🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Model Generation:

Second Generation (BR/BE)

Product Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Vehicle Model Years:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance departments.

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Platform:

Body-on-frame construction, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive options.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential information for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Dodge Ram Truck from 1998-2001, enabling cost savings and ensuring proper vehicle function.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Coverage:

Global (primarily North American market specifications)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, assuming this is for a digital product)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, overhaul), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (MPI, components), ignition system, emissions control systems, engine diagnostics, troubleshooting.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (NV3500, NV4500), Automatic transmission (42RE, 44RE, 46RE, 47RE) service, overhaul, diagnostic procedures, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Drivetrain Systems:

Front axle, rear axle (Dana 44, Dana 60, Chrysler 9.25), driveshafts, universal joints, transfer case (NV235, NV241, NV243, NV244), differential service, clutch system (manual transmission).

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (independent front suspension for 4x2, solid front axle for 4x4), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system (power steering pump, steering gear), wheel alignment specifications, troubleshooting.

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (optional rear disc brakes on some trims), ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic system, component replacement, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, power door locks, power seats, horns, wiper systems, trailer towing wiring, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors, wiring diagrams.

Body Interior:

Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, door mechanisms, seats, HVAC system, body panel repair, glass replacement, sound deadening, underbody coatings.

Comfort Convenience:

Climate control system (A/C, heater), power accessories, interior lighting, seat adjustments, sound systems.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt and hose inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, exhaust system repair, body panel repair and replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and emissions-related issues using diagnostic tools and procedures outlined in the manual.

Installation Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing common wear items and components, including alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel injectors, sensors, and interior/exterior trim pieces.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repair, including component specifications and tolerances.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Details common diagnostic tools, scan tools (OBD-II), specialized wrenches, torque wrenches, multimeter, pressure gauges, and specific service tools for component removal/installation.

Technical Specifications Provided:

Torque specifications for fasteners, engine and transmission fluid capacities, diagnostic trouble code definitions, component clearances and tolerances, electrical resistance values, wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (typically, for workshop manuals of this era)

Text Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Image Quality:

Clear diagrams, illustrations, and photographs (expected for a comprehensive manual).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cu in), 5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cu in), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (24-valve).

5.2L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 230 hp @ 4,000 rpm

5.2L V8 Torque:

Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

5.9L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 245-250 hp @ 4,000 rpm

5.9L V8 Torque:

Approx. 330-335 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

5.9L Cummins Horsepower:

Approx. 215 hp @ 2,800 rpm (for 24-valve models)

5.9L Cummins Torque:

Approx. 420 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm (for 24-valve models)

Fuel Injection Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for V8 gasoline engines; Direct Injection (DI) with Bosch VP44 injection pump for Cummins diesel.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended for V8s), Diesel fuel (low sulfur recommended for Cummins).

5.2L V8 Engine Code:

318 (engine family code)

5.9L V8 Engine Code:

360 (engine family code)

5.9L Cummins Engine Code:

ISB (Integrated Services Backbone for Cummins)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (NV3500 for light-duty, NV4500 for heavy-duty applications)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (42RE, 44RE, 46RE, 47RE depending on engine and drivetrain)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, overdrive, torque converter lock-up.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (or equivalent GL-4 gear oil, manual specifies specific type)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 9602)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

130.2 inches (standard cab), 153.6 inches (long bed/club cab), 164.5 inches (quad cab on later models).

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration, e.g., approx. 229.7 inches for a standard bed quad cab.

Bed Lengths:

6.3 feet (standard), 8.0 feet (long bed).

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,500 - 6,000 lbs depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Ranges from 6,300 lbs to 8,800 lbs (depending on payload package and configuration).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Varies by year and specific test; generally good for its class at the time, but older standards apply.

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard on front wheels, optional on rear wheels for 2WD, standard on all wheels for 4WD.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front lap and shoulder belts, rear lap belts or shoulder belts depending on cab configuration.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Aftermarket upgrades common.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Towing Features:

Available tow package including trailer brake controller pre-wiring, heavy-duty cooling, and trailer tow mirrors.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II compliant system for emissions and engine diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendations).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months for the Cummins diesel engine, or as specified by Cummins (refer to manual).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on usage and transmission type (refer to manual).

Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles depending on coolant type and manufacturer recommendation (e.g., HOAT coolant).

Engine Oil Specification Gasoline:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for ambient temperature variations).

Engine Oil Specification Diesel:

API CG-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 (for Cummins 5.9L 24-valve).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (Mopar OAT or HOAT recommended).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Gasoline Engine Issues:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially on early 5.9L Magnum), ignition coil failures, distributorless ignition system (DIS) component issues, EGR valve problems (on some emission-controlled variants).

Common Diesel Engine Issues:

VP44 injection pump failure (due to low fuel pressure, heat), injector line failures, oil cooler line issues, front timing gear cover seal leaks.

Common Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission clutch pack wear (especially 47RE), torque converter issues, manual transmission synchro wear or bearing failures.

Common Chassis Suspension Issues:

Ball joint wear (especially on 4x4 models), U-joint wear, steering box looseness, exhaust manifold cracks (on Magnum V8s).

Common Electrical Issues:

Instrument cluster failures, headlight switch issues, wiring harness chafing, body control module (BCM) issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust trucks since the 1930s, establishing a reputation for durability and capability.

Second Generation Ram Launch:

The second-generation Ram (BR/BE platform) was introduced for the 1994 model year and underwent significant updates and redesigns, including the introduction of the Quad Cab in 1998.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Saltillo Truck Assembly (Mexico) and Warren Truck Assembly (Michigan, USA).

Model Year Changes 1998-2001:

1998: Introduction of Quad Cab, redesigned interior. 1999: Minor exterior styling tweaks, introduction of 24-valve 5.9L Cummins. 2000/2001: Refinements, potential package updates, introduction of newer transmission controls.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 1998-2001 models might be sparse, the Dodge Ram platform generally received positive reviews for its design and capability in its class.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Varies by year and specific configuration; generally noted for strong powertrain options but some issues with reliability in certain areas for these model years.