coolant level RAM CHASSIS CAB 2011 Owners Manual

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS
1. Tachometer
The Tachometer indicates engine speed in revolutions per
minute.
CAUTION!Do not operate the engine with the tachometer
pointer at high RPM for extended periods. Engine
damage may occur.
2. Turn Signal Indicators
The arrow will flash with the exterior turn signal
when the turn signal lever is operated.
NOTE:
• A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is driven
more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either turn signal on. • Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if either
indicator flashes at a rapid rate.
3. Fuel Gauge
Shows level of fuel in tank when ignition switch is in the
ON/RUN position.
4. Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge shows engine coolant tempera-
ture. Any reading within the normal range indicates that
the engine cooling system is operating satisfactorily.
The gauge pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera-
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain grades,
or when towing a trailer. It should not be allowed to
exceed the upper limits of the normal operating range.
4 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 179

The Air Conditioning (A/C) button allows the
operator to manually activate or deactivate the air
conditioning system. When in A/C mode and the
ATC is set to a cool temperature, dehumidified air flows
through the air outlets. If Economy mode is desired, press
the A/C button to turn off the A/C mode in the ATC
display and deactivate the A/C system.
NOTE:
• If the system is in Mix, Bi-Level or Defrost Mode, the
A/C can be turned off, but the A/C system shall
remain active to prevent fogging of the windows.
• If fog or mist appears on the windshield or side glass,
select Defrost mode and increase blower speed.
Recirculation Control
When outside air contains smoke, odors, or
high humidity, or if rapid cooling is desired,
you may wish to recirculate interior air by
pressing the RECIRCULATION control button. Recirculation mode should only be used temporarily. The
recirculation LED will illuminate on the blower control
knob when this button is selected. Push the button a
second time to turn off the Recirculation mode LED and
allow outside air into the vehicle.
NOTE: In cold weather, use of Recirculation mode may
lead to excessive window fogging. The Recirculation
mode is not allowed in the Floor/Defrost Mix and
Defrost modes to improve window clearing operation.
Recirculation will be disabled automatically if these
modes are selected.
Summer Operation
The engine cooling system in air conditioned vehicles
must be protected with a high-quality antifreeze coolant
to provide proper corrosion protection and to protect
against engine overheating. A solution of 50% ethylene256 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Overdrive Operation
The Overdrive automatic transmission contains an elec-
tronically controlled fourth and fifth gear (Overdrive).
The transmission will automatically shift from DRIVE to
Overdrive if the following conditions are present:
• the shift lever is in DRIVE;
• the engine coolant (antifreeze) has reached normal
operating temperature;
• vehicle speed is above approximately 30 mph (48 km/h);
• the “TOW/HAUL” switch has not been activated;
• transmission has reached normal operating temperature.
NOTE: If the vehicle is started in extremely cold tem-
peratures, the transmission may not shift into Overdrive
and will automatically select the most desirable gear for operation at this temperature. Normal operation will
resume when the transmission fluid temperature has
risen to a suitable level.
If the transmission temperature gets extremely hot, the
transmission will automatically select the most desirable
gear for operation at this temperature. If the transmission
temperature becomes hot enough, the “Transmission
Temperature Warning Light” may illuminate and the
transmission may downshift out of Overdrive until the
transmission cools down. After cool down, the transmis-
sion will resume normal operation.
The transmission will downshift from Overdrive to
DRIVE if the accelerator pedal is fully pressed at vehicle
speeds above approximately 35 mph (56 km/h).
When To Use “TOW/HAUL” Mode
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying a
heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission shifting oc-
curs, press the “TOW/HAUL” switch. This will improve272 STARTING AND OPERATING

• Mix a minimum solution of 50% HOAT engine coolant
and distilled water. Use higher concentrations (not to
exceed 70%) if temperatures below  34°F (  37°C) are
anticipated.
• Use only high purity water such as distilled or deion-
ized water when mixing the water/engine coolant
(antifreeze) solution. The use of lower quality water
will reduce the amount of corrosion protection in the
engine cooling system.
Please note that it is the owner’s responsibility to main-
tain the proper level of protection against freezing ac-
cording to the temperatures occurring in the area where
the vehicle is operated.
NOTE: Mixing engine coolant (antifreeze) types will
decrease the life of the engine coolant (antifreeze) and
will require more frequent coolant changes. Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of engine
coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that the engine coolant
(antifreeze) will return to the radiator from the coolant
recovery bottle.
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any
accumulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces.
WARNING!• The warning words “DO NOT OPEN HOT” on the
cooling system pressure cap are a safety precaution.
Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when the
engine is overheated. Do not loosen or remove the
cap to cool an overheated engine. Heat causes
pressure to build up in the cooling system. To
prevent scalding or injury, do not remove the pres-
sure cap while the system is hot or under pressure.
(Continued)
7 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 395

