🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2008

Platform:

DS/DJ

Chassis Code:

DS

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians, Fleet Owners, Enthusiasts

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the essential technical data and procedures for accurate diagnosis and repair, saving time and money on vehicle maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

North America

Estimated Page Count:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (all variants), Transmission (all variants), Drivetrain, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (front and rear, ABS, EBD), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses and Relays, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Instrument Cluster, Gauges and Indicators, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Wiper/Washer System, Horn

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Glass, Mirrors, Interior Trim, Seats, Body Sealing

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (A/C) system

Safety Systems:

Airbag System, Seat Belt System

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Explanations, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair and Replacement

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Component Dimensions, Alignment Specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Searchable PDF text

Image Resolution:

High-resolution graphics and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L V8 Magnum, 5.7L V8 HEMI MDS, 3.7L V6 Magnum

5.7L Hemi Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5400 rpm

5.7L Hemi Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

4.7L Engine Code:

EVC

5.7L Engine Code:

EZA

3.7L Engine Code:

END

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/48RE), 5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)

Manual Transmission:

Not widely available for 2008 models in most configurations, primarily automatic.

Tow Haul Mode:

Available on automatic transmissions for improved towing performance.

45Rfe/48Re Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

W5A580 Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 (ATF 134)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 2Wd Std Cab:

116.1 inches

Wheelbase 4X4 Quad Cab:

140.5 inches

Bed Length Standard:

6.3 feet (76.2 inches)

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet (96.0 inches)

Curb Weight Base Model:

Approx. 4,500 lbs

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 9,100 lbs (with appropriate configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

NHTSA Side Crash Test Rating:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front Crash Test:

Acceptable

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available Electronic Traction Control (ETC)

Stability Control:

Not widely available on 2008 models, later generations introduced it.

Airbags:

Frontal Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Available Side Curtain Airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Uconnect Multimedia System (available on some trims), AM/FM Stereo with CD Player, Satellite Radio (SiriusXM)

Navigation:

Optional GPS Navigation system

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors

Bluetooth:

Optional Uconnect Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval based on towing/heavy use)

Spark Plug Replacement:

90,000 - 100,000 miles (Long-life platinum or iridium plugs)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific engine requirements)

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problem Cluster:

Instrument cluster failure (pixelation, dead gauges) is a known issue, often requiring repair or replacement.

Common Problem Powertrain:

Rear main seal leaks, occasional transmission solenoid issues, and intake manifold gasket leaks (on some V8s).

Common Problem Suspension:

Ball joint wear, particularly on 4WD models, and worn sway bar links.

Oil Filter 5.7L Hemi:

Mopar MO-349 / Wix 57899 / K&N HP-3001

Air Filter 5.7L Hemi:

Mopar 04596265AB / Wix 49352

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks dating back to the 1930s.

Fourth Generation Ram:

The 2008 model is part of the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram, introduced in 2002, with significant updates in 2006.

2006 Refresh:

The 2006 update brought revised styling, the introduction of the HEMI engine with MDS, and updated interiors.

Manufacturing Locations:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While not awarded for the 2008 model year specifically, the Ram platform has received this award in prior generations.

Overall Reputation:

Consistently recognized for its bold styling, powerful engine options (especially the HEMI), and robust capability.