🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

DS/DR (fourth generation Ram)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, fleet maintenance personnel.

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Strength:

Renowned for towing and hauling capabilities, robust build, diverse engine options, and comfortable ride for a truck.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the same in-depth, accurate information used by factory-trained technicians for diagnostics and repairs, enabling confident DIY maintenance and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Production Years Covered:

2008

Models Covered:

All models (e.g., 1500, 2500, 3500)

Engines Covered:

All engines

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 2000+ pages for a complete service manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, repair procedures for all engine variants, including timing, valve train, cylinder head, block assembly.

Engine Electrical And Ignition:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, sensors, actuators, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions, including clutch, gearbox, and related components.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, clutch packs, and transmission control module (TCM).

Drivetrain And Axles:

Front and rear axle service, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case (for 4WD models), wheel hubs, and bearings.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (e.g., control arms, ball joints, springs, shocks), steering gear, power steering system, steering column, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis, parking brake system, brake pad/rotor replacement.

Body And Frame:

Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal and installation, door hardware, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, weatherstripping.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant service, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), climate control module.

Electrical Systems Chassis:

Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, power windows, power door locks, seats, mirrors, fuse box layout, relay functions.

Instrumentation And Controls:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, driver information center, switches, controls.

Airbags:

Airbag system diagnosis, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) module, sensors, components, and deployment procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnosis using wiring diagrams and scan tools.

Component Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for nearly all mechanical and electrical components.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed procedures for using diagnostic scan tools (e.g., OBD-II), interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and performing system tests.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications for fasteners, critical dimensions, alignment angles, and operating clearances.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams, illustrations, and photos.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine 1500:

3.7L V6 Magnum (4.7L V8 option available)

Available Engine 2500/3500:

5.7L V8 HEMI, 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (depending on configuration)

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 215 hp @ 5200 rpm

3.7L V6 Torque:

Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

5.7L V8 Hemi Horsepower:

Approx. 345 hp @ 5400 rpm

5.7L V8 Hemi Torque:

Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel Horsepower:

Approx. 350 hp @ 3000 rpm

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel Torque:

Approx. 610 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (V6/V8 HEMI), Diesel (Cummins)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission 1500:

4-speed automatic (42RLE)

Standard Transmission 2500/3500:

5-speed manual (G56) or 6-speed automatic (68RFE)

Optional Transmission 1500:

6-speed manual (NV3500) on certain configurations

Optional Transmission 2500/3500:

6-speed manual (NV5600) for earlier 6.7L Cummins; 4-speed automatic (48RE) for older 5.9L Cummins.

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system with electronic range selection (2WD, 4WD High, 4WD Low).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Variety of wheelbases (e.g., 139.0" for standard cab, 159.0" for quad cab, 171.0" for mega cab on 1500 series).

Bed Lengths:

Standard, Long Bed, and Mega Cab configurations.

Towing Capacity:

Varies significantly by configuration (e.g., up to ~10,000+ lbs for properly equipped 1500, ~10,000-15,000+ lbs for 2500/3500).

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically starting around 5,000 lbs for 2WD 1500 and upwards of 6,000-8,000+ lbs for 4WD HD models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 out of 5 stars (for models equipped with side airbags)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 out of 5 stars (for models equipped with side airbags)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good (for models tested)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags; optional front side airbags and side curtain airbags (depending on trim and configuration).

Seatbelts:

Height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional Infinity audio system.

Navigation:

Optional in-dash navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Parking Assist:

Available rear parking assist sensors.

Bluetooth:

Optional Uconnect infotainment system with Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Remote Start:

Available factory remote start system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

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

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or 6-12 months for the Cummins Turbo Diesel. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles. More frequently in dusty conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Inspect fluid condition every 30,000 miles, change fluid and filter every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage. Consult manual.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Inspect fluid condition periodically, change fluid as per manual recommendations (often around 60,000-100,000 miles).

Engine Oil Viscosity 3.7L/4.7L/5.7L:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (depending on ambient temperature), API Certified.

Engine Oil Viscosity 6.7L Cummins:

SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (synthetic), meeting Cummins CES 20081 or API CJ-4 specifications.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent HOAT coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Color may be orange or yellow.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 4-speed and 6-speed automatics.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Heater Core:

Some models may experience heater core leaks or premature failure, leading to coolant loss and interior fogging.

Transmission Shifting:

Occasional reports of harsh shifting or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions; can be related to fluid condition or TCM issues.

Diesel Injector Issues:

Early 6.7L Cummins engines had some injector issues; later models and potential updates address this. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures for fuel system faults.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Some HEMI engines can develop exhaust manifold cracks, leading to ticking noises, especially when cold.

Brake Wear:

Typical for heavy trucks, brake pad and rotor wear can be accelerated depending on load and driving style. Manual provides specs for replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long and storied history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate evolving significantly over decades to become a benchmark for capability and style.

Fourth Generation Launch:

The 2008 model year belongs to the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram (produced from 2002-2008 for the previous generation's final years, with significant updates in this era). This generation introduced major styling changes, including the distinctive grille and chassis improvements.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary assembly plants included Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Michigan) and Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (Mexico).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

Ram trucks, including models around this generation, have frequently been recognized by automotive publications and organizations for their towing capacity, design, and overall value.