Dodge 2006 DH Ram Owner's Manual
Dodge 2006 DH Ram Owner's Manual

Dodge 2006 DH Ram Owner's Manual

Dodge 2006 ram diesel truck owner's manual
Table of Contents

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SECTION
1

INTRODUCTION

2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE
4
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
5
STARTING AND OPERATING
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE
10
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 477
INDEX
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Summary of Contents for Dodge 2006 DH Ram

  • Page 1: Introduction

    TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION ............. 3 INTRODUCTION THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE...
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    CONTENTS Introduction ......4 A Message From DaimlerChrysler Corporation . . . 5 How To Use This Manual ....5 Warnings And Cautions .
  • Page 4: Introduction

    4 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION This manual has been prepared with the assistance of service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and various customer oriented documents. You are urged to read these publications carefully.
  • Page 5: A Message From Daimlerchrysler Corporation

    A MESSAGE FROM DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION DaimlerChrysler Corporation and Cummins welcome you as a new Dodge Ram Cummins Turbo Diesel- powered truck owner. Almost 100% of the heavy duty trucks in the United States are diesel powered because of the fuel economy, rugged durability, and high torque which permits pulling heavy loads.
  • Page 6: Van Conversions/Campers

    This number also appears on the Automobile Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on your vehicle. Save this label for a convenient record of your vehicle identification number and optional...
  • Page 7: Vehicle Modifications / Alterations

    INTRODUCTION 7 VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS WARNING! Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety and may lead to an accident resulting in serious injury or death. Vehicle Identification Number NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.
  • Page 9 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS A Word About Your Keys ....12 Key-In-Ignition Reminder ....12 Sentry Key —...
  • Page 10 10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Rearming Of The System ....26 To Set The Alarm ..... .27 To Disarm The System .
  • Page 11: Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle

    Exhaust Gas ......71 Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle ......72 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11 Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle .
  • Page 12: Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle 9

    12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS The double sided keys may be inserted into the locks with either side up. The keys for your new vehicle are enclosed in a plastic bag with a bar code label affixed to the front.
  • Page 13 loss of security protection. Additional Sentry Keys or Mobil Speed-pass™ devices held against or immediately adjacent to the ignition key when starting the engine may cause vehicle starting problems. If a problem occurs, remove the Sentry Key from the key-ring and attempt to start the vehicle again.
  • Page 14 14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Customer Key Programming You can program new keys to the system if you have two valid keys by doing the following: 1. Insert the first valid key into the ignition and turn the ignition to the ON position for at least 3 seconds but no longer than 15 seconds.
  • Page 15: Ignition And Steering Lock

    THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15 IGNITION AND STEERING LOCK Insert the key fully, and then turn the switch to one of the five illustrated positions. The key can be inserted or withdrawn only in the LOCK position. Manual Transmissions When the steering wheel is in the LOCK position, the steering and ignition systems are locked to provide...
  • Page 16: Automatic Transmissions

    16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Automatic Transmissions In the LOCK position, the steering and ignition systems are locked to provide antitheft protection for your ve- hicle. It may be difficult to turn the key from the LOCK position when starting your vehicle.
  • Page 17: Door Key

    DOOR KEY The same key used to start the vehicle is also used to unlock the doors. To unlock the vehicle doors, insert the key into the lock and turn. To lock the doors, insert the key and turn. DOOR LOCKS Manual Locks Front and Rear doors may be locked, by moving the lock plunger up or down.
  • Page 18: Power Door Locks - If Equipped

    18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Power Door Locks — If Equipped NOTE: Vehicles equipped with remote keyless entry do not have a passenger side door lock cylinder. Vehicles equipped with power door locks can be locked or unlocked from inside by either the use of the door lock switches located on the front doors or by pressing the LOCK or UNLOCK buttons on the Remote Keyless Entry key fob (if equipped).
  • Page 19 Automatic Door Locks If this feature is enabled, your door locks will lock automatically when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 15 mph. This feature is enabled when your vehicle is shipped from the assembly plant and can be disabled by using the following procedure: 1.
  • Page 20 20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Auto Unlock Feature Programming Customer Programming sequence to enable or disable the Auto Unlock Feature: 1. Enter your vehicle and close all doors. 2. Fasten your seat belt (fastening the seat belt will cancel any chimes that may be confusing during this program- ming procedure).
  • Page 21: Child Protection Door Lock

    Child Protection Door Lock To provide a safer environment for children riding in the rear seat, the rear doors of your vehicle have the child- protection door lock system. Child Protection Door Lock Location To use the system, open each rear door and slide the control UP to engage the locks and DOWN to disengage THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21 the child-protection locks.
  • Page 22: Remote Keyless Entry - If Equipped

    22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Avoid trapping anyone in a vehicle in a collision. Remember that the rear doors can only be opened from the outside when the child protection locks are engaged. NOTE: After setting the child protection door lock system, always test the door from the inside to make certain it is in the desired position.
  • Page 23: To Unlock The Doors

    To unlock the doors: Press and release the UNLOCK button on the key fob once to unlock only the driver’s door or twice to unlock all the doors. When the UNLOCK button is pressed, the illuminated entry will initiate, the parking lights will flash on twice and if installed, the cargo lamp will turn on for 30 seconds.
  • Page 24: Using The Panic Alarm

    24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 3. Continue to hold the LOCK button, wait at least 4 seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds, then press and hold the PANIC button. Release both buttons at the same time. 4.
  • Page 25: General Information

    General Information This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. This device must accept any interference that may be received including interference that may cause undesired operation.
  • Page 26: Security Alarm System - If Equipped

    26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE NOTE: Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back housing or the printed circuit board. 1. With transmitter buttons facing down, use a flat blade or dime to pry the two halves of the transmitter apart. Make sure not to damage the rubber gasket during removal.
  • Page 27: To Set The Alarm

    To Set the Alarm: The alarm will set when you use the power door locks, or use the Keyless Entry transmitter to lock the doors. After all the doors are locked and closed the SECURITY light in the instrument cluster will flash rapidly to signal that the system is arming.
  • Page 28: Windows

    28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WINDOWS Power Windows—If Equipped Power Window Switches The control on the left front door panel has up-down switches that give you fingertip control of all power windows. There is a single opening and closing switch on the front passenger door for passenger window control and on the rear doors of Quad Cab and Mega Cab models.
  • Page 29: Power Sliding Rear Window-If Equipped

    Window Lockout Switch (4 Door Models Only) The window lockout switch on the driver’s door allows you to disable the window control on the other doors. To disable the window controls on the other doors, press the window lock button. To enable the window controls, press the window control button again.
  • Page 30: Sliding Rear Window-If Equipped

    30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Sliding Rear Window—If Equipped A locking device in the center of the window helps to prevent entry from the rear of the vehicle. Squeeze the lock to release the window. Wind Buffeting Wind buffeting can be described as the perception of pressure on the ears or a helicopter type sound in the ears.
  • Page 31: Lap/Shoulder Belts

    WARNING! In a collision, you and your passengers can suffer much greater injuries if you are not properly buck- led up. You can strike the interior of your vehicle or other passengers, or you can be thrown out of the vehicle.
  • Page 32 32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts.
  • Page 33 Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions 1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and adjust the seat. Latch Plate 2. The seat belt latch plate is above the back of the front seat, next to your arm in the rear seat. Grasp the latch THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33 plate and pull out the belt.
  • Page 34 34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • A belt buckled into the wrong buckle will not protect you properly. The lap portion could ride too high on your body, possibly causing internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. •...
  • Page 35 WARNING! • A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as pos- sible and keep it snug.
  • Page 36 36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Standard Cab Front Center Three Point Belt 1. The front center seat belt on the Standard Cab may be disconnected to open up utilization of the storage areas behind the front seats. The black latch plate can be detached from the black keyed seat belt buckle located on the inboard side of the passenger seat.
  • Page 37 WARNING! • If the black latch and black buckle are not prop- erly connected when the seat belt is used by an occupant, the seat belt will not be able to provide proper restraint and will increase the risk of injury in a collision.
  • Page 38: Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage

    38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE In Use Position WARNING! If the black latch and buckle are not connected when the seat belt is used by an occupant, the seat belt will not restrain you properly. Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage In the front row outboard seats, the shoulder belt can be adjusted upward or downward to help position the belt away from your neck.
  • Page 39: Automatic Locking Restraint (Alr) Mode - If Equipped

    Adjusting Upper Shoulder Belt As a guide, if you are shorter than average, you will prefer a lower position, and if you are taller than average, you’ll prefer a higher position. When you release the anchorage, try to move it up or down to make sure that it is locked in position.
  • Page 40: Center Lap Belts

    40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 3. Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic locking mode. How To Disengage The Automatic Locking Mode Disconnect the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic lock- ing mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency)
  • Page 41: Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System (Beltalert)

    NOTE: These devices are not a substitute for proper seat belt placement by the occupant. The seat belt still must be worn snugly and positioned properly. The pretensioners are triggered by the airbag control module. Like the airbags, the pretensioners are single use items.
  • Page 42: Seat Belts And Pregnant Women

    42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 3. Within 60 seconds of starting the vehicle, unbuckle and then re-buckle the driver’s seat belt at least three times within 10 seconds, ending with the seat belt buckled. 4. Turn off the engine. A single chime will sound to signify that you have successfully completed the pro- gramming.
  • Page 43: Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (Srs)-Airbag

    WARNING! Using a seat belt extender when not needed can increase the risk of injury in a collision. Only use the seat belt extender when the lap belt is not long enough when it is worn low and snug, and in the recommended seating positions.
  • Page 44 44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Do not put anything on or around the airbag covers or attempt to manually open them. You may damage the airbags and you could be injured because the airbags are not there to protect you.
  • Page 45 Here are some simple steps you can follow to minimize the risk of harm from a deploying airbag. • Children 12 years and under should ride buckled up in a rear seat, if available. • Infants in rear facing child restraints must NEVER ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger front airbag unless the airbag is turned off (Standard Cab Vehicles Only).
  • Page 46 46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Relying on the airbags alone could lead to more severe injuries in a collision. The airbags work with your seat belt to restrain you properly. In some collisions the airbags won’t deploy at all. Always wear your seat belts even though you have airbags.
  • Page 47 The Window Airbag System, on vehicles equipped, consists of the following: • AIRBAG Readiness Light (shared with the front airbag system) • Window Bags Above the Side Windows. • Airbag Control Module (shared with the front airbag system) • Side impact sensors •...
  • Page 48 48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Ignoring the AIR BAG light in your instrument panel could mean you won’t have the airbags to protect you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you drive, have the airbag system checked right away.
  • Page 49 Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch – (Standard Cab Vehicles Only) THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49 The passenger front airbag is to be turned off only if the passenger: • is an infant (less than 1 year old) who must ride in the front seat because there is no rear seat, because the rear seat is too small for a rear-facing infant restraint or because the infant has a medical condition which...
  • Page 50 50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Whenever an airbag is turned off, even a lap/ shoulder belted passenger may hit their head, neck, or chest on the dashboard (instrument panel) or windshield in a crash. This may result in serious injury or death.
  • Page 51 If you do have a collision which deploys the airbags, any or all of the following may occur: • The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abra- sions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor.
  • Page 52 52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Window Airbags Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)—If Equipped The window airbag control module determines if a side collision is severe enough to require the side airbags to inflate. The window airbag control module will not detect roll over, front or rear collisions.
  • Page 53 Maintaining Your Airbag Systems WARNING! • Modifications to any part of the airbag system could cause it to fail when you need it. You could be injured because the airbags are not there to protect you. Do not modify the components or wiring, including adding any kind of badges or stickers to the steering wheel hub trim cover or the upper right side of the instrument panel.
  • Page 54: Event Data Recorder (Edr)

    54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE to inflate for your protection. Promptly check fuse num- bers 52 and 53 in the fuse and relay center. See your dealer if the fuse is good. Event Data Recorder (EDR) In the event of an airbag deployment, your vehicle is designed to record up to 2-seconds of specific vehicle data parameters (see the following list) in the event data recorder prior to the moment of airbag deployment.
  • Page 55: Child Restraint

    nature, such as would identify a particular driver, ve- hicle, or crash, will be treated confidentially. Confidential data will not be disclosed by DaimlerChrysler Corpora- tion to any third party except when: 1. Used for research purposes, such as to match data with a particular crash record in an aggregate database, provided confidentiality of personal data is thereafter preserved...
  • Page 56 56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Children 12 years and under should ride properly buck- led up in a rear seat, if available. According to crash statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seats rather than in the front. WARNING! In a collision, an unrestrained child, even a tiny baby, can become a missile inside the vehicle.
  • Page 57 infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing by children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) but are less than one year old. • Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in the front seat of a vehicle with a front passenger airbag unless the airbag is turned off.
  • Page 58 58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Improper installation can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. It could come loose in a collision. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions ex- actly when installing an infant or child restraint.
  • Page 59 Pull the belt from the retractor until there is enough to allow you to pass through the child restraint and slide the latch plate into the buckle. Then pull on the belt until it is all removed from the retractor. Allow the belt to return to the retractor, pulling on the excess web- bing to tighten the lap portion about the child re- straint.
  • Page 60 60 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Improper installation can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. It could come loose in a collision. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly when install- ing an infant or child restraint.
  • Page 61 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61 Mega Cab Rear Seats Child restraint systems having attachments designed to connect to the lower anchorages are now available. Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for connection to the seatback tether anchorage have been available for Quad Cab Rear Outboard Seats...
  • Page 62 62 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE some time. In fact, many child restraint manufacturers will provide add-on tether strap kits for some of their older products. Because the lower anchorages are to be introduced to passenger carrying vehicles over a period of years, child restraint systems having attachments for those anchor- ages will continue to have features for installation in vehicles using the lap or lap/shoulder belt.
  • Page 63 Installing the Child Restraint System WARNING! Do not install child restraint systems equipped with LATCH attachments in the center position of a Quad Cab model rear seat. The LATCH anchorages in this seat are designed for the two outboard seating posi- tions only.
  • Page 64 64 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Improper installation of a child restraint to the LATCH anchorages can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly when installing an infant or child restraint.
  • Page 65 2. Lift the cover (if so equipped), and attach the hook to the square opening in the sheet metal. 3. Install the child restraint and remove the slack in the tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular Cab Tether Strap Mounting THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65 Multiple Child Restraint Installation Sequence - (Quad Cab Rear Seats)
  • Page 66 66 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 5. Place a child restraint on the center rear seat and adjust the tether strap so that it will reach under the head restraint to the tether anchor directly behind the seat and to the anchor directly behind the right seat.
  • Page 67 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 67 Multiple Child Restraint Quad Cab...
  • Page 68 68 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Tether Anchorage Points at All Three Seating Positions (Mega Cab) 1. Place the child restraint on the seat and adjust the tether strap so that it will reach over the seat back under the head restraint to the tether anchor directly behind the seat.
  • Page 69: New Engine Break-In

    • The lap portion should be low on the hips and as snug as possible. • Check belt fit periodically. A child’s squirming or slouching can move the belt out of position. If the shoulder belt contacts the face or neck, move the child closer to the center of the vehicle.
  • Page 70: Safety Tips

    70 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! • During the first 500 miles (805 km) your new vehicle is driven, do not tow a trailer. Doing so may damage your vehicle. • Limit your speed to 50 mph (80 km/h) during the first 500 miles (805 km) of towing.
  • Page 71: Exhaust Gas

    Exhaust Gas WARNING! Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a poten- tially toxic gas that by itself is colorless and odorless. To avoid inhaling these gases, the following precau- tions should be observed: • Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in confined areas any longer than needed to move your vehicle in or out of the area.
  • Page 72: The Vehicle

