How do you determine the model of transmission in a 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 van with 5.9 engine from VIN?

You can't definitively determine the transmission type (e.g., automatic, manual, specific automatic model like 46RH, 47RE) of a 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 van solely from the VIN. The VIN provides information about the vehicle's specifications, but the transmission isn't always explicitly encoded in a way easily deciphered by looking at the VIN alone. While some VIN decoders might *suggest* a likely transmission based on other VIN data (engine, model year, etc.), it's not guaranteed to be accurate.

To find the exact transmission model, you need to:

* Check the transmission itself: Look for a tag or casting number on the transmission case. This number can be cross-referenced with online resources or a parts manual to identify the exact model.

* Check the vehicle's documentation: If you have the original owner's manual or other paperwork, it might list the transmission type.

* Check the build sheet (if available): A build sheet (sometimes called a window sticker) provides detailed information about the vehicle's specifications, including the transmission. These are sometimes available online through third-party services or if you can find your van's original documentation.

* Use a vehicle history report: Companies that provide vehicle history reports (e.g., Carfax, AutoCheck) might have this information, though it's not always guaranteed to be present.

In short, while the VIN is a useful starting point for identifying a vehicle's specifications, you'll need to use other methods to definitively determine the transmission model in this instance.