🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 2500

Year:

1998

Platform:

BR/BE (Second Generation Dodge Ram)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Owners, professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, fleet operators.

Competitors:

Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD/3500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD.

Engine Options:

Renowned for its robust V8 gasoline engines and the legendary Cummins Turbo Diesel.

Durability:

Built for heavy-duty work, emphasizing strength, towing capacity, and longevity.

Offering Value:

Provided a compelling blend of capability and value in the heavy-duty truck market.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Software (Digital Manual)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF, executable, or specialized viewer)

File Format:

Digital Software (Likely Proprietary or PDF-based)

Searchability:

Typically high searchability within the software for keywords and topics.

Update Frequency:

Not applicable for a specific model year manual, as it reflects factory specifications for that period.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, and repair for all engine variants including V8 Magnum and Cummins Turbo Diesel.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), emissions control, starter, alternator, and related wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for NV4500 (5-speed manual) and Getrag 5-speed manual transmissions.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair procedures for 47RH (4-speed automatic with lock-up converter) and 48RE (4-speed automatic) transmissions.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, differential repair, transfer case (NV241 HD/DHD), driveshaft maintenance, and U-joint replacement.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component service (leaf springs, shock absorbers, ball joints, steering linkage), steering gear repair, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brake service (including ABS), rear drum brake service, parking brake system, hydraulic system, and component replacement.

Electrical Body:

Lighting systems, power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horns, interior and exterior trim, and related electrical components.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, climate control operation, and component diagnostics.

Body Chassis:

Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal and installation, cab mounting, bumper service, and exterior hardware.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank and pump service, fuel filter replacement, fuel lines, and diesel injection system specifics.

Preventive Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and inspections.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and common problem identification for all major systems.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable components, from spark plugs to engine assemblies.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major mechanical units.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, and component testing procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of all critical torque specifications for fasteners across all vehicle systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Accuracy:

High accuracy due to official licensing, providing reliable diagnostic trees and repair information.

Component Diagrams:

Detailed exploded views and diagrams for all major component assemblies.

Wiring Schematics:

Complete and accurate wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, essential for troubleshooting.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Gasoline Option 1:

8.0L (488 ci) Magnum V10 OHV

Gasoline Option 2:

5.9L (360 ci) Magnum V8 OHV

Diesel Option:

5.9L (359 ci) Cummins Turbo Diesel (ISB) I6

8.0L V10 Horsepower:

300 hp @ 4000 rpm

8.0L V10 Torque:

450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L V8 Horsepower:

230 hp @ 4000 rpm

5.9L V8 Torque:

330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L Cummins Horsepower:

215 hp @ 2500 rpm

5.9L Cummins Torque:

420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm

Gasoline Injection Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel Injection Type:

Inline injection pump (VE or P7100 depending on specific Cummins variant, typically P7100 for '98 2500).

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

NV4500 5-Speed Manual (common with Cummins)

Automatic Transmission:

47RH 4-Speed Automatic with Overdrive and Lock-up Torque Converter (common with V8s)

Transfer Case:

New Venture Gear NV241 HD or NV241DHD (Heavy Duty / Off-Road 4WD)

Drivetrain Configurations:

2WD and 4WD

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

134.7 inches

Wheelbase Club Cab:

160.8 inches

Bed Length Standard:

8.0 feet

Bed Length Optional:

6.5 feet (less common for 2500)

Gvwr Gas:

8,800 - 9,000 lbs (approx.)

Gvwr Diesel:

9,500 - 10,000 lbs (approx.)

Payload Capacity:

Varies by configuration, typically 2,000 - 4,000 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Varies by configuration, can exceed 10,000 lbs with proper equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Not directly rated by NHTSA for this era of heavy-duty trucks in the same manner as passenger cars; focus on high GVWR and stability.

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags (standard)

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, and optional CD player. Basic analog controls.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trims.

Towing Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller wiring provisions (factory trailer brake controller may be optional/aftermarket).

Telematics:

Not present in the modern sense; basic vehicle diagnostics via OBD-I/OBD-II ports depending on engine. Manual covers system checks.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gas:

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

Oil Change Diesel:

Every 7,500 - 15,000 miles or 12 months (using appropriate diesel oil)

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (ATF+4 or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (appropriate manual transmission fluid, e.g., GL-4 or GL-5)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years

Engine Oil Gas Spec:

API SG/SH/SJ; SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 (check manual for specific recommendations based on temperature)

Engine Oil Diesel Spec:

API CI-4/CH-4/CG-4/CF (or ACEA E3/E5); SAE 15W-40 (most common) or 5W-40 synthetic

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar specification) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon

Manual Transmission Fluid Nv4500:

GL-3 or GL-4 (specific recommendation is critical for the NV4500 to avoid premature wear of synchros; avoid GL-5 unless specified by transmission manufacturer)

Gear Oil Spec:

API GL-5; SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90

Nv4500 5Th Gear Nut:

Potential for the 5th gear nut to loosen, leading to gear damage. Manual covers inspection and proper torque/staking.

Diesel Injector Pump:

Early VE pumps could be prone to failure; later P7100 are generally very robust. Manual covers diagnostics.

Automatic Transmission Cooler Lines:

Potential for corrosion and leaks in cooler lines, especially in rust-belt regions. Manual covers inspection and replacement.

Cab Mounts Bushings:

Wear and tear on cab mounting bushings can lead to rattling or a soft ride. Manual covers replacement.

Brake Wear:

Heavy-duty use can accelerate brake wear; manual provides inspection intervals and repair procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, particularly its Ram line, known for durability and towing prowess.

Second Generation Ram:

The 1994-2001 (second generation) Ram introduced a distinctive, aggressive styling and significant mechanical upgrades, including the introduction of the Cummins Turbo Diesel as a factory option for the half-ton and heavy-duty models.

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Saltillo, Mexico

Production Years For Gen:

1994-2001

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Performance:

The second-generation Dodge Ram, particularly with the Cummins diesel, was widely praised for its towing and hauling capabilities and distinctive styling, making it a strong contender in the heavy-duty market.