    72 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle Seat Belts Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts, frays and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after an accident if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.) or if the front airbags have deployed.
  • Page 73: Understanding The Features Of Your Vehicle

    UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS Mirrors .......78 Inside Mirror ......78 Automatic Dimming Mirror—...
  • Page 74 74 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Reclining Seats ..... . . 108 Adjustable Head Restraints ....108 Manual Rotary Lumbar Support Adjustment —...
  • Page 75 Adjustment ......129 Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped ..130 To Activate .
  • Page 76 76 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Garage Door Opener — If Equipped ..141 Programming Homelink ....143 Canadian Programming/Gate Programming .
  • Page 77 Rear Cupholder — Quad Cab — If Equipped ......156 Rear Cupholder — Mega Cab ... . 156 Storage .
  • Page 78: Mirrors

    78 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE MIRRORS Inside Mirror The mirror should be adjusted to center on the view through the rear window. Annoying headlight glare can be reduced by moving the small control under the mirror to the night position (toward rear of vehicle).
  • Page 79: Automatic Dimming Mirror- If Equipped

    Automatic Dimming Mirror— If Equipped This mirror automatically adjusts for annoying headlight glare from vehicles behind you. You can turn the feature on or off by pressing the button at the base of the mirror. A light in the button will indicate when the dimming feature is activated.
  • Page 80: Exterior Mirrors Folding Feature

    80 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Vehicles and other objects seen in a right side convex mirror will look smaller and farther away than they really are. Relying too much on your right side convex mirror could cause you to collide with an- other vehicle or other object.
  • Page 81: Electric Rear Window Defroster And Heated Sideview Mirrors - If Equipped

    Power Mirror Switches Set the top switch to the left or right for the left or right mirror, and set it to the center off position to prevent accidentally moving a mirror when you are finished adjusting the mirror. To adjust a mirror, select left or right with the top switch, and press one of the four arrows for the direction you want the mirror to move.
  • Page 82 82 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE NOTE: Fold the 7 x 10 inch trailer towing mirrors rearward prior to entering an automated car wash. CAUTION! Do not attempt to fold the 7 x 10 inch trailer towing mirrors forward. The 7 x 10 inch trailer towing mirrors are not designed to be folded forward and doing so will damage the mirrors and/or vehicle.
  • Page 83: Hands-Free Communication (Uconnect™) - If Equipped

    UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 83 HANDS–FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect™) — IF EQUIPPED UConnect™ is a voice-activated, hands-free, in- vehicle communications system. UConnect™ allows you to dial a phone number with your cellular phone using simple voice commands (e.g., Call” “Mike” ”Work or Dial” “248-555-1212 ).
  • Page 84 84 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE The UConnect™ phonebook enables you to store up to 32 names and four numbers per name. Each language has a separate 32 name phonebook accessible only in that language. This system is driven through your Blue- tooth™...
  • Page 85: Operations

    Headset Profile), you may not be able to use any UCon- nect™ features. Refer to your cellular service provider or the phone manufacturer for details. The UConnect™ system is fully integrated with the vehicle’s audio system. The volume of the UConnect™ system can either be adjusted from the radio volume control knob, or from the steering wheel radio control (right switch), if so equipped.
  • Page 86 To complete the pairing process, you will need to refer- ence your cellular phone owner’s manual. One of the following vehicle specific websites may also provide detailed instructions for pairing with the brand of phone that you have: NOTE: • www.chrysler.com/uconnect • www.dodge.com/uconnect • www.jeep.com/uconnect...
  • Page 87 The following are general phone to UConnect™ System pairing instructions: • Press the ’Phone’ button to begin. • After the Ready prompt and the following beep, say Setup Phone Pairing. • When prompted, after the voice on beep, say Pair a Phone.
  • Page 88 88 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Dial by Saying a Number • Press the ’Phone’ button to begin. • After the Ready prompt and the following beep, say Dial. • System will prompt you to say the number you want call.
  • Page 89 Add Names to Your UConnect™ Phonebook NOTE: Adding names to phonebook is recommended when vehicle is not in motion. • Press the “Phone” button to begin. • After the Ready prompt and the following beep, say Phonebook New Entry. • When prompted, say the name of the new entry. Use of long names helps the voice recognition and is recom- mended.
  • Page 90 90 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE • You will then be asked for the name of the phonebook entry that you wish to edit. • Next, choose the number designation (home, work, mobile, or pager) that you wish to edit. •...
  • Page 91 • After you enter the name, the UConnect™ system will ask you which designation you wish to delete: home, work, mobile or pager. Say the designation you wish to delete. • Note that only the phonebook entry in the current language is deleted.
  • Page 92: Phone Call Features

    92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Phone Call Features The following features can be accessed through the UConnect™ system if the feature(s) are available on your cellular service plan. For example, if your cellular service plan provides three-way calling, this feature can be accessed through the UConnect™...
  • Page 93 second call is in progress. To go back to the first call, refer to Toggling Between Calls. To combine two calls, refer to Conference Call. Place/Retrieve a Call from Hold To put a call on hold, press the Phone’ button until you hear a single beep which will indicate that the call has been placed on hold.
  • Page 94: Uconnect™ System Features

    94 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Redial • Press the ’Phone’ button to begin. • After the Ready prompt and the following beep, say Redial. • The UConnect™ system will call the last number that was dialed on your cellular phone. Note: this may not be the last number dialed from the UConnect™...
  • Page 95 • After the Ready prompt and the following beep, say the name of the language you wish to switch to (English, Espanol, or Francais, if so equipped). • Continue to follow the system prompts to complete language selection. After selecting one of the languages, all prompts and voice commands will be in that language.
  • Page 96 96 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Your phone must be turned on and paired to the UCon- nect™ system to allow use of this vehicle feature in emergency situations when the cell phone has network coverage and stays paired to the UConnect™ system. Towing Assistance If you need towing assistance, •...
  • Page 97 When calling a number with your UConnect™ system that normally requires you to enter in a touch-tone sequence on your cellular phone keypad, you can push the ’Voice Recognition’ button and say the sequence you wish to enter followed by the word Send. For example, if required to enter your pin number followed with a pound 3 7 4 6 #, you can press the ’Voice Recognition’...
  • Page 98 98 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Dialing Using the Cellular Phone Keypad You can dial a phone number with your cellular phone keypad and still use the UConnect™ system (while dialing via the cell phone keypad, the user must exercise caution and take precautionary safety measures).
  • Page 99: Advanced Phone Connectivity

    Information Service When using AT&T Wireless Service, dialing to phone number #121, you can access voice activated automated system to receive news, weather, stocks, traffic, etc. related information. Advanced Phone Connectivity Transfer Call to and from Cellular Phone The UConnect™ system allows on going calls to be transferred to your cellular phone to the UConnect™...
  • Page 100 100 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Select another Cellular Phone This feature allows you to select and start using another phone with the UConnect™ system. The phone must have been previously paired to the UConnect™ system that you want to use it with. •...
  • Page 101: Things You Should Know About Your Uconnect™ System

    Voice Recognition’ button anytime while the list is being played and say the priority number of the phone you wish to delete. Things You Should Know About Your UConnect™ System Voice Recognition (VR) • Always wait for the beep before speaking. •...
  • Page 102 102 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE • UConnect™ phonebook name tag recognition rate is optimized for the voice of the person who stored the name in the phonebook. • You can say O (letter O ) for 0 (zero). 800 must be spoken eight-zero-zero.
  • Page 103 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 103...
  • Page 104 104 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE...
  • Page 105 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 105...
  • Page 106: Seats

    106 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE North American English Primary Alternate(s) Zero Add location Add new All of them Confirmation prompts Confirmations prompts Delete a name Delete Language Select language List names List all List paired phones List phones Pager Beeper Phone pairing...
  • Page 107: 40-20-40 Front Seat

    40-20-40 Front Seat Manual Forward and Rearward Adjustment As the name implies, the seat is divided into 3 segments. The outboard seat portions are each 40% of the total width of the seat. The back of the center portion (20%) easily folds down to provide an armrest/center storage compartment (if equipped).
  • Page 108: Reclining Seats

    108 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Reclining Seats The recliner handle is on the outside of the seat cushion. Pull up on the handle, as shown, to release the seat back and adjust for comfort. Seat Recliner Handle WARNING! You can be seriously, even fatally, injured riding in a seat with the seatback reclined.
  • Page 109: Manual Rotary Lumbar Support Adjustment - If Equipped

    To lower the head restraint, push in the button and then push down on the head restraint. Head Restraint Adjustment UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 109 Manual Rotary Lumbar Support Adjustment — If Equipped Rotating the lumbar control knob on the left side of the driver’s seatback and on the right side of the passenger’s seatback increases or decreases the lumbar (lower back) support.
  • Page 110: Power Seats - If Equipped

    110 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Power Seats — If Equipped CAUTION! Don’t put anything under a power seat. It may cause damage to the seat controls. Power Seat Control Location...
  • Page 111 Up, Down, Forward, and Rearward The power seat controls are on the outboard side of the front seat cushions. Three switches control the seat move- ment. The four-way switch in the center can be moved forward or backwards to get the most comfortable posi- tion.
  • Page 112: Rear Seat Features - Mega Cab Models

    112 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Rear Seat Features — Mega Cab Models Reclining Rear Seats — Mega Cab Models The recliner handle is on the outside of the seat cushion. Pull up on the handle, as shown, to release the seat back and adjust for comfort.
  • Page 113 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 113 Table Mode Handle Table Mode...
  • Page 114 114 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Folding Rear Seat (Kneel Mode) — Mega Cab Models Both the left and right rear seats can be folded flat (Kneel Mode) and used for carrying cargo. Each of the rear seat backs provide 2 D-rings and each of the rear storage bin lids provide 2 slotted cutouts.
  • Page 115 WARNING! • It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. • Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts.
  • Page 116 116 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE To fold either rear seat flat (Kneel Mode), lift the handle and fold the seat forward. Simply lift the seat back to return the seat to the upright position. Verify that it is locked in place.
  • Page 117: Heated Seats - If Equipped

    WARNING! Be certain that the seatback is securely locked into position. If the seatback in not securely locked into position the seat will not provide the proper stability for child seats and/or passengers. An improperly latched seat could cause serious injury. Heated Seats —...
  • Page 118: To Open And Close The Hood

    118 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Each heated seat switch has two settings (HI and LOW). Press the switch once to obtain High heat level, then press the switch again to obtain Low heat level. Pressing the switch a third time will turn the heated seats OFF. If you do not purposefully turn the switch OFF, the seat heating level will automatically change to the next lower level, or OFF.
  • Page 119 released you must reach into the opening beneath the center of the grille and push up the latch to release the safety catch before raising the hood. To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to close it. Use a firm downward push at the front center of the hood to ensure that both latches engage.
  • Page 120: Lights

    120 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE LIGHTS Headlight Switch Location Interior Lights Dimmer Control Courtesy and dome lights are turned on when the front doors are opened, when the dimmer control (rotating wheel on the right side of the switch) is rotated to the upward detent position, or if equipped, when the UN- LOCK button is pressed on the key fob.When a door is...
  • Page 121: Battery Saver

    open and the interior lights are on, rotating the dimmer control all the way down to the OFF detent will cause all the interior lights to go out. This is also known as the Party mode because it allows the doors to stay open for extended periods of time without discharging the vehi- cle’s battery.
  • Page 122: Headlamp Delay

    122 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Headlamp Delay To aid in your exit, your vehicle is equipped with a headlamp delay that will leave the headlamps on for 90 seconds. This delay is initiated when the ignition is turned OFF while the headlamp switch is on, and then the headlamp switch is cycled off.
  • Page 123: Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only And Fleet Vehicles)

    To minimize the possibility of scratching the lenses and reducing light output, avoid wiping with a dry cloth. To remove road dirt, wash with a mild soap solution fol- lowed by rinsing. Do not use abrasive cleaning components, solvents, steel wool or other abrasive materials to clean the lenses.
  • Page 124: Cargo Light - If Equipped

    124 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CARGO Light — If Equipped Cargo Light Switch The cargo lights are turned on by pressing on the CARGO button. The interior lights will also turn on when the cargo lights are on. The cargo lights will also turn on for 30 seconds when a key fob Unlock is pressed, as part of the illuminated entry feature.
  • Page 125: Passing Light

    Turn Signal Lever Passing Light You can signal another vehicle with your headlights by partially pulling the multifunction lever toward the steer- ing wheel. This will cause the high beam headlights to turn on until the lever is released. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 125 High Beam / Low Beam Select Switch Pull the multifunction control lever fully toward the steering wheel to switch the headlights from HIGH or...
  • Page 126: Windshield Wipers

    126 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Windshield Wipers Windshield Wiper / Washer Switch The wipers and washers are operated by a switch in the multifunction control lever. Turn the end of the handle to select the desired wiper speed. Intermittent Wiper System The intermittent feature of this system was designed for use when weather conditions make a single wiping cycle,...
  • Page 127: Windshield Washers

    WARNING! Sudden loss of visibility through the windshield could lead to an accident. You might not see other vehicles or other obstacles. To avoid sudden icing of the windshield during freezing weather, warm the windshield with defroster before and during wind- shield washer use.
  • Page 128: Tilt Steering Column

    128 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE TILT STEERING COLUMN To tilt the column, pull rearward on the lever below the turn signal control and move the wheel up or down, as desired. Push the lever forward to lock the column firmly in place.
  • Page 129: Driver Adjustable Pedals - If Equipped

    DRIVER ADJUSTABLE PEDALS — IF EQUIPPED Adjustable Pedals Switch The power adjustable accelerator and brake pedals allow the driver to establish a comfortable position relative to the steering wheel and pedals. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 129 Adjustment 1. Position the driver seat so that you are at least 10 inches (254 mm) away from the airbag located in the center of the steering wheel.
  • Page 130: Electronic Speed Control - If Equipped

    130 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! Do not place any article under the adjustable pedals or impede its ability to move as it may cause damage to the pedal controls. Pedal travel may become limited if movement is stopped by an obstruction in the adjustable pedal’s path.
  • Page 131: To Set At A Desired Speed

    To Set At A Desired Speed When the vehicle has reached the desired speed, press and release the SET button. Release the accelerator and the vehicle will operate at the selected speed. To Deactivate A soft tap on the brake pedal, normal braking, clutch pressure while slowing the vehicle, or pressing the CAN- CEL button will deactivate speed control without erasing the memory.
  • Page 132: To Vary The Speed Setting

    132 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE To Vary The Speed Setting When the speed control is on, speed can be increased by pressing and holding the ACCEL button. When the button is released, a new set speed will be established. Tapping the ACCEL button once will result in a 2 mph (3km/h) speed increase.
  • Page 133: Overhead Console- If Equipped

    WARNING! Speed Control can be dangerous where the system can’t maintain a constant speed. Your vehicle could go too fast for the conditions, and you could lose control. An accident could be the result. Don’t use Speed Control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, icy, snow-covered, or slippery.
  • Page 134: Courtesy/Reading Lights

    134 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Courtesy/Reading Lights In the middle of the console are two courtesy/reading lights. Both lights illuminate as courtesy lights when a door is opened, when the dimmer control is rotated to the courtesy light position (fully upward position), or when the UNLOCK button is pressed on the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter, if so equipped.
  • Page 135: Us/M Button

    This overhead console allows you to choose between a compass/temperature display and one of four trip con- ditions being monitored. US/M Button Use this button to change the display from U.S. to metric measurement units. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 135 RESET Button Use this button to reset the following displays: Average Fuel Economy (AVG ECO)
  • Page 136: Global Reset

    136 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Global Reset If the RESET button is pressed twice within 2 seconds while in any of the 3 resettable displays (AVG ECO, ODO, ET), the Global Reset will reset all 3 displays. Step Button Use this button to choose or cycle through the four trip conditions.
  • Page 137: Trip Odometer (Odo)

    NOTE: Significant changes in driving style or vehicle loading will greatly affect the actual drivable distance of the vehicle, regardless of the DTE displayed value. When the DTE value is less than 30 miles estimated driving distance, the DTE display will change to an alternating test display of “LO”...
  • Page 138: C/T Button

    138 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE C/T Button Use this button to select a readout of the outside tem- perature and one of eight compass headings that indicate the direction in which the vehicle is facing. WARNING! Even if the display still reads a few degrees above 32°F ( 0°C), the road surface may be icy, particularly in woods or on bridges.
  • Page 139: Manual Compass Calibration

    Manual Compass Calibration NOTE: To ensure proper compass calibration, make sure the compass variance is properly set before manu- ally calibrating the compass. If the compass appears erratic and the CAL symbol does not appear, you must manually put the compass into the “Calibration”...
  • Page 140: Outside Temperature

    140 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE NOTE: The default for the compass variance is zone 8. To set the variance: Turn the ignition ON and set the display to “Compass/Temperature.” Press and hold the RESET button approximately five seconds. The last vari- ance zone number will be displayed.
  • Page 141: Garage Door Opener - If Equipped

    GARAGE DOOR OPENER — IF EQUIPPED The HomeLink Universal Transceiver replaces up to three remote controls (hand held transmitters) that oper- ate devices such as garage door openers, motorized gates, or home lighting. It triggers these devices at the push of a button. The Universal Transceiver operates off your vehicle’s battery and charging system;...
  • Page 142 142 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! A moving garage door can cause injury to people and pets in the path of the door. People or pets could be seriously or fatally injured. Only use this transceiver with a garage door opener that has a “stop and reverse”...
  • Page 143: Programming Homelink

    Programming HomeLink NOTE: When programming a garage door opener, it is advised to park outside the garage. It is also recom- mended that a new battery be placed in the hand-held transmitter of the device being programmed to HomeLink for quicker training and accurate transmis- sion of the radio-frequency signal.
  • Page 144 144 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 3. Simultaneously press and hold both the HomeLink button that you want to train and the hand-held trans- mitter buttons. Do not release the buttons until step 4 has been completed. NOTE: Some gate operators and garage door openers may require you to replace this Programming Step 3 with procedures noted in the Gate Operator/Canadian Pro- gramming section.
  • Page 145: Canadian Programming/Gate Programming

    8. Return to the vehicle and firmly press, hold for two seconds and release the programmed HomeLink button. Repeat the press/hold/release sequence a second time, and, depending on the brand of the garage door opener (or other rolling code equipped device), repeat this sequence a third time to complete the programming.
  • Page 146: Using Homelink

    146 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Using HomeLink To operate, simply press and release the programmed HomeLink button. Activation will now occur for the trained device (i.e. garage door opener, gate operator, security system, entry door lock, home/office lighting, etc.).
  • Page 147: Security

    Security If you sell your vehicle, be sure to erase the frequencies. To erase all of the previously trained frequencies, hold down both outside buttons until the green light begins to flash. This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
  • Page 148: Open Sunroof - Express Mode

    148 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Never leave children in a vehicle, with the keys in the ignition switch. Occupants, particularly unat- tended children, can become entrapped by the power sunroof while operating the power sunroof switch. Such entrapment may result in serious injury or death.
  • Page 149: Closing Sunroof - Express

    Closing Sunroof - Express Press the switch forward and release, and the sunroof will close automatically from any position. The sunroof will close fully and stop automatically. This is called Express Close. During Express Close operation, any movement of the switch will stop the sunroof. Pinch Protect Feature This feature will detect an obstruction in the opening of the sunroof during Express Close operation.
  • Page 150: Wind Buffeting

    150 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Wind Buffeting Wind buffeting can be described as the perception of pressure on the ears or a helicopter type sound in the ears. Your vehicle may exhibit wind buffeting with the windows down, or the sunroof (if equipped) in certain open or partially open positions.
  • Page 151 The outlet(s) has/have a fused direct feed from the battery so it/they receive power whether the ignition is ON or OFF. All accessories connected to this/these outlet(s) should be removed or turned OFF when the vehicle is not in use to protect the battery against discharge.
  • Page 152: Cigar Lighter And Ash Receiver

    152 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CIGAR LIGHTER AND ASH RECEIVER The removable ash receiver is located in the instrument panel cup holder tray. The cigar lighter is located on the instrument panel, above and to the left of the ash receiver. As a child safety precaution, the lighter only operates with the ignition switch ON.
  • Page 153: Cupholders

    UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 153 CUPHOLDERS Front Instrument Panel Cupholders (40–20–40 Seats) — Automatic Transmission Your new Ram truck is equipped with two adjustable cupholders. The cupholder is opened by pulling on the cup holder door handle, on the front surface. Each opening in the cupholder is adjustable and will hold cups and mugs of various sizes.
  • Page 154 154 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE To secure the cup, place the cup to be held into one of the cup wells and then push the cupholder arm toward the cup until it is held stable. Cup Holders Automatic Transmission Cup Holder Door Handle...
  • Page 155: Front Instrument Panel Cupholders (Bucket Seats) - Automatic Transmission

    Front Instrument Panel Cupholders (Bucket Seats) — Automatic Transmission If your new Ram truck is equipped with bucket seats there are three cup holders located on the front of the center console. Cup Holders Bucket Seat UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 155 Front Instrument Panel Cupholders —...
  • Page 156: Rear Cupholder - Quad Cab - If Equipped

    156 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Rear Cupholder — Quad Cab — If Equipped Quad Cab vehicles may be equipped with a rear cup- holder that consists of two cupwells for rear passenger convenience. Rear Cupholder — Mega Cab Mega Cab vehicles are equipped with rear cupholders located in the center armrest.
  • Page 157: Storage

    STORAGE Center Storage Compartment (40–20–40 Seat) — If Equipped The center portion of the seat folds down to provide an armrest with unique storage compartments under the lid. Push the button on the front of the armrest to raise the cover.
  • Page 158: Center Storage Compartment (Bucket Seats)- If Equipped

    158 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! • Many accessories that can be plugged in draw power from the vehicle’s battery, even when not in use (i.e. cellular phones, etc.). Eventually, if plugged in long enough, the vehicle’s battery will discharge sufficiently to degrade battery life and/or prevent engine starting.
  • Page 159 storage area into separate compartments. Lift the lower handle on the front of the armrest, and raise the armrest for access to the lower storage bin. On Quad Cab and Mega Cab models the rear of the floor console offers a power outlet, a tip out bin and a rear air duct (Mega Cab Only).
  • Page 160: Storage And Seats (Quad Cab Models)

    160 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Storage and Seats (Quad Cab Models) Located in the center of the front 40/20/40 seat cushion there is a storage compartment. Standard cab models also have storage behind the seat. The Quad Cab models provide additional storage under the rear seat.
  • Page 161 Push down on the front of the storage compartment handle and lift the storage compartment cover. Mega Cab Rear Storage Compartment Handle UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 161 The rear storage compartment can be divided into three separate compartments by using the divider doors inside the storage compartment.
  • Page 162: Plastic Grocery Bag Retainers (Mega Cab Models)

    162 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Plastic Grocery Bag Retainers (Mega Cab Models) Retainer hooks which will hold plastic grocery bag handles are built into the back panel of the cab, behind the rear seat. Mega Cab Grocery Bag Hooks FOLD FLAT LOAD FLOOR —...
  • Page 163 WARNING! Do not operate the vehicle with loose items stored on the load floor. While driving or in an accident you may experience, abrupt stopping, rapid acceleration, or sharp turns. Loose objects stored on the load floor may move around with force and strike occupants, resulting in serious or fatal injury.
  • Page 164 164 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 2. Grasp the knob on the load floor and lift the knob until the load floor unfolds into position. Load Floor In Open Position 3. Reverse the procedure to store the load floor. Positioning the Load Floor for Storage Access Under the Seat 1.
  • Page 165: Pickup Box

    Load Floor Securing Straps 4. Reverse the procedure to put the load floor back in the secured down position before you operate the vehicle. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 165 PICKUP BOX Pickup Box Features The pickup box on your new Ram has many features designed for utility and convenience.
  • Page 166 166 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE You can carry wide building materials (sheets of ply- wood, etc.) by building a raised load floor. Place lumber across the box in the indentations provided above the wheel housings and in the bulkhead dividers to form the floor.
  • Page 167: Slide-In Campers

    There are stampings in the sheet metal on the inner side bulkheads of the box in front of and behind both wheel housings. Place wooden boards across the box from side to side to create separate load compartments in the pickup box.
  • Page 168 168 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE NOTE: Dual rear wheel pickup models require properly spaced rear clearance lights. If such a vehicle is operated without a tailgate, suitable lights must be installed. Lock Tang And Pivot Tailgate Support Cables...
  • Page 169 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 169 WARNING! To avoid inhaling carbon monoxide, which is deadly, the exhaust system on vehicles equipped with “Cap or Slide-In Campers” should extend beyond the overhanging camper compartment and be free of leaks.
  • Page 171: Understanding Your Instrument Panel

    UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL CONTENTS Instruments And Controls ....175 Instrument Cluster ..... . 176 Instrument Cluster Description .
  • Page 172 172 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Operation Instructions - (CD Mode For CD Audio Play) ......200 Load/Eject Button (CD Mode For CD Audio Play) .
  • Page 173 Load/Eject Button (CD Mode For MP3 And WMA Play) ......220 Sales Code REC — AM/FM/CD (6–Disc) Radio With Navigation System .
  • Page 174 174 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Compact Disc Maintenance ....230 Radio Operation And Cellular Phones ..231 Climate Controls ..... . . 231 Heater Only —...
  • Page 175: Instruments And Controls

    UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 175 INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS...
  • Page 176: Instrument Cluster

    176 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER...
  • Page 177: Instrument Cluster Description

    INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION 1. Check Gages This light illuminates when the Voltmeter, Engine Oil Pressure or Engine Coolant Temperature gages indicate a reading either too high or too low. Examine the gages carefully, and follow the instructions above for each indicated problem. NOTE: When the ignition switch is turned to OFF, the Fuel Gage, Voltmeter, Oil Pressure and Engine Coolant Temperature gages may not show accurate readings.
  • Page 178 178 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL CAUTION! Do not operate the engine with the tachometer pointer at high rpm for extended periods. Engine damage may occur. 5. Airbag Indicator Light The indicator lights and remains lit for 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition is first turned on.
  • Page 179 NOTE: If the gauge pointer moves to either extreme of the gauge, the “Check Gages” indicator will illuminate and a single chime will sound. 10. Transfer Case Position (See page 273 for more information.) 11. TOW HAUL The TOW HAUL button is located at the end of the gear shift lever.
  • Page 180 180 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL CAUTION! Do not leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running as you would not be able to react to the temperature indicator if the engine overheats. NOTE: Engine idle speed will automatically increase to 1000 rpm at elevated coolant temperatures to improve engine cooling.
  • Page 181 NOTE: There is also an engine hour function. This indicates the total number of hours the engine has been running. To display the engine hours perform the follow- ing: Place the ignition in RUN, but do not start the engine. With the odometer value displayed, hold the trip button down for a period of 6 seconds.
  • Page 182 182 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL CAUTION! Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause damage to the engine control system. It also could affect fuel economy and driveability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter damage and power loss will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
  • Page 183 that the anti-lock portion of the brake system is not functioning and that service is required. See your autho- rized dealer immediately. The ABS light could also illuminate during loss of traction and remain illuminated until the brake pedal is pressed. 20.
  • Page 184 184 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 25. Transmission Oil Temperature Warning Light (Automatic Transmissions Only) This light indicates that there is excessive trans- mission fluid temperature that might occur with severe usage such as trailer towing. It may also occur when operating the vehicle in a high torque converter slip condition, such as 4-wheel-drive operation (e.g.
  • Page 185: Electronic Digital Clock

    out of fuel when operating at maximum load conditions in areas where there aren’t many gas stations. (See page 136 for more information.) Ram fuel tank volumes are as follows: • 34 gallons - 2500/3500 short box models • 35 gallons - 2500/3500 long box models 30.
  • Page 186: Sales Code Ref - Am/Fm/Cd (Single Disc) Radio With Optional Satellite Radio And Hands Free Phone Capability

    186 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 3. After the hours are adjusted, press the right side Tune / Audio control to set the minutes. 4. Adjust the minutes using the right side Tune / Audio control. 5. To exit, press any button/knob or wait approximately 5 seconds.
  • Page 187 Power Switch/Volume Control (Rotary) Press the ON/VOL control to turn the radio ON. Press the ON/VOL a second time to turn OFF the radio. Electronic Volume Control The electronic volume control turns continuously (360 degrees) in either direction without stopping. Turning the volume control to the right increases the volume and to the left decreases it.
  • Page 188 188 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL SCAN Button (Radio Mode) Pressing the SCAN button causes the tuner to search for the next listenable station, in either AM, FM or Satellite (if equipped) frequencies, pausing for 5 seconds at each listenable station before continuing to the next. To stop the search, press SCAN a second time.
  • Page 189 AM/FM Button (Radio Mode) Press the button to select AM or FM Modes. Setting the Tone, Balance, and Fade Press the rotary TUNE control and BASS will be dis- played. Turn the TUNE control to the right or left to increase or decrease the Bass tones.
  • Page 190: Operation Instructions - Cd Mode

    190 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL the SET button twice and SET 2 will show in the display window. Each button can be set for SET 1 and SET 2 in both AM and FM. This allows a total of 12 AM,12 FM and 12 Satellite (if equipped) stations to be stored into push- button memory.
  • Page 191 SEEK Button (CD Mode) Press the right side of the SEEK button for the next track on the CD. Press the left side of the button to return to the beginning of the current track, or return to the beginning of the previous track if the CD is within the first 10 seconds of the current selection.
  • Page 192: Operation Instructions - Auxiliary Mode

    192 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL RND/SET Button (Random Play Button) (CD Mode) Press this button while the CD is playing to activate Random Play. This feature plays the selections on the compact disc in random order to provide an interesting change of pace.
  • Page 193: Operating Instructions - Hands Free Phone - If Equipped

    MUTE Button (Auxiliary Mode) Press the MUTE button to cancel the sound from the speakers. MUTE will be displayed. Press the MUTE button a second time and the sound from the speakers will return. Rotating the volume control or turning OFF the ignition will also return the sound from the speakers.
  • Page 194: Operating Instructions - Satellite Radio - If Equipped

    194 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Operating Instructions - Satellite Radio — If Equipped Refer to the Satellite Radio section of the Owner’s Manual. SALES CODE RAQ – AM/FM/CD (6-DISC) RADIO WITH OPTIONAL SATELLITE RADIO, HANDS FREE PHONE, AND VEHICLE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS (VES) CAPABILITIES NOTE: The radio sales code is located on the lower right side of your radio faceplate.
  • Page 195 Power Switch/Volume Control (Rotary) Press the ON/VOL control to turn the radio ON. Press the ON/VOL a second time to turn OFF the radio. Electronic Volume Control The electronic volume control turns continuously (360 degrees) in either direction without stopping. Turning the volume control to the right increases the volume and to the left decreases it.
  • Page 196 196 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL SCAN Button (Radio Mode) Pressing the SCAN button causes the tuner to search for the next listenable station, in either AM, FM or Satellite (if equipped) frequencies, pausing for 5 seconds at each listenable station before continuing to the next. To stop the search, press SCAN a second time.
  • Page 197 AM/FM Button (Radio Mode) Press the button to select AM or FM Modes. Setting the Tone, Balance, and Fade Press the rotary TUNE control and BASS will display. Turn the TUNE control to the right or left to increase or decrease the Bass tones.
  • Page 198 198 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Toggle the PTY button to select the following format types: 16 Digit-Character Dis- Program Type No program type or un- defined Adult Hits Alert Alert Classical Classic Rock College Country Emergency Test Foreign Language Foreign_Language Information Jazz News...
  • Page 199 By pressing the SEEK button when the PTY icon is displayed, the radio will be tuned to the next frequency station with the same selected PTY name. The PTY function only operates when in the FM mode. If a preset button is activated while in the PTY (Program Type) mode, the PTY mode will be exited and the radio will tune to the preset station.
  • Page 200: Operation Instructions - (Cd Mode For Cd Audio Play)

