🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2008

Platform Code:

DS/TH

Vin Digit 8 Engine Code:

X (3.7L V6), N (4.7L V8), E (5.7L V8 HEMI), C (5.9L Cummins Diesel), G (6.7L Cummins Diesel)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Dodge Ram Truck was positioned as a full-size pickup truck known for its robust capability, distinctive styling, and a range of powerful engine options, including potent HEMI V8 and Cummins diesel variants. It competed in a highly contested segment against the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and Toyota Tundra.

Competitive Analysis:

In 2008, the Ram offered a compelling blend of towing and payload capacity, a comfortable ride, and a range of engine choices that catered to both work and performance-oriented buyers. The availability of the legendary 5.9L and 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engines was a significant differentiator for commercial and heavy-duty users.

Key Features:

Distinctive Ram grille and crosshair design, available 5.7L HEMI V8 with MDS (Multi-Displacement System), powerful Cummins turbodiesel engines (5.9L and 6.7L), variety of cab and bed configurations, available four-wheel drive, spacious interior with available premium features.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and workshop information for the 2008 Dodge Ram Truck.

Page Count:

Extensive (Exact page count not specified, but typical factory service manuals are 1500+ pages)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, ignition system, starting and charging system, clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), transfer case, drive shafts, axles, suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, Traction Control), wheels and tires, body and frame, interior trim, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical system (wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, ECUs), diagnostics and troubleshooting, body control modules (BCM), restraints (airbags).

Procedures:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, repair procedures, overhaul procedures, electrical system diagnostics, HVAC system repair, body panel repair, suspension and steering alignment, brake system bleeding and repair, engine tuning and adjustments, emissions control system servicing, torque specifications, tightening sequences.

Depth:

In-depth, factory-level technical information including detailed diagnostic procedures, component specifications, electrical schematics, and repair instructions suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages with clear diagrams and text. Searchable text functionality included.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins ISB Turbo Diesel (last year of production), 6.7L Cummins ISB Turbo Diesel.

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5200 rpm

3.7L V6 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

230 hp @ 4500 rpm (later models 310 hp @ 5650 rpm)

4.7L V8 Torque:

290 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (later models 330 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)

5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5000 rpm

5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

5.9L Cummins Horsepower:

305 hp @ 2800 rpm

5.9L Cummins Torque:

555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm

6.7L Cummins Horsepower:

345 hp @ 2400 rpm

6.7L Cummins Torque:

610 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm

Fuel System Gasoline:

Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel System Diesel:

Common Rail Fuel Injection (CR)

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized, liquid-cooled

Lubrication System Type:

Pressurized wet sump

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) for 3.7L and 4.7L, 4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE) for 4.7L and 5.7L, 6-Speed Manual for 5.9L Cummins Diesel (limited availability), 6-Speed Automatic (68RFE) for 6.7L Cummins Diesel.

Optional Transmission:

6-Speed Manual (NV3500) for 3.7L V6, 6-Speed Manual (G56) for Diesel engines, 4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE) for 5.7L HEMI, 6-Speed Automatic (68RFE) for 6.7L Cummins Diesel.

Transmission Features:

Includes Electronic Range Select (ERS) on automatic transmissions. Diesel automatics feature Tow/Haul mode. Manual transmissions offer robust construction for heavy-duty applications.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

135.5 inches (Regular Cab, Short Bed), 140.5 inches (Quad Cab, Short Bed), 159.5 inches (Regular Cab, Long Bed), 160.5 inches (Crew Cab, Short Bed), 171.5 inches (Quad Cab, Long Bed), 172.5 inches (Crew Cab, Long Bed).

Bed Length Options:

6'4" (Short Bed), 8' (Long Bed)

Cargo Volume Interior:

Varies by cab configuration, typically spacious with large center console storage and under-seat storage options on some trims.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,700 lbs to 6,500 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Up to 8,800 lbs (for heavy-duty configurations)

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 10,000+ lbs (with appropriate configurations and diesel engine)

Max Payload Capacity:

Up to 3,000+ lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Frontal Offset Score:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Score:

Good

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (available on some models/trims).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional), occupant classification system, front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchor system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Available Uconnect hands-free communication system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, premium audio systems, DVD entertainment system on some trims. Basic AM/FM/CD/MP3 radios were standard.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkSense Rear Park Assist (optional), Trailer Tow Group with integrated trailer brake controller (optional, especially with diesel engines).

Connectivity Options:

Uconnect system provided Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Some models may have USB ports or auxiliary audio inputs.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Diesel engines typically have longer intervals.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage. Diesel transmissions often require specific interval service.

Engine Oil 3.7L V6:

SAE 5W-20, API SN/SM, meeting MS-6395. Capacity: 6 Quarts (5.7 L).

Engine Oil 4.7L V8:

SAE 5W-20, API SN/SM, meeting MS-6395. Capacity: 6 Quarts (5.7 L).

Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi V8:

SAE 5W-20, API SN/SM, meeting MS-6395. Capacity: 7 Quarts (6.6 L).

Engine Oil 5.9L Cummins:

SAE 15W-40, API CJ-4 or CI-4 PLUS. Capacity: 11 Quarts (10.4 L).

Engine Oil 6.7L Cummins:

SAE 15W-40, API CJ-4 or CK-4. Capacity: 12 Quarts (11.4 L).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+4 (MS-9602). Capacity varies by transmission model (e.g., 45RFE/545RFE approx. 5-6 quarts pan drop).

Transmission Fluid Manual G56:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-3, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90).

Coolant:

Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange (MS-9769). Capacity: Approx. 15-18 Quarts (14.2 - 17 L) depending on engine and radiator.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4, check specific application).

Known Issues Common:

Pre-2006 4.7L V8 may experience valve seat recession or oil consumption. Some 5.7L HEMI models can have exhaust manifold bolt issues. Diesel models can experience injector issues or EGR system problems. Some early 2008 models might have early transmission fluid degradation issues if not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for producing rugged and capable trucks, with the Ram line being a cornerstone of its truck offerings since its introduction in 1981. Known for powerful engines and durable construction.

Model Evolution 2008:

The 2008 model year falls within the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram (introduced in 2009 for the all-new generation). This 2008 manual covers the final year of the third generation Ram (2002-2008), which featured a distinctive coil-spring rear suspension for improved ride quality, a bold crosshair grille, and the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins engine.

Production Locations:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions 2008:

The 2008 Dodge Ram received positive reviews for its styling, comfortable ride, and powerful HEMI V8 engine. While specific awards for the 2008 model year might be limited, the Ram platform consistently ranked well in customer satisfaction and capability benchmarks within its segment.

Fuel Economy Estimates:

Varies significantly by engine and configuration. V6 models typically range from 14-18 MPG city / 19-24 MPG highway. HEMI V8s around 13-17 MPG city / 17-21 MPG highway. Diesel engines offer better MPG, typically 16-20 MPG city / 20-25 MPG highway.