RAM Commercial CHASSIS CAB 3500 2021 Owner's Manual page 153

Electronic Range Select
1 — GEAR + Switch
2 — GEAR – Switch
To exit ERS mode, simply push and hold the ERS
(+) switch until the gear limit display disappears
from the instrument cluster.
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine braking
on a slippery surface. The drive wheels could
lose their grip and the vehicle could skid,
causing a collision or personal injury.
NOTE:
To select the proper gear position for maximum
deceleration (engine braking), simply push and
hold the ERS (-) switch. The transmission will
shift to the range from which the vehicle can
best be slowed down.
CAUTION!
When using ERS for engine braking while
descending steep grades, be careful not to
overspeed the engine. Apply the brakes as
needed to prevent engine overspeed.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an
electronically controlled Overdrive (FIFTH and SIXTH
gears). The transmission will automatically shift into
Overdrive if the following conditions are present:
The gear selector is in the DRIVE position.

The transmission fluid has reached an

adequate temperature.
The engine coolant has reached an adequate

temperature.
Vehicle speed is sufficiently high.

STARTING AND OPERATING
The TOW/HAUL switch has not been activated.

The driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator.

Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has
been included in the automatic transmission on
your vehicle. A clutch within the torque converter
engages automatically at calibrated speeds.
This may result in a slightly different feeling or
response during normal operation in the upper
gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during
some accelerations, the clutch automatically
disengages.
NOTE:
The torque converter clutch will not engage,

until the transmission fluid and engine
coolant are warm (usually after 1 to 3 miles
(2 to 5 km) of driving). Because engine speed
is higher when the torque converter clutch is
not engaged, it may seem as if the transmis-
sion is not shifting properly when cold; This is
normal. Using the Electronic Range Select
(ERS) shift control, when the transmission is
sufficiently warm, will demonstrate that the
transmission is able to shift into and out of
Overdrive.
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