Market Position:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics seeking accurate, factory-level repair information for the 1996-1997 Dodge Ram 1500.
Competitive Analysis:
Distinguishes itself as an 'Actual Genuine Repair Service Factory Manual,' differentiating from third-party or generic repair guides, providing authoritative data.
Key Features:
Complete factory coverage, detailed illustrations and diagrams, advanced troubleshooting guide, print-on-demand flexibility, direct access to technician-level knowledge.
Cost Savings:
Enables users to save significantly on labor costs by performing DIY servicing and repairs.
Systems Covered:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Cooling System Coverage:
Detailed procedures for radiator, water pump, thermostat, heater core, and cooling fan diagnostics and replacement.
Fuel System Coverage:
Includes fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement, fuel injector diagnostics and service, and fuel pressure regulation.
Electrical System Coverage:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, starter and alternator testing, power distribution, lighting systems, and accessory circuits.
Suspension Coverage:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, replacement (ball joints, tie rods, shocks/struts, springs), alignment specifications.
Steering Coverage:
Power steering system diagnostics, steering gear service, linkage inspection, and power steering pump replacement.
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic and repair procedures, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, restoration, tuning
Engine Repair Procedures:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing replacement, timing component service.
Brake System Repair Procedures:
Front and rear brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum service, caliper/wheel cylinder overhauls, brake line inspection and replacement, ABS system diagnostics.
Chassis Body Repair Procedures:
Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal and installation, door and tailgate adjustments, rust repair considerations.
Restraint System Procedures:
Airbag system diagnostics, seat belt inspection and replacement, SRS component information.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering fundamentals to advanced diagnostics and repair, mirroring factory-trained technician knowledge
Troubleshooting Guide:
Advanced troubleshooting guide with symptom-based diagnostics and flowcharts to pinpoint issues.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Includes hundreds of detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos for clarity. Features enlarged insets for close-up part identification.
Primary Engine 1:
5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cu in)
Horsepower 1:
230 hp @ 4,000 rpm (approximate)
Torque 1:
300 lb-ft @ 2,400 rpm (approximate)
Primary Engine 2:
5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cu in)
Horsepower 2:
245 hp @ 4,000 rpm (approximate)
Torque 2:
335 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (approximate)
Primary Engine 3:
3.9L Magnum V6 (239 cu in)
Horsepower 3:
175 hp @ 4,800 rpm (approximate)
Torque 3:
230 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (approximate)
Fuel System:
Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all Magnum engines.
Wheelbase:
130.1 inches (Standard Cab), 154.7 inches (Club Cab)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., approx. 223.4 inches for standard cab, short bed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically 6,000 - 6,500 lbs
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 recommendations).
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on use (towing, heavy loads).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges and engine types).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification), or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 viscosity (refer to manual for specific NV3500 requirements).
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5 gear oil, viscosity varies with temperature (refer to manual for specific recommendations for front and rear differentials).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or equivalent.
Common Issues:
Valve body issues in automatic transmissions (especially 46RE), plenum gasket leaks (early Magnum engines), differential bearing noise, rear main seal leaks, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, rust on rear quarter panels and cab corners.
