engine Ram 5500 Chassis Cab 2012 Diesel Supplement
Page 126 of 173
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler
plug. The fluid level should be to the bottom edge of the
filler plug hole with the vehicle in a level position.
Manual Transmission – If Equipped
Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level can be checked by removing the filler
plug. If the level of the lubricant is more than 1/2 in
(12 mm) below the bottom of the filler hole while the
vehicle is on level ground, enough lubricant should be
added to bring the level to 1/4 in (6 mm) below the
bottom of the filler hole.
Automatic Transmission – If Equipped
Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.
Fluid Level Check – Ram Truck Only
The fluid level should be checked when the engine is
fully warmed up and the fluid in the transmission is at
normal operating temperature. At normal operating tem-
perature, the fluid cannot be held comfortably between
the fingertips. Operation of the transmission with an
improper fluid level will greatly reduce the life of the
transmission and of the fluid. Check the fluid level
whenever the vehicle is serviced.
To properly check the automatic transmission fluid level,
the following procedure must be used:
1. Operate the engine at idle speed and normal operating
temperature.
124 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Page 128 of 173
To prevent dirt and water from entering the transmission
after checking or replenishing fluid, make certain that the
dipstick cap is properly reseated. It is normal for the
dipstick cap to spring back slightly from its fully seated
position, as long as its seal remains engaged in the
dipstick tube.
Fluid Level Check – Chassis Cab Only
Check the fluid level while the transmission is at normal
operating temperature. This occurs after at least 15 miles
(25 km) of driving. At normal operating temperature, the
fluid cannot be held comfortably between the fingertips.
To properly check the transmission fluid, the following
procedure must be used.
1. The vehicle must be on level ground.
2. Operate the engine at idle speed for a minimum of
60 seconds and normal operating temperature.3. Fully apply the parking brake and press the brake
pedal.
4. Place the shift lever momentarily into each gear posi-
tion ending with the shift lever in PARK. Make sure the
engine is running at idle speed.
5. Remove the dipstick and determine if the fluid is hot
or cold. Hot fluid is approximately 160°F to 175°F (70°C
to 82°C). This is the normal operating temperature after
the vehicle has been driven at least 15 miles (25 km). The
fluid cannot be comfortably held between the fingertips.
Only use the cold region of the dipstick as a rough
reference when doing initial oil level set after transmis-
sion rebuild or transmission refill.
6. Wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert it until seated.
126 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE