🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Line:

Ram Pickup

Body Style:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Cab Style:

Dodge Ram DC (Double Cab)

Year:

2008

Platform:

Dodge Ram (2nd Generation, DS/DR platform refresh)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, targeting commercial and personal use markets.

Competitors 2008:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.

Engine Options:

Renowned for its powerful HEMI V8 option.

Cab Configuration:

Double Cab offered significant rear-seat space for its era.

Durability:

Known for robust construction and towing capabilities.

Benefit To Owner:

Ensures correct part ordering for repairs, maintenance, or customization, saving time and avoiding incorrect purchases.

Benefit To Mechanic:

Essential tool for quick identification of OEM part numbers, facilitating efficient service and inventory management.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All mechanical and electrical components, body parts, and accessories for the 2008 Dodge Ram DC.

Engine Coverage:

4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8.

Transmission Coverage:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE), 5-Speed Automatic (68RFE - though less common in 2008 DC models).

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension (front/rear), steering, brakes (front/rear discs), exhaust system, fuel system.

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starting system, body control modules, instrument cluster, audio systems.

Body Coverage:

Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, tailgate, windows, seats, HVAC components, cooling system.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive parts catalog).

Type:

Parts Catalog / Parts List Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, CD-ROM, or online access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, exhaust manifolds, intake manifolds.

Drivetrain:

Transmission assembly (internal components), torque converter, transfer case (if applicable, 4x4), driveshafts, axles, differentials, CV joints.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension components (control arms, ball joints, springs, shocks), rear suspension components (leaf springs, shocks), steering gear, power steering pump, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake system.

Electrical Engine:

Alternator, starter motor, battery, ignition system components (coils, plugs), sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, O2 sensors), ECU/PCM connectors.

Electrical Body:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, turn signals, hazard lights, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, interior lighting, fuse boxes, relays, switches, horn.

HVAC:

Condenser, evaporator, compressor, heater core, blower motor, control panel, ducting.

Body Exterior:

Front/rear bumpers, grille, hood, fenders, doors, door handles, mirrors, tailgate, bed components, glass, windshield wiper system, exterior trim.

Body Interior:

Dashboard, seats, seat belts, steering wheel, interior door panels, headliner, floor mats, carpeting, console components.

Part Identification:

Detailed exploded views with part numbers and descriptions for every component.

Interchangeability:

Indicates if parts are interchangeable across different sub-models or options.

Assembly Disassembly:

Provides the order and types of fasteners for component installation and removal (implied by exploded views).

Depth:

Comprehensive parts catalog for ordering, replacement, and identification. Not a repair manual, but essential for correct part sourcing.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF with searchable text and high-resolution images.

Searchability:

High (for digital formats, allowing quick lookup by part number or description).

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear exploded diagrams and part identification.

Binding:

N/A (if digital). If printed, would typically be a durable comb or spiral binding for workshop use.

Paper Quality:

N/A (if digital). If printed, typically on heavy-duty paper resistant to shop grease and oil.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Name:

4.7L Magnum V8

Engine 1 Displacement:

4.7 Liters (285 cu in)

Engine 1 Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 90-degree V8

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approximately 310 hp @ 5600 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).

Engine 1 Torque:

Approximately 330 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).

Engine 1 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

3.37 in x 3.37 in (85.6 mm x 85.6 mm)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.1:1

Engine 1 Oil Capacity:

7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change.

Engine 1 Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 API SN or newer.

Engine 2 Name:

5.7L HEMI V8

Engine 2 Displacement:

5.7 Liters (345 cu in)

Engine 2 Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 90-degree V8, with HEMI cylinder head design and Multi-Displacement System (MDS).

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approximately 345 hp @ 5400 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).

Engine 2 Torque:

Approximately 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by tune).

Engine 2 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

3.92 in x 3.08 in (99.5 mm x 78.0 mm)

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Engine 2 Oil Capacity:

7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change.

