Speedometer DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G User Guide

upon electronic messages received from the electronic
Transmission Control Module (TCM) over the Pro-
grammable Communications Interface (PCI) data
bus. If the transmission range sensor mux circuit is
open and no electronic messages are received from
the TCM within two seconds, the instrument cluster
circuitry will not display any gear selector position
until the condition is resolved or until the ignition
switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs
first.
²Resolved Circuit- If the transmission range
sensor mux circuit is resolved, the cluster circuitry
controls the gear selector indicator display based
upon the resistance value of the hard wired input
from the transmission range sensor. If the cluster is
configured for an automatic transmission with a
transmission range sensor input and detects a short
to ground or an open in the transmission range sen-
sor mux input, the instrument cluster circuitry will
not display any gear selector position in the VFD.
The VFD display for the short-to-ground and open
circuit conditions will continue until the condition is
resolved or until the ignition switch is turned to the
Off position, whichever occurs first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the gear selector indicator
VFD will display all of its characters at once during
the VFD portion of the test to confirm the function-
ality of the VFD and the cluster control circuitry.
On models with a TCM, the TCM continually mon-
itors the transmission range sensor, then sends the
proper gear selector indicator position messages to
the instrument cluster. On models without a TCM,
the instrument cluster continually monitors the hard
wired transmission range sensor multiplexed input.
For further diagnosis of the gear selector indicator or
the instrument cluster circuitry that controls this
function, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). For fur-
ther diagnosis of the transmission range sensor on
models without a TCM, (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 42RE/TRANS-
MISSION RANGE SENSOR - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING) or (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/
TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 46RE/TRANSMISSION
RANGE SENSOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
On models with a TCM, for proper diagnosis of the
transmission range sensor, the TCM, the PCI data
bus, or the electronic message inputs to the instru-
ment cluster that control the gear selector indicator,
a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the appro-
priate diagnostic information.HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A high beam indicator is standard equipment on
all instrument clusters (Fig. 19). The high beam indi-
cator is located near the upper edge of the instru-
ment cluster, between the tachometer and the
speedometer. The high beam indicator consists of a
stencil-like cutout of the International Control and
Display Symbol icon for ªHigh Beamº in the opaque
layer of the instrument cluster overlay. The dark
outer layer of the overlay prevents the indicator from
being clearly visible when the it is not illuminated. A
blue Light Emitting Diode (LED) behind the cutout
in the opaque layer of the overlay causes the icon to
appear in blue through the translucent outer layer of
the overlay when the indicator is illuminated from
behind by the LED, which is soldered onto the
instrument cluster electronic circuit board. The high
beam indicator is serviced as a unit with the instru-
ment cluster.
OPERATION
The high beam indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator whenever the headlamp high beams
are illuminated. This indicator is controlled by a
transistor on the instrument cluster circuit board
based upon cluster programming and a hard wired
multiplex input received by the cluster from the
headlamp beam select switch circuitry of the multi-
function switch on the washer/beam select switch
mux circuit. The high beam indicator Light Emitting
Diode (LED) is completely controlled by the instru-
ment cluster logic circuit, and that logic will allow
this indicator to operate whenever the instrument
cluster receives a battery current input on the fused
B(+) circuit. Therefore, the LED can be illuminated
regardless of the ignition switch position. The LED
only illuminates when it is provided a path to ground
by the instrument cluster transistor. The instrument
cluster will turn on the high beam indicator for the
following reasons:
²High Beam Headlamps-On Input- Each time
the cluster detects a high beam headlamps-on input
from the headlamp beam select switch circuitry of
the multi-function switch on the washer/beam select
switch mux circuit, the headlamp high beams and
the high beam indicator will be illuminated. The
headlamp high beams and the high beam indicator
remain illuminated until the cluster receives a high
beam headlamps-off input from the multi-function
switch, or until the exterior lamp load shedding (bat-
Fig. 19 High Beam Indicator
8J - 28 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
GEAR SELECTOR INDICATOR (Continued)