    200 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Operation Instructions - (CD MODE for CD Audio Play) NOTE: The ignition switch must be in the ON or ACC position to operate the radio. NOTE: Note: This Radio is capable of playing compact discs (CD), recordable compact discs (CD-R), rewritable compact discs (CD-RW) compact discs with MP3 tracks and multisession compact discs with CD and MP3 tracks.
  • Page 201: Load/Eject Button (Cd Mode For Cd Audio Play)

    SEEK Button (CD MODE for CD Audio Play) Press the right side of the SEEK button for the next selection on the CD. Press the left side of the button to return to the beginning of the current selection, or return to the beginning of the previous selection if the CD is within the first 10 seconds of the current selection.
  • Page 202 202 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Radio display will show EJECTING DISC when the disc is being ejected and prompt the user to remove the disc. Press and hold the LOAD/ EJT button for 5 seconds and all CDs will be ejected from the radio. If you have ejected a disc and have not removed it within 15 seconds, it will be reloaded.
  • Page 203: Notes On Playing Mp3 Files

    RND/PTY Button (Random Play Button) (CD MODE for CD Audio Play) Press this button while the CD is playing to activate Random Play. This feature plays the selections on the compact disc in random order to provide an interesting change of pace. Press the SEEK button to move to the next randomly selected track.
  • Page 204 204 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL The radio uses the following limits for file systems: • Maximum number of directory levels: 15 • Maximum number of files: 255 • Maximum number of folders: 100 • Maximum number of characters in file/folder names: •...
  • Page 205 MPEG Specifi- Sampling Fre- cation quency (kHz) MPEG-1 Audio 48, 44.1, 32 Layer 3 MPEG-2 Audio 24, 22.05, 16 Layer 3 ID3 Tag information for artist, song title and album title are supported for version 1 ID3 tags. ID3 version 2 is not supported by the radios.
  • Page 206: Operation Instructions - (Cd Mode For Mp3 Audio Play)

    206 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Operation Instructions - (CD Mode for MP3 Audio Play) SEEK Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play) Pressing the right side of the SEEK button plays the next MP3 File. Pressing the left side of the SEEK button plays the beginning of the MP3 file.
  • Page 207 MSG or INFO Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play) Press and MSG or INFO button while playing MP3 disc. The radio scrolls through the following TAG information: Song Title, Artist, File Name, and Folder Name (if avail- able). Press the MSG or INFO button once more to return to elapsed time priority mode.
  • Page 208: Sales Code Rak - Am/Fm/Cassette/Cd (6-Disc) Radio With Optional Satellite Radio, Hands Free Phone, Video, Mp3, And Wma Capabilities

    208 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Operating Instructions - Satellite Radio Mode (If Equipped) Refer to the Satellite Radio section of the Owner’s Manual. Operating Instructions - Video Entertainment System (VES ) (If Equipped) Refer to separate Video Entertainment System (VES ) Guide.
  • Page 209 Power Switch/Volume Control (Rotary) Press the ON/VOL control to turn the radio ON. Press the ON/VOL a second time to turn OFF the radio. Electronic Volume Control The electronic volume control turns continuously (360 degrees) in either direction without stopping. Turning the volume control to the right increases the volume and to the left decreases it.
  • Page 210 210 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 2. Adjust the hours by turning the right side Tune/ Audio control. 3. After the hours are adjusted, press the right side Tune/Audio control to set the minutes. The minutes will begin to blink. 4. Adjust the minutes using the right side Tune/Audio control.
  • Page 211 Press the rotary TUNE control a third time and TREBLE will display. Turn the TUNE control to the right or left to increase or decrease the Treble tones. Press the rotary TUNE control a fourth time and BAL will display. Turn the TUNE control to the right or left to adjust the sound level from the right or left side speakers.
  • Page 212 212 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Country Oldies Soft Nostalgia Jazz Classical Rhythm and Blues Rhythm_and_Blues Soft Rhythm and Blues Foreign Language Foreign_Language Religious Music Religious Talk Personality Public College Unassigned Weather By pressing the SEEK button when the PTY icon is Country displayed, the radio will be tuned to the next frequency Oldies...
  • Page 213: Operating Instructions - Tape Player

    Operating Instructions — Tape Player Insert the cassette with the exposed tape side toward the left and the mechanical action of the player will gently pull the cassette into the play position. NOTE: When subjected to extremely cold temperatures, the tape mechanism may require a few minutes to warm up for proper operation.
  • Page 214: Scan Button

    214 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Scan Button Press this button to play 10 seconds of each selection. Press the scan button a second time to cancel the feature. Changing Tape Direction If you wish to change the direction of tape travel (side being played), press Preset 6.
  • Page 215: Load/Eject Button (Cd Mode For Cd Audio Play)

    compact discs (CD-RW) compact discs with MP3 tracks and multisession compact discs with CD and MP3 tracks and WMA. Inserting Compact Disc(s) CAUTION! This CD player will accept 4 3/4 inch (12 cm) discs only. The use of other sized discs may damage the CD player mechanism.
  • Page 216 216 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Radio display will show LOADING DISC when the disc is loading, and “READING DISC” when the radio is reading the disc. LOAD/EJT - Eject Press the LOAD/EJT button and the push- button with the corresponding number where the CD was loaded and the disc will unload and move to the entrance for easy removal.
  • Page 217: Notes On Playing Mp3 Files

    RND/PTY Button (Random Play Button) (CD MODE for CD Audio Play) Press this button while the CD is playing to activate Random Play. This feature plays the selections on the compact disc in random order to provide an interesting change of pace. NOTE: MP3 and WMA Random Play are for file folders only.
  • Page 218 218 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL The radio uses the following limits for file systems: • Maximum number of directory levels: 15 • Maximum number of files: 255 • Maximum number of folders: 100 • Maximum number of characters in file/folder names: •...
  • Page 219 MPEG Specifi- Sampling Fre- cation quency (kHz) MPEG-1 Audio 48, 44.1, 32 Layer 3 MPEG-2 Audio 24, 22.05, 16 Layer 3 ID3 Tag information for artist, song title and album title are supported for version 1 ID3 tags. ID3 version 2 is not supported by the radios.
  • Page 220: Operation Instructions - (Cd Mode For Mp3 And Wma Audio Play)

    220 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Operation Instructions - (CD Mode for MP3 and WMA Audio Play) SEEK Button (CD Mode for MP3 and WMA Play) Pressing the right side of the SEEK button plays the next file. Pressing the left side of the SEEK button plays the beginning of the file.
  • Page 221 INFO Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play) Press and INFO button while playing MP3 or WMA disc. The radio scrolls through the following TAG information: Song Title, Artist, File Name, and Folder Name (if avail- able). Press the INFO button once more to return to elapsed time priority mode.
  • Page 222: Sales Code Rec - Am/Fm/Cd (6-Disc) Radio With Navigation System

    222 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Operating Instructions - Satellite Radio Mode (If Equipped) Refer to the “Satellite Radio” section of the Owner’s Manual. Operating Instructions - Video Entertainment System (VES) (If Equipped) Refer to separate “Video Entertainment System (VES) Guide.” SALES CODE REC —...
  • Page 223: Operating Instructions - Satellite Radio (If Equipped)

    menus and instructions for selecting a variety of destina- tions and routes, AM/FM stereo radio and six-disc CD changer with MP3 capability. Mapping information for navigation is supplied on a DVD that is loaded into the unit. One map DVD covers all of North America.
  • Page 224: System Activation

    224 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL System Activation NOTE: Your vehicle’s radio must be on and in satellite mode when the activation process takes place. To activate your Sirius Satellite Radio service, call the toll-free number 888-539-7474, or visit the Sirius web site at www.sirius.com.
  • Page 225: Selecting Satellite Mode In Ref, Raq, And Rak Radios

    ESN/SID Access With RAQ and RAK Radios With the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY position and the radio OFF, press the CD Eject and TIME buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. All twelve ESN/SID num- bers will be displayed. The radio will exit the ESN/SID mode when any other button is pushed, the ignition is turned OFF, or 5 minutes has passed since any button was pushed.
  • Page 226: Selecting A Channel

    226 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Selecting a Channel Press and release the SEEK or TUNE knob to search for the next channel. Press the top of the button to search up and the bottom of the button to search down. Holding the TUNE button causes the radio to bypass channels until the button is released.
  • Page 227: Pty Button Seek

    NOTE: Pressing the SEEK or SCAN button while performing a music type scan will change the channel by one and stop the search. Pressing a pre-set memory button during a music type scan, will call up the memory channel and stop the search. PTY Button SEEK When the desired program is obtained, press the SEEK button within five seconds.
  • Page 228: Remote Sound System Controls - If Equipped

    228 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL REMOTE SOUND SYSTEM CONTROLS — IF EQUIPPED The remote sound system controls are located on the rear surface of the steering wheel. Reach behind the wheel to access the switches. Remote Sound System Controls The right hand control is a rocker type switch with a button in the center.
  • Page 229: Tape Player

    Tape Player Pressing the top of the switch once will go to the next selection on the cassette. Pressing the bottom of the switch once will go to the beginning of the current selection or to the beginning of the previous selection if it is within the first 5 seconds of the current selection.
  • Page 230: Compact Disc Maintenance

    230 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 5. A loose tape should be corrected before use. To rewind a loose tape, insert the eraser end of a pencil into the tape drive gear and twist the pencil in the required directions. Maintain your cassette tape player. The head and capstan shaft in the cassette player can pick up dirt or tape deposits each time a cassette is played.
  • Page 231: Radio Operation And Cellular Phones

    NOTE: If you experience difficulty in playing a particu- lar disc, it may be damaged, oversized, or have theft protection encoding. Try a known good disc before considering disc player service. RADIO OPERATION AND CELLULAR PHONES Under certain conditions, the operation of a cellular phone in your vehicle can cause erratic or noisy perfor- mance from your radio.
  • Page 232: Heater Only - Fleet Vehicles

    232 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Heater Only — Fleet Vehicles Manual Heating Controls The mode control (at the right of the control panel) can be set in any of the following positions: NOTE: To improve your selection choices, the system allows you to operate at intermediate positions between the major modes.
  • Page 233 Recirculation Modes (Panel or Bi-Level) Select the recirculation modes when the outside air contains smoke or odors. This feature allows for recircu- lation of interior air only. Air flows through the panel outlets in this mode. Air flows through the panel only or through both the panel and floor vents depending on the selected mode (panel vs bi-level).
  • Page 234: Air Conditioning And Heating

    234 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Air Conditioning and Heating — If Equipped Air Conditioning And Heating Air Conditioning Operation To turn on the Air Conditioning, set the fan control at any speed and press the snowflake button located at the right of the control panel. Conditioned air will be directed through the outlets selected by the mode control.
  • Page 235 The mode control (at the right of the control panel) can be set in any of the following positions: NOTE: To improve your selection choices, the system allows you to operate at intermediate positions between the major modes. These intermediate positions are iden- tified by the small dots.
  • Page 236 236 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Defrost Outside air is primarily directed to the windshield through the defroster outlets located at the base of the windshield, and the demister outlets located at the edge of each side of the instrument panel, and the air conditioning may be on.
  • Page 237: Electric Rear Window Defroster And Heated Sideview Mirrors - If Equipped

    Side window demisters direct air flow specifically to the window glass to help prevent interior fogging of the glass. They are located in the extreme outside upper edges of the instrument panel. The demisters also pro- vide extra air ducts for circulation. They are in operation whenever the Floor, Mix or Defrost modes are in use.
  • Page 238: Air Conditioning With Dual Zone Temperature Control - If Equipped

    238 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Air Conditioning with Dual Zone Temperature Control — If Equipped With the Dual Zone Temperature Control System, each front seat occupant can independently control the tem- perature of air coming from the outlets on their side of the vehicle.
  • Page 239 Recirculation Pushbutton Pushing the Recirculation button al- lows interior air to recirculate continu- ously in any position except defrost and defrost/floor mode for rapid cool down of the interior. See “Fast Cooldown” later in this section. Mode Control The mode control allows you to choose from several patterns of air distribution.
  • Page 240 240 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Outside air flows in equal proportions through the floor and defroster outlets. Defrost Outside air is primarily directed to the windshield through the defroster outlets located at the base of the windshield and side window demist outlets. NOTE: The air conditioning compressor operates in both Mix and Defrost or a blend of these modes, even if the A/C button has not been pressed.
  • Page 241 Dual Zone Temperature Control Dual Zone Temperature Control Use this control to regulate the temperature of the air inside the passenger compartment. This is accomplished by having separate temperature control slides for both UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 241 the driver and front passenger. The blue area of the scale indicates cooler temperatures while the red area indicates warmer temperatures.
  • Page 242 242 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL Side window demisters direct air flow specifically to the window glass to help prevent interior fogging of the glass. They are located in the extreme outside upper edges of the instrument panel. The demisters also pro- vide extra air ducts for circulation.
  • Page 243: Operating Tips

    Operating Tips Fast Cooldown For a fast cooldown, turn the blower fan rotary knob to the extreme right position, turn the mode control to the panel fresh position, press the snowflake button to turn on the air conditioning, and drive with the windows open for the first few minutes.
  • Page 244 244 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL proper corrosion protection and to raise the boiling point of the coolant for protection against overheating. A 50 % concentration is recommended. Refer to Recommended Fluids and Genuine Parts for the proper coolant type. When using the air conditioner in extremely heavy traffic in hot weather especially when towing a trailer, addi- tional engine cooling may be required.
  • Page 245: Operating Tips Chart

    UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 245 Operating Tips Chart...
  • Page 247: Starting And Operating

    STARTING AND OPERATING CONTENTS Ignition/Starter Switch ....251 Lock ......251 Off .
  • Page 248 248 STARTING AND OPERATING Operating Precautions ....264 Cooling System Tips — Automatic Transmission ....264 Transmission Shifting .
  • Page 249 Tires—General Information ....300 Tire Pressure ......300 Tire Inflation Pressures .
  • Page 250 250 STARTING AND OPERATING Trailer Towing ......323 Common Towing Definitions ... . . 323 Trailer Hitch Classification .
  • Page 251: Ignition/Starter Switch

    STARTING AND OPERATING 251 IGNITION/STARTER SWITCH LOCK Locks the automatic transmission shift control into the PARK position. It also engages the steering wheel lock (if equipped) when the steering wheel is turned. NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with a transmission shift interlocking system.
  • Page 252: Start

    252 STARTING AND OPERATING START Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition key will return to the ON position for normal driving. Allows the electrical accessories to be used when the engine is not running. Manual Transmission Key Release Button Ignition Key Release Button To remove the key on vehicles equipped with manual...
  • Page 253: Key Reminder

    Key Reminder An alarm will sound to remind you if the key is left in the ignition and the driver’s door is opened. STARTING PROCEDURES The Cummins Diesel engine is equipped with several features designed to assist cold weather starting and operation: •...
  • Page 254: Starting Procedure - Engine Manifold Air

    254 STARTING AND OPERATING The lamps in the instrument panel cluster will illuminate when the ignition key is first turned to the ON position. This is a bulb check programmed to last for approxi- mately 3 seconds. After the bulb check is completed, the Malfunction Indicator Light and Brake Warning light will remain on.
  • Page 255 certain engine temperatures fall below 66°F (19°C) the lamp will remain on indicating the intake manifold heater system is active. Follow the steps in the Normal Starting Procedure ex- cept: CAUTION! Do not crank engine for more than 15 seconds at a time or starter motor damage may result.
  • Page 256 256 STARTING AND OPERATING ignition switch to Off for at least 5 seconds and then back On. Repeat steps 3 through 7 of the normal starting procedure. For Extremely Cold Weather Starting — Engine Manifold Air Temperature Below 0°F (- 18°C) In extremely cold weather below 0°F (- 18°C) it may be beneficial to cycle the manifold heaters twice before attempting to start the engine.
  • Page 257 • If the engine is started before the WAIT TO START light turns off, the preheat cycle will turn off. • If the engine is cranked for more than 10 seconds, the post-heat cycle will turn off. NOTE: Engine idle speed will automatically increase to 1000 rpm at low coolant temperatures to improve engine warm-up.
  • Page 258: Starting Fluids

    258 STARTING AND OPERATING Starting Fluids WARNING! STARTING FLUIDS or flammable liquids are NEVER TO BE USED in the Cummins Diesel (see Warning label). Never pour diesel fuel, flammable liquid, starting fluids (ether) into the air cleaner canister, air intake piping, or turbocharger inlet in an attempt to start the vehicle.
  • Page 259: Cold Weather Precautions

    • Voltmeter Operation: • The voltmeter may show a gauge fluctuation if certain engine temperatures are below 66°F (19°C). This cycling operation is caused by the post-heat cycle of the intake manifold heater system. The number of cycles and the length of the cycling operation is controlled by the engine control module, this time will not exceed 150 seconds.
  • Page 260 260 STARTING AND OPERATING NOTE: Refer to Fuel Requirements in this section for further details on fuel recommendations. Engine Block Heater The engine block heater warms engine coolant and permits quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the heater cord to a ground–fault interrupter protected 110–115 volt AC electrical outlet with a grounded, three-wire exten- sion cord.
  • Page 261 Winter Front Usage If a winter front or cold weather cover is to be used, a percentage of the total grille opening area must be left uncovered to provide sufficient air flow to the charge air cooler and automatic transmission oil cooler. The per- centage of opening must be increased with the increasing ambient air temperature and/or engine load.
  • Page 262: Engine Idling - In Cold Weather

    262 STARTING AND OPERATING If temperatures are below 32°F (0°C), operate the engine at moderate speeds for 5 minutes before full loads are applied. Engine Idling — In Cold Weather Avoid prolonged idling in ambient temperatures below 0°F. Long periods of idling may be harmful to your engine because combustion chamber temperatures can drop so low that the fuel may not burn completely.
  • Page 263: Stopping The Engine

    Stopping The Engine Idle the engine a few minutes before routine shutdown. After full load operation, idle the engine 3 to 5 minutes before shutting it down. This idle period will allow the lubricating oil and coolant to carry excess heat away from the combustion chamber, bearings, internal components, and turbocharger.
  • Page 264: Operating Precautions

    264 STARTING AND OPERATING Operating Precautions Avoid Overheating The Engine The temperature of the coolant (a mixture of 50% ethylene-glycol and 50% water) must not exceed the normal range of the temperature gauge (240°F/116°C) with a 16 psi (110 kPa) radiator cap. Usually the coolant temperature indicated during opera- tion will be to the left of center in the normal range of the gauge.
  • Page 265 Do Not Operate The Engine With Low Oil Pressure When the engine is at normal operating temperature, the minimum oil pressures required are: Idle 700 to 800 RPM ....10 psi (69 kPa) Full speed and load .
  • Page 266: Transmission Shifting

    266 STARTING AND OPERATING TRANSMISSION SHIFTING Automatic Transmission with Overdrive— If Equipped The gear shift selector display, located in the instrument panel cluster, indicates the transmission gear range (the selector is illuminated for night driving). The selector lever is mounted on the right side of the steering column. You must depress the brake pedal, to pull the selector lever out of park (P) position (Brake Interlock System).
  • Page 267 WARNING! It is dangerous to shift the selector lever out of “P” or “N” if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in re- verse.
  • Page 268 268 STARTING AND OPERATING “1” First Use this position for driving up very steep hills and for engine braking at low speeds 20 mph (32 km/h) or less when going downhill. To prevent excessive engine speed, do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h) in this range. NOTE: Use caution when operating a heavily loaded vehicle in “2”...
  • Page 269 NOTE: If the vehicle is started in extremely cold tem- peratures, the transmission may not shift into Overdrive and will automatically select the most desirable gear for operation at this temperature. Normal operation will resume when the transmission fluid temperature has risen to a suitable level.
  • Page 270 270 STARTING AND OPERATING reduce the potential for transmission overheating or failure due to excessive shifting. When operating in “TOW HAUL” mode, 5th gear (if equipped) is disabled and 2-3 and 3-4 shift patterns are modified. Shifts into Overdrive (4th gear) are allowed during steady cruise (for improved fuel economy) and automatic closed- throttle downshifts to 3rd gear (for improved braking) will occur during steady braking.
  • Page 271 the engine speed is higher when the torque converter clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is not shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is normal. Pressing the “TOW/HAUL” button, when the transmis- sion is sufficiently warm, will demonstrate that the transmission is able to shift into and out of overdrive.
  • Page 272: Manual Transmission - 6-Speed - If Equipped

    272 STARTING AND OPERATING Manual Transmission — 6-Speed — If Equipped NOTE: The parking brake should be engaged before leaving the vehicle, especially on an incline. Truck models with manual transmission are equipped with a clutch interlocking ignition system. The clutch pedal must be fully depressed to start the vehicle.
  • Page 273: Four-Wheel- Drive Operation - If Equipped

    FOUR-WHEEL- DRIVE OPERATION — IF EQUIPPED Four-Wheel-Drive Dodge Ram Trucks are equipped with either a Manually Shifted transfer case or an Electroni- cally Shifted transfer case. See the operating instructions for your transfer case, located within this section.
  • Page 274 274 STARTING AND OPERATING This transfer case is intended to be driven in the 2-wheel- drive position (2H) for normal street and highway con- ditions such as dry hard surfaced roads. When additional traction is required the transfer case 4H and 4L positions can be used to lock the front and rear driveshafts together and force the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed.
  • Page 275 NOTE: Delayed shifts out of four-wheel drive may be experienced due to uneven tire wear, low or uneven tire pressures, excessive vehicle loading, or cold tempera- tures. WARNING! You or others could be injured if you leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the Neutral (N) position without first fully engaging the parking brake.
  • Page 276: Shifting Procedure - Manually Shifted Transfer Case

    276 STARTING AND OPERATING 4-Wheel-Drive Low Range - Low speed 4-wheel-drive. Locks the front and rear driveshafts together. Forces the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. Additional traction and maximum pulling power for loose, slippery road surfaces only. Do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h).
  • Page 277: Transfer Case Reminder Light

    vehicle in motion, the transfer case will engage / disen- gage faster if you momentarily release the accelerator pedal after completing the shift. Apply a constant force when shifting the transfer case lever. 2H or 4H ⇔ 4L With the vehicle rolling at 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift an automatic transmission to N (Neutral) or depress the clutch on a manual transmission.
  • Page 278: Electronically Shifted Transfer Case Operating Information/Precautions-If Equipped

    278 STARTING AND OPERATING Electronically Shifted Transfer Case Operating Information/Precautions–If Equipped Transfer Case Switch This is an electric shift transfer case and is operated by the 4WD Control Switch (Transfer Case Switch), which is located on the instrument panel. This Electronically Shifted transfer case provides 4 mode positions: 2 (rear) wheel drive high range, 4 wheel drive high range, 4 wheel drive low range, and neutral.
  • Page 279 Neutral Button NOTE: The transfer case Neutral (N) position is selected by depressing the recessed button located on the lower left hand corner of the 4WD Control Switch. The transfer case Neutral (N) position is to be used for recreational STARTING AND OPERATING 279 towing only.
  • Page 280 280 STARTING AND OPERATING If One or More Shift Conditions are not Met 1. The indicator light for the current position will remain 2. The newly selected position indicator light will con- tinue to flash. 3. The transfer case will not shift. NOTE: Before retrying a selection, make certain that all the necessary requirements for selecting a new transfer case position have been met.
  • Page 281 When operating your vehicle in 4LO, the engine speed is approximately three times that of the 2WD or 4HI positions at a given road speed. Take care not to over- speed the engine and do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h). Proper operation of 4 wheel drive vehicles depends on tires of equal size, type and circumference on each wheel.
  • Page 282: Shifting Procedure - Electronically Shifted Transfer Case

    282 STARTING AND OPERATING 4 Wheel Drive High Range - Locks the front and rear driveshafts together. Forces the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. Additional traction for loose, slippery road surfaces only. 4 Wheel Drive Low Range - Low speed 4 wheel drive. Locks the front and rear driveshafts together.
  • Page 283 light will continue to flash until all the requirements for the selected position have been met. To retry a shift: return the control knob back to the original position, make certain all shift requirements have been met, wait five (5) seconds and try the shift again. NOTE: If all the requirements to select a new transfer case position have been met, the current position indica- tor light will turn OFF, the selected position indicator...
  • Page 284 284 STARTING AND OPERATING Preferred Procedure 1. With engine RUNNING, slow vehicle to 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h). 2. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL (depress clutch on manual transmissions). 3. While still rolling, rotate the transfer case control switch to the desired position.
  • Page 285: Limited-Slip Differential - If Equipped

    LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED The limited-slip differential provides additional traction on snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel, particularly when there is a difference between the traction characteristics of the surface under the right and left rear wheels. During normal driving and cornering, the limited-slip unit per- forms similarly to a conventional differential.
  • Page 286: Parking Brake

    286 STARTING AND OPERATING PARKING BRAKE The foot operated parking brake is positioned below the lower left corner of the instrument panel. To release the parking brake, pull the parking brake release handle. NOTE: The instrument cluster red brake warning light will come on and flash to indicate that the parking brake is applied.
  • Page 287: Brake System

    WARNING! • Always fully apply the parking brake when leav- ing your vehicle, or it may roll and cause damage or injury. Also be certain to leave an automatic transmission in Park, a manual transmission in Reverse or first gear. Failure to do so may allow the vehicle to roll and cause damage or injury.
  • Page 288: Brake Noise

    288 STARTING AND OPERATING Brake Noise During normal operation of the brake system certain noises may be present from time to time. Occasional groan or squeal noises may occur during normal operation of the brake system which may not be indica- tive of a problem.
  • Page 289 WARNING! • Anti-lock system (ABS) cannot prevent the natu- ral laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering efficiency be- yond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded. •...
  • Page 290: Power Steering

    290 STARTING AND OPERATING ABS Warning Light The Anti-lock Brake System includes an amber warning light, located in the instrument cluster. When the light is illuminated, the Anti-lock Brake System is not function- ing. The system reverts to standard non-anti-lock brakes. WARNING! Pumping of the anti-lock brakes will diminish their effectiveness and may lead to an accident.
  • Page 291: Tire Safety Information

    WARNING! Continued operation with reduced power steering assist could pose a safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be obtained as soon as possible. CAUTION! Prolong operation of the steering system at the end of the steering wheel travel will increase the steering fluid temperature and should be avoided when possible.
  • Page 292 292 STARTING AND OPERATING • European Metric tire sizing is based on European design standards. Tires designed to this standard have the tire size molded into the sidewall beginning with the section width. The letter P is absent from this tire size designation.
  • Page 293 Tire Sizing Chart Size Designation: P = Passenger car tire size based on U.S. design standards ...blank... = Passenger car tire based on European design standards LT = Light Truck tire based on U.S. design standards T = Temporary Spare tire 31 = Overall Diameter in Inches (in) 215 = Section Width in Millimeters (mm) 65 = Aspect Ratio in Percent (%)
  • Page 294 294 STARTING AND OPERATING Service Description: 95 = Load Index —A numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can carry. H = Speed Symbol —A symbol indicating the range of speeds at which a tire can carry a load corresponding to its load index under certain operating conditions.
  • Page 295: Tire Identification Number (Tin)

    Tire Identification Number (TIN) The TIN may be found on one or both sides of the tire however the date code may only be on one side. Tires with white sidewalls will have the full TIN including date code DOT = Department of Transportation —This symbol certifies that the tire is in compliance with the U.S.
  • Page 296: Tire Loading And Tire Pressure

    296 STARTING AND OPERATING Tire Loading and Tire Pressure Tire Placard Location NOTE: The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed on either the face of the driver’s door or the driver’s side “B” pillar. Tire Placard Location Tire and Loading Information Placard Tire and Loading Information This placard tells you important information about the:...
  • Page 297 3) the tire size designed for your vehicle 4) the cold tire inflation pressures for the front, rear and spare tires. Loading The vehicle maximum load on the tire must not exceed the load carrying capacity of the tire on your vehicle. You will not exceed the tire’s load carrying capacity if you adhere to the loading conditions, tire size, and cold tire inflation pressures specified on the “Tire and Loading...
  • Page 298 298 STARTING AND OPERATING 4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lb.
  • Page 299 STARTING AND OPERATING 299...
  • Page 300: Tires-General Information

    300 STARTING AND OPERATING WARNING! Overloading of your tires is dangerous. Overloading can cause tire failure, affect vehicle handling, and increase your stopping distance. Use tires of the recommended load capacity for your vehicle. Never overload them. TIRES—GENERAL INFORMATION Tire Pressure Proper tire inflation pressure is essential to the safe and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.
  • Page 301: Tire Inflation Pressures

    2. Economy— Improper inflation pressures can cause uneven wear patterns to develop across the tire tread. These abnormal wear patterns will reduce tread life resulting in a need for earlier tire replacement. Underinflation also increases tire rolling resistance and results in higher fuel consumption. 3.
  • Page 302 302 STARTING AND OPERATING CAUTION! After inspecting or adjusting the tire pressure, al- ways reinstall the valve stem cap–if equipped. This will prevent moisture and dirt from entering the valve stem, which could damage the valve stem. Inflation pressures specified on the placard are always “cold tire inflation pressure”.
  • Page 303: Radial-Ply Tires

    loading may be required for high speed vehicle opera- tion. Refer to original equipment or an authorized tire dealer for recommended safe operating speeds, loading and cold tire inflation pressures. WARNING! High speed driving with your vehicle under maxi- mum load is dangerous. The added strain on your tires could cause them to fail.
  • Page 304: Compact Spare Tire - If Equipped

    304 STARTING AND OPERATING Compact Spare Tire — If Equipped The compact spare is for temporary emergency use with radial tires. It is engineered to be used on your style vehicle only. Since this tire has limited tread life, the original tire should be repaired (or replaced) and rein- stalled at the first opportunity.
  • Page 305: Limited Use Spare - If Equipped

    Limited Use Spare — If Equipped The limited use spare tire is for temporary emergency use on your vehicle. This tire is identified by a limited use spare tire warning label located on the limited use spare tire and wheel assembly. This tire may look like the original equipped tire on the front or rear axle of your vehicle, but it is not.
  • Page 306: Tread Wear Indicators

    306 STARTING AND OPERATING WARNING! Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces gener- ated by excessive wheel speeds may cause tire dam- age or failure. A tire could explode and injure someone. Do not spin your vehicle’s wheels faster than 35 mph (55 km/h) when you are stuck. And don’t let anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter what the speed.
  • Page 307: Life Of Tire

    Life of Tire The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: • Driving style • Tire pressure • Distance driven WARNING! Tires and spare tire should be replaced after six years, regardless of the remaining tread. Failure to follow this warning can result in sudden tire failure.
  • Page 308: Alignment And Balance

    308 STARTING AND OPERATING WARNING! • Do not use a tire, wheel size or rating other than that specified for your vehicle. Some combinations of unap- proved tires and wheels may change suspension dimen- sions and performance characteristics, resulting in changes to steering, handling, and braking of your vehicle.
  • Page 309: Supplemental Tire Pressure Information - If Equipped

    Improper alignment will not cause vehicle vibration. Vibration may be a result of tire and wheel out-of- balance. Proper balancing will reduce vibration and avoid tire cupping and spotty wear. SUPPLEMENTAL TIRE PRESSURE INFORMATION – IF EQUIPPED A light load vehicle condition is defined as two passen- gers {150 lbs (68 kg) each} plus 200 lbs (91kg) of cargo.
  • Page 310 310 STARTING AND OPERATING These cautions apply to all chain traction devices, includ- ing link and cable (radial) chains. Tire chain use is permitted only on the rear tires of Ram 4X2 trucks. NOTE: The use of class “U” chains is permitted on the front and rear of 4X4, 2500 Ram Trucks with LT245/ 70R17E tires.
  • Page 311: Snow Tires

    SNOW TIRES Snow tires should be of the same size and type construc- tion as the front tires. Consult the manufacturer of the snow tire to determine any maximum vehicle speed requirement associated with the tire. These tires should always be operated at the vehicle maximum capacity inflation pressures under any load condition.
  • Page 312 312 STARTING AND OPERATING Follow the recommended tire rotation frequency for your type of driving found in the “Maintenance Schedules” Section of this manual. More frequent rotation is permis- sible if desired. The reasons for any rapid or unusual wear should be corrected prior to rotation being per- formed.
  • Page 313: Dual Rear Wheels

    Dual Rear Wheels The tires used on dual wheel assemblies should be matched for wear to prevent overloading one tire in a set. To check if tires are even, lay a straight edge across all four tires. The straight edge should touch all the tires. STARTING AND OPERATING 313 CAUTION! 3500 Dual Rear Tires have only one approved direc-...
  • Page 314: Engine Runaway

    FUEL REQUIREMENTS Use good quality diesel fuel from a reputable supplier in your Dodge truck. For most year-round service, No. 2 diesel fuel meeting ASTM specification D-975 will pro- vide good performance. If the vehicle is exposed to extreme cold (below 20°F or -7°C), or is required to operate at colder-than-normal conditions for prolonged periods, use climatized No.
  • Page 315: Adding Fuel

    Diesel fuel is seldom completely free of water. To prevent fuel system trouble, drain the accumulated water from the fuel/water separator using the fuel/water separator drain provided. If you buy good quality fuel and follow the cold weather advice above, fuel conditioners should not be required in your vehicle.
  • Page 316: Bulk Fuel Storage

    316 STARTING AND OPERATING CAUTION! Damage to the fuel system or emission control system could result from using an improper fuel tank filler tube cap (gas cap). A poorly fitting cap could let impurities into the fuel system. WARNING! • Never have any smoking materials lit in or near the vehicle when the gas cap is removed or the tank filled.
  • Page 317: Fuel Specifications

    NOTE: A maximum blend of 5% biodiesel may be used with your Cummins Diesel equipped Dodge Ram Truck. NOTE: In addition, commercially available fuel addi- tives are not necessary for the proper operation of your Cummins Diesel equipped Dodge Ram Truck.
  • Page 318: Adding Fuel - 24-Valve Cummins Turbo Diesel

    (ASTM D-287) (ASTM D-97) You may try priming as described below. However, if the engine will not start, refer to the fuel priming procedure (ASTM D-130) in the Service Manual or have the vehicle towed to an authorized Dodge dealer. WARNING!
  • Page 319: Vehicle Loading

    WARNING! Do not open the high pressure fuel system with the engine running. Engine operation causes high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel spray can cause serious injury or death. Priming if the engine has run out of fuel 1. Add a substantial quantity of fuel to the tank 5 to 10 gallons (19 to 38L).
  • Page 320 320 STARTING AND OPERATING Rating (GAWR) front and rear, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A Month-Day-Hour (MDH) number is included on this label and indicates the Month, Day and Hour of manufacture. The bar code that appears on the bottom of the label is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
  • Page 321 Inflation Pressure This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle for all loading conditions up to full GAWR. Curb Weight The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total weight of the vehicle with all fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full capacity conditions, and with no occupants or cargo loaded into the vehicle.
  • Page 322 322 STARTING AND OPERATING CAUTION! Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or the maximum front and rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. This could cause you to lose control.
  • Page 323: Trailer Towing

    TRAILER TOWING In this section you will find safety tips and information on limits to the type of towing you can reasonably do with your vehicle. Before towing a trailer carefully re- view this information to tow your load as efficiently and safely as possible.
  • Page 324 324 STARTING AND OPERATING Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or rear GAWR.
  • Page 325: Trailer Hitch Classification

    Weight-Distributing Hitch A weight-distributing hitch includes a receiver attached to the tow vehicle, plus a removable hitch head and spring bar assembly that fits into the receiver opening and hook up brackets that connect the spring bars to the trailer frame. Fifth-Wheel Hitch A special high platform with a coupling that mounts over the rear axle of the tow vehicle in the truck bed.
  • Page 326: Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)

    • http:// www.dodge.com/towing. • http:// www.dodge.ca (Canada). Trailer and Tongue Weight Always load a trailer with 60% to 65% of the weight in the front of the trailer. This places 10% to 15% of the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) on the tow hitch of your vehicle.
  • Page 327 Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch. STARTING AND OPERATING 327 Consider the following items when computing the weight on the rear axle of the vehicle: • The tongue weight of the trailer. • The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put in or on your vehicle.
  • Page 328: Towing Requirements

    328 STARTING AND OPERATING Towing Requirements To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle driv- etrain components the following guidelines are recom- mended: CAUTION! • Avoid towing a trailer for the first 500 miles (805 km) of vehicle operation. Doing so may damage your vehicle.
  • Page 329 • Safety chains must always be used between your vehicle and trailer. Always connect the chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for turning corners. •...
  • Page 330 330 STARTING AND OPERATING − Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage before towing a trailer. Refer to the Tires–General Information section of this manual on Tread Wear Indicators for the proper inspection procedure. − When replacing tires refer to the Tires–General Infor- mation section of this manual on Replacement Tires for proper tire replacement procedures.
  • Page 331 WARNING! Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle’s hy- draulic brake lines. It can overload your brake sys- tem and cause it to fail. You might not have brakes when you need them and could have an accident. Towing any trailer will increase your stopping dis- tance.
  • Page 332: Towing Tips

    332 STARTING AND OPERATING 7- Pin Connector Towing Tips Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping and backing the trailer in an area away from heavy traffic. If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer towing, all starts must be in FIRST gear to avoid excessive clutch slippage.
  • Page 333 NOTE: Check the automatic transmission fluid level before towing. Towing Tips — Tow/Haul (If Equipped) To reduce potential for automatic transmission overheat- ing, turn the “TOW HAUL OD/OFF” feature ON when driving in hilly areas or shift the transmission to Drive position 2 on more severe grades.
  • Page 334: Trailer Towing Mirrors - If Equipped

    334 STARTING AND OPERATING Trailer Towing Mirrors — If Equipped These mirrors are designed with an adjustable mirror head to provide a greater vision range when towing extra-wide loads. To change position inboard or out- board, the mirror head should be rotated (flipped Out or In).
  • Page 335: Snowplow

    NOTE: Before installation of a snowplow it is highly recommended that the owner / installer obtain and follow the recommendations contained within the cur- rent Dodge BODY BUILDER’S GUIDE. See your dealer, installer or snowplow manufacture for this information. There are unique electrical systems that must be con- nected to properly assure operator safety and prevent overloading vehicle systems.
  • Page 336: Before Plowing

    • Check that snowplow lighting is connected and func- tioning properly. Snowplow Prep Package Model Availability For Information about snowplow applications visit www.dodge.com or refer to the current Dodge Body Builders Guide. 1. The maximum number of occupants in the truck should not exceed two.
  • Page 337: Over The Road Operation With Snowplow Attached

    4. Cargo capacity will be reduced by the addition of options or passengers, etc. The loaded vehicle weight, including the snowplow system, all aftermarket accessories, driver, passengers, options, and cargo, must not exceed either the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight (GAWR) ratings.
  • Page 338: Methods For Removing Snow

    338 STARTING AND OPERATING Methods For Removing Snow Operating Tips Under ideal snow plowing conditions, 20 mph (32 km/h) should be maximum operating speed. The operator should be familiar with the area and surface to be cleaned. Reduce speed and use extreme caution when plowing unfamiliar areas or under poor visibility.
  • Page 339: Recreational Towing (Behind Motorhome, Etc.)

    • Operate with transfer case in 4L when plowing small or congested areas where speeds are not likely to exceed 15 mph (24 km/h). At higher speeds operate in • Vehicles with 48RE transmissions should use 4L range when plowing deep or heavy snow for extended periods of time to avoid transmission overheating.
  • Page 340 340 STARTING AND OPERATING CAUTION! Internal damage to the transfer case will occur if a front or rear wheel lift is used when recreational towing. NOTE: Both the Manual Shift and Electronic Shift transfer cases must be shifted into Neutral (N) for recreational towing.
  • Page 341 8. Release brake pedal for five seconds and ensure that there is no vehicle movement. 9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 with the transmission in Drive (D). 10. Shut OFF the engine and place the ignition key to the unlocked OFF position. 11.
  • Page 342 342 STARTING AND OPERATING 5. Shift automatic transmission to N (NEUTRAL), or depress the clutch on manual transmissions. 6. Shift transfer case lever to desired position. 7. Shift automatic transmission into P (Park). WARNING! You or others could be injured if you leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the N (NEUTRAL) position without first fully engaging the parking brake.
  • Page 343 CAUTION! It is necessary to follow these steps to be certain that the transfer case is fully in Neutral (N) before recreational towing to prevent damage to internal parts. 1. Bring vehicle to a complete stop. 2. Shut OFF the engine. 3.
  • Page 344 344 STARTING AND OPERATING 15. Attach vehicle to tow vehicle with tow bar. 16. Release parking brake. NOTE: Items 1 through 5 are requirements that must be met prior to depressing the Neutral (N) selection button, and must continue to be met until the 4 seconds elapses and the shift has been completed.
  • Page 345 3. Turn the ignition key to the ON position, but do not start the engine. 4. Depress the brake pedal. 5. Shift automatic transmission to Neutral (N) or depress clutch on manual transmission. 6. Using the point of a ballpoint pen or similar object, depress the recessed transfer case Neutral (N) button for 1 second.
  • Page 346: Driving Off-Road

    346 STARTING AND OPERATING WARNING! You or others could be injured if you leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the Neutral (N) position without first fully engaging the parking brake. The transfer case Neutral (N) position disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain and will allow the vehicle to move despite the transmission position.
  • Page 347: Traction

    If you must back down a hill, back straight down using REVERSE gear. Never back down in NEUTRAL, or diagonally across the hill. When driving over sand, mud, and other soft terrain, shift to low gear and drive steadily. Apply the accelerator slowly to avoid spinning the wheels.
  • Page 348: Engine Data Plate

    348 STARTING AND OPERATING 4. Keep tires properly inflated. 5. Maintain sufficient distance between your vehicle and the car in front to avoid a collision in a sudden stop. ENGINE DATA PLATE Use the information from the engine data plate when discussing service or sourcing parts for your engine.
  • Page 349: What To Do In Emergencies

    WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES CONTENTS Hazard Warning Lights ....350 Jack Location ......351 All Models .
  • Page 350: Hazard Warning Lights

    350 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS The Hazard Warning switch is mounted on the top of the steering column as shown in the illustration. Hazard Light Warning Switch To engage the Hazard Warning lights, depress the button on the top of the steering column.
  • Page 351: Jack Location

    JACK LOCATION All Models The jack and jack tools are stored under the passenger seat. Lift the flap on the side of the seat for access. Remove the jack and tools by loosening the thumb screw and sliding the assembly from under the seat. WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 351 WARNING! The jack is designed to use as a tool for changing...
  • Page 352: Changing A Flat Tire

    352 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES CHANGING A FLAT TIRE Removing The Spare Tire Remove the spare tire before attempting to jack the truck. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack extension tube. Insert the tube through the access hole between the lower tailgate and the top of the bumper and into the winch mechanism tube.
  • Page 353: Tire Changing Procedure

    Tire Changing Procedure WARNING! Getting under a jacked-up vehicle is dangerous. The vehicle could slip off the jack and fall on you. You could be crushed. Never get any part of your body under a vehicle that is on a jack. Never start or run the engine while the vehicle is on a jack.
  • Page 354 354 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES • Block both the front and rear of the wheel diagonally oppo- site the jacking position. For example, if the right front wheel is being changed, block the left rear wheel. • Passengers should not remain in the vehicle when the vehicle is being jacked.
  • Page 355 1. Remove the spare wheel, jack, and tools from storage. 2. Using the wheel wrench, loosen, but do not remove, the wheel nuts by turning them counterclockwise one turn while the wheel is still on the ground. 3. For 2500/3500 4x2 series trucks, when changing a front wheel, place the bottle jack under the frame rail behind the wheel.
  • Page 356 356 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES NOTE: If the jack will not lower by turning the dial (thumb wheel) by hand, it may be necessary to use the jack drive tube in order to lower the jack. 2500/3500 4X2 Jacking...
  • Page 357 4. By rotating the wheel wrench clockwise, raise the vehicle until the wheel just clears the surface. WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 357 WARNING! Raising the vehicle higher than necessary can make the vehicle unstable and cause an accident. It could slip off the jack and hurt someone near it.
  • Page 358 358 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES (SRW) models and 145 ft. lbs. (197 N·m) for 3500 dual rear wheel models. If in doubt about the correct tightness, have them checked with a torque wrench by your dealer or at a service station. WARNING! A loose tire or jack thrown forward in a collision or hard stop could injure someone in the vehicle.
  • Page 359 ratchet firmly. The hub cap should pop off. The wheel skins can now be removed. For the front hub cap on 3500 models use the blade on the end of the lug wrench to pry the caps off. The wheel skin can now be removed. CAUTION! Use a back and forth motion to remove the hub cap.
  • Page 360 360 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 8-Stud — Dual Rear Wheels Dual wheels are flat mounted, center piloted. The lug nuts are a two piece assembly. When the tires are being rotated or replaced, clean these lug nuts and add 2 drops of oil at the interface between the hex and the washer.
  • Page 361 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 361 1. Tighten the wheel nuts in the numbered sequence to a These dual rear wheels should be tightened as follows: snug fit. 2. Retighten the wheel nuts in the same sequence to the torques listed in the table. Go through the sequence a second time to verify that specific torque has been achieved.
  • Page 362: Hoisting

    362 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES wheel. The nuts should then be tightened to recom- mended torque. Tighten the nuts to final torque in increments. Progress around the bolt circle, tightening the nut opposite to the nut just previously tightened until final torque is achieved.
  • Page 363: Jump-Starting

    JUMP-STARTING WARNING! To prevent personal injury or damage to clothing, do not allow battery fluid to contact eyes, skin or fabrics. Do not lean over a battery when connecting jumper cables or allow cable clamps to touch each other. Keep open flames or sparks away from battery vent holes.
  • Page 364 364 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES CAUTION! Use the Jump Start Procedure only when the charge indicator (if equipped) in both batteries is dark in the center. Do not attempt jump starting when either battery charge indicator (if equipped) is bright or yellow.
  • Page 365 2. Connect one end of the other jumper cable to negative (-) post of booster battery. Connect the other end of the jumper cable to a good ground on the engine block of the vehicle with the discharged battery. Make sure a good connection is made, free of dirt and grease.
  • Page 366: With Portable Starting Unit

    366 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES WARNING! Any procedure other than above could result in: 1. Personal injury caused by electrolyte squirting out the battery vent; 2. Personal injury or property damage due to battery explosion; 3. Damage to charging system of booster vehicle or of immobilized vehicle.
  • Page 367: Emergency Tow Hooks - If Equipped

    not freeing the vehicle, may lead to transmission over- heating and failure. Allow the engine to idle with the transmission selector in NEUTRAL for at least one minute after every five rocking-motion cycles. This will minimize overheating and reduce the risk of transmis- sion failure during prolonged efforts to free a stuck vehicle.
  • Page 368: Towing A Disabled Vehicle

    368 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to prevent damage to your vehicle. Use only tow bars and other equipment designed for the purpose, following equip- ment manufacturer’s instructions. Use of safety chains is mandatory.
  • Page 369 CAUTION! Towing faster than 30 mph (50 km/h) or for more than 15 miles (25 km) can cause severe damage to the transmission. WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 369 If the vehicle is to be towed faster than 30 mph (50 km/h) or more than 15 miles (25 km) the vehicle must be towed with the rear wheels raised and the front wheels on the ground.
  • Page 371: Maintaining Your Vehicle

    MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS Engine Compartment ....374 5.9L HO Cummins Turbo Diesel ... 374 Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) .
  • Page 372 372 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Front Axle Universal Drive Joints And Pivot Bearings ......394 Body Lubrication .
  • Page 373 Bulb Replacement ..... . 424 Headlight (Halogen)/Front Park And Turn Lights ......424 Tail, Stop, Turn And Backup Lights .
  • Page 374: Engine Compartment

    374 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT 5.9L HO CUMMINS TURBO DIESEL...
  • Page 375: Onboard Diagnostic System (Obd Ii)

    ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (OBD II) Vehicles equipped with California emissions controls have a sophisticated onboard diagnostic system called OBDII. This system monitors the performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic transmission control systems. When these systems are operating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent performance and fuel economy, as well as engine emissions well within current government regulations.
  • Page 376: Dealer Service

    376 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE DEALER SERVICE Your dealer has the qualified service personnel, special tools and equipment to perform all service operations in an expert manner. Service manuals are available which include detailed service information for your vehicle. Refer to these manuals before attempting any procedure yourself.
  • Page 377 CAUTION! To maintain your vehicle safely follow these guide- lines: • Watch your vehicle’s mileage and check your Mainte- nance Schedules regularly for required servicing. Ex- cessive wear or damage to certain vehicle components can result if required services are not performed. •...
  • Page 378 • Important: All maintenance other than that listed in this manual, as well as some procedures listed here, MUST be performed by your local Dodge Truck Dealer. Your authorized Dodge Dealer has been trained and has the necessary parts to maintain your...
  • Page 379: Maintenance Procedures

    MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES The pages that follow contain the required maintenance services determined by the engineers who designed your vehicle. Besides the maintenance items for which there are fixed maintenance intervals, there are other items that should operate satisfactorily without periodic maintenance. However, if a malfunction of these items does occur, it could adversely affect the engine or vehicle performance.
  • Page 380 380 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Checking the vehicle while it’s on level ground will also improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Add oil only when the level on the dipstick is below the “ADD” mark. The total capacity from the low mark to the high mark is 2 quarts (1.9 liters).
  • Page 381 • Driving in dusty conditions. • Frequent trailer towing. • Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service). • Off-road or desert operation. • Extensive operation at high engine speeds (greater than 2900 rpm) and loads (greater than 70% throttle). If ANY of these apply to you, then change your engine oil at every interval shown in schedule B of the Mainte- nance Schedules section of this manual.
  • Page 382 382 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE NOTE: The same oil change interval is to be followed for synthetic oil as for petroleum based oil. Also, syn- thetic oil must meet the same performance specifications as petroleum oil. Engine Oil Filter Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct part number.
  • Page 383 Always check the condition of the used oil. This can give you an indication of some engine problems that might exist. • Thin, black oil indicates fuel dilution. • Milky discoloration indicates coolant dilution. Clean the area around the oil filter base. Remove the filter from the underside of the vehicle using a cap style oil filter wrench.
  • Page 384 384 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! Overtightening may distort the threads or damage the filter element seal. Install the filter as specified by the filter manufacturer. Turn the filter 3/4 to one full turn after making contact with the gasket. Check the condition of the threads and sealing surface on the oil pan and drain plug.
  • Page 385: Drive Belt

    Contact your local dealer, service station, or governmen- tal agency for advice on recycling programs and where used fluids and filters can be safely discarded in your area. Drive Belt Inspection Check the belt for intersecting cracks. • Transverse (across the belt width) cracks are accept- able.
  • Page 386 386 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Do not remove the top of the air filter housing to inspect the filter element on your diesel engine under normal operating conditions. The clear plastic housing on the Filter Minder™ allows you to view the amount of air pressure drop across the filter element.
  • Page 387: Draining Fuel/Water Separator Filter

    A visual inspection of the air cleaner filter element is never recommended under normal circumstances. A badly restricted element may appear clean while a soiled element may be quite effective in filtering particles without restricting air flow. Rely on the Filter Minder™ to determine when a filter change is necessary.
  • Page 388 388 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! Do not drain the fuel/water separator filter when the engine is running. Drain a small amount from the fuel/water separator filter periodically or when the WATER IN FUEL indicator lamp is on. Pull outward on the drain valve lever, located on the side of the filter, and allow any accumulated water to drain.
  • Page 389 run and purge air from the system for about 25 seconds. After 25 seconds, attempt to start the engine again. 3. Start the engine using the Normal Starting Procedure. 4. Repeat the procedure if the engine does not start. CAUTION! Do not engage the starter motor for more than 15 seconds at a time.
  • Page 390: Maintenance Free Batteries

    NOTE: A maximum blend of 5% biodiesel may be used with your Cummins Diesel equipped Dodge Ram Truck NOTE: As sufficient testing as not been completed, ethanol blends are not recommended or approved for use with your Cummins Diesel equipped Dodge Ram Truck.
  • Page 391: Air Conditioner Maintenance

    CAUTION! It is essential when replacing the cables on the battery that the positive cable is attached to the positive post and the negative cable is attached to the negative post. Battery posts are marked (+) positive and negative (-) and identified on the battery case. Also, if a “fast charger”...
  • Page 392: Power Steering - Fluid Check

    392 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants approved by the manufacturer for your air condi- tioning system. Some unapproved refrigerants are flammable and can explode, injuring you. Other unapproved refrigerants or lubricants can cause the system to fail, requiring costly repairs. Refer to Section 3 of the Warranty Information book for further warranty information.
  • Page 393: Front Suspension Ball Joints

    WARNING! Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and with the engine off to prevent injury from moving parts and to insure accurate fluid level reading. Do not overfill. Use only manufacturers recommended power steering fluid. If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated level.
  • Page 394: Front Prop Shaft Lubrication

    394 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Front Prop Shaft Lubrication Lubricate the front driveshaft grease fitting at each oil change listed in the appropriate Maintenance Schedule for your vehicle (Schedule “A” and “B”). Use Mopar type MS-6560 (lithium based grease), or equivalent. Front Driveshaft Grease Fitting Front Axle Universal Drive Joints And Pivot Bearings...
  • Page 395: Windshield Wiper Blades

    amount of a high quality lubricant such as Mopar Lock Cylinder Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder. Windshield Wiper Blades The rubber edges of the wiper blades and the windshield should be cleaned periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a mild nonabrasive cleaner.
  • Page 396: Exhaust System

    396 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Commercially available windshield washer solvents are flammable. They could ignite and burn you. Care must be exercised when filling or working around the washer solution. After the engine has warmed, operate the defroster for a few minutes to reduce the possibility of smearing or freezing the fluid on the cold windshield.
  • Page 397: Cooling System

    WARNING! Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon monoxide (CO) which is colorless and odorless. Breathing it can make you unconscious and can eventually poison you. To avoid breathing CO, fol- low the preceding safety tips. Exhaust System Rubber Isolator and Loop-Type Hanger —...
  • Page 398 398 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Extremely cold ambient temperature may require the addition of a “winter front” for effective operation of the cab heating/cooling system. Make certain that a percent- age of the radiator is exposed for adequate air flow through the charge air cooler and automatic transmission oil cooler.
  • Page 399 Adding Coolant When adding coolant, or refilling the system, a minimum solution of 50% recommended HOAT ethylene glycol engine coolant (antifreeze) and distilled water should be used. Use higher concentrations (not to exceed 70%) if temperatures below 34°F ( 37°C) are anticipated. Use only high purity water such as distilled or deionized water when mixing the water/engine coolant solution.
  • Page 400 400 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Recommended Engine Coolant Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct Fluid type. CAUTION! • Mixing of coolants other than specified engine coolant, may result in engine damage, and de- crease corrosion protection. If a non-HOAT cool- ant is introduced into the cooling system in an emergency, it should be replaced with the speci- fied coolant as soon as possible.
  • Page 401 Disposal Of Used Engine Coolant Used ethylene glycol based engine coolant is a regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your community. Do not store ethylene glycol-based engine coolant in open containers or allow it to remain in puddles on the ground.
  • Page 402: Fan

    NOTE: This service procedure must be performed by a trained service technician. Make arrangements with your authorized Dodge Truck Dealer for this inspection. Charge Air Cooler (Inter-Cooler) The charge air cooler is positioned between the radiator and the air conditioner condenser.
  • Page 403: Brake System

    Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or collapsed. Inspect all hose connections such as clamps and cou- plings to make sure they are secure and no leaks are present. Components should be replaced immediately if there is any evidence of wear or damage that could cause failure.
  • Page 404 404 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE With disc brakes the fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in fluid level may be caused by a leak and a system check should be conducted. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct Fluid type.
  • Page 405: Clutch Linkage

    Brake Hoses Inspection should be performed whenever the brake system is serviced or at intervals specified. Inspect hy- draulic brake hoses for surface cracking, scuffing or worn spots. If there is any evidence of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, the hose should be replaced immediately! Eventual deterioration of the hose can take place with possible burst failure.
  • Page 406: Transfer Case - If Equipped

    406 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Drain And Refill Vehicles operated in normal service do not have regularly scheduled oil changes. If fluid has become contaminated with water or subjected to severe service, follow the recommended change intervals in Maintenance Schedule “B” in Section 8 of this manual. Lubricant Selection Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct lubricant type.
  • Page 407: Automatic Transmission

    Lubricant Selection for 6-Speed Manual Transmission — If Equipped If it becomes necessary to add fluid or change the fluid, be sure to use the same lubricant or equivalent. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct lubricant type. Automatic Transmission Fluid Level Check The fluid level should be checked when the engine is...
  • Page 408 Authorized Dodge Dealer or Service Center. It is important that the transmission be adjusted periodically, the fluid main- tained at the correct level, and that it be drained and...
  • Page 409: Front Wheel Bearings

    The use of transmission sealers should be avoided, since they may adversely affect seals. Front Wheel Bearings Front wheel bearings for all Dodge Ram Trucks are sealed-for-life. They do not require greasing or seal replacement. In some instances, these bearings will “purge”...
  • Page 410: Selection Of Lubricating Grease

    410 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE • If a bearing assembly is accidentally separated when servicing the brake rotors, it should be replaced. Rear Wheel Bearings Clean and repack when brake linings are replaced or rotors resurfaced. Selection Of Lubricating Grease The National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI) has developed a symbol (Certification Mark) to aid the vehicle owner in the proper selection of grease for the lubrication of wheel bearings and chassis components.
  • Page 411: Noise Control System Required Maintenance & Warranty

    Noise Control System Required Maintenance & Warranty For 3500 Two-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive mod- els over 10,000 lbs. (4 535 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. All vehicles built over 10,000 lbs. (4 535 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and manufactured for sale and use in the United States are required to comply with the Federal Government’s Exterior Noise Regulations.
  • Page 412 412 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE or suspected. Proper maintenance of the entire vehicle will help the effectiveness of the noise control systems. Exhaust System Inspect the entire exhaust system for leaks and damaged parts. Devices such as hangers, clamps, and U-bolts should be tight and in good condition.
  • Page 413 • EXHAUST SYSTEM − Removal or rendering inoperative exhaust system components including the muffler or tailpipe. • ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM − Removal or rendering inoperative the fan clutch. − Removal of the fan shroud. Noise Emission Warranty The manufacturer warrants that this vehicle as manufac- tured by the manufacturer, was designed, built and equipped to conform at the time it left the manufacturer’s MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE...
  • Page 414 414 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Maintenance Log and Service Chart — 24 Valve Cummins Turbo Diesel Noise Systems Maintenance Chart and Service Log — Insert Month, Day, Year under column mileage closest to the mileage at which service was performed. MILES 7,500 KILOMETERS 12 000...
  • Page 415 Noise Systems Maintenance Chart and Service Log — Insert Month, Day, Year under column mileage closest to the mileage at which service was performed. MILES 67,500 75,000 KILOMETERS 108 000 120 000 Exhaust system- inspect Air cleaner assembly-inspect ODOMETER READING PERFORMED BY PERFORMED AT 82,500...
  • Page 416: Appearance Care And Protection From Corrosion

    416 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Appearance Care and Protection from Corrosion Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion Vehicle body care requirements vary according to geo- graphic locations and usage. Chemicals that make roads passable in snow and ice, and those that are sprayed on trees and road surfaces during other seasons, are highly corrosive to the metal in your vehicle.
  • Page 417 • Use Mopar Cleaner Wax to remove road film, stains and to protect your paint finish. Take care never to scratch the paint. • Avoid using abrasive compounds and power buffing that may diminish the gloss or thin out the paint finish.
  • Page 418 418 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE oven cleaner. Avoid automatic car washes that use acidic solutions or harsh brushes that may damage the wheels’ protective finish. • If you carry special cargo such as chemicals, fertilizers, de-icer salt, etc., be sure that such materials are well packaged and sealed.
  • Page 419 Glass Surfaces All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis with Mopar Glass Cleaner or any commercial household- type glass cleaner. Never use an abrasive type cleaner. Use caution when cleaning the inside rear window equipped with electric defrosters or the right rear quarter window equipped with the radio antenna.
  • Page 420: Integrated Power Module

    420 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE INTEGRATED POWER MODULE Integrated Power Module Location An integrated Power Module is located in the engine compartment near the battery. This center contains car- tridge fuses and mini fuses. A description of each fuse and component may be stamped on the inside cover otherwise the cavity number of each fuse is stamped on the inside cover that corresponds to the following chart.
  • Page 421 Cavity Cartridge Mini Description Fuse Fuse 10 Amp Heated Mirrors 30 Amp Off Road Module Pink Power 5 Amp Trx-Off Rd Pkg Sen Orange (Gas Engine Only) 20 Amp IOD-CNN/Radio/ Yellow Under Hood Lamp/ WCM/SDARS/HFM 30 Amp Electric Brake Pink 25 Amp Power-Battery Natural...
  • Page 422 422 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Cavity Cartridge Mini Fuse Fuse 10 Amp ECM/WCM/HVC 20 Amp Subwoofer Amplifier Blue (SRT-10 Only) 10 Amp Power Mirror 20 Amp Brake Switch/ Yellow CHMSL/Stop Lamp 40 Amp Power Seats Green 10 Amp Power Run/Start- NCC/WCM/ABS/ RWAL 10 Amp Switches/EC Mirror/...
  • Page 423: Vehicle Storage

