1988 Dodge Ram 50 Manual Transmission

The 1988 Dodge Ram 50 features a rugged manual transmission system designed for reliable performance in light truck applications. Available with either 5-speed or optional 4-speed manual gearboxes, this transmission provides smooth shifting and durable operation. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Operation Guidelines 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Fluid Requirements 5. Shift Pattern 6. Clutch System 7. Common Issues 8. Troubleshooting 9. Repair Procedures 10. Warranty Information 11. Technical Support

Transmission Specifications

Key technical details for the 1988 Dodge Ram 50 manual transmission system.

Specification	Details
Transmission Type	5-speed manual (standard) / 4-speed manual (optional)
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.967, 2nd: 2.136, 3rd: 1.360, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.856, Reverse: 3.578
Final Drive Ratio	3.909:1 (standard)
Clutch Type	Single dry plate, diaphragm spring
Fluid Capacity	2.1 quarts (2.0 liters)
Fluid Type	API GL-4 gear oil 75W-85
Synchronizers	All forward gears synchronized
Case Material	Aluminum alloy
Weight	Approximately 75 lbs (34 kg)

Operation Guidelines

Proper shifting techniques and operational recommendations.

Always depress clutch pedal fully when shifting gears
Allow engine RPM to match gear speed during shifts
Avoid "riding" the clutch pedal
Use lower gears for heavy loads or steep grades
Do not rest hand on shift lever while driving

WARNING! Never shift into reverse while vehicle is moving forward. Complete stop required before reverse engagement.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal transmission performance.

Check transmission fluid level: Every 3,000 miles
Change transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Inspect clutch system: Every 15,000 miles
Check shift linkage: Every 10,000 miles
Lubricate shift mechanism: Every 5,000 miles

CAUTION! Use only specified GL-4 gear oil. GL-5 may damage synchronizers.

Fluid Requirements

Fluid Type: API GL-4 gear oil 75W-85
Capacity: 2.1 quarts (2.0 liters)
Change Interval: 30,000 miles or 24 months
Checking Procedure: Remove fill plug on side of transmission case
Fluid Level: Should be at bottom of fill hole threads
Drain Plug: Located at bottom of transmission case

Shift Pattern

Standard 5-speed shift pattern with reverse lock-out feature.

	5th
3rd		4th
1st		2nd
Reverse (push down)

Note: Reverse gear requires pushing shift lever downward while moving left and forward.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system specifications and maintenance.

Components: Clutch pedal, master cylinder, slave cylinder, release bearing, pressure plate, clutch disc.

Clutch pedal free play: 0.4-0.8 inches (10-20mm). Hydraulic fluid: DOT 3 brake fluid. Bleed procedure: Standard hydraulic bleeding method. Clutch disc wear limit: Minimum thickness 0.275 inches (7.0mm).

Common Issues

Typical problems encountered with 1988 Ram 50 manual transmissions.

Difficulty shifting into gear: Worn synchronizers or low fluid
Gear grinding: Worn clutch or synchronizer issues
Transmission noise: Bearings or gear wear
Fluid leaks: Worn seals or gaskets
Stuck in gear: Shift linkage problems

Tip: Regular fluid changes prevent most common transmission issues.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting	Low fluid, worn synchronizers	Check fluid level, inspect synchronizers
Gear popping out	Worn shift forks, detent springs	Inspect internal shift mechanism
Transmission noise	Bearing failure, gear damage	Diagnose noise source, replace components
Fluid leaks	Seal failure, case damage	Replace seals, repair case as needed
Clutch slippage	Worn disc, hydraulic issues	Adjust clutch, inspect hydraulic system

Repair Procedures

Basic repair and replacement guidelines.

Transmission removal: Support engine, disconnect driveshaft, remove crossmember
Clutch replacement: Remove transmission, replace clutch components
Seal replacement: Drain fluid, remove old seals, install new seals
Shift linkage adjustment: Set proper alignment for smooth operation
Bearing replacement: Complete transmission disassembly required

WARNING! Transmission weighs approximately 75 lbs. Use proper lifting equipment.

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage and service limitations.

Basic warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain coverage: 5 years/50,000 miles. Transmission specifically covered under powertrain warranty. Service must be performed by authorized Dodge dealership. Keep maintenance records for warranty validation.

Technical Support

Factory service information and technical assistance.

Chrysler Corporation Technical Service Bulletins available for known issues. Factory service manual part number: 81-370-0926. For technical assistance, contact Dodge Customer Service at 1-800-4ADODGE or visit authorized Dodge service centers.