🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Model Generation:

Second Generation (BR/BE)

Model Year Coverage:

1996, 1997

Platform Code:

BR/BE

👋 Introduction

Target Market:

Owners and technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for 1996-1997 Dodge Ram Trucks

Manual Advantage:

Offers professional-level detail typically found in factory service manuals, covering a wide range of systems and procedures.

Completeness:

Covers all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems for the specified model years.

Diagnostic Focus:

Strong emphasis on troubleshooting and diagnosing issues using a systematic approach.

📋 Manual Details

Body Styles Covered:

Regular Cab, Club Cab, Quad Cab (late 1997 models), Chassis Cab

Drivetrains Covered:

2WD (Two-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive)

Trim Levels Covered:

All factory trim levels (e.g., ST, SLT, Laramie, Sport)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF, though not explicitly stated)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, inspection, diagnostics, and repair of all engines

Engine Performance:

Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission Manual:

NV3500, NV4500 manual transmissions: overhaul, clutch, drive shafts

Transmission Automatic:

46RE, 47RE automatic transmissions: overhaul, torque converter, valve body, diagnostics

Drivetrain Components:

Front and rear axles, differentials, transfer cases (NV235, NV241, NV243, NV244)

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension, steering system (rack and pinion, power steering)

Braking System:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, wiring diagrams

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers

HVAC System:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics and repair

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) codes and troubleshooting procedures

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, spark plug replacement

Component Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for overhauling and repairing all major components

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic approaches to identifying and resolving common and complex issues

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

Specifications Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical data

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for accurate troubleshooting

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Likely searchable PDF, optimized for viewing on screens and potential printing

Print Quality Expectation:

High resolution, clear diagrams, legible text

Binding Type Physical:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type Physical:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8, 8.0L Magnum V10

3.9L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm

3.9L V6 Torque:

Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.2L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 220 hp @ 4400 rpm

5.2L V8 Torque:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235 hp @ 4000 rpm

5.9L V8 Torque:

Approx. 335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

8.0L V10 Horsepower:

Approx. 300 hp @ 4000 rpm

8.0L V10 Torque:

Approx. 450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for all Magnum engines

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (NV3500) available on some V6 and 5.2L V8 models

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (46RE, 47RE) standard on many V8 and V10 models

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, overdrive gear

Manual Transmission Features:

Heavy-duty design for truck applications

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

111.9" (Regular Cab), 134.9" (Club Cab), 138.9" (Quad Cab)

Overall Length Range:

Approx. 203" to 235" (depending on configuration)

Bed Length Options:

6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Range:

5,500 lbs to 8,800 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating 1996:

3-star (Two-Wheel Drive)

NHTSA Rollover Rating 1997:

3-star (Two-Wheel Drive)

ABS Availability:

Available on most models (standard on some)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags (standard)

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, optional CD player. Limited integration compared to modern vehicles.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System available, a significant safety feature for its time.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Basic power outlets for accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (Chrysler OAT coolant or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (ATF+3 or ATF+4 depending on specific transmission and year updates)

Spark Plug Replacement:

V6: ~100,000 miles; V8: ~100,000 miles (depending on plug type used, e.g., platinum)

Engine Oil Specification:

Refer to manual: typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for V6/V8, SAE 15W-40 for V10 (check specific engine and climate)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent. Later models may use ATF+4. Consult manual.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Refer to manual: typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for NV3500/NV4500.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant or equivalent (typically Mopar 5 Year / 100,000 Mile Coolant).

Common Engine Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (3.9L/5.2L/5.9L V8), exhaust manifold cracks, distributor housing failure (Magnum engines).

Common Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission 'slipping' or harsh shifting (internal wear), manual clutch wear.

Common Drivetrain Issues:

U-joint wear, differential noise.

Common Electrical Issues:

Headlight switch failure, instrument cluster issues, intermittent power to accessories.

Common Chassis Issues:

Radiator support rust, frame rust in certain climates, ball joint wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history of producing robust and capable trucks, beginning with the Power Wagon.

Second Gen Ram Introduction:

The second generation Ram (BR/BE) was introduced in 1994, marking a significant redesign with a bold, aggressive styling that resonated with truck buyers.

1996 Updates:

Minor refinements, potential introduction of new option packages.

1997 Updates:

Introduction of the Quad Cab body style, potential powertrain refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Saltillo Truck Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While specific 'Truck of the Year' awards for 1996/1997 models might vary by publication, the second-generation Ram was generally well-received for its design and capability, often competing for top spots.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Generally good consumer satisfaction for its ruggedness and powertrain options, though some common issues exist that this manual will help address.