    Cavity Cartridge Mini Fuse Fuse 20 Amp Power Outlet IP Yellow 10 Amp Sunroof/Seatbelt Ten- sioner 20 Amp Cigar Lighter Yellow 25 Amp Spare Natural 30 Amp Diesel PCM (Diesel Pink Only) 1. Disconnect the battery negative (-) cable before remov- ing the cover.
  • Page 424: Replacement Light Bulbs

    424 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE REPLACEMENT LIGHT BULBS LIGHT BULBS — Inside Overhead Console Lights ....TS 212-2 Dome Light......7679 All of the inside bulbs are brass or glass wedge base.
  • Page 425 2. Remove the two (2) bolts from the front of the head- light housing. Front Headlight Housing Bolts MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 3. Remove the plug from the inner fender well and remove the nut through the access hole. Inner Fender Plug...
  • Page 426 426 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Rear Headlight Housing Nut Access 4. Pull the housing out from the fender to allow room to disconnect the electrical connectors. NOTE: For easier removal, pull the headlight assembly straight forward, applying the greatest amount of force to the outer edge of the headlight assembly.
  • Page 427 Bulb Removal 5. Unlock and pull connector straight from the base of the headlight halogen bulb. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 6. Twist connector on turn signal/park light bulb and remove connector and bulb from housing. 7. Remove housing from vehicle with headlight halogen bulb in housing.
  • Page 428: Tail, Stop, Turn And Backup Lights

    428 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Tail, Stop, Turn and Backup Lights 1. Remove the two (2) screws that pass through the bed sheetmetal. 2. Pull the housing straight out from the body, with a quick motion, to separate the housing from the body. If not pulled straight, locators may be damaged.
  • Page 429 3. Push the red lock slide in on the connector and remove the housing from the vehicle. 4. Remove the four (4) screws from the bulb strip in the housing. 5. Pull the appropriate bulb straight from the bulb strip. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE •...
  • Page 430: Center High-Mounted Stoplight With Cargo Light

    430 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 7. While holding the taillight firmly in place, fasten the top screw first. Center High-Mounted Stoplight With Cargo Light 1. Remove the two (2) screws holding the housing/lens to the body as shown. 2. Separate the connector holding the housing and wir- ing harness to the body.
  • Page 431: Cab Top Clearance Lights - If Equipped

    4. Pull desired bulb straight from the socket. • Outside Bulbs: Cargo Lamps • Inside Bulb: Center High Mount Stop Lamp 5. Reverse procedure for installation of bulbs and hous- ing. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Cab Top Clearance Lights — If Equipped 1.
  • Page 432 432 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 2. Rotate the socket ⁄ turn and pull it from the light 3. Pull the bulb straight from it’s socket and replace. assembly.
  • Page 433: Tailgate Id Lights (Dual Rear Wheels) - If Equipped

    MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Tailgate ID Lights (Dual Rear Wheels) — If Equipped 1. Remove the two screws and housing and access the bulb sockets from the rear.
  • Page 434: Rear Light Bar Id Marker (Dual Rear Wheel) - If Equipped

    434 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 2. Turn socket ⁄ turn counterclockwise to access the bulb. 3. Pull bulb straight out from socket. 4. Reverse procedure for installation of bulbs and hous- ing. Rear Light Bar ID Marker (Dual Rear Wheel) – If Equipped 1.
  • Page 435: Side Marker Lights (Dual Rear Wheels)

    2. Turn the socket 1/4 turn counterclockwise to access the bulb. 3. Pull the bulb straight out from the socket. 4. Reverse procedure for installation of bulbs and hous- ing. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Side Marker Lights (Dual Rear Wheels) 1. Push rearward on the side marker light assembly. 2.
  • Page 436: Fog Lights

    436 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 3. Turn socket ⁄ turn counterclockwise and remove from assembly to access the bulb. 4. Pull bulb straight out from socket. 5. Reverse procedure for installation of bulbs and hous- ing. Fog Lights 1. Reach under the vehicle, unlock and twist connector counterclockwise ⁄...
  • Page 437: Fluid Capacities

    2. Pull bulb straight from the connector. 3. Reverse procedure for installation of bulbs and hous- ing. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE FLUID CAPACITIES FLUID CAPACITIES U.S. Fuel 2500 Shortbed Models 34 gal. 2500 Longbed Models 35 gal. 3500 Shortbed Models 34 gal. 3500 Longbed Models 35 gal.
  • Page 438: Fluids, Lubricants And Genuine Parts

    438 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS AND GENUINE PARTS Engine Component Engine Coolant Engine Oil Engine Oil Filter Engine Fuel Filter Fuel Selection Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula HOAT (Hybrid Or- ganic Additive Technology) or equivalent. For the proper quality and SAE Grade oil for your engine, refer to the section Maintenance Procedures.
  • Page 439: Chassis

    Chassis Component Automatic Transmission Transfer Case Manual Transmission Fluid G-56 Clutch Linkage Front and Rear Axle Fluid 2500/3500 Models Brake Master Cylinder Power Steering Reservoir Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts. Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid. Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid. Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
  • Page 441: Maintenance Schedules

    MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES CONTENTS Emission Control System Maintenance ..442 Maintenance Schedules — 24–Valve Cummins Turbo Diesel ......442 Schedule “B”...
  • Page 442 442 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE The “Scheduled” maintenance services, listed in bold type in this section (Section 8) must be done at the times or mileages specified to assure the continued proper functioning of the emission control system. These, and all other maintenance services included in this manual, should be done to provide best vehicle performance and reliability.
  • Page 443 • Off-road or desert operation. • Extensive operation at high engine speeds (greater than 2900 rpm) and loads (greater than 70% throttle). NOTE: Most vehicles are operated under the conditions listed for Schedule B . NOTE: If ANY of these apply to you then change your coolant every 101,250 miles (162 000 km) or 60 months, whichever comes first and follow schedule “B”...
  • Page 444 444 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES Once a Month • Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or damage. • Inspect the batteries and clean and tighten the termi- nals as required. • Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, and transmission and transfer case (if equipped), add as needed.
  • Page 445 Schedule “B” Follow schedule “B” if you usually operate your vehicle under one or more of the following conditions. • Frequent short trips where the engine does not achieve full operating temperature (operating temperature de- fined as 190° F (66° C ) coolant temperature). •...
  • Page 446 446 SCHEDULE “B” Miles (Kilometers) Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod- els only. Inspect water pump weep hole for blockage.
  • Page 447 Miles (Kilometers) Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod- els only. Inspect drive belt, replace as required. Inspect fan hub.
  • Page 448 448 SCHEDULE “B” Miles (Kilometers) Change rear axle fluid. Change front axle fluid (4X4). Check transfer case fluid level (4X4). Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid. Re- place filter and adjust bands (48RE only). 22,500 26,250 30,000 (36 000) (42 000) (48 000) 33,750 37,500...
  • Page 449 Miles (Kilometers) Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod- els only. Inspect drive belt, replace as required. Inspect water pump weep hole for blockage.
  • Page 450 450 SCHEDULE “B” Miles (Kilometers) Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Flush and replace engine coolant at 60 months, if not replaced at 102,000 miles (163 000 km). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage.
  • Page 451 Miles (Kilometers) Inspect front wheel bearings. Change rear axle fluid. Change front axle fluid (4X4). Change 6-spd manual transmission (G-56) fluid 2500/3500 models only. Inspect brake linings. Inspect and adjust parking brake if necessary. Drain and refill transfer case fluid (4X4). Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid and change main sump filter (545 RFE only).
  • Page 452 452 SCHEDULE “B” Miles (Kilometers) Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod- els only. Inspect drive belt, replace as required.
  • Page 453 Miles (Kilometers) Replace fuel filter element. Clean the water in fuel sensor. Inspect front wheel bearings. Inspect brake linings. Inspect and adjust parking brake if necessary. Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid. Re- place filter and adjust bands (48RE only). 78,750 82,500 86,250...
  • Page 454 454 SCHEDULE “B” Miles (Kilometers) Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/ 3500, 4X4). Flush and replace engine coolant, if not re- placed at 60 months. Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and cor- rect stowage.
  • Page 455 Miles (Kilometers) Change front axle fluid (4X4). Inspect brake linings. Inspect and adjust parking brake if necessary. 97,500 100,000 101,250 105,000 (156 000) (160 000) (162 000) (168 000) (174 000) (180 000) SCHEDULE “B” 455 108,750 112,500...
  • Page 456 456 SCHEDULE “B” Miles (Kilometers) Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/ 3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and cor- rect stowage. Flush and replace engine coolant at 120 months, if not replaced at 102,000 miles (163 000 km).
  • Page 457 Miles (Kilometers) Inspect damper. Inspect water pump weep hole for blockage. Replace fuel filter element. Clean the water in fuel sensor. Inspect front wheel bearings. Change rear axle fluid. Change front axle fluid (4X4). Change 6-spd manual transmission (G-56) fluid 2500/3500 models only. Inspect brake linings.
  • Page 458 458 SCHEDULE “B” Miles (Kilometers) Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid and change main sump and spin-on cooler return filter (if equipped) (545 RFE only). Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid. Replace filter and adjust bands (48RE only). Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected.
  • Page 459 Schedule “A” Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod- els only. Check transfer case fluid level (4X4).
  • Page 460 460 SCHEDULE “A” Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Inspect and adjust parking brake if necessary. Inspect fan hub. Inspect damper. Inspect front wheel bearings. 7,500 15,000 22,500 (12 000) (24 000) (36 000) [12] [18] 30,000 37,500 (48 000) (60 000) [24] [30]...
  • Page 461 Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod- els only. Check transfer case fluid level. Flush and replace engine coolant at 60 months, if not replaced at 102,000 miles (163 000 km).
  • Page 462 462 SCHEDULE “A” Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Inspect brake linings. Inspect and adjust parking brake if necessary. Inspect fan hub. Inspect damper. Inspect front wheel bearings. Replace fuel filter element. Clean the water in fuel sensor 45,000 52,500 60,000 (72 000) (84 000) (96 000) [36]...
  • Page 463 Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod- els only. Flush and replace engine coolant, if not replaced at 60 mos.
  • Page 464 464 SCHEDULE “A” Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Replace fuel filter element. Clean the water in fuel sensor. Inspect front wheel bearings. Inspect brake linings. Inspect and adjust parking brake if necessary. Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid. Re- place filter and adjust bands (48 RE only). 82,500 90,000 97,500...
  • Page 465 Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Change engine oil and engine oil filter. Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/ 3500, 4X4). Rotate tires. Check spare tire for proper pressure and cor- rect stowage. Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) models only. Flush and replace engine coolant at 120 months, if not replaced at 100,000 miles (160 000 km).
  • Page 466 466 SCHEDULE “A” Miles (Kilometers) [Months] Inspect damper. Inspect water pump weep hole for blockage. Replace fuel filter element. Clean the water in fuel sensor. Inspect front wheel bearings. Inspect brake linings. Inspect and adjust parking brake if necessary. Adjust valve lash clearance. Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected.
  • Page 467 WARNING! You can be badly injured working on or around a motor vehicle. Do only that service work for which you have the knowledge and the right equipment. If you have any doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take your vehicle to a competent me- chanic.
  • Page 469: If You Need Consumer Assistance

    IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CONTENTS Suggestions For Obtaining Service For Your Vehicle ......470 Prepare For The Appointment .
  • Page 470: Suggestions For Obtaining Service For Your Vehicle

    We want you to be happy with our products and services. Warranty service must be done by an authorized Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep dealer. We strongly recommend that you take your vehicle to your selling dealer. They know you and your vehicle best, and are most concerned that you get prompt and high quality service.
  • Page 471 technicians, special tools, and the latest information to assure your vehicle is fixed correctly and in a timely manner. This is why you should always talk to your dealer’s service manager first. Most matters can be resolved with this process. •...
  • Page 472 472 IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE Customer Assistance For The Hearing Or Speech Impaired (TDD/TTY) To assist customers who have hearing difficulties, the manufacturer has installed special TDD (Telecommuni- cation Devices for the Deaf) equipment at its Customer Center. Any hearing or speech impaired customer who has access to a TDD or a conventional teletypewriter (TTY) in the United States can communicate with the manufacturer by dialing 1–800–380–CHRY.
  • Page 473: Warranty Information (U.s. Vehicles Only)

    WARRANTY INFORMATION (U.S. Vehicles Only) See the Warranty Information Booklet for the terms and provisions of DaimlerChrysler’s warranties applicable to this vehicle. MOPAR PARTS Mopar fluids, lubricants, parts, and accessories are available from your dealer. They will help you keep your vehicle operating at its best.
  • Page 474: Publication Order Forms

    474 IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE PUBLICATION ORDER FORMS To order the following manuals, you may use either the website or the phone numbers listed below. Visa, Mas- tercard, American Express, and Discover orders are ac- cepted. If you prefer mailing your payment, please call for an order form.
  • Page 475: Department Of Transportation Uniform Tire Quality Grades

    Call Toll Free at: • 1–800–890–4038 (U.S.) • 1–800–387–1143 (Canada) Visit us on the World Wide Web at: • www.techauthority.daimlerchrysler.com • www.daimlerchrysler.ca/manuals DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADES The following describes the tire grading categories estab- lished by the National highway Traffic Safety Adminis- tration.
  • Page 476: Temperature Grades

    476 IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction perfor- mance. WARNING! The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
  • Page 477 INDEX...
  • Page 478 478 INDEX Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . 385,412 Air Conditioner Maintenance ....391 Air Conditioning Refrigerant ... . . 391,392 Air Conditioning System .
  • Page 479 Bearings ......409 Belts, Drive ......385 Belts, Seat .
  • Page 480 480 INDEX Child Restraint Tether Anchors ... . . 60,64 Child Seat ......56,63 Cigar Lighter .
  • Page 481 Engine Oil ......384 Used Coolant (Antifreeze) ....401 Door Ajar .
  • Page 482 482 INDEX Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze ....400 Event Data Recorder ..... . 54 Exhaust Gas Caution .
  • Page 483 Oil Pressure ......178 Speedometer ......178 Tachometer .
  • Page 484 484 INDEX Inside Rearview Mirror ....78 Instrument Cluster ....176,177 Instrument Panel and Controls .
  • Page 485 Four-Wheel Drive Indicator ....277 Hazard Warning Flasher ....350 Headlights .
  • Page 486 486 INDEX Manual, Service ......474 Manual Transmission ....272,406 Fluid Level Check .
  • Page 487 Out of Park Sense Alarm ....271 Outside Rearview Mirrors ....79 Overdrive .
  • Page 488 488 INDEX Radio (Sound Systems) ....186,194,208 Rear Axle (Differential) ....405,406 Rear Seat, Folding .
  • Page 489 Child ....... 68 Folding Floor ......162 Heated .
  • Page 490 490 INDEX Steering Column Controls ..... . 124 Column Lock ......15 Linkage .
  • Page 491 Replacement ......307 Rotation ......311 Safety .
  • Page 492 492 INDEX Transmitter, Garage Door Opener (HomeLink ) . . 141 Tread Wear Indicators ....306 Trip Computer ......134 Trip Odometer .
  • Page 493 INDEX 493 Fluid ......126,395 Windshield Wiper Blades ....395 Windshield Wipers .

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