🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2008

Body Style:

Pickup Truck

Generation:

Fourth Generation (DS/DJ)

Platform Code:

DS (Heavy Duty), DJ (Light Duty)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, catering to commercial, fleet, and personal heavy-duty use.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust truck platform, powerful engine options, towing and hauling capabilities, available heavy-duty configurations.

Benefit To Owner:

Enables DIY maintenance and repairs, reduces reliance on costly dealership services, enhances understanding of vehicle systems, facilitates accurate diagnosis of issues.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All models and all engines for the 2008 Dodge Ram Truck

Secondary Coverage:

Complete repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar e-book format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed diagnosis, disassembly, inspection, assembly, and repair of all engine components (e.g., pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, cylinder heads, blocks)

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system, starting system, charging system, emissions control systems, powertrain control module (PCM) diagnostics, wiring diagrams

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis, maintenance, overhaul, torque converter, valve body, seals, clutch packs, planetary gears for W5A580 and 48RE transmissions

Transmission Manual:

Diagnosis, maintenance, overhaul of NV3500, NV4500, NV5600 manual transmissions

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive (4WD) system operation, transfer case service (e.g., NV244, NV271D, NV273D), driveshaft balancing and U-joints, propeller shafts, axle assemblies (Dana 44, Dana 60, Chrysler 9.25)

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (e.g., control arms, ball joints, tie rods, springs, shock absorbers), steering system (e.g., steering gear, power steering pump, hydraulic lines), alignment specifications

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS components, brake fluid specifications, master cylinder, power booster, front and rear brake systems (disc/drum, caliper/rotor replacement, brake shoe adjustment), parking brake system

Electrical System Chassis:

Lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), fuse and relay locations, battery system

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant type, charging, component replacement), heating system, ventilation, climate control module diagnosis

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat removal, chassis lubrication, rust prevention, frame straightening procedures

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, oxygen sensors

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change intervals and procedures, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), tire rotation, fluid checks and top-offs

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues; symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing all major and minor components across all systems (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, thermostat, brake pads, ball joints, sensors)

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing procedures, actuator testing, PCM relearn procedures, oscilloscope usage recommendations

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners (e.g., engine bolts, suspension components, wheel lug nuts, brake caliper bolts)

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including component identification and connector pinouts

Rebuilding Procedures:

Complete overhaul instructions for engines and transmissions, including inspection limits and assembly procedures

Specifications And Tolerances:

Precise measurements, clearances, and wear limits for engine parts, bearings, clutch packs, and other critical components

Depth Level:

Expert Level - Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (searchable text, indexed for quick navigation, printable pages)

Print Readability:

High-resolution graphics and clear text for easy reading and printing of diagrams and schematics.

Digital Access:

Instant download access, or delivered on CD/USB for physical copies.

Physical Manual Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (Heavy Duty)

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 310 hp @ 5650 rpm

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

5.7L Hemi Horsepower:

Approx. 345 hp @ 5650 rpm

5.7L Hemi Torque:

Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

6.7L Cummins Hp:

Approx. 350 hp @ 3000 rpm (later models up to 385 hp)

6.7L Cummins Torque:

Approx. 650 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (later models up to 850 lb-ft)

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline; Common Rail Diesel Injection (CRDI) for Cummins

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended); Diesel fuel (B20 compatible)

Engine Identification Codes:

EZA (4.7L), ESG (5.7L HEMI), DEO (6.7L Cummins)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options Light Duty:

5-speed manual (NV3500), 4-speed automatic (42RLE, 45RFE)

Transmission Options Heavy Duty:

6-speed manual (NV5600), 5-speed automatic (W5A580 - Mercedes), 4-speed automatic (48RE - Cummins)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up, overdrive gear

Manual Transmission Features:

Overdrive gear for fuel economy, heavy-duty clutch systems

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific weights (e.g., SAE 75W-90, SAE 75W-140)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

139.0" (standard cab), 159.0" (extended cab), 171.4" (crew cab/mega cab)

Overall Length Options:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 230.4" to 260.8")

Bed Lengths:

6'4" (short bed), 8'0" (long bed)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,800 - 6,500+ lbs (varies by configuration)

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 13,000+ lbs (for properly equipped Heavy Duty models)

Payload Capacity Max:

Up to 3,000+ lbs (for properly equipped Heavy Duty models)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star (front and rear passengers)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available Electronic Traction Control

Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, available side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Optional Uconnect infotainment system, AM/FM/CD/MP3 players, SiriusXM satellite radio, auxiliary input jack.

Available Driver Aids:

ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera, Trailer Tow Mirrors, Trailer Brake Controller (factory option).

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth connectivity (with Uconnect), USB ports (with Uconnect).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (diesel); Every 30,000-60,000 miles (gasoline, often in-tank)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage, consult manual)

Engine Oil Specification 4.7L 5.7L:

SAE 5W-20 (API SN or newer)

Engine Oil Specification 6.7L Cummins:

SAE 15W-40 CJ-4 or CK-4 rated diesel engine oil

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - Mopar OAT (Orange)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems Gasoline Engines:

Lifter tick (especially 5.7L HEMI), EGR valve issues, ignition coil failures, manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor issues.

Common Problems Diesel Engines:

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration issues, EGR cooler failures, injector problems, turbocharger issues, potential fuel injector line leaks.

Common Problems Transmissions:

W5A580 (Mercedes) can have solenoid issues; 48RE can experience torque converter shudder; worn U-joints in driveshafts.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, steering gear play, front end shimmy.

Common Problems Electrical:

TIPM (Total Integrated Power Module) failures leading to various electrical gremlins, sensor failures (ABS, speed), HVAC blower motor issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, establishing the Ram nameplate as a strong contender in the market.

Ram Generation History:

The 2008 model is part of the fourth generation (2009-2018, though the 2009 redesign carried into this platform), known for its bold styling, improved interiors, and updated powertrains, including the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins.

Manufacturing Location:

Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Varies by specific configuration and year, generally competitive within its segment.

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

Not awarded for 2008 model year, but Ram trucks have received this prestigious award in other years.