1987 B250 Ram Van Manual

The 1987 B250 Ram Van is a full-size cargo van manufactured by Dodge, featuring a robust chassis, powerful engine options, and versatile cargo space. This manual covers the 3.7L slant-six and 5.2L V8 engine variants with rear-wheel drive, three-speed automatic or four-speed manual transmission options, hydraulic brake system, independent front suspension, and comprehensive electrical systems. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Operating Instructions 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Engine Systems 7. Transmission and Drivetrain 8. Braking System 9. Electrical System 10. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: Steel body construction, front engine/rear-wheel drive configuration, cargo area with 245 cubic feet capacity, dual rear doors and sliding side door options.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	3.7L Slant-Six or 5.2L V8
Transmission	3-speed automatic or 4-speed manual
Braking System	Front disc/rear drum hydraulic brakes
Suspension	Independent front with leaf spring rear
Fuel Capacity	22 gallons
Payload Capacity	2,500 lbs maximum
Wheelbase	109 inches
Overall Length	178 inches
Cargo Area	8 feet length with 245 cu. ft. capacity
GVWR	6,200 lbs

Operating Instructions

Daily operation procedures and driving guidelines.

Starting procedure: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), turn to start position.
Shifting: Automatic - select gear; Manual - use clutch pedal and shift lever.
Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to Park (auto) or reverse (manual).
Loading: Distribute weight evenly, do not exceed payload capacity.

WARNING! Always check mirrors and blind spots before maneuvering. Load capacity must not be exceeded.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Every 3,000 miles: Change engine oil and filter
Every 6,000 miles: Rotate tires, check brake pads
Every 12,000 miles: Replace air filter, check spark plugs
Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, coolant flush
Every 60,000 miles: Replace timing belt (if equipped), check suspension components

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications during repairs.

Specifications

Engine: 3.7L Slant-Six (225 cu in) or 5.2L V8 (318 cu in)
Horsepower: 95 hp @ 3600 rpm (3.7L) / 140 hp @ 3600 rpm (5.2L)
Torque: 175 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (3.7L) / 245 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (5.2L)
Transmission: A727 3-speed automatic or NP435 4-speed manual
Fuel System: Single-barrel carburetor (3.7L) / Two-barrel carburetor (5.2L)
Brakes: Front disc 11.75", rear drum 11" x 2.5"
Tires: P215/75R15 standard
Electrical: 12-volt system, 60-amp alternator
Cooling System: 16-quart capacity with radiator

Controls and Instrument Panel

Dashboard layout and control functions.

Instrument Cluster: Speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure, ammeter, odometer.

Controls: Headlight switch, wiper control, heater/defroster, ventilation controls, emergency flashers.

Warning Lights: Oil pressure, alternator, brake system, seat belt reminder.

Steering Column: Ignition switch, turn signal lever, tilt steering (optional).

Engine Systems

Engine components and maintenance procedures.

Cooling System: Check coolant level regularly, inspect hoses for cracks
Fuel System: Replace fuel filter annually, check fuel lines
Ignition System: Replace spark plugs and wires as scheduled
Exhaust System: Inspect for leaks, replace damaged components
Lubrication: Use SAE 10W-30 oil, check levels weekly

Tip: Allow engine to warm up before driving in cold weather.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Transmission operation and drivetrain components.

Automatic Transmission: Check fluid level with engine running
Manual Transmission: Use GL-4 gear oil, check for leaks
Drive Shaft: Inspect universal joints for wear
Rear Differential: Use SAE 80W-90 gear oil, check level monthly
Clutch System: Adjust free play, replace worn components

WARNING! Do not shift manual transmission without using clutch. Avoid rapid acceleration.

Braking System

Hydraulic brake system maintenance and operation.

Brake Fluid: Use DOT 3 fluid, check reservoir level
Brake Pads: Inspect thickness, replace if below 1/8 inch
Brake Drums: Check for scoring, resurface if necessary
Parking Brake: Adjust cable tension for proper operation
Bleeding: Bleed system when replacing components

CAUTION! Test brakes after service. Replace worn components in axle sets.

Electrical System

12-volt electrical system components and troubleshooting.

Component	Specification
Battery	12V, 60Ah group size 24
Alternator	60-amp output
Starter	12V direct drive
Fuses	ATC blade type fuse panel
Lights	Headlights: 55/60W, Brake: 21W

Maintenance: Clean battery terminals, check belt tension, test charging system.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition/fuel	Check battery charge, spark plugs, fuel delivery
Overheating	Coolant/thermostat/radiator	Check coolant level, thermostat operation, radiator blockage
Brake vibration	Warped rotors/worn pads	Resurface rotors, replace brake pads
Transmission slipping	Low fluid/worn bands	Check fluid level, adjust bands, service transmission
Electrical issues	Alternator/battery/connections	Test charging system, clean connections, replace components

Service: Contact authorized Dodge service center for major repairs.

Parts: Use genuine Mopar parts for optimal performance.