🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2008

Platform Code:

DS/DJ

Chassis Type:

Full-size Pickup Truck

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2008 Dodge Ram Truck entered a highly competitive full-size pickup truck market, aiming to offer a blend of rugged capability, distinctive styling, and improved refinement over previous generations.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra.

Vehicle Highlights:

The 2008 Ram was known for its bold 'Ram Grille', Hemi engine option, comfortable interior (especially in higher trims), and robust towing and hauling capabilities. Coil spring rear suspension on 1500 models offered a smoother ride.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for all systems of the 2008 Dodge Ram Truck.

Specific Models Covered:

All 2008 Ram Truck configurations (e.g., 1500, 2500, 3500; various cab styles, bed lengths, and trim levels).

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for a full factory service manual of this era).

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (likely spiral-bound or perfect bound)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for engine assembly, disassembly, diagnostics, and repair for all available engines.

Engine Performance:

Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control systems, cooling system, lubrication system.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair for manual transmissions (if applicable).

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair for automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RLE, 48RE, 68RFE).

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, driveshafts, U-joints, differential service.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system (front and rear disc/drum), ABS, traction control system (TCS), electronic stability program (ESP).

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion.

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (solid axle), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system.

Body And Chassis:

Frame construction, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.

Comfort And Convenience:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, remote keyless entry.

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts.

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, auxiliary lighting.

Instrumentation And Gauges:

Instrument cluster, warning lights, sensors.

Powertrain Control Module PCM:

PCM diagnosis, programming, and replacement.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic flowcharts.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon problems with detailed symptom-to-cause tables and diagnostic flowcharts.

Repair Procedures:

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

Overhaul Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical measurements.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs.

Depth:

Full factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

While the product is listed as 'print', a digital PDF version would typically feature searchable text, hyperlinked sections, and bookmark functionality for efficient navigation.

Print Quality Details:

High-quality paper stock, clear and legible printing of text and diagrams. Likely designed for shop use, so durable binding is expected.

Binding Type Details:

Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound to allow the manual to lay flat for easy reference while working.

Paper Type Details:

Durable, possibly coated paper to withstand grease and shop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8.

5.7L Hemi Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5000 rpm

5.7L Hemi Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

4.7L Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm

4.7L Torque:

305 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

3.7L Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5200 rpm

3.7L Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (regular for 3.7L and 4.7L, premium recommended for 5.7L HEMI for optimal performance).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1500 Std:

4-speed automatic (45RFE/48RE) for 5.7L HEMI, 4-speed automatic (42RLE) for 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8.

Transmission 2500 3500 Std:

6-speed manual transmission (NV4500) or 4-speed automatic (48RE) for 5.7L HEMI and 6.7L Cummins Diesel.

Transmission 2500 3500 Optional:

6-speed automatic (68RFE) available on some 2500/3500 models with diesel engines.

Transmission Features:

Torque converter lock-up, overdrive gear for fuel efficiency.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 139.3" for Quad Cab Short Bed, 149.5" for Crew Cab Short Bed, 160.5" for Long Bed).

Overall Length Approx:

Ranges from approximately 228.7" to 248.9" depending on configuration.

Width Approx:

Approximately 79.1" (excluding mirrors).

Height Approx:

Approximately 73.9" to 78.1" depending on configuration and drivetrain (2WD/4WD).

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 4,700 lbs to 6,500+ lbs depending on configuration, engine, and drivetrain.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Ranges from 6,050 lbs (1500) to 10,000 lbs (3500).

Bed Lengths Available:

6'4" (standard bed), 8'0" (long bed).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:

4 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

NHTSA Side Impact Rating Front Seat:

4 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

IIHS Offset Frontal Crash Rating:

'Good' in frontal offset crash test (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS).

Electronic Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available or standard on some models.

Airbags:

Standard advanced front airbags; optional side-curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags on some configurations.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Boston Acoustics premium audio system, navigation systems available on higher trims.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Standard or optional remote keyless entry system.

Bluetooth:

Uconnect Hands-Free Communication system available on select trims for Bluetooth connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000 miles under severe driving conditions, or 5,000-7,500 miles under normal conditions, depending on oil type and manufacturer recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as per severe duty schedule, for automatic transmissions.

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 2-3 years, depending on coolant type.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine; e.g., 3.7L/4.7L typically 100,000 miles, 5.7L HEMI often 100,000 miles (but check specific manual).

Engine Oil Type 5.7L Hemi:

SAE 5W-20 API SN certified (or equivalent).

Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L Hemi:

7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar specification).

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (or equivalent).

Common Problems 1500:

Water pump leaks, ball joint wear, front suspension component wear, potential for catalytic converter issues, ABS sensor failures, early transmission cooler line leaks.

Common Problems Heavy Duty:

Turbocharger issues on 6.7L Cummins diesel (if applicable to a specific model variant), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system issues, fuel injector problems, potential for leaf spring fatigue on some configurations.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, with the 'Ram' nameplate becoming a distinct brand in 2010, but for 2008, it was still a Dodge model.

Fourth Generation Ram Debut:

The 2008 model year falls within the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram (2002-2008 for the previous generation, with a significant redesign for 2009, making 2008 a carry-over year or last year of the prior body style depending on definition and specific powertrain updates).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily assembled in Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acknowledgments:

While specific awards for the 2008 model are not as prominent as later generations, the Ram truck line has historically received numerous accolades for its powertrain options, towing capability, and innovative features. The 5.7L HEMI V8 was particularly praised.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Customer satisfaction varied by trim level and powertrain. Reliability perceptions were generally average to good for the class.