I am new to the dodge forum i have a 96 ram 1500 ext cab 4x4 5.2l 5spd this is my first dodge. Have a quick ? i am tryind to find info on what proper fluid to use in tranny can anyone help me??? lol also is there an issue with the 3500 when in top gear have to down shift on any grade pretty much i come to??? or is that telling me i need a clutch.

 

Welcome to the site. I will move this thread to the second generation Ram section,
FF

 

For the NV3500 you'll want to get your transmission gear oil from the dealership. It's an application-specific blend that was developed by Castrol for New Venture. I've heard that Mobil1 High Mileage 5W-30 synthetic is pretty close to the same formulation and will work, but if it were mine to do I'd go to the dealership and get the specified oil.

Your fifth gear is an overdrive, so it's perfectly normal to have to drop out of it to get power for hills.

 

I really wish they made more gas motors with a 5 speed. I'd kill for my 5.9 to not have the 46re. Your a lucky somebody.

 

Thanks guys for the help. this is my first time with the ram p/u. hopefully wont be the last either.