🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

2008

Generation Code:

DS

Generation Years:

2002-2008 (Fourth Generation Dodge Ram / Second Generation Ram Pickup)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Truck Features:

Robust construction, powerful engine options (including HEMI and Cummins Diesel), extensive towing and payload capabilities, a variety of cab and bed configurations.

Value:

Essential resource for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2008 Dodge Ram across all its variants, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4000, 4500, 5500

Engine Variants Covered:

3.7L V6 Magnum Gasoline, 4.7L V8 Gasoline, 5.7L V8 Magnum Gasoline SMPI, 5.7L V8 HEMI Multiple Displacement Gasoline, 5.9L I6 Turbo Diesel High Output, 6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel

Estimated Page Count:

10,000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (3.7L V6, 4.7L V8, 5.7L V8 HEMI, 5.9L I6 Diesel, 6.7L I6 Cummins Diesel), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case, Driveline, Differential

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Frame & Bumpers, Wheels & Tires

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC (Heating & Air Conditioning)

Electrical:

Electrical System, Power System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Ignition Control, Lighting (Headlamps, Taillamps, Interior), Instrument Cluster, Audio/Video Systems, Horn, Chime/Buzzer, Message System, Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Emissions And Fuel:

Fuel System, Emissions Control Systems, Exhaust System

Maintenance:

Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tire Rotation, General Inspection

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, System Diagnosis and Repair, Reassembly Instructions

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Schematics

Depth:

Comprehensive (covering all aspects of maintenance, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul)

Illustrations:

Assembly Illustrations, Exploded Parts Views, Diagrams, Pictures

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Size Mb:

423.417

Software Requirement:

None (standard PDF viewer)

Searchability:

Fully indexed for quick navigation

Type:

Instant Digital Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

3.7L V6:

3.7L Magnum V6 (Naturally Aspirated). Approx. 215 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. MPI fuel injection.

4.7L V8:

4.7L Magnum V8 (Naturally Aspirated). Approx. 235 hp @ 4500 rpm, 305 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm. MPI fuel injection.

5.7L V8 Hemi:

5.7L HEMI V8 (Naturally Aspirated, MDS). Approx. 345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for fuel economy.

5.9L I6:

5.9L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel (High Output). Approx. 325 hp @ 2800 rpm, 610 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm. Turbocharged, Intercooled.

6.7L I6:

6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel. Approx. 350 hp @ 3000 rpm, 650 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (standard), 800 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (optional HO). Turbocharged, Intercooled, Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

Gasoline:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel:

High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) Direct Injection

🔧 Transmission

45Rfe/545Rfe:

4-speed automatic (3.7L, 4.7L V8). Features electronic controls, overdrive.

68Rfe:

6-speed automatic (6.7L Cummins Diesel, some 5.7L HEMI). Electronically controlled with a wider gear ratio spread.

G56:

6-speed manual (primarily for diesel applications). Robust design for heavy-duty use.

Types:

Electronic Shift-On-The-Fly (ESOF) 2WD/4WD, Manual 4WD Transfer Case (some heavy-duty models)

📐 Dimensions

Length Various:

Varies significantly by cab (Regular, Quad, Mega Cab) and bed length (short, standard, long). Typically ranging from ~229 inches to ~260 inches.

Curb Weight Various:

Varies by configuration and engine, typically from ~4,700 lbs to over 7,000 lbs.

Gvwr Various:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating varies from 8,510 lbs (1500) to 23,500 lbs (5500).

🛡️ Safety Features

Airbags:

Front Supplemental Side-Curtain Airbags (available on some models), Advanced Multistage Front Airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point lap and shoulder seat belts with pretensioners.

NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:

Likely 4-star or 5-star (based on typical 2008 truck ratings, specific data needed from manual).

IIHS Front Impact Small Overlap:

Not typically tested or rated for this generation's frontal impact as it predates widespread testing of this specific scenario.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, satellite radio (SiriusXM), MP3 capability. Higher trims offered premium audio systems.

Navigation:

Optional in-dash navigation system on select trims.

Parking Assist:

Available rear parking assist sensors.

Trailer Towing Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller (optional), trailer sway control (on some models).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gasoline:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil specification.

Oil Change Diesel:

More frequent initially (e.g., 5,000-7,500 miles) for 5.9L, potentially longer for 6.7L Cummins (e.g., 7,500-15,000 miles), depending on oil quality and usage. Manual is critical.

Engine Oil 3.7L/4.7L V8:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, API SN or higher. Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity (approx. 6 quarts for 3.7L, 7 quarts for 4.7L).

Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher. Capacity approx. 7 quarts.

Engine Oil Diesel:

CJ-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 (common) or 5W-40 synthetic for cold weather. Capacity approx. 12 quarts for 5.9L, 12 quarts for 6.7L.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) is common for 45RFE/545RFE. 68RFE may use specific fluids, consult manual. Capacities vary (approx. 4-6 quarts for change, 12-17 quarts for rebuild).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Manual transmission fluid (MTF) and transfer case fluid specifications vary. Consult manual for specific API ratings and viscosity grades.

Coolant:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent. Pink or orange color. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity varies (approx. 18-24 quarts).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Consult manual for exact specification and capacity.

Catalytic Converter Failure:

Some gasoline V8 models can experience premature catalytic converter failure due to various factors, including exhaust leaks or oil consumption.

Heat Exchanger Leaks:

Heater core or A/C evaporator leaks can occur, leading to coolant loss or reduced HVAC performance.

Diesel Injector Issues:

Early 6.7L Cummins models sometimes had issues with injector longevity or valve issues, often addressed by manufacturer bulletins or updates.

Brake Component Wear:

As with many heavy-duty trucks, brake pads, rotors, and calipers can experience wear, especially under heavy towing or braking conditions.

Transmission Shifting Issues:

Some automatic transmissions may exhibit rough shifting or delayed engagement, potentially related to solenoid issues, fluid level/condition, or TCM programming.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line evolving significantly since its introduction.

Ram Evolution:

The 2008 model is part of the DS platform, which saw significant redesigns in powertrain and styling from its previous iterations.

Fourth Gen Ram:

2002-2008

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While the 2008 model specifically may not have won the top award, previous generations of the Dodge Ram have received significant accolades, including MotorTrend Truck of the Year.

Towing Payload Capability:

Consistently recognized for its strong towing and payload capacities, making it a leader in its segment.