🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 1500

Year:

1996

Vehicle Platform:

Second Generation Dodge Ram (BR/BE series)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and fleet maintenance personnel requiring detailed repair and maintenance information for the 1996 Dodge Ram 1500.

Value Proposition:

Provides official, manufacturer-specific data, offering a significant advantage over generic repair guides. The software format ensures quick access and searchability, crucial for efficient diagnostics and repairs.

Digital Access:

Instant download and access, eliminating the need for physical shipping and storage. Searchable content for quick information retrieval.

Official Licensing:

Guarantees accuracy and completeness, derived directly from Chrysler Corporation's service documentation for the period.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveline, Axles, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS & Non-ABS), Wheels & Tires, Body & Frame, Interior Systems, HVAC, Exterior Components, Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting, Specifications & Tolerances, Maintenance Schedules

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era, software format may vary presentation)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download - likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Complete coverage of the 5.2L Magnum V8 and 5.9L Magnum V8 gasoline engines, including component identification, disassembly, assembly, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures. Coverage for the NV3500 manual transmission and the 46RE and 47RE automatic transmissions.

Chassis:

Detailed information on front and rear suspension systems (independent front suspension with torsion bars for 4x4, solid front axle for 4x2), steering system (power steering), and braking system (front disc, rear drum, with optional ABS).

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component location charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and troubleshooting guides for all vehicle electrical systems, including lighting, power windows, power locks, infotainment (basic for the era), instrument cluster, and engine control modules (ECMs).

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid flushes, and tire rotations.

Repair And Rebuild:

In-depth procedures for engine component repair (e.g., cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (ball joints, tie rods), and body panel repair.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, including engine performance problems, transmission shifting issues, electrical faults, and braking system anomalies.

Depth:

Expert level. Covers complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters necessary for professional-level repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital (likely searchable PDF or proprietary interactive software)

Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text (expected for official software)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8

Engine Option 2:

5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8

5.2L Horsepower Est:

230 hp @ 4800 rpm

5.2L Torque Est:

295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L Horsepower Est:

245 hp @ 4000 rpm

5.9L Torque Est:

335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Control Module (ECM)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Bore X Stroke 5.2L:

3.92 in x 3.57 in (99.5 mm x 90.6 mm)

Bore X Stroke 5.9L:

3.91 in x 4.02 in (99.3 mm x 102.1 mm)

Compression Ratio 5.2L:

9.1:1

Compression Ratio 5.9L:

8.7:1

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs (on most models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

NV3500 5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Option 2:

46RE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with overdrive)

Transmission Option 3:

47RE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (heavy-duty, often with 5.9L)

Torque Converter Stall Speed 46Re 47Re:

Varies by engine, typically around 1800-2000 RPM

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

118.8 inches (3018 mm)

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

135.0 inches (3429 mm)

Bed Length Standard:

6.25 feet (75 inches)

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet (96 inches)

Curb Weight Est 4X2:

4,400 - 4,800 lbs (2000 - 2177 kg)

Curb Weight Est 4X4:

4,800 - 5,200 lbs (2177 - 2359 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Est:

6,300 - 7,500 lbs (2858 - 3402 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance Est:

Class II (adequate to good)

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, typically on rear wheels for early models, four-wheel ABS later in the generation.

Airbags:

Driver side airbag standard. Passenger airbag not available on most 1996 models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seat belts with manual adjusters. Lap belts for center seating.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available. Speaker configuration varied by trim level.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls. Optional automatic climate control was not common for this year, but some advanced features might have been available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims, electronically controlled.

Trailer Towing Features:

Factory trailer towing packages available, including wiring harnesses and provision for trailer brake controllers (though integrated controllers were rare at this time).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil used).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or sooner if operating in dusty conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

75,000 - 100,000 miles (120,000 - 160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs (standard on later models of this generation).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions; clutch fluid flush for manual transmissions as needed.

Engine Oil Type Est:

API SG/SH rated. Viscosity: 5W-30 (winter), 10W-30 (summer) depending on ambient temperature (refer to manual for precise recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity 5.2L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

Engine Oil Capacity 5.9L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Chrysler's Type A (Green) or Type B (Orange) long-life coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol mixture, 50/50 with distilled water).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (or ATF+3/4)

Common Problems Engine:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on 5.9L), intake manifold gasket leaks, premature wear of camshaft lobes in high-mileage engines.

Common Problems Transmission:

Overdrive clutch failure in automatic transmissions (46RE/47RE), particularly if fluid is not maintained. Bearing noise in manual transmissions.

Common Problems Suspension:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to the truck's heavy-duty nature and potential off-road use. IWE (Integrated Wheel End) actuator issues on 4x4 models.

Common Problems Electrical:

Instrument cluster voltage regulator failure (causing gauge inaccuracies), faulty power window motors, and intermittent issues with door lock actuators.

Common Problems Body:

Rust in common areas such as rocker panels, cab corners, rear fender lips, and tailgate. Leaks around windshield and rear window seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Ram nameplate was introduced in 1981.

Second Generation Launch:

The second-generation Ram (BR/BE series) was introduced for the 1994 model year, marking a significant redesign from the previous generation with a more aerodynamic and sculpted body style, inspired by the styling of the Dodge Viper. The 1996 model year falls within this generation.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Model Year Changes 1996:

Minor updates for 1996 included revised interior trim, improved steering feel, and potential availability of four-wheel ABS on certain trims.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Contributions:

While the 1994 model year received 'Pickup Truck of the Year' awards from publications like MotorTrend and Four Wheeler, the 1996 model year continued the lineage of a highly regarded truck in its segment.