Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, camshaft, piston, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (mechanical aspects).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) operation, sensor diagnostics, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearshift linkage, internal transmission components, removal and installation.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, transmission control module (TCM) operation, removal and installation.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axles, differential, drive shafts, CV joints, U-joints, four-wheel-drive system (transfer case operation and servicing).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS operation and diagnostics, hydraulic lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake system.
Suspension:
Front suspension (independent, twin-I-beam), rear suspension (leaf springs), shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints, steering linkage.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, tie rods, alignment specifications.
Electrical Chassis:
Lighting system, interior and exterior lighting, power windows, power locks, wipers, horns, instrumentation cluster, trailer wiring.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, blower motor, control panels.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, chassis and frame structural repair considerations.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed steps for removing and reinstalling major and minor components across all systems.
Rebuilding Overhauling:
Instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major assemblies.
Diagnostics And Testing:
Procedures for testing individual components, circuits, and systems using multimeters, scan tools, and specialized equipment.
Adjustments And Calibrations:
Specifications and procedures for adjusting brakes, clutch, idle speed, and calibrating sensors.
Wiring And Electrical Repair:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical circuits, connector repair, component replacement.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Focus:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, symptom analysis, and specific troubleshooting trees for common and complex issues.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
20,000 - 50,000 miles for automatic transmission fluid and filter, depending on usage (heavy towing requires more frequent changes).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check oil fill cap/manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on temperature).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Chrysler HOAT or OAT depending on service history; typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on early Magnum V8s before revised castings, though less common in '96 than earlier years).
Common Issue 2:
Transmission problems (OD clutch failure, torque converter issues in automatics).
Common Issue 3:
Rusty brake lines and fuel lines, especially in areas with road salt.
Common Issue 4:
Power steering leaks, pump noise.
Common Issue 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, blend door actuator issues.
