🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Generation:

Second Generation (BR/BE series)

Platform Codes:

BR for 2WD, BE for 4WD

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Ram of this era was a dominant player in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its ruggedness, towing capacity, and distinctive styling. This manual caters to owners and technicians working on these robust vehicles.

Competitors:

Competed directly with the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra.

Vehicle Strengths:

Strong V8 engine options, durable chassis, excellent towing and payload capabilities, bold 'macho' styling.

Manual Utility:

This workshop manual is indispensable for maintaining the reliability and performance of the 1998-2001 Dodge Ram, providing in-depth technical guidance for DIY repairs and professional servicing.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

Covered Models:

All Dodge Ram Truck models (1500, 2500, 3500)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick navigation to specific topics.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear printing of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, rings, connecting rods, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox operation, overhaul procedures, maintenance for manual transmissions (e.g., NV3500, NV4500).

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body, hydraulic controls, transmission fluid, overhaul and repair for automatic transmissions (e.g., 46RE, 47RE, 48RE).

Drivetrain:

Drive shafts, universal joints, differentials (front and rear), axle housings, hub assemblies, transfer case operation and repair (for 4WD models).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system, power steering, shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, control arms, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on trim/year), ABS system components, hydraulic lines, brake fluid, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, starting system, charging system (alternator), lighting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator).

Body Interior:

Interior trim removal and installation, seats, dashboard, door panels, body exterior panels, bumpers, glass, seals.

Body Exterior:

Doors, hood, tailgate, body panel repair, rust prevention, paint code location.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problems and solutions.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major components (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump, brake calipers).

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, reassembly, and break-in.

Transmission Rebuild:

Overhaul instructions for both automatic and manual transmissions, including torque specifications and component identification.

Brake Service:

Pad and shoe replacement, rotor and drum resurfacing/replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder repair/replacement, bleeding the brake system.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Testing circuits, diagnosing electrical faults using multimeters and wiring diagrams, component testing.

Alignment Procedures:

Specifications for caster, camber, and toe; procedures for adjustment.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.

Diagnostic Tools:

Guidance on using diagnostic scan tools (OBD-II), multimeters, and specialized equipment.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive listing of torque specifications for all major fasteners and components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for various systems, often broken down by component or circuit.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.2L (318 ci) Magnum V8, 5.9L (360 ci) Magnum V8, 5.9L (359 ci) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (2500/3500 models).

5.2L Magnum:

Approx. 230-235 hp @ 4500 rpm, 300-305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L Magnum:

Approx. 245-250 hp @ 4000 rpm, 330-335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

Approx. 215 hp @ 2700 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (specific figures varied slightly by year and tuning)

Gasoline Engines:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel Engine:

Bosch VE rotary injection pump (early) or P7100 inline injection pump (later, with potential for upgrades), Turbocharged.

Gasoline:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with distributor cap and rotor (coil-on-plug not standard).

Gasoline:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation).

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

NV3500 (5-speed) for lighter duty models, NV4500 (5-speed heavy duty) for some 2500/3500 models.

Automatic Transmission:

46RE (3-speed + Overdrive) for 5.2L V8, 47RE (3-speed + Overdrive) for 5.9L V8 and 2500/3500 Diesel, 48RE (upgraded 47RE) used later in the run.

Transfer Case:

New Process NP241DHD (heavy duty) for 4WD models, featuring part-time four-wheel drive with a 2-speed gear reduction.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 (Mopar specific) or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab), Quad Cab (four-door extended cab, introduced later).

Wheelbase:

Varied by cab and bed length: 118.7" (Regular Cab short bed), 134.7" (Regular Cab long bed / Club Cab short bed), 154.7" (Club Cab long bed / Quad Cab short bed), 167.7" (4x2 Long Bed Crew Cab).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,500 - 6,000+ lbs depending on configuration and engine.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

GVWR ranged from approx. 6,000 lbs (1500) to over 9,000 lbs (3500).

🛡️ Safety Features

Frontal Crash Test Results:

Performed adequately for its time; the manual would detail specific structural elements and safety features.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, especially rear-wheel ABS on earlier models and 4-wheel ABS on later models or higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

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

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player or CD player, optional premium audio systems, speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Tow Haul Mode:

Available on some automatic transmissions to optimize shifting for towing.

Trailer Wiring:

Factory trailer wiring harnesses available, though connector types and pinouts would be detailed in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions. Manual will specify exact intervals.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic transmissions: 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual transmissions: 60,000-100,000 miles. Manual will provide specific recommendations.

Coolant Change:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years. Manual will specify coolant type and interval.

Engine Oil:

5.2L/5.9L Magnum: SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic blend/synthetic recommended. 5.9L Cummins: SAE 15W-40 diesel engine oil.

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (AF) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Coolant leaks from intake manifold (especially the plastic lower manifold on some models), exhaust manifold leaks, transmission cooler line leaks, dashboard cracking (heat exposure), ABS sensor failures, rear main seal leaks on V8 engines, vacuum leaks.

Oil Filter Example:

Ph8A or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51515, Fram PH8A)

Air Filter Example:

Various part numbers depending on engine; consult manual for specific fitment (e.g., Fram CA3550).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate originating in the 1980s and evolving into its distinct identity by the 1990s.

Second Generation Ram:

Introduced in 1994, the second-generation Ram represented a significant redesign, featuring bold, aggressive styling with a prominent grille and a more aerodynamic, yet still muscular, body. This generation saw continuous refinement through 2001.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in the United States.

Key Milestones During Period:

Introduction of Quad Cab (1998), updated interior and exterior styling, increased power for Magnum V8s, and enhanced diesel engine performance.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motortrend Truck Of The Year:

While not specific to 1998-2001, the second-generation Ram platform received MotorTrend's 'Truck of the Year' award for its debut in 1994.