🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Wagon/Van/Truck

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (BR/BE)

Chassis Codes:

BR (Van/Wagon), BE (Truck)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Full-size van and wagon segment, often used for commercial, passenger transport, and recreational purposes.

Competitors:

Ford Econoline, Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana.

Value Proposition:

Provides essential part identification and numbering for efficient maintenance and repair, saving time and money.

Unique Selling Points:

Detailed illustrations and exploded views for clear part visualization.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Vehicle Lines:

Wagon/RAM Van

Covered Series:

1500, 2500, 3500

Covered Body Styles:

Van, Wagon

Covered Engine Variants:

3.9L V6 (EHC), 5.2L V8 (ELF), 5.2L V8 CNG (ELN), 5.2L V8 LPG (ELP), 5.9L V8 MPI (EML)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, but typically extensive for an illustrated parts catalog.

Type:

Illustrated Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Components:

Cylinder Block, Starter & Mounting, Throttle Body, Vacuum Canister, Speed Control

Braking System:

Front Brakes, Parking Brake Cables

Fuel System:

Fuel Tank

Electrical System:

Sensors, Switches, Horn

Chassis Components:

Frame

Exterior Trim:

Moldings, Tape Stripes

Cooling System:

Radiator, hoses, thermostat, fan clutch (part numbers for these components are critical).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, pipes, catalytic converter, muffler (part numbers for these replacement parts are essential).

Steering System:

Steering gear, power steering pump, linkages (part identification for these safety-critical components).

Suspension Components:

Ball joints, control arms, leaf springs (rear), shock absorbers (part identification for chassis and suspension repairs).

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, spark plug wires (part numbers for routine tune-ups and component replacements).

Part Identification:

Lookup correct part numbers for all components.

Vin Decoding:

VIN Plate Decoding Information

Depth:

Comprehensive part identification and numerical referencing for repair and replacement.

Catalog Purpose:

To provide OEM part numbers for ordering and replacement of virtually every component on the vehicle.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

All pages are printable.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Reader Requirement:

Latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader recommended.

Device Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows, Mac, iOS, BB, Android, etc.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8 (MPI), 5.2L V8 CNG, 5.2L V8 LPG

Engine Displacement Common:

3.9L (239 cu in), 5.2L (318 cu in), 5.9L (360 cu in)

Fuel Delivery Common:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Code Examples:

EHC (3.9L V6), ELF (5.2L V8), EML (5.9L V8 MPI)

Engine Layout:

Overhead Valve (OHV) V-engine configuration

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Typically A500/A518/A618 4-speed automatic transmissions (with overdrive on higher gears).

Optional Transmissions:

Manual transmissions were less common in vans/wagons but available on some truck models. Specific manual gearbox part numbers would be detailed in the catalog.

Overdrive Gear:

Most automatic transmissions featured a lock-up torque converter and overdrive for improved fuel economy.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Multiple wheelbase options were available, particularly for van and truck configurations, affecting overall length and cargo capacity.

Gvwr Ranges:

Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) varied significantly across the 1500, 2500, and 3500 series, indicating payload and towing capabilities.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1997:

Specific NHTSA crash test ratings for 1997 Dodge Ram Vans/Wagons would need to be researched from official sources, but as a large vehicle of its era, safety features were evolving.

Available Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels was standard or optional; front disc brakes were standard.

Standard Safety Features:

Driver and passenger airbags (where equipped), seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Base AM/FM radio, optional cassette or CD player, with varying speaker configurations depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Speed control (cruise control) systems were available on many models.

Telematics:

Basic connectivity features for the era, without advanced integrated telematics systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to the Owner's Manual for precise intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 for most gasoline engines, depending on climate. Diesel engines would have different specifications. The parts catalog may not list fluid specifications directly but is crucial for filter part numbers.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler proprietary specification) or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid specifications vary.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Water pump, radiator hoses, ignition components (plugs, wires), U-joints, rear main seal leaks, transmission solenoid issues, and exhaust manifold cracks on V8 engines.

Body Corrosion:

Corrosion can be an issue in certain climates, particularly on frame rails, rocker panels, and wheel wells.

Oil Filter Lookup:

The catalog would provide specific part numbers for oil filters, air filters, fuel filters, and cabin air filters (if equipped).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks and vans, building a reputation for durability.

Second Generation Ram:

The 1994-2001 (BR/BE platform) Ram introduced a distinctive 'swept back' grille design and a more aerodynamic profile compared to its predecessors. The van/wagon variants shared much of the powertrain and chassis components with the truck line.

Production Location:

Likely manufactured at Dodge assembly plants in North America.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 Ram Van/Wagon are not prominently documented, the Ram truck line itself has received various 'Truck of the Year' awards from automotive publications over different generations.