Target Audience:
Dodge Ramcharger owners, DIY mechanics, automotive repair shops
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, saving on dealership labor costs and enabling confident DIY repairs.
Digital Convenience:
Searchable, printable, zoomable PDF format for ease of use and portability.
Authenticity:
Represents the identical information used by dealership technicians.
Step By Step Instructions:
Clear, sequential instructions with accompanying diagrams and illustrations for ease of understanding.
All Models And Repairs A Z:
Yes
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
While OBD-I was emerging, the manual focuses on symptom-based diagnostics and proprietary Chrysler test procedures rather than standardized DTCs.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific year/configuration, but extensive (typical factory service manuals of this era are 1000+ pages)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, intake/exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging, emission control
Drivetrain Systems:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, differentials, axles, suspension, steering
Braking Systems:
Brake control, hydraulic brakes, parking brake system
Electrical Systems:
Wiring schematics, lighting, instrumentation, audio/visual, power accessories, cruise control, horn, wipers/washers, supplemental restraint systems, engine immobilizer
Body And Interior Systems:
Body and chassis, doors, hood, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, glass, mirrors, instrument panel
Tire And Wheel Specifications:
Wheel bolt patterns, tire pressure recommendations, and wheel torque specifications.
Chassis And Suspension Components:
Leaf springs, shock absorbers, ball joints, bushings, steering linkage.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-up procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, electrical circuit testing, mechanical component testing
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems
Wiring Schematics:
Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and wiring
Torque Specifications:
Includes precise torque values for all critical fasteners, from cylinder head bolts to wheel lug nuts.
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online).
Printability:
Fully printable, high-resolution for clear diagrams and text
Binding Style Digital:
Digital (PDF) - no physical binding
Digital Paper Representation:
Simulates high-quality paper, zoomable for detail
Engine Options Covered:
Inline-6 (e.g., 225 Slant Six), V8s (e.g., 318, 360, 440 cubic inch, depending on specific year/market)
Horsepower And Torque:
Detailed specifications for each engine variant will be present in the manual.
Fuel Delivery Systems:
Carbureted (various types like Carter, Holley, Edelbrock) and early Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems.
Fuel Type Recommendations:
Unleaded gasoline (octane ratings specified per engine).
Engine Variant Codes:
Specific engine codes (e.g., LA series for V8s) are detailed within the manual.
Manual Transmission Options:
Chrysler A727 (TorqueFlite) 3-speed automatic, NP203/NP205/NP241 (New Process) manual transfer cases (4WD models).
Automatic Transmission Options:
Chrysler A833 4-speed manual transmission (less common on Ramcharger than trucks).
Transmission Fluid Specifications:
Dexron II/III for automatic transmissions, gear oil for manual transmissions and transfer cases (specific weights provided).
Wheelbase:
Typically around 104.2 inches for early models, potentially longer for later extended versions.
Length Width Height:
Specifications vary by year and configuration; detailed in the manual.
Curb Weight:
Generally in the range of 4,000 - 5,000 lbs, depending on engine and options.
Towing Capacity:
Varies significantly by year, engine, and axle ratio; detailed specifications provided.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
GVWR varies by configuration; specific ratings are provided in the manual.
Crash Test Results:
Limited standardized crash testing data available for this era compared to modern vehicles. Focus is on structural integrity and component safety.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional on later models, typically rear-wheel ABS.
Seat Belts:
Standard lap and shoulder belts.
Airbags:
Not available on these models; supplemental restraint systems (SRS) in the context of the manual refer to advanced seatbelt mechanisms if equipped.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM radios, cassette players, optional premium sound systems. Manual covers installation, repair, and troubleshooting of these components.
Cruise Control:
Vacuum or electronic-actuated cruise control systems, covered in detail for diagnosis and repair.
Multiplex Communication:
Limited to basic electronic control modules for engine and transmission on later models. Manual details these circuits.
Air Conditioning System:
R12 refrigerant based AC systems (pre-1995 transition). Manual provides detailed service procedures for the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months for conventional oil, potentially longer for synthetic oils (specific recommendation in manual).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap/rotor service intervals vary by ignition system and component type, typically 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or higher. Viscosity grades: 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50 depending on ambient temperature (detailed chart in manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar specific coolant may be recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+3 or ATF+4 on very late models if applicable, though ATF+2/Dexron II is more common for this period.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor adjustment/rebuild, ignition system components (points, condenser, coil, distributor), exhaust system leaks, body rust, rear main seal leaks on V8 engines, universal joints.
Transmission Considerations:
Torque converter lock-up issues on automatics, clutch wear on manuals.
Dodge Truck Division:
Part of Dodge's robust truck and SUV lineage, built on the established Ram truck platform.
Ramcharger Development:
Evolved from the popular Dodge Power Wagon and Ram pickup truck lines, offering a more comfortable SUV experience with off-road capability.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily United States (e.g., Warren, Michigan; St. Louis, Missouri).
Production Discontinuation:
Discontinued after the 1993 model year in the US, though some markets may have extended availability; the manual covers up to 1996 as a representative lifespan.
Off Road Capability:
While not 'awards' in the typical sense, Ramchargers were recognized for their robust 4x4 systems and off-road prowess.
Vehicle Reviews:
Contemporary reviews often highlighted their utility, towing capacity, and ruggedness.
Manual Certification:
Factory-certified information, equivalent to dealership service literature.
