptom-based diagnostic guides.

Emission Control Information:

Detailed information on emission control systems, including diagnosis and repair of related components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Requirements:

PDF Reader

Printability:

Printable pages

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within PDF

Binding:

Digital Download (no physical binding)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2008 Ram:

Available engines for the 2008 Dodge Ram (DR platform) typically included: 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, and the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (for Ram 2500/3500).

Engine Codes Examples:

Common engine codes might include: EZH (3.7L), EVA (4.7L), EZH (5.7L HEMI), RPD (6.7L Cummins).

Horsepower Torque Variations:

Specific horsepower and torque figures vary significantly by engine option and were continuously updated by Dodge. The manual will provide exact specifications for each.

Fuel Delivery Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Common Rail Diesel Injection (CRDI) for the Cummins.

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmission Options:

Common automatic transmissions for this generation include the 42RLE (for V6), 545RFE (for 4.7L V8), and the 65RFE/68RFE (for 5.7L HEMI and diesel).

Manual Transmission Options:

Manual transmissions were also available on some gasoline engine models.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) types will be detailed in the manual, varying by transmission model (e.g., ATF+4, specific Mopar fluids).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Fluid capacities for various transmissions will be specified, essential for correct fluid level maintenance.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Available in various cab configurations (e.g., Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab) and bed lengths (e.g., short, standard, long).

Gvwr Towing Capacity:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and towing capacities are highly dependent on configuration, engine, and drivetrain, and are detailed within the manual.

Curb Weight Variations:

Curb weights differ based on cab configuration, drivetrain (2WD/4WD), and engine choice.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

Safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for the 2008 Ram are available and will be implicitly covered by the structural and restraint system information in the manual.

Braking Systems:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), often with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).

Traction Control:

Availability and operation of traction control and electronic stability control systems.

Restraint Systems:

Front airbags, available side-curtain airbags, seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Video Systems:

Coverage for factory radio, CD players, and optional premium audio systems, including diagnostics and component replacement.

Speed Control:

Cruise control system diagnostics and repair.

Parking Assist:

Information on parking assist systems if factory-equipped.

Navigation Telecommunication:

Information for factory navigation systems and telecommunication modules if equipped.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Schedule:

The manual will detail recommended oil change intervals based on mileage and driving conditions (e.g., severe vs. normal), typically every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and engine.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended intervals for automatic transmission fluid and filter changes are critical and will be outlined, usually around 30,000-60,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended intervals for spark plug replacement, which vary by engine type (e.g., platinum, iridium).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Common engine oil viscosities for 2008 Ram trucks include 5W-20, 5W-30, and 10W-30, depending on the engine and climate. The manual will specify the exact SAE viscosity grade.

Coolant Type:

Typically HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or OAT (Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, usually a Mopar blend. Specific color and type will be detailed.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid specification will be provided for the hydraulic brake system.

Power Steering Fluid:

Type of power steering fluid (typically Mopar power steering fluid or equivalent) will be specified.

Differential Fluid Type:

Specifications for front and rear differential gear oil viscosity and type (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5).

Common Wear Items:

Potential common issues for this generation can include: ball joint wear, exhaust manifold leaks (especially on HEMI), transmission solenoid issues, and water pump failures. The manual will guide diagnosis and repair.

Common Electrical Issues:

The manual can help diagnose common electrical gremlins like interior light failures, window motor issues, or HVAC blower problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history in the pickup truck market, with the Ram nameplate representing a significant part of that heritage.

Fourth Generation Ram:

The 2008 model year falls within the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram pickup (2002-2008, with a significant refresh in 2006). This generation saw styling updates and powertrain enhancements.

Manufacturing Locations:

Dodge Ram trucks were primarily manufactured in North America, with key assembly plants in Mexico and the United States.