Engine 2 Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 API SN or newer (check specific model year recommendations).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Model Standard:

45RFE / 545RFE

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Automatic (less common for 2008 DC, more prevalent in later years or heavy-duty applications)

Transmission Model Optional:

68RFE

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 10.7 US quarts (10.1 Liters) for 45RFE/545RFE (check manual for exact capacity).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Mopar ATF+4 (Type 9574) or equivalent.

Transfer Case Type:

NV244 (part-time 4WD with electronic shift) or NV244 (full-time 4WD with electronic shift) depending on configuration.

Transfer Case Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.0 US quarts (1.9 Liters) for NV244. Fluid type: Mopar NV244 Transfer Case Fluid or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 2008 Dc:

140.5 inches (3569 mm).

Overall Length 2008 Dc:

237.7 inches (6037 mm).

Overall Width 2008 Dc:

79.3 inches (2014 mm).

Overall Height 2008 Dc:

74.7 inches (1897 mm).

Front Track 2008 Dc:

67.8 inches (1722 mm).

Rear Track 2008 Dc:

67.3 inches (1709 mm).

Ground Clearance 2008 Dc:

Approximately 8.3 inches (211 mm).

Curb Weight Approx 2008 Dc:

5,000 - 5,500 lbs (2268 - 2495 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw Approx:

6,500 - 7,300 lbs (2948 - 3311 kg) depending on configuration.

Payload Capacity Approx:

1,500 - 2,000 lbs (680 - 907 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity Max Approx:

Up to 8,000 - 9,000 lbs (3629 - 4082 kg) depending on configuration, engine, axle ratio, and towing package.

Bed Length 2008 Dc:

6'4" (Short Bed) is common for Double Cab.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver 2008:

5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger 2008:

5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver 2008:

5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger 2008:

5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger 2008:

5 Stars (specific model and test may vary).

NHTSA Rollover Resistance 2008:

3 Stars (specific model and test may vary).

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System).

Traction Control:

Available on higher trims or optional.

Electronic Stability Control:

Not standard on all 2008 models, typically optional or on higher trims.

Airbags Front:

Standard front driver and passenger airbags.

Airbags Side:

Available side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants (optional).

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants; three-point belts for rear occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Base AM/FM with CD player, optional premium audio systems with amplifiers, subwoofer, and in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Navigation System:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Trailer Tow Mirrors:

Optional larger tow mirrors, often power-adjustable and heated.

Power Outlets:

12V power outlets for accessory charging.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available on most trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-6,000 miles (4,800-9,600 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

4.7L V8: Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using original equipment (e.g., Champion copper plugs). 5.7L HEMI V8: Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using original equipment (e.g., Champion copper plugs designed for MDS).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on severe usage. Refer to owner's manual for exact interval.

Coolant Flush Interval:

First flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter. Use Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for optimal performance and component longevity.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid (Type MS-5915) or equivalent (ATF+4 may be specified for some models).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Radiator Failure:

Plastic end tanks can crack over time, leading to coolant leaks.

Transmission Shift Issues:

545RFE transmission can sometimes develop delayed shifts or harsh engagement, often related to solenoid packs or fluid condition.

Heater Core Leaks:

Prone to leaking, often resulting in coolant smell inside the cabin and fogged windows.

Throttle Body Issues:

Electronic throttle bodies can become dirty or fail, causing rough idle or stalling.

Front End Component Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can wear prematurely due to the truck's weight and typical use.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

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

Ram Generation 2008:

The 2008 model represents the latter part of the second generation Ram (DS/DR platform, introduced in 1994 with a significant refresh in 2002).

Key Updates 2002 Refresh:

The 2002 refresh brought a completely new exterior design, updated interior, revised powertrains (including the introduction of the HEMI), and improved chassis dynamics.

Manufacturing Locations:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Competitor Comparisons 2008:

Frequently ranked highly in comparisons for power and towing capacity.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied, often praised for powertrain but noted for ride quality and interior refinement compared to some competitors.

Emission Standards:

Meets U.S. EPA and California LEV II emission standards for its respective engine options.