🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Generations:

Second Generation (BR/BE)

Years Covered:

1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Chassis Codes:

BR, BE

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, fleet managers, parts departments, and owners seeking accurate parts identification for maintenance and repair.

Value Proposition:

Provides a critical resource for sourcing correct and original-specification parts, saving time and preventing costly errors associated with incorrect part selection.

Resource Type:

Essential reference for restoring, maintaining, or repairing Dodge Ram trucks of the specified years.

Technical Accuracy:

Leverages OEM data to ensure accuracy in part identification and applicability.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Parts Manual / Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF), potentially Print (details would need confirmation)

Page Count:

Variable, typically several hundred pages for comprehensive parts catalogs of this era.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Components:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing components, oil pump, cooling system components (radiator, water pump, thermostat), exhaust manifolds, intake manifolds.

Fuel System Components:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel rail, throttle body, evaporative emission control system components.

Transmission Components:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 46RE, 47RE) and manual transmission (e.g., NV3500) internal and external components, clutch components, driveshafts, universal joints, transfer case components (if applicable).

Chassis And Suspension:

Front suspension (control arms, ball joints, steering knuckles, springs, shock absorbers), rear suspension (leaf springs, shock absorbers, axle housing components), steering system components (steering gear, tie rods, power steering pump, hoses), braking system components (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, rotors, drums, brake shoes, parking brake).

Body And Exterior:

Body panels (fenders, hood, doors, tailgate, roof panel), bumpers, grille, headlights, taillights, mirrors, windshield, side glass, seals, latches, hinges, trim pieces, running boards, bed components (for pickups), frame components.

Electrical System:

Wiring harnesses, connectors, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system components (spark plugs, ignition coils/distributor), lighting system components, gauges, switches, sensors, audio system components.

Interior Components:

Seats, seat belts, dashboard components, instrument cluster, climate control system components (HVAC unit, blower motor, controls), interior trim panels, door panels, center console components, floor coverings, headliner.

Part Identification:

Detailed diagrams and exploded views for accurate identification of all replaceable parts.

Part Number Lookup:

Comprehensive listing of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part numbers for ordering and replacement.

Supersession Information:

Information on superseded part numbers and their replacements, ensuring compatibility with updated designs.

Fastener Specifications:

Identification of specific bolts, nuts, screws, washers, and clips used in assembly. (Often implied by diagrams).

Depth:

High: Focused on component-level detail, essential for parts ordering and understanding assembly without necessarily providing repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Commonly PDF for ease of distribution and searchability. May include image-based PDFs or text-searchable PDFs.

Diagram Clarity:

Diagrams are typically line drawings designed for clarity of component placement and identification. Quality depends on the source scan/creation.

Physical Format:

If printed: Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use during workshop tasks.

Physical Format:

If printed: Typically heavy-duty paper stock resistant to grease and dirt found in automotive environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8 (including 240 HP and 245 HP versions), 8.0L V10 Magnum (SRT-10 variant appeared later, but base V10 was available).

Horsepower Torque:

Varies by engine. Example: 5.9L V8 typically produced around 230-245 hp and 330-350 lb-ft of torque. Precise figures vary by year and tune.

Induction Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for all Magnum engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Manual: NV3500 (5-speed). Automatic: 46RE (3-speed + OD), 47RE (4-speed).

Transmission Options:

Dodge offered both manual and automatic transmissions across various engine and drivetrain configurations.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab), Quad Cab (later years might have this, but typically Club Cab for this range). Pickup truck bed lengths: standard, long.

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration (engine, cab type, drivetrain), typically ranging from 4,500 lbs to over 6,000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

For this era, specific crash test data might be limited or vary by model year. Generally, trucks of this period offered moderate safety features. (Specific ratings require detailed research per year).

Braking System:

Four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) was typically standard or optional on higher trims.

Restraint System:

Front airbags for driver and passenger were standard. Seat belts for all occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically available for this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult a service manual for precise intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature. Consult owner's manual for specifics.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (or equivalent for automatic transmissions), Manual transmission fluid (MTF) varies by transmission model.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for Mopar specific recommendations.

Common Problems 1994-1998 Ram:

Heater core leaks, radiator failure, ignition coil failure, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) issues, differential leaks, rust on body panels (especially in certain climates), fuel pump issues, exhaust manifold cracks (on some V8s).

Oil Filter Example:

Mopar MO-090, Wix 51515, Fram PH8A (Note: Part numbers can vary based on exact engine and specific filter manufacturer.

Air Filter Example:

Mopar 52028810, Wix 42760, Fram CA3311 (Note: Varies by engine and specific filter manufacturer).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line being a cornerstone of their commercial and personal vehicle offerings.

Second Generation Ram:

The 1994 model year marked a significant redesign for the Ram, introducing the distinctive 'Next Generation Ram' with its bold, aggressive styling inspired by large-bore diesel engines. This generation is often lauded for its imposing presence.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing was in North America, with plants like Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Michigan) being key production sites.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

The second generation Dodge Ram received numerous accolades, including Motor Trend's Truck of the Year award for 1994.