Three problems related to manual transmission have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Ram 2500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When shifting from fourth to fifth gear the bolt holding 5th gear in place came off the shaft which allowed the 5th gear to move and no longer be in position to function. This problem feels as if you were shifting from forth gear to neutral instead of 5th gear. Dealer was familiar with this particular problem and indicated that it's common to these vehicles. Consumer feels that Chrysler should be responsible for a recall and should cover the cost of repairs.
5th gear failed while going down a slight (~4%) grade while using the engine and the exhaust brake. Fortunately the speed was slow enough that it was possible to downshift. I consider this a safety hazard. If the speed had been higher or it was not possible to downshift an accident could have easily occurred. This is not an uncommon problem with the 5-speed transmission in the Dodge cummins diesel trucks. There is some information on the internet indicating that this is rather common. This problem appears to be a design flaw. The repair invoice indicates that a 'nut package" was required to prevent this from occuring again. This indicates that the original design is flawed. This should be a recall item, but probably isn't and won't be because of the cost to fix ($675. ) I have submitted a complaint and request for repair reimbursement to Chrysler. It has been denied because of the time or mileage limitations have been exceeded. However, it is both a safety issue and a design flaw, and both should be addressed.
While driving at freeway speed 5th gear suddenly lets go; acts like suddenly pressing clutch while at speed. Problem appears without warning, startles driver and leaves driver without power to avoid vehicles approaching in rear. Only response is to move to right without power to avoid accident. Had repaired by az dealer first time with "new redesigned" parts and same problem happened exactly one year later on 2/10/00 at 87615 miles. Problem fixed with same parts again by CA dealer. This is a safety issue. The truck is not capable of driving in 4th gear at freeway speeds (truck has 4:10 ring and pinion). Both transmission mechanics have repaired several vehicles with same problem.