🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

1996

Platform Code:

BR/BE (Second Generation Ram)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners of 1996 Dodge Ram trucks seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as professional automotive repair shops.

Value Proposition:

Provides detailed, factory-level repair information to save on labor costs and ensure quality workmanship. Essential resource for maintaining the longevity and performance of the vehicle.

Diagnostic Focus:

Emphasis on troubleshooting and diagnostics for various systems, helping to pinpoint problems efficiently.

Repair Detail:

Step-by-step repair procedures with diagrams and illustrations where applicable.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Generations Covered:

1996 Dodge Ram (Second Generation - BR/BE Platform)

Trim Levels Covered:

All available trim levels for the 1996 model year

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000-3000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (2WD & 4WD, Transfer Case)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Instruments & Gauges, Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and related sensors/actuators

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Exterior Trim, Bumpers

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt and hose inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission service, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering linkage repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, engine specifications, dimensional data, alignment specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs, including component rebuilds and diagnostic procedures. Aimed at professional technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for clear viewing and printing

Searchability:

Searchable text for efficient information retrieval

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

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

Engine Code 3 9L:

1996: LSP / LT1 (3.9L V6 OHV 12V)

Engine Code 5 2L:

1996: LSP / LT1 (5.2L V8 OHV 16V)

Engine Code 5 9L:

1996: LSP / LT1 (5.9L V8 OHV 16V)

Horsepower 3 9L Approx:

175 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque 3 9L Approx:

230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Horsepower 5 2L Approx:

220 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque 5 2L Approx:

285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Horsepower 5 9L Approx:

230 hp @ 4000 rpm

Torque 5 9L Approx:

330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) for all Magnum engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed Automatic (42RE, 46RE, 47RE), 5-speed Manual (NV3500, G360)

Transfer Case Options:

New Process NV241 (manual shift), NV243 (electronic shift - 'Selectable 4WD')

Automatic Transmission Cooling:

External transmission fluid cooler integrated into the radiator or as a separate unit.

Manual Transmission Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated clutch system.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab), Crew Cab (later generations, but less common in '96 for Ram)

Wheelbase Options:

Various, depending on cab and bed configuration (e.g., 115" for standard bed regular cab, 135" for long bed regular cab, 140.5" for standard bed club cab)

Bed Lengths:

Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)

Gvwr Range:

Varies by configuration, typically from 6,000 lbs to 8,800 lbs or higher for heavy-duty variants.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Refer to specific NHTSA data for 1996 Ram 1500/2500/3500. Often 4-star or 5-star for driver/passenger in frontal impact.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard on front wheels, often optional or standard on rear depending on configuration and GVWR.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or standard depending on trim and build date.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts (lap and shoulder belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants in some configurations).

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player, or premium sound systems. Manual will cover radio removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting.

Cruise Control:

Standard on many trims, with system components, operation, and troubleshooting covered.

Trailer Wiring:

Wiring diagrams for trailer brake controllers and lighting systems are typically included.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., conventional vs. platinum).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on towing and severe usage.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API certified (check manual for exact viscosity and API service classification).

Engine Oil Capacity 3 9L V6:

Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity 5 2L V8:

Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity 5 9L V8:

Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent for automatic transmissions.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.

Engine Oil Sludge:

Magnum engines can be prone to oil sludge if maintenance is neglected, especially in early models without improved oil drain plugs. Regular oil changes are critical.

Transmission Overheating:

Automatic transmissions, especially when towing, can overheat. Ensuring proper fluid levels and considering an auxiliary cooler is recommended.

Rust And Corrosion:

Common in older vehicles, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Frame, rocker panels, and fender wells are susceptible.

Ignition System Failures:

Distributor caps, rotors, and ignition coils can fail over time, leading to misfires and starting issues.

Brake Wear:

Typical for heavy trucks; brake pads and rotors require regular inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history in the pickup truck market, dating back to the early 1930s, establishing a reputation for durability and capability.

Second Generation Ram:

The 1996 model year falls within the second generation (BR/BE) of the Dodge Ram, introduced for the 1994 model year. This generation marked a significant redesign with a more aggressive, bold styling and improved aerodynamics, earning it the nickname 'Big Rig'.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

The second-generation Ram platform received numerous 'Truck of the Year' awards from automotive publications upon its introduction, highlighting its styling and engineering advancements.