🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ramcharger

Year:

1988

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Targeted at DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Dodge Ramcharger owners seeking authoritative repair information.

Competitive Analysis:

Distinguished by its factory-level specificity, direct replacement for dealership technician manuals, and comprehensive A-Z coverage.

Key Features:

Vehicle-specific, technician-level detail, complete repair procedures, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, printable format, digital convenience.

Target Audience:

Owners and technicians who need precise, factory-verified information to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on the 1988 Dodge Ramcharger.

Manual Advantage:

Empowers owners to perform complex repairs, saves money on labor costs, and ensures proper vehicle maintenance, enhancing longevity and resale value.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1988 Dodge Ramcharger

Page Count:

Not specified (implied comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac. Requires Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip.

Additional Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free download).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Body and Frame: Structural integrity, body panel alignment, rust repair considerations, door and window mechanisms, exterior trim, interior upholstery and trim.

Procedures Included:

HVAC system service: refrigerant handling (if applicable to the era's systems), blower motor, evaporator and condenser servicing, heater core replacement, and control panel diagnostics.

Technical Depth:

Engine mechanical (compression testing, cylinder head removal/installation, piston ring replacement), transmission overhaul (gearbox disassembly/reassembly, clutch replacement), differential and axle servicing, body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Printable Pages, Enlargable Images

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF), Printable

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

5.2L (318) V8 Magnum (most likely standard on base models)

Optional Engines:

5.9L (360) V8 Magnum, 3.9L (239) V6 Magnum (potentially available depending on specific configurations)

Performance:

Specific horsepower, torque, and engine diagnostic specifications detailed in the manual. 5.2L typically produced around 140-150 HP, 5.9L around 170-190 HP.

Fuel System:

Fuel Injection (likely Throttle Body Injection - TBI or Multi-Port Fuel Injection - MPI depending on engine variant and emission standards)

Engine Codes:

Specific engine codes (e.g., for 5.2L V8, 5.9L V8) will be provided in the manual for precise identification of components and specifications.

Cooling System:

Radiator capacity, thermostat specifications, fan operation (mechanical or electric), water pump replacement procedures, and coolant type/mixture ratios.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, ignition timing adjustment procedures, and troubleshooting ignition module issues.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold removal/installation, catalytic converter servicing, muffler and pipe replacement, and troubleshooting exhaust leaks.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

3-Speed Automatic (A727 TorqueFlite)

Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (A500/A518) or 4-Speed Manual (NP435) for certain configurations.

Features:

Detailed overhaul, adjustment, and diagnostic procedures for all applicable transmission types, including fluid specifications and capacity.

Transfer Case:

Manual (New Process NP241) or Electronic (NP242) for 4x4 models. Detailed service and repair procedures for the transfer case.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4-wheel drive (4WD) configurations covered. Detailed procedures for drive shafts, universal joints, differentials (front and rear), and axle bearings.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

Full-size SUV dimensions. Specific length, width, height will vary slightly by configuration, but generally around 177-185 inches (L) x 79 inches (W) x 65-69 inches (H).

Interior:

Two-door configuration with substantial passenger and cargo volume. Specific interior dimensions for headroom, legroom, and shoulder room will be detailed.

Cargo:

Generous cargo space behind the front seats, with folding rear seat for expanded capacity. Specific volume in cubic feet provided.

Weights:

Curb weight typically ranging from 4,000 to 4,500 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) will be higher, indicating payload capacity.

Wheelbase:

Typically 104.2 inches.

Ground Clearance:

Varies by suspension and tire size, but generally sufficient for off-road use. Manual will provide specific measurements.

Tire Size:

Common factory tire sizes such as P235/75R15 or LT235/75R15. Manual will detail recommended tire pressures and specifications.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

Typically 5x5.5 inch (5x139.7mm).

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

Safety ratings for 1988 models were less standardized than today. The manual will detail passive safety features like seat belts and structural integrity.

Active Features:

Brake systems (front disc, rear drum), power steering for maneuverability. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) may have been an option on some later 1988 models.

Passive Features:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts), reinforced body structure, shatter-resistant glass. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) not standard, but may be mentioned if available for specific components.

Braking System:

Front: Power-assisted front disc brakes. Rear: Power-assisted rear drum brakes. Manual provides specifications for pad/shoe thickness, rotor/drum measurements, fluid type, and bleeding procedures.

Steering System:

Manual and power steering systems, including steering gear, tie rod ends, power steering pump, and hydraulic lines. Adjustment and replacement procedures.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic factory radio systems (AM/FM, cassette player). Speaker configurations and troubleshooting for audio systems are covered.

Driver Assistance:

Limited to power steering and potentially ABS as an option. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems (ADAS) typical of modern vehicles.

Connectivity:

No external connectivity features. Internal vehicle diagnostics rely on mechanical and electrical testing detailed in the manual.

Instrument Panel:

Detailed diagnostics and repair for gauges, warning lights, odometer, and speedometer. Wiring diagrams for the instrument cluster are included.

Cruise Control:

Diagnosis and repair of vacuum or electronic cruise control systems, including actuator, vacuum lines, speed sensor, and control module.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Detailed intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes (coolant, transmission, differential, power steering), spark plug replacement, belt inspections, and more, tailored to engine and transmission types.

Fluid Specifications:

Specific oil viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-30, 5W-30), coolant type and mixture (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant), ATF type (e.g., ATF+3 or ATF+4 for automatic transmissions), differential gear oil type, power steering fluid specification.

Known Issues:

The manual will likely address common issues for this era, such as carburetor adjustments (if equipped on earlier models or specific trims), fuel pump reliability, ignition system components (e.g., distributor, spark plug wires), exhaust system leaks, and potential for rust in certain climates. Electrical gremlins are also a possibility in vehicles of this age.

Spark Plugs:

Specific spark plug type, gap setting, and torque specifications will be listed for each engine option.

Oil Filter Part Numbers:

Commonly used oil filter part numbers (e.g., Mopar MO-090, Wix 51515, Fram PH8A) will be cross-referenced or listed.

Battery Specifications:

Battery type (e.g., group size 24F), terminal configurations, and charging system voltage specifications.

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, and evaporative emission control system (EVAP) components and their servicing. Diagnostic procedures for emission-related faults.

Lubrication Points:

Chassis lubrication points (grease fittings) for suspension and steering components, drive shaft U-joints, and other critical moving parts. Recommended lubricant types and intervals.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history in trucks and utility vehicles, with the Ramcharger being a significant model in their SUV lineup.

Model Evolution:

The 1988 Ramcharger is part of the second generation (1981-1993), known for its body-on-frame construction, truck-based platform, and robust capabilities. This generation saw styling updates and powertrain refinements.

Production:

Produced primarily at Chrysler's Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois. The 1988 model year represents a specific iteration within the second generation's lifecycle.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

Competitors:

Ford Bronco, Chevrolet K5 Blazer, GMC Jimmy.