Warning Lights and Indicators, Basic Troubleshooting of Common Issues
Technical Depth
Level:
Owner-Level Operation and Basic Maintenance
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Text-searchable (assuming a quality scan or original digital file)
Print Quality
Printability:
High-quality, printable from any computer
Illustration Quality:
Clearly illustrated with step-by-step instructions
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
Cummins ISB 6.7L (Common Diesel Engine)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder Turbocharged Diesel
Performance
Horsepower Diesel:
350 HP @ 3000 RPM (approximate, varies by configuration)
Torque Diesel:
650 lb-ft @ 1500 RPM (approximate, varies by configuration)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Diesel Fuel
Injection System:
High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR)
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) - Refer to manual for specific part numbers like Mopar 05103531EA
Lubrication System
Oil Type:
API CJ-4 or CK-4 rated SAE 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil (or SAE 5W-40 Synthetic for colder climates)
Oil Capacity:
12 Quarts (11.4 Liters)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual (NV5600 for some early configurations) or 6-Speed Automatic (68RFE)
Refer to manual; typically a high-quality manual transmission fluid like Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent GL-5 rated fluid.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 140.5" for Regular Cab, 160.5" for Crew Cab Short Bed, 171.5" for Crew Cab Long Bed)
Overall Length:
Varies (e.g., approx. 231" to 259")
Cargo
Bed Length:
6'4" (Short Bed) or 8' (Long Bed)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 6,500 - 7,500 lbs (varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
10,000 lbs (or higher depending on configuration)
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 15,900 lbs (properly equipped, check specific configuration and GCWR)
Max Payload Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (properly equipped)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not typically rated separately for heavy-duty trucks in the same way as light-duty vehicles. Focus is on overall structural integrity.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Advanced Frontal Airbags for driver and front passenger
Seatbelts:
3-Point Seat Belts with Pretensioners
Brake System:
Front: Vented Disc; Rear: Solid Disc (heavy-duty calipers and rotors suitable for load)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Speaker configuration varies by trim level.
Navigation:
Optional Factory Navigation System (likely a DVD-based system for this era)
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Optional Rear Parking Sensors
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard Auxiliary Audio Input Jack
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using recommended diesel engine oil.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 15,000-30,000 miles for primary and secondary fuel filters on diesel engines.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. More frequent replacement in dusty conditions.
Transmission Service:
Automatic: Drain and fill every 60,000-100,000 miles; Filter replacement often recommended concurrently. Manual: Inspect fluid condition periodically.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation and part number, e.g., Mopar Brake Fluid)
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Mopar P/N 05103336AA or equivalent) or ATF+4 in some applications (verify with manual).
Known Issues
Diesel Emissions System:
Potential for EGR cooler failures, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration issues, and NOx sensor problems in later production runs of this generation.
Transmission Issues:
Early 68RFE transmissions could experience issues with torque converter lock-up and solenoid failures; regular fluid changes are critical.
Suspension Components:
As with many heavy-duty trucks, front-end components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear over time due to load and road conditions.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, often associated with utilitarian and heavy-duty applications.
Model Evolution
Ram Generation:
This 2008 model falls within the fourth generation of Dodge Ram trucks (DS/DJ platform, 2002-2008), which saw significant updates and the introduction of the larger 6.7L Cummins engine.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo Truck Assembly, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly, Michigan, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Cummin Engine Reputation:
The Cummins 6.7L engine is highly regarded for its durability, reliability, and power, consistently earning accolades in the heavy-duty truck segment.
Truck Of The Year Awards:
While specific awards for the 2008 model may vary, Dodge Ram trucks generally receive positive reviews and recognition for their capability and value in the work truck segment.