🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 3500

Year:

1997

Platform Code:

BR/BE (Second Generation RAM)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Heavy-duty pickup truck, positioned for commercial, towing, and heavy payload applications.

Competitors:

Ford F-Series Super Duty (F-250/F-350), Chevrolet Silverado HD (2500/3500), GMC Sierra HD (2500/3500).

Vehicle Focus:

Robust construction, powerful engine options, significant towing and hauling capabilities, and heavy-duty chassis components.

Manual Advantage:

Provides direct access to factory-level repair procedures, crucial for accurate and efficient servicing of this robust vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 Dodge RAM 3500

Secondary Coverage:

May extend to certain components shared with 1997 Dodge RAM 1500/2500 models of the same generation.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive; typically over 1000 pages for a complete factory service manual, though software may aggregate or present differently.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all available gasoline and diesel engines, including component identification, specifications, and torque values.

Transmission:

Coverage for both manual and automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, drive shafts, universal joints, and 4WD system operation and repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including springs, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement (master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake lines, ABS if equipped).

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, pump, steering gear, tie rods, and steering column components.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, component testing, and troubleshooting for starting, charging, lighting, and accessory systems.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, and troubleshooting.

Body:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, latches, interior trim, and exterior component repair.

Chassis:

Frame inspection, repair, and associated chassis components.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues using symptom-based charts.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Detailed guides for diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults, including the use of diagnostic tools and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure readings, and electrical resistance/voltage values for all major components.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and complex electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely a searchable PDF or an executable program with an integrated database of repair information. High-resolution diagrams and schematics are expected.

Digital Quality:

High resolution for clarity of diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations. Searchable text functionality is a key feature.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (ISB), 5.2L V8 Magnum (for gasoline models, though diesel was far more common for 3500).

Diesel Engine Code:

359ci (5.9L) ISB (International Series B) Inline-6 Turbo Diesel

Diesel Horsepower:

Approximately 215 hp (with intercooler), 190 hp (non-intercooled variants may exist for earlier models/specific trims).

Diesel Torque:

Approximately 420 lb-ft (with intercooler), 360 lb-ft (non-intercooled).

Diesel Fuel System:

Bosch VE rotary injection pump (early models) or P7100 inline injection pump (later/higher output models), direct injection.

Diesel Fuel Type:

Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) or Low Sulfur Diesel (LSD) depending on production date and regional availability. Standard Diesel Fuel.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 5-speed manual transmission (NV4500) for diesel models.

Optional Transmission:

Chrysler NV3500 4-speed automatic transmission (for gasoline) or A518/46RH 4-speed automatic transmission (for diesel).

Automatic Transmission Features:

Overdrive gear, lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.

Manual Transmission Features:

Heavy-duty clutch, provision for PTO (Power Take-Off) on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Various, including 134.5 inches (standard cab), 160.5 inches (club cab), and custom lengths for chassis cabs.

Overall Length:

Varies significantly based on cab and bed configuration (e.g., 230-250 inches).

Gvwr:

Up to 11,000 lbs (or higher for specific configurations).

Curb Weight:

Varies greatly, typically 5,500 - 7,500 lbs depending on engine and configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Limited official NHTSA ratings for this specific heavy-duty configuration. Focus on robust frame and passenger compartment integrity.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically for rear wheels only, or all four wheels on later models/specific configurations.

Passive Safety Features:

Lap and shoulder belts, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. Optional CD player and upgraded speaker systems available. No integrated navigation or advanced displays typical of modern vehicles.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited. Primarily focused on core mechanical and safety systems. No electronic stability control, adaptive cruise control, or lane departure warning.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration. Power outlets for accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Diesel:

Typically 7,500 miles or 6 months for synthetic blend oil, 3,000 miles for conventional oil (refer to manual for exact specification).

Fuel Filter Diesel:

Recommended replacement every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as per manual guidance, especially important with diesel fuel quality variations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Manual: Generally longer life, often inspected but not routinely changed unless symptoms arise.

Engine Oil Diesel:

API CG-4 or CH-4 rated heavy-duty diesel engine oil, typically SAE 15W-40. Check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature.

Coolant Diesel:

Cummins ISB recommended: Fleetguard Compleat ES Compleat or similar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant with ethylene glycol base. Refer to manual for specific type and color.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or compatible equivalent specified in manual for earlier transmissions).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-140 gear oil for NV4500. Specifics vary by transmission type.

Diesel Idle Gear Walk:

The NV4500 manual transmission's 0-ring on the input shaft retainer can fail, leading to gear oil migration into the clutch housing. Specific repair kits are available.

Diesel Injector Pump Issues:

Early VE pumps could experience issues; later P7100 pumps are robust but require proper maintenance. Fuel system contamination is critical.

Suspension Components:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings are wear items, especially under heavy use or towing.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The RAM nameplate was introduced in 1981.

Second Generation Ram:

The 1994-2001 generation (BR/BE platform) represented a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic and aggressive 'big rig' styling, earning it the nickname 'second-gen' or '2nd gen' RAM. The 3500 model solidified its position as the heavy-duty workhorse.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, USA.

Production Period:

1994-2001 for this generation of RAM trucks. 1997 is the specific year for this manual.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Diesel Engine Recognition:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine is widely regarded as one of the most reliable and durable diesel engines ever produced for light-duty and medium-duty trucks, often surviving multiple vehicle lifetimes.

Towing Capacity:

Class-leading towing and payload capacities for its era, depending on axle ratios, tire specifications, and configuration.