🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 2500

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

BR/BE (2nd Generation RAM)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Heavy-duty pickup truck

Target Audience:

Owners performing DIY maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics, fleet managers

Competitors:

Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD/GMC Sierra HD

Licensed Status:

Officially Licensed, indicating authenticity and potentially direct data from manufacturer.

Delivery Speed:

Instant availability online, a significant advantage over physical manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (likely PDF or proprietary application)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust, fuel system, cooling system

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, starting and charging systems, comfort and convenience features

Body:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seating, exterior trim

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation

Repair:

Component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuild procedures

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Type:

Software-based manual, offering searchability and potentially interactive diagrams. Likely delivered as an executable or via a platform.

Quality Notes:

Digital format allows for high-resolution illustrations and clear text. Printability may depend on the software's features.

Delivery Method:

Downloadable software or online access, not a physical bound manual.

N A:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.2L Magnum V8 (LA engine family), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (B Series), 8.0L V10 Magnum V10

5.2L Magnum V8:

Displacement: 5.2 L (318 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.91 x 3.58 in, Compression Ratio: 8.7:1, Horsepower: 230 hp @ 4000 rpm, Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm, Fuel System: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6:

Displacement: 5.9 L (359 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 4.02 x 4.72 in, Compression Ratio: 17.3:1, Horsepower: 215 hp @ 2400 rpm (early), 235 hp @ 2400 rpm (late), Torque: 420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (early), 460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (late), Fuel System: Bosch VE rotary injection pump (early), Bosch P7100 inline injection pump (late)

8.0L V10 Magnum V10:

Displacement: 8.0 L (488 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 4.00 x 3.88 in, Compression Ratio: 8.4:1, Horsepower: 300 hp @ 4000 rpm, Torque: 450 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm, Fuel System: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Power Delivery Notes:

Emphasis on torque for towing and hauling, especially in diesel variants.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (for V8 and V10), Diesel fuel (for I6)

Spark Plugs V8 V10:

Champion RC12LYC (5.2L), Champion RC10LYP (8.0L V10) - verify specific engine variant

Glow Plugs Diesel:

Mopar/Cummins original equipment recommended (specific part number varies by production date)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed Automatic (46RH, 47RH), 5-speed Manual (NV4500)

Diesel Transmission Standard:

5-speed Manual (NV4500)

46Rh 47Rh:

Hydraulic control with electronic overdrive, lock-up torque converter

Nv4500:

Heavy-duty manual transmission, known for durability, often paired with diesel engines

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar specification, equivalent to Dexron III/Mercon)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

New Venture Gear 5W-30 Synthetic (for NV4500, specific Mopar part number recommended)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

134.7 inches (standard cab), 154.7 inches (club cab/quad cab)

Length Options:

216.1 inches (standard bed), 235.6 inches (long bed)

Width:

79.3 inches

Curb Weight Approx:

4,800 - 6,000 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

8,800 - 10,000 lbs (depending on GVWR package)

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 13,000+ lbs (with proper equipment and configuration)

Payload Capacity Max:

Up to 4,000+ lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA frontal crash test ratings for 1997 models were not as comprehensively published as in later years. Focus was on structural integrity for heavy-duty use.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional rear disc brakes on some models. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) available on rear wheels only.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts with shoulder restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player or CD player. Analog gauges and controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS on rear wheels for braking control. No electronic stability control, traction control, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) found in modern vehicles.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket solutions are typically required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 5,000-10,000 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil quality and driving conditions, often with a fuel filter change).

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles, or more frequently under heavy towing.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 50,000-75,000 miles.

Engine Oil Gasoline:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on temperature).

Engine Oil Diesel:

API Service CD/CE/CF or Cummins CES 20071/20072 specification (typically 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic for colder climates).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170 or equivalent).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Diesel Issues:

Lift pump failure, injector pump issues (VE pump vs. P7100 differences), potential for head gasket leaks on early models, cracked exhaust manifolds.

Common Gasoline Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, exhaust manifold leaks, starter motor issues, occasional transmission solenoid issues.

General Truck Issues:

Radiator support rust, cab corner rust, universal joint wear, front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), AC system leaks.

Oil Filter 5.2L V8:

Mopar MO-090 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51045)

Oil Filter 5.9L Cummins:

Mopar 3931042 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51450, Baldwin BT254)

Air Filter Gasoline:

Mopar PA5133 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 42275)

Air Filter Diesel:

Mopar PA5050 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 42347)

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the RAM nameplate becoming iconic for its strength and utility.

Second Generation Ram:

The 1997 model is part of the second generation (1994-2001) of Dodge RAM trucks, which introduced a significant redesign with a distinctive 'bold' grille and improved aerodynamics. This generation also saw the introduction of the powerful Cummins turbodiesel engine.

Manufacturing Plant:

Saltillo Truck Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

1994-2001 (Second Generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Diesel Engine Award:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine from this era is highly regarded for its durability and performance, often cited as a benchmark in the diesel pickup truck market.

Truck Of The Year:

While specific 'Truck of the Year' awards for the 1997 model year may vary by publication, the second-generation RAM trucks were generally well-received for their styling and capability.