ESP RAM CHASSIS CAB 2021 User Guide

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL115
GREEN INDICATOR LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With
Target Light — If Equipped
This will display when the ACC is set
and a the vehicle in front is detected
Úpage 166.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With
No Target Detected Indicator Light — If
Equipped
This light will turn on when the
Adaptive Cruise Control is SET and
there is no vehicle in front detected
Úpage 166.
Automatic Diesel Exhaust Brake Indicator
Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate
when the Diesel Exhaust Brake has
been activated, and has switched to
Automatic mode Ú page 164.
ECO Mode Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will turn on when ECO Mode
is active.
Park/Headlight On Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate
when the park lights or headlights are
turned on.
Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate
when the front fog lights are on.
Turn Signal Indicator Lights
When the left or right turn signal is
activated, the turn signal indicator
will flash independently and the
corresponding exterior turn signal
lamps will flash. Turn signals can be activated
when the multifunction lever is moved down
(left) or up (right).
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.
If equipped with fog lamps, the fog lamp on
the side of the activated turn signal will also
illuminate to provide additional light when
turning.
Cruise Control Set Indicator Light — If
Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate
when the cruise control is set to the
desired speed Ú page 164.
WHITE INDICATOR LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Ready
Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the
vehicle equipped with ACC has been
turned on but not set Ú page 166.
Cruise Control Ready Indicator
This indicator light will illuminate
when the cruise control is ready, but
not set Úpage 164.
Set Speed Display
The Set Speed Display indicator light
indicates the set speed for the Speed
Control and ACC settings.
3

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 115

130STARTING AND OPERATING
NOTE:
Use of Climatized ULSD or Number 1 ULSD
Fuel results in a noticeable decrease in fuel
economy.

Climatized ULSD Fuel is a blend of Number 2
ULSD and Number 1 ULSD Fuels which
reduces the temperature at which wax crystals
form in fuel.

The fuel grade should be clearly marked on
the pump at the fuel station.
The engine requires the use of “ULSD Fuel”.
Use of incorrect fuel could result in engine
and exhaust system damage Ú page 433.
If climatized or diesel Number 1 ULSD Fuel is
not available, and you are operating below
(20°F/-6°C), in sustained arctic conditions,
Mopar Premium Diesel Fuel Treatment
(or equivalent) is recommended to avoid
gelling (see Fuel Operating Range Chart).
Under some circumstances increased engine
noise may be audible in the seconds
following a cold start. This is most likely to
occur when using fuel that isn't blended for
the ambient temperature present. This may
occur on an unseasonably cold day or when a truck is fueled in a warmer climate and driven
to a colder climate. The noise can typically be
prevented by using Mopar Premium Diesel
Fuel Treatment as recommended (see Fuel
Operating Range Chart).
Engine Oil Usage
For the correct engine oil viscosity
Úpage 367.
Winter Front Cover Usage

A Winter front or cold weather cover is to be used
in ambient temperatures below 32°F (0°C),
especially during extended idle conditions.
This cover is equipped with four flaps for
managing total grille opening in varying ambient
temperatures. If a Winter front or cold weather
cover is to be used the flaps should be left in
the full open position to allow air flow to the
charge air cooler and automatic transmission
oil cooler. When ambient temperatures drop
below 0°F (-17°C) the four flaps need to be
closed. A suitable cold weather cover is available
from a Mopar dealer.

Battery Blanket Usage
A battery loses 60% of its cranking power as the
battery temperature decreases to 0°F (-18°C).
For the same decrease in temperature, the
engine requires twice as much power to crank
at the same RPM. The use of 120 Volts AC
powered battery blankets will greatly increase
starting capability at low temperatures. Suitable
battery blankets are available from an
authorized Mopar dealer.
Engine Warm-Up
Avoid full throttle operation when the engine is
cold. When starting a cold engine, bring the
engine up to operating speed slowly to allow the
oil pressure to stabilize as the engine warms up.
NOTE:
High-speed, no-load running of a cold engine
can result in excessive white smoke and poor
engine performance. No-load engine speeds
should be kept under 1,000 RPM during the
warm-up period, especially in cold ambient
temperature conditions.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 130

STARTING AND OPERATING133
STOPPING THE ENGINE
Idle the engine a few minutes before routine shutdown. After full load operation, idle the engine three to five minutes before shutting
it down. This idle period will allow the lubricating oil and coolant to carry excess heat away from the combustion chamber, bearings, internal
components, and turbocharger. This is especially important for turbocharged, charge air-cooled engines. Refer to the following chart for proper
engine shutdown:
IDLE SHUTDOWN
This feature can be enabled so that the truck will automatically shutdown when the truck has been idling for a set period of time when the engine is at
operating temperature. Idle time can be set in 5 minute increments between
5 and 60 minutes. See an authorized dealer to enable this feature.
NOTE:
The idle shut down timer is disabled while the PTO (Power Take-off) is active.
Driving Condition Load Turbocharger Temperature Idle Time (min.) Before Engine Shutdown
Stop and Go EmptyCool Less than One
Stop and Go Medium - One
Highway Speeds MediumWarm Two
City Traffic Maximum GCWR - Three
Highway Speeds Maximum GCWR - Four
Uphill Grade Maximum GCWR Hot Five
4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 133

142STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE
when the accelerator pedal is released and the
vehicle is stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on
the brake pedal when shifting between these
gears.
The transmission gear selector has only PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, and DRIVE positions.
Manual downshifts can be made using the
Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control.
Pressing the GEAR -/GEAR + switches (on the
steering wheel) while in the DRIVE position will
select the highest available transmission gear,
and will display that gear limit in the instrument
cluster as 1, 2, 3, etc Úpage 145. Some
models will display both the selected gear limit,
and the actual current gear, while in ERS mode.

Electronic Transmission Gear Selector
Gear Ranges
Do not press the accelerator pedal when
shifting from PARK or NEUTRAL into another
gear range.
NOTE:
After selecting any gear range, wait a moment
to allow the selected gear to engage before
accelerating. This is especially important when
the engine is cold.
PARK (P)
This range supplements the parking brake by
locking the transmission. The engine can be
started in this range. Never attempt to use
PARK while the vehicle is in motion. Apply the
parking brake when exiting the vehicle in this
range.
When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake
before shifting the transmission to PARK. As an
added precaution, turn the front wheels toward
the curb on a downhill grade and away from the
curb on an uphill grade. NOTE:
On four-wheel drive vehicles be sure that the
transfer case is in a drive position.
When exiting the vehicle, always:
Apply the parking brake.
Shift the transmission into PARK.
Turn the engine off.
Remove the key fob.
WARNING!
Never use the PARK position as a substi
-
tute for the parking brake. Always apply the
parking brake fully when exiting the vehicle
to guard against vehicle movement and
possible injury or damage.
Your vehicle could move and injure you and
others if it is not in PARK. Check by trying to
move the transmission gear selector out of
PARK with the brake pedal released. Make
sure the transmission is in PARK before
exiting the vehicle.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 142

144STARTING AND OPERATING
The following indicators should be used to
ensure that you have properly engaged the
transmission into the PARK position:
Look at the transmission gear position
display and verify that it indicates the PARK
position (P), and is not blinking.
With brake pedal released, verify that the
gear selector will not move out of PARK.
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has
come to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)

Use this range when the vehicle is standing for
prolonged periods with the engine running. Apply
the parking brake and shift the transmission into
PARK if you must exit the vehicle.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and
highway driving. It provides the smoothest
upshifts and downshifts, and the best fuel
economy. The transmission automatically
upshifts through all forward gears.When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain,
traveling into strong head winds, or while towing
a heavy trailer), select TOW/HAUL mode or use
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control
to select a lower gear range
Úpage 145. Under
these conditions, using a lower gear range will
improve performance and extend transmission
life by reducing excessive shifting and heat
build-up.
During extremely cold temperatures
(-22°F [-30°C] or below), transmission
operation may be modified depending on
engine and transmission temperature as
well as vehicle speed. Normal operation will
resume once the transmission temperature
has risen to a suitable level.
WARNING!

Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the
ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe
practices that limit your response to changing
traffic or road conditions. You might lose
control of the vehicle and have a collision.

CAUTION!

Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any
other reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL
can cause severe transmission damage.

For Towing A Disabled Vehicle Ú page 350.
For Recreational Towing Ú page 215.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 144

STARTING AND OPERATING147
(Continued)
The electronically-controlled transmission
provides a precise shift schedule. The
transmission electronics are self-calibrating;
therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle
may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal
condition, and precision shifts will develop
within a few hundred miles (kilometers).
Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE
when the accelerator pedal is released and the
vehicle is stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on
the brake pedal when shifting between these
gears.
The transmission gear selector has only PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, and DRIVE shift positions.
Manual downshifts can be made using the
Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control.
Pushing the ERS (-/+) switches (on the steering
wheel) while in the DRIVE position will select the
highest available transmission gear, and will
display that gear limit in the instrument cluster
as 1, 2, 3, etc Ú page 150. Some models will
display both the selected gear limit, and the
actual current gear, while in ERS mode.Gear Ranges
Do not press the accelerator pedal when
shifting from PARK or NEUTRAL into another
gear range.
NOTE:
After selecting any gear range, wait a moment
to allow the selected gear to engage before
accelerating. This is especially important when
the engine is cold.
PARK (P)
This range supplements the parking brake by
locking the transmission. The engine can be
started in this range. Never attempt to use
PARK while the vehicle is in motion. Apply the
parking brake when exiting the vehicle in this
range.
When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake
before shifting the transmission to PARK,
otherwise the load on the transmission locking
mechanism may make it difficult to move the
gear selector out of PARK. As an added
precaution, turn the front wheels toward the
curb on a downhill grade and away from the
curb on an uphill grade. NOTE:
On four-wheel drive vehicles be sure that the
transfer case is in a drive position.
When exiting the vehicle, always:
Apply the parking brake.
Shift the transmission into PARK.
Turn the engine off.
Remove the key fob.
WARNING!
Never use the PARK position as a substi
-
tute for the parking brake. Always apply the
parking brake fully when exiting the vehicle
to guard against vehicle movement and
possible injury or damage.

