🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

1998

Series:

1500, 2500, 3500

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Dodge Ram represented a significant evolution in the full-size pickup truck segment, focusing on bold styling and robust capability, often referred to as the 'second generation' Ram redesign which began in 1994.

Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra

Key Features Vehicle:

Distinctive 'Ram' grille, powerful Magnum V8 and Cummins Turbo Diesel engines, strong towing and payload capacities, available in various configurations (Regular Cab, Club Cab, Quad Cab), and multiple bed lengths.

Key Features Manual:

Comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams and illustrations, step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic charts, factory specifications, and troubleshooting guidance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair for all aspects of the 1998 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

3.9L V6 Magnum, 5.2L V8 Magnum, 5.9L V8 Magnum, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (42RE, 46RE, 47RE), 5-speed Manual (NV3500, NV4500)

Drivetrain:

Rear Wheel Drive (RWD), Four Wheel Drive (4WD) systems, Transfer Case (New Process NV241, NV243, NV244), Axles (Dana 44, Dana 60, Chrysler 9.25)

Suspension:

Front Independent Front Suspension (IFS) with Torsion Bars (1500, 2500 4WD), Solid Front Axle (2500 RWD, 3500), Leaf Spring Rear Suspension

Brakes:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (some models may have rear discs), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Steering:

Power Steering System, Steering Gear

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Gauges, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System

Fuel:

Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Filter, Fuel Injection System (MPI)

Exhaust:

Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes

Cooling:

Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Cooling Fans

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Glass, Trim

HVAC:

Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Lubrication, Tire Rotation, Brake Inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-to-Cause Identification, Electrical Circuit Diagnosis

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Tolerances, Electrical Schematics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Alignment:

Wheel Alignment Specifications and Procedures

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) information, Scan Tool Usage

Depth:

Expert level, covering complete diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems, intended for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically, depending on the original scan quality)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.9L (3906cc) OHV V6 Magnum

Engine 1 Power:

175 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 2:

5.2L (5211cc) OHV V8 Magnum

Engine 2 Power:

220 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3:

5.9L (5899cc) OHV V8 Magnum

Engine 3 Power:

235 hp @ 4000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 4:

5.9L (359 cu in) OHV Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Engine 4 Power:

180 hp @ 2800 rpm

Engine 4 Torque:

420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Direct Injection for diesel.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended), Diesel Fuel

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Std Gas:

5-speed Manual (NV3500) with 3.9L & 5.2L V8

Transmission Std Diesel:

5-speed Manual (NV4500) with 5.9L Cummins

Transmission Opt Gas Auto:

4-speed Automatic (42RE for 3.9L, 46RE for 5.2L & 5.9L V8)

Transmission Opt Diesel Auto:

4-speed Automatic (47RE) with 5.9L Cummins

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

Transfer Case 4Wd:

New Process NV241 (manual shift), NV243 (electric shift), NV244 (full-time 4WD, optional on some models)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Std Cab:

117.7 inches (2990 mm)

Wheelbase Club Quad Cab:

134.5 inches (3416 mm)

Bed Lengths:

6.3 ft (75.7 in), 8.0 ft (96.0 in)

Gvwr 1500:

Approx. 6300 - 6500 lbs (2858 - 2948 kg)

Gvwr 2500:

Approx. 7700 - 8800 lbs (3493 - 3992 kg)

Gvwr 3500:

Approx. 9000 - 10500 lbs (4082 - 4763 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Frontal:

Acceptable (for the era, typical for body-on-frame trucks)

NHTSA Passenger Frontal:

Acceptable (for the era)

ABS:

Standard on most models, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Factory AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. May have provisions for aftermarket stereo upgrades.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gas:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (12 months) depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).

Oil Change Diesel:

Every 5,000-10,000 miles (6 months) depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (consult manual)

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (consult manual)

Engine Oil Gas Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendations)

Engine Oil Diesel Viscosity:

API CG-4 or CH-4 rated heavy-duty diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 recommended.

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769 specification), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9984) for 42RE, 46RE, 47RE (consult manual for correct type, early models may specify ATF+3).

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv3500:

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

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv4500:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (specific recommendations may apply to this heavy-duty unit).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Issues Gas:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially 5.2L/5.9L V8), distributor issues (pickup coil), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter adapter leaks, transmission cooler line leaks.

Common Issues Diesel:

Injector pump failure, turbocharger issues (rare for the 5.9 Cummins), overheating (especially under heavy load), clutch wear (manual transmissions).

Common Issues General:

Rust (especially cab corners, rocker panels, rear fender lips), aging electrical connectors, worn suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings), AC system leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with robust and powerful pickup trucks, building on a legacy of vehicles like the Power Wagon.

Model Evolution:

The 1994 redesign of the Dodge Ram introduced the distinctive 'big rig' styling that became an icon. The 1998 model is part of this highly successful second generation, which received minor updates and refinements over its production run.

Production Years Gen2:

1994-2001

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Warren, Michigan), Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award 1:

MotorTrend 'Truck of the Year' for the 1994 Dodge Ram, setting a benchmark for the redesigned generation.

Award 2:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine earned a strong reputation for durability and performance, becoming a highly sought-after powertrain option.