WARNING! (Continued)• Do not use a pressure cap other than the one
specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or en-
gine damage may result.
Disposal of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) is
a regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check
with your local authorities to determine the disposal
rules for your community. To prevent ingestion by ani-
mals or children do not store ethylene glycol-based
engine coolant (antifreeze) in open containers or allow it
to remain in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a child
or pet, seek emergency assistance immediately. Clean up
any ground spills immediately.
Coolant Level
The coolant bottle provides a quick visual method for
determining that the coolant level is adequate. With the engine cold, the level of the engine coolant (antifreeze) in
the coolant recovery bottle should be between the ranges
indicated on the bottle.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is
no need to remove the radiator cap unless checking for
engine coolant (antifreeze) freeze point or replacing en-
gine coolant (antifreeze). Advise your service attendant
of this. As long as the engine operating temperature is
satisfactory, the coolant bottle need only be checked once
a month.
When additional engine coolant (antifreeze) is needed to
maintain the proper level, it should be added to the
coolant bottle. Do not overfill.
Points to Remember
NOTE: When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles (a
few kilometers) of operation, you may observe vapor
coming from the front of the engine compartment. This is396 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

normally a result of moisture from rain, snow, or high
humidity accumulating on the radiator and being vapor-
ized when the thermostat opens, allowing hot coolant to
enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be
safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
• Do not overfill the coolant recovery bottle.
• Check engine coolant (antifreeze) freeze point in the
radiator and in the coolant recovery bottle. If engine
coolant (antifreeze) needs to be added, contents of
coolant recovery bottle must also be protected against
freezing.
• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are
required, or if the level in the coolant recovery bottle
does not drop when the engine cools, the cooling
system should be pressure tested for leaks. • Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at
50% HOAT engine coolant (antifreeze) (minimum)
and distilled water for proper corrosion protection of
your engine, which contains aluminum components.
• Make sure that the radiator and coolant recovery
bottle overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is
equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean, also.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) per-
formance, poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
7 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 397

Once a Month
• Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
• Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the terminals
as required.
• Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, power steering and transmission and
add as needed.
• Check all lights and other electrical items for correct
operation. At Each Oil Change
• Change the engine oil filter.
• Inspect the brake hoses and lines.
• Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
CAUTION!Failure to perform the required maintenance items
may result in damage to the vehicle.
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the Maintenance Schedules on the following
pages for the required maintenance intervals.
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S 428 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

Automatic Transmission
Adding Fluid ......................... 403
Fluid and Filter Changes ................. 404
Fluid Level Check ................... 402,403
Fluid Type ........................ 402,424
Shifting ............................. 268
Special Additives ...................... 404
Axle Fluid ....................... 400,401,424
Axle Lubrication (Axle Fluid) ............ 400,401
Battery ............................... 385
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE) ....... 24
Saving Feature (Protection) ............... 144
Belts, Seat ............................ 38,73
Body Builders Guide ....................... 6
Body Mechanism Lubrication ............... 388
B-Pillar Location ........................ 300
Brake Fluid ......................... 398,424 Brake System ........................ 292,398
Anti-Lock (ABS) ....................... 292
Fluid Check .......................... 398
Master Cylinder ....................... 398
Parking ............................. 289
Warning Light ........................ 187
Brake/Transmission Interlock ............... 267
Bulb Replacement ....................... 416
Bulbs, Light .......................... 76,415
Cab Top Clearance Lights .................. 420
Calibration, Compass ..................... 204
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ........ 422
Capacities, Fluid ........................ 422
Caps, Filler
Oil (Engine) .......................... 383
Power Steering ........................ 289
Radiator (Coolant Pressure) ............... 395
Car Washes ............................ 405
10 INDEX 455

Carbon Monoxide Warning ............... 73,321
Cargo Light ............................ 144
Cellular Phone ........................ 88,247
Center High Mounted Stop Light ............ 419
Center Lap Belts ......................... 46
Center Seat Storage Compartment ............ 166
Certification Label ....................... 324
Chart, Tire Sizing ........................ 296
Check Engine Light
(Malfunction Indicator Light) ............. 189,379
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety ............. 72
Checks, Safety ........................... 72
Child Restraint ........................ 60,61
Child Restraint Tether Anchors ............. 64,67
Child Seat ............................ 61,65
Cigar Lighter ........................... 160
Cleaning
Wheels ............................. 407
Climate Control ......................... 247 Clock ............................. 212,221
Compact Disc (CD) Maintenance ............. 246
Compass .............................. 203
Compass Calibration ..................... 204
Compass Variance ....................... 204
Computer, Trip/Travel .................... 201
Connector
UCI ................................ 235
Universal Consumer Interface (UCI) ......... 235
Console, Overhead ....................... 155
Contract, Service ........................ 447
Coolant Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) .......... 395
Cooling System ......................... 392
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze) .............. 394
Coolant Capacity ...................... 422
Coolant Level ...................... 393,396
Disposal of Used Coolant ................ 396
Drain, Flush, and Refill .................. 393
Inspection ........................... 396456 INDEX

Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transmission ................. 403
Brake .............................. 398
Power Steering ........................ 289
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts .......... 423
Fog Lights ....................... 142,190,418
Four Wheel Drive ....................... 274
Four-Way Hazard Flasher .................. 356
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle ................... 370
Front Axle (Differential) ................... 400
Fuel ................................. 317
Adding ............................. 322
Diesel .............................. 423
Filler Cap (Gas Cap) .................... 323
Filter ............................... 423
Gauge .............................. 179
Light ............................... 186
Octane Rating ........................ 317
Requirements ......................... 317 Tank Capacity ........................ 422
Fuses ................................ 410
Gas Cap (Fuel Filler Cap) ............... 323,378
Gasoline (Fuel) ......................... 317
Gasoline, Reformulated ................... 318
Gauges
Coolant Temperature ................... 179
Fuel ............................... 179
Oil Pressure .......................... 182
Speedometer ......................... 180
Tachometer .......................... 179
Voltmeter ............................ 186
Gear Ranges ........................... 270
General Information .................. 18,25,118
Glass Cleaning .......................... 409
Grocery Bag Retainer ..................... 170
Gross Axle Weight Rating .................. 327
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ................ 326
10 INDEX 459