🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2008

Product Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Vehicle Platform:

DS

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, truck owners seeking in-depth knowledge

Competitors:

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

Purpose:

Empower owners and technicians with the knowledge to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot the 2008 Dodge Ram.

Value Proposition:

Cost savings through self-repair, improved vehicle reliability, and deeper understanding of the vehicle's systems.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Dodge Ram Trucks

Trim Levels Covered:

ST, SLT, SLT Plus, Laramie, Sport, TRX, TRX4 (all configurations)

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 2000+

Type:

Comprehensive Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, internal components, cylinder head, block assembly, timing, valves, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods

Engine Lubrication:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, lubrication passages, oil pressure diagnostics

Engine Cooling:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan, cooling system diagnostics

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel tank, evaporative emissions (EVAP) system

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, wiring, ignition timing

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors (O2 sensors)

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear shifting mechanisms, internal components

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, transmission control module (TCM), planetary gearsets, clutch packs, seals, fluid diagnostics

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, universal joints, front/rear axles, differential, transfer case (4WD models)

Suspension:

Front suspension (e.g., independent, solid axle), rear suspension (e.g., leaf springs), shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars

Steering:

Power steering pump, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster

Body Control Module Bcm:

BCM operation, diagnostics, related circuits

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control panel

Body Exterior:

Doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, fenders, body panels, glass, mirrors

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, interior trim, carpeting, airbags, seat belts

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, battery checks

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common and complex issues across all major systems

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts and components

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics)

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using scan tools, multimeters, and specialized diagnostic equipment

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners

Schematics:

Includes electrical schematics and wiring diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content

Readability:

High-resolution images and text for clear viewing and printing

Print Ability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P/N 53032952AC), 5.7L HEMI V8 (P/N 53032952AE), 3.7L Magnum V6 (P/N 53032952AB)

Engine Family 4.7L:

PowerTech Magnum V8

Engine Family 5.7L:

HEMI V8

Engine Family 3.7L:

PowerTech Magnum V6

Horsepower 4.7L:

Approx. 310 hp @ 5650 rpm

Torque 4.7L:

Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

Horsepower 5.7L:

Approx. 345 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque 5.7L:

Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 3.7L:

Approx. 215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 3.7L:

Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane recommended)

Bore Stroke 4.7L:

3.66 x 3.33 inches (93 x 84.5 mm)

Bore Stroke 5.7L:

3.92 x 3.58 inches (99.5 x 90.9 mm)

Bore Stroke 3.7L:

3.66 x 3.33 inches (93 x 84.5 mm)

Compression Ratio 4.7L:

9.0:1

Compression Ratio 5.7L:

9.6:1

Compression Ratio 3.7L:

9.6:1

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE / 48RE)

Optional Transmission:

6-Speed Manual (NV3500 for V6, NV5600 for V8 - rare)

4Wd System:

Electronic Shift-On-The-Fly (ESOF) for transfer case (part-time 4WD)

Transmission Fluid 45Rfe:

ATF+4 (Mopar Part Number: 68043742AA or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid 48Re:

ATF+4 (Mopar Part Number: 68043742AA or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

138.9 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

159.7 inches

Wheelbase Crew Cab:

159.7 inches

Bed Length Std:

6'4" (76.6 inches)

Bed Length Long:

8'0" (96.6 inches)

Curb Weight Estimate:

Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs depending on configuration

Gvwr Estimate:

Approximately 6,000 - 8,500 lbs depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)

IIHS Rating:

Good (all categories, though specific model year ratings can vary slightly)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Traction Control:

Available Electronic Traction Control (ETC)

Airbags:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), available side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio Options:

AM/FM stereo, CD player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, optional navigation system

Connectivity Options:

Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system (Bluetooth)

Cruise Control:

Standard

Parking Sensors:

Available rear park assist system

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (severe duty) or 7,500 miles (normal duty) using synthetic or synthetic blend oil

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions

Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L Hemi:

Every 100,000 miles (Multi-Discharge Spark Plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L V8:

Every 100,000 miles (Multi-Discharge Spark Plugs)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles for severe towing/hauling, or 60,000 miles for normal use (ATF+4)

Coolant Flush:

Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (using Mopar HOAT coolant)

Engine Oil 4.7L V8:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher (Mopar Part Number: 68157995AA or equivalent)

Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher (Mopar Part Number: 68157995AA or equivalent)

Engine Oil 3.7L V6:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher (Mopar Part Number: 68157995AA or equivalent)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769, HOAT)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar Part Number: 68043742AA or equivalent)

Hemi Tick:

Some 5.7L HEMI engines may exhibit a 'HEMI tick' due to lifter noise, often related to oil viscosity or deactivation system issues.

Transmission Slipping:

Early models and heavy-duty use can sometimes lead to transmission slipping or harsh shifting, often due to fluid breakdown or valve body issues.

Radiator Leaks:

Radiator plastic end tanks can degrade over time, leading to coolant leaks.

Ignition Coil Failure:

Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and rough running.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Dodge (Chrysler Group LLC)

Generation:

Fourth Generation (2002-2008)

Redesign Notes:

The 2008 model year represents the final iteration of the fourth-generation Ram before its significant redesign for 2009. Notable for its distinctive exterior styling and the introduction of the HEMI V8.

Assembly Locations:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While the 2008 model itself wasn't a 'Truck of the Year' winner, the Ram platform has historically received numerous accolades, including MotorTrend's award for previous generations, highlighting its strong market presence.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varies by engine and specific components, but the manual provides the data to address potential reliability concerns.