Description - Transfer Case Fluid; Description - Automatic Transmission Fluid; Fluid Additives; Operation - Automatic Transmission Fluid - Dodge 2001 Ram 1500 Owner's Manual

BR/BE
FLUID TYPES (Continued)
DESCRIPTION
A multi-purpose, hypoid gear lubricant which con-
forms to the following specifications should be used.
Mopar Hypoid Gear Lubricant conforms to all of
these specifications.
SAE ratings also apply to multiple grade gear
lubricants. In addition, API classification defines the
lubricants usage.
FRONT AXLE
• The lubricant should have MIL-L-2105C and
API GL 5 quality specifications.
• Lubricant is SAE 75W-140 SYNTHETIC gear
lubricant.
REAR AXLE
• The lubricant should have MIL-L-2105C and
API GL 5 quality specifications.
• Lubricant is a thermally stable SAE 80W-90
gear lubricant.
• Lubricant for axles intended for heavy-duty or
trailer tow use is SAE 75W-140 SYNTHETIC gear
lubricant.
NOTE: Trac-lok and Vari-lok
require a friction modifier be added to the lubricant.
CAUTION: If axle is submerged in water, lubricant
must be replaced immediately to avoid possible
premature axle failure.

DESCRIPTION - TRANSFER CASE FLUID

Recommended lubricant for the NV231 and NV241
transfer case is Mopar
matic Transmission Fluid.
DESCRIPTION - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID
NOTE: Refer to the maintenance schedules in this
group for the recommended maintenance (fluid/filter
change) intervals for this transmission.
NOTE: Refer to Service Procedures in this group for
fluid level checking procedures.
Mopar ATF +4, type 9602, Automatic Transmis-
sion Fluid is the recommended fluid for Daimler-
Chrysler automatic transmissions.
Dexron II fluid IS NOT recommended. Clutch
chatter can result from the use of improper
fluid.
equipped axles
ATF +4, (MS 9602) Auto-
LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE
Mopar ATF +4, type 9602, Automatic Transmis-
sion Fluid when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed
red so it can be identified from other fluids used in
the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red
color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid
condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin
to look darker in color and may eventually become
brown. This is normal. A dark brown/black fluid
accompanied with a burnt odor and/or deterioration
in shift quality may indicate fluid deterioration or
transmission component failure.

FLUID ADDITIVES

DaimlerChrysler strongly recommends against the
addition of any fluids to the transmission, other than
those automatic transmission fluids listed above.
Exceptions to this policy are the use of special dyes
to aid in detecting fluid leaks.
Various "special" additives and supplements exist
that claim to improve shift feel and/or quality. These
additives and others also claim to improve converter
clutch operation and inhibit overheating, oxidation,
varnish, and sludge. These claims have not been sup-
ported to the satisfaction of DaimlerChrysler and
these additives must not be used. The use of trans-
mission "sealers" should also be avoided, since they
may adversely affect the integrity of transmission
seals.
OPERATION - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID
The automatic transmission fluid is selected based
upon several qualities. The fluid must provide a high
level of protection for the internal components by
providing a lubricating film between adjacent metal
components. The fluid must also be thermally stable
so that it can maintain a consistent viscosity through
a large temperature range. If the viscosity stays con-
stant through the temperature range of operation,
transmission operation and shift feel will remain con-
sistent. Transmission fluid must also be a good con-
ductor of heat. The fluid must absorb heat from the
internal transmission components and transfer that
heat to the transmission case.
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