🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 3500

Year:

1996

Generation Name:

Second Generation Ram (1994-2001)

Vehicle Platform:

BR/BE Pickup

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 Dodge Ram 3500 was a heavy-duty pickup truck positioned as a robust workhorse, capable of significant towing and hauling. It competed in a segment with offerings from Ford (F-Series Super Duty) and Chevrolet/GMC (Silverado/Sierra Heavy Duty).

Key Selling Points:

Renowned for its bold styling, strong powertrain options, and rugged construction. The second generation Ram introduced a more aerodynamic design and improved interior comfort compared to its predecessors.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasized a 'big rig' aesthetic, making it stand out in the segment. Focused on utility and durability for professional and recreational use.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Service and repair procedures for the 1996 Dodge Ram 3500 Truck.

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed book (as per common manual sales)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (2WD/4WD).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, parking), wheels and tires.

Body And Electrical:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, starting and charging system.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, belt inspections.

Major Repairs:

Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilding, brake caliper replacement, steering component replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-II systems, symptom-based diagnosis.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing various components across all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and major component overhauls. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Printed Material

Print Quality:

Typically high-quality black and white printing with clear diagrams and illustrations. May include some color pages for specific components or troubleshooting flowcharts.

Binding Type:

Likely perfect bound or spiral bound for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock, often with a matte finish to reduce glare in shop lighting.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8 (Gasoline)

Engine Option 2:

8.0L (488 cu in) Magnum V10 (Gasoline)

Engine Option 3:

5.9L (359 cu in) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

5.9L Magnum V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 230-245 hp

5.9L Magnum V8 Torque:

Approx. 330-345 lb-ft

8.0L Magnum V10 Horsepower:

Approx. 300 hp

8.0L Magnum V10 Torque:

Approx. 450 lb-ft

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Horsepower:

Approx. 190-215 hp (depending on tuning)

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Torque:

Approx. 420-460 lb-ft (depending on tuning)

Gasoline Engines Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel Engine Fuel Delivery:

Bosch VE Rotary Injection Pump (Turbocharged)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 360 for diesel, NV4500 for gas/diesel).

Optional Transmission Gas:

4-speed automatic transmission (46RH/47RH).

Optional Transmission Diesel:

4-speed automatic transmission (47RH).

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD transfer case (New Process NP241DHD).

Overdrive:

Overdrive gear in automatic transmissions and 5-speed manuals for improved fuel economy on the highway.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 2Wd:

134.5 inches (Standard Bed), 154.5 inches (Long Bed)

Wheelbase 4Wd:

134.5 inches (Standard Bed), 154.5 inches (Long Bed)

Overall Length:

Varies by wheelbase and cab configuration (approx. 215-240 inches)

Bed Length Standard:

6.3 feet

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet

Curb Weight:

Typically ranging from 5,500 to 6,500 lbs, depending on configuration (engine, 4WD, cab type).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Exceeding 10,000 lbs (up to 11,500 lbs or more depending on specific configuration and axle ratios).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1996:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1996 are not readily available in a standardized format as today. However, heavy-duty trucks of this era prioritized structural integrity for their intended use.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels, with 4-wheel ABS becoming more common.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on this generation.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts, including shoulder belts for front occupants.

Frame Construction:

Robust ladder-frame construction designed for heavy loads and durability.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player available. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most models.

Trailer Brake Controller:

Not typically factory-integrated; aftermarket installations common.

OBD Ii:

OBD-II compliant for emissions and diagnostic reporting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gas Engine:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).

Oil Change Diesel Engine:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (diesel specific oil).

Fuel Filter Diesel:

Typically every 12,000-15,000 miles for the Cummins diesel.

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Gas V8:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and API service category).

Engine Oil Diesel Cummins:

API CG-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 (Diesel Grade).

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar specific coolant recommended.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv4500:

Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid (SMT) or equivalent.

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (check for limited-slip additive if equipped).

Diesel Injection Pump:

Early VE rotary pumps on the 5.9L Cummins can develop leaks or internal wear, requiring rebuild or replacement.

Automatic Transmission Overheating:

Heavy towing can lead to automatic transmission overheating; auxiliary coolers are often recommended.

Rear Main Seal Leaks:

Rear main seal leaks can occur on both gasoline and diesel engines, especially with higher mileage.

Dashboard Cracking:

Dashboards are prone to cracking due to sun exposure over time.

4Wd Component Wear:

U-joints, transfer case, and front axle components can experience wear with off-road use or heavy loads.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing reliable trucks, with the Ram line evolving from the original Dodge D-Series trucks.

Second Gen Ram Introduction:

The second generation Ram debuted for the 1994 model year, marking a significant redesign with its distinctive 'big rig' styling and improved chassis.

1996 Updates:

The 1996 model year saw continued refinement of the second generation, with minor updates to features and potentially powertrain management.

Manufacturing Location:

Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA.

Production Years For 2Nd Gen:

1994-2001

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

The second generation Ram, including the 1996 model, received various accolades for its design and capability upon its introduction. Specific awards for the '96 model year are less commonly cited than the overall generation's impact.