🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 50

Year:

1996

Platform Code:

Mitsubishi Mighty Max/L200 based (JS platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Ram 50 (also known as the Mitsubishi Mighty Max in many markets) was a compact pickup truck known for its utility and affordability, often appealing to small business owners and individuals needing a robust, smaller truck.

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux/Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody/Frontier, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Mazda B-Series.

Key Features:

This manual provides factory-level, vehicle-specific repair information, unlike generic guides. It offers comprehensive coverage for all models and repairs, including detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics, all in a user-friendly PDF format.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1996 Dodge Ram 50

Page Count:

Unknown (typically several hundred pages for a comprehensive service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Condition, Supplemental Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, and more.

Procedures:

Maintenance, Service, Diagnosis, Repair, Step-by-step instructions, Wiring schematics, Troubleshooting, Component replacement, System adjustments.

Depth:

Vehicle-specific, detailed, factory-level repair information equivalent to dealership technician manuals.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-quality, printable pages with zoomable images and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - printable on any paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

The 1996 Dodge Ram 50 was typically offered with a 2.4L (2400cc) 4G64 inline-4 gasoline engine and a 3.0L (2972cc) 6G72 V6 gasoline engine. Diesel options might have been available in specific markets, though less common for the Ram 50 badged models.

Engine Performance 2.4L:

Approx. 116 hp @ 5000 rpm, 135 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Varies by specific market tune)

Engine Performance 3.0L V6:

Approx. 143 hp @ 5000 rpm, 174 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Varies by specific market tune)

Fuel Injection:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

A 5-speed manual transmission was standard on most models. A 4-speed automatic transmission was typically optional.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission

Transfer Case:

Available with either 2WD (rear-wheel drive) or 4WD (four-wheel drive) with a 2-speed transfer case.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 109.4 inches (2779 mm) for standard cab models. Long bed variants would have a longer wheelbase.

Length:

Varies by bed length, but typically around 175-185 inches for standard bed. (Specific dimensions depend on trim and configuration).

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2700 - 3300 lbs (1225 - 1500 kg), depending on engine, drivetrain, and configuration.

Payload Capacity:

Generally rated around 1000-1500 lbs (450-680 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA crash test data for the 1996 Dodge Ram 50 is not readily available in standard databases. These vehicles predate more rigorous and standardized testing protocols compared to modern vehicles.

Active Safety:

Antilock Braking System (ABS) - typically for rear wheels only on 2WD models, 4-wheel ABS on some 4WD models. Power brakes.

Passive Safety:

Seat belts. Some models may have had driver-side airbags, but this was not universally standard across all trims and configurations for this model year.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Optional CD player on higher trims. Speaker placement typically limited to doors or dashboard.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited. Primarily focused on functional aspects like power steering (if equipped) and ABS.

Connectivity Options:

None beyond basic audio system connectivity. No Bluetooth or USB ports.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 to 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. The manual will specify exact intervals and oil viscosity.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or as part of oil change service.

Engine Oil Spec:

API Certified SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is common for these engines. Specific viscosity and capacity are detailed in the manual based on engine type and temperature.

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (green type) with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water. Manual will specify capacity and type.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron II/III ATF is typically specified for the automatic transmission. Manual will confirm exact specification and capacity.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will confirm exact specification and capacity.

Common Problems:

Rust on body panels (especially wheel wells, rocker panels, cab corners), aging rubber components (hoses, seals), potential for exhaust manifold cracks (especially on V6 models), starter motor issues, and ignition system components (spark plugs, wires). Transmission synchro wear in manual transmissions can occur with high mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing trucks, from heavy-duty pickups to compact utility vehicles. The Ram nameplate is synonymous with their truck offerings.

Ram 50 Evolution:

The Dodge Ram 50 was a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Forte/L200/Mighty Max. It was part of a collaboration between Mitsubishi and Chrysler. The model line had several iterations before 1996.

Production Period:

The Dodge Ram 50 was produced from 1979 to 1996. The 1996 model year was one of the final years for this generation before the introduction of the Dodge Dakota-based compact truck.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

As a rebadged Mitsubishi model, it benefited from Mitsubishi's engineering, but specific 'awards' for the Dodge Ram 50 are not prominently documented in the way modern vehicles are reviewed. Its strength was in its reliability and utilitarian nature for its segment.