Your vehicle could move and injure you and
others if it is not in PARK. Check by trying to
move the gear selector out of PARK with the
brake pedal released. Make sure the trans -
mission is in PARK before exiting the vehicle.

4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 147

STARTING AND OPERATING149
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has
come to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing
for prolonged periods with the engine running.
The engine may be started in this range. Apply
the parking brake and shift the transmission
into PARK if you must exit the vehicle. DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and
highway driving. It provides the smoothest
upshifts and downshifts, and the best fuel
economy. The transmission automatically
upshifts through all forward gears.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain,
traveling into strong head winds, or while towing
a heavy trailer), select TOW/HAUL mode or use
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control
to select a lower gear range
Úpage 150. Under
these conditions, using a lower gear range will
improve performance and extend transmission
life by reducing excessive shifting and heat
buildup.

If the transmission temperature exceeds normal
operating limits, the powertrain controller will
modify the transmission shift schedule and
expand the range of torque converter clutch
engagement. This is done to prevent
transmission damage due to overheating.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot or is
in danger of overheating, the “Transmission
Temperature Warning Light” may illuminate and
the transmission may operate differently until
the transmission cools down.
NOTE:
Use caution when operating a heavily loaded
vehicle at low speeds (such as towing a trailer
up a steep grade, or in stop-and-go traffic)
during hot weather. In these conditions, torque
converter slip can impose a significant addi
-
tional heat load on the cooling system. Down -
shifting the transmission to the lowest possible
gear (when climbing a grade), or shifting to
NEUTRAL (when stopped in heavy traffic) can
help to reduce this excess heat generation.
During cold temperatures, transmission
operation may be modified depending on
engine and transmission temperature as well
as vehicle speed. This feature improves
warm-up time of the engine and transmission to
achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of
the torque converter clutch is inhibited until the
transmission fluid is warm Ú page 151.
WARNING!

Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the
ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe
practices that limit your response to changing
traffic or road conditions. You might lose
control of the vehicle and have a collision.

CAUTION!

Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any
other reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL
can cause severe transmission damage.

For Towing A Disabled Vehicle Ú page 350.
For Recreational Towing Ú page 215.
4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 149

STARTING AND OPERATING151

Electronic Range Select

To exit ERS mode, simply push and hold the ERS
(+) switch until the gear limit display disappears
from the instrument cluster. 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.
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.

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.
1 — GEAR + Switch
2 — GEAR – Switch
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.

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.4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 151

162STARTING 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.
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.
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.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 162

STARTING AND OPERATING163
POWER TAKE OFF (PTO) OPERATION — IF
EQUIPPED

This vehicle when equipped with PTO Prep and
the AS66RC/AS69RC automatic six-speed, will
allow for an aftermarket upfit with a transmission
driven PTO (power take off). The customer will
have the ability to operate the PTO in either
a “stationary”, “mobile” or “remote” mode.
The vehicles will be factory set to the “stationary”
mode. To select a different mode, or to change
any other PTO setting, you will need to enter the
commercial vehicle menu on the instrument
cluster screen. Details of the PTO selection
modes and further PTO information is available
at the Ram Truck Bodybuilders web site:
https://
www.ramtrucks.com/ram-commercial/
body-builders-guide.html
POWER STEERING
HYDRAULIC POWER STEERING
The standard power steering system will give
you good vehicle response and increased ease
of maneuverability in tight spaces. The system
will provide mechanical steering capability if
power assist is lost.

If for some reason the power assist is interrupted,
it will still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under
these conditions, you will observe a substantial
increase in steering effort, especially at very low
vehicle speeds and during parking maneuvers.

NOTE:
Increased noise levels at the end of the
steering wheel travel are considered normal
and do not indicate that there is a problem
with the power steering system.
Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the
power steering pump may make noise for a
short amount of time. This is due to the cold,
thick fluid in the steering system. This noise
should be considered normal, and it does not
in any way damage the steering system.
Power Steering Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a
defined service interval is not required. The fluid
should only be checked if a leak is suspected,
abnormal noises are apparent, and/or the
system is not functioning as anticipated. Check
fluid level when the engine is cold and off.
Coordinate inspection efforts through an
authorized dealer.
CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system
at the end of the steering wheel travel will
increase the steering fluid temperature and it
should be avoided when possible. Damage to
the power steering pump may occur.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level
surface and with the engine off to prevent
injury from moving parts and to ensure
accurate fluid level reading. Do not overfill.
Use only manufacturer's recommended
power steering fluid.
4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 163