Limited-Slip Differential - RAM Commercial CHASSIS CAB 3500 2021 Owner's Manual

162 STARTING AND OPERATING
NOTE:
Pausing in transfer case N (Neutral) in vehi-

cles equipped with an automatic transmis-
sion may require shutting the engine OFF to
avoid gear clash while completing the shift. If
difficulty occurs, shift the transmission into
Neutral, hold your foot on the brake, and turn
the engine OFF. Complete the range shift to
the desired mode.
Shifting into or out of 4L is possible with the

vehicle completely stopped, however difficulty
may occur due to the mating clutch teeth not
being properly aligned. Several attempts may
be required for clutch teeth alignment and
shift completion to occur. The preferred
method is with the vehicle rolling 2 to 3 mph
(3 to 5 km/h). Avoid attempting to engage or
disengage 4L with the vehicle moving faster
than 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h).
Do not attempt to shift into or out of 4L while

the transmission is in gear.
Transfer Case Position Indicator Light
The "Transfer Case Position Indicator Light" in
the instrument cluster is used to alert the driver
that the front axle is fully engaged and all four
wheels are driving.

LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL

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
performs similarly to a conventional differential.
On slippery surfaces, however, the differential
delivers more of the driving effort to the rear
wheel having the better traction.
The limited-slip differential is especially helpful
during slippery driving conditions. With both rear
wheels on a slippery surface, a slight application
of the accelerator will supply maximum traction.
When starting with only one rear wheel on an
excessively slippery surface, slight momentary
application of the parking brake may be
necessary to gain maximum traction.
WARNING!
On vehicles equipped with a limited-slip
differential never run the engine with one rear
wheel off the ground since the vehicle may
drive through the rear wheel remaining on the
ground. You could lose control of the vehicle.
Care should be taken to avoid sudden
accelerations when both rear wheels are on a
slippery surface. This could cause both rear
wheels to spin, and allow the vehicle to slide
sideways on the crowned surface of a road or in
a turn.