Engine Block Heater (If Equipped); Engine Break-In Recommendations - Gasoline Engines; Engine Break-In Recommendations - Diesel Engine - Dodge RAM 1500 2020 Owner's Manual

166 STARTING AND OPERATING
Do Not Operate The Engine With Failed
Parts
All engine failures give some warning before the parts fail.
Be on the alert for changes in performance, sounds, and
visual evidence that the engine requires service. Some
important clues are:
 Engine misfiring or vibrating severely
 Sudden loss of power
 Unusual engine noises
 Fuel, oil or coolant leaks
 Sudden change, outside the normal operating range, in
the engine operating temperature
 Excessive smoke
 Oil pressure drop

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)

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 extension
cord. The engine block heater cord is routed under the
hood on the passenger side of the vehicle between engine
air cleaner assembly and the cowl.
For diesel engines, its use is recommended for
environments that routinely fall below -10°F (-23°C). It
should be used when the vehicle has not been running for
long periods of time and should be plugged in two hours
prior to start. Its use is required for cold starts with
temperatures under -20°F (-28°C).
To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of
an externally powered electric engine block heater
(available from an authorized dealer) is recommended.
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the cord before driving.
Damage to the 110–115 Volt electrical cord could
cause electrocution.
NOTE:
The block heater will require 110 Volts AC and 6.5 Amps
to activate the heater element.
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS —
GASOLINE ENGINES
A long break-in period is not required for the engine and
drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km).
After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or
55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within the
limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good break-in.
Wide-open throttle acceleration in low gear can be
detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a
high-quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil changes
should be consistent with anticipated climate conditions
under which vehicle operations will occur. For the
recommended viscosity and quality grades, refer to
"Fluids And Lubricants" in "Technical Specifications".
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral Oil in
the engine or damage may result.
NOTE:
A new engine may consume some oil during its first few
thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This should be
considered a normal part of the break-in and not inter-
preted as a problem. Please check your oil level with the
engine oil indicator often during the break in period. Add
oil as required.
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS —
DIESEL ENGINE
The diesel engine does not require a break-in period due
to its construction. Normal operation is allowed, providing
the following recommendations are followed:
 Warm up the engine before placing it under load.
 Do not operate the engine at idle for prolonged periods.
 Use the appropriate transmission gear to prevent
engine lugging.
 Observe vehicle oil pressure and temperature indica-
tors.
 Check the coolant and oil levels frequently.
 Vary throttle position at highway speeds when carrying
or towing significant weight.