²Engine Oil Pressure Low Message- Each
time the cluster receives a message from the PCM or
ECM indicating the engine oil pressure is below
about 41 kPa (6 psi), the gauge needle is moved to
the graduation at the far left end of the gauge scale,
the check gauges indicator is illuminated, and a sin-
gle chime tone is generated. The gauge needle
remains at the left end of the gauge scale and the
check gauges indicator remains illuminated until the
cluster receives a message from the PCM or ECM
indicating that the engine oil pressure is above about
41 kPa (6 psi), or until the ignition switch is turned
to the Off position, whichever occurs first. The clus-
ter will only turn the check gauges indicator on in
response to an engine oil pressure low message if the
engine speed message is greater than zero.
²Communication Error- If the cluster fails to
receive an engine oil pressure message, it will hold
the gauge needle at the last indication about five sec-
onds or until the ignition switch is turned to the Off
position, whichever occurs first. After five seconds,
the cluster will move the gauge needle to the left end
of the gauge scale.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the oil pressure gauge nee-
dle will be swept to several calibration points on the
gauge scale in a prescribed sequence in order to con-
firm the functionality of the gauge and the cluster
control circuitry.
On vehicles with a gasoline engine, the PCM con-
tinually monitors the engine oil pressure sensor to
determine the engine oil pressure. On vehicles with a
diesel engine, the ECM continually monitors the
engine oil pressure sensor to determine the engine oil
pressure. The PCM or ECM then sends the proper
engine oil pressure messages to the instrument clus-
ter. For further diagnosis of the oil pressure gauge or
the instrument cluster circuitry that controls the
gauge, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). If the
instrument cluster turns on the check gauges indica-
tor due to a low oil pressure gauge reading, it may
indicate that the engine or the engine oiling system
requires service. For proper diagnosis of the engine
oil pressure sensor, the PCM, the ECM, the PCI data
bus, or the electronic message inputs to the instru-
ment cluster that control the oil pressure gauge, a
DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the appropri-
ate diagnostic information.
SEATBELT INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A seatbelt indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters (Fig. 25). The seatbelt indicatoris located on the upper edge of the instrument clus-
ter, between the tachometer and the speedometer.
The seatbelt indicator consists of a stencil-like cutout
of the International Control and Display Symbol icon
for ªSeat Beltº in the opaque layer of the instrument
cluster overlay. The dark outer layer of the overlay
prevents the indicator from being clearly visible
when it is not illuminated. A red Light Emitting
Diode (LED) behind the cutout in the opaque layer of
the overlay causes the icon to appear in red through
the translucent outer layer of the overlay when the
indicator is illuminated from behind by the LED,
which is soldered onto the instrument cluster elec-
tronic circuit board. The seatbelt indicator is serviced
as a unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The seatbelt indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator of the status of the driver side front
seatbelt. This indicator is controlled by a transistor
on the instrument cluster circuit board based upon
cluster programming and a hard wired input from
the seatbelt switch in the driver side front seatbelt
buckle through the seat belt indicator driver circuit.
The seatbelt indicator also includes a programmable
enhanced seatbelt reminder or ªbeltminderº feature
that is enabled when the vehicle is shipped from the
factory. This beltminder feature can be disabled and
enabled by the customer using a specific program-
ming event sequence, or by the dealer using a
DRBIIItscan tool. The seatbelt indicator Light Emit-
ting Diode (LED) is completely controlled by the
instrument cluster logic circuit, and that logic will
only allow this indicator to operate when the instru-
ment cluster receives a battery current input on the
fused ignition switch output (run-start) circuit.
Therefore, the LED will always be off when the igni-
tion switch is in any position except On or Start. The
LED only illuminates when it is provided a path to
ground by the instrument cluster transistor. The
instrument cluster will turn on the seatbelt indicator
for the following reasons:
²Seatbelt Reminder Function- Each time the
cluster receives a battery current input on the fused
ignition switch output (run-start) circuit, the indica-
tor will be illuminated as a seatbelt reminder for
about six seconds, or until the ignition switch is
turned to the Off position, whichever occurs first.
This reminder function will occur regardless of the
status of the seatbelt switch input to the cluster.
²Driver Side Front Seatbelt Not Buckled -
Beltminder Active- Following the seatbelt
Fig. 25 Seatbelt Indicator
8J - 34 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
OIL PRESSURE GAUGE (Continued)

reminder function, each time the cluster detects an
open circuit on the seat belt indicator driver circuit
(seatbelt switch open = seatbelt unbuckled) with the
ignition switch in the Start or On positions, the indi-
cator will be illuminated. In addition, if the driver
side front seat belt remains unbuckled about sixty
seconds after the conclusion of the seatbelt reminder
function with the vehicle speed greater than about 13
kilometers-per-hour (8 miles-per-hour), the seatbelt
indicator will begin to cycle between flashing on and
off for five seconds, then lighting solid for three sec-
onds. The seatbelt indicator will continue to cycle
between flashing and solid illumination for twelve
complete cycles, until the seat belt indicator driver
input to the cluster is closed to ground (seatbelt
switch closed = seatbelt buckled), or until the igni-
tion switch is turned to the Off position, whichever
occurs first.
²Driver Side Front Seatbelt Not Buckled -
Beltminder Inactive- Following the seatbelt
reminder function, each time the cluster detects an
open circuit on the seat belt indicator driver circuit
(seatbelt switch open = seatbelt unbuckled) with the
ignition switch in the Start or On positions, the indi-
cator will be illuminated. The seatbelt indicator
remains illuminated until the seat belt indicator
driver input to the cluster is closed to ground (seat-
belt switch closed = seatbelt buckled), or until the
ignition switch is turned to the Off position, which-
ever occurs first.
²Airbag Indicator Backup- If the instrument
cluster detects a fault in the airbag indicator circuit
it will send a message indicating the fault to the Air-
bag Control Module (ACM), store a Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC) in the cluster memory, then flash the
seatbelt indicator on and off. The cluster will con-
tinue to flash the seatbelt indicator until the airbag
indicator circuit fault is resolved, or until the ignition
switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs
first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the seatbelt indicator will
be turned on, then off again during the bulb check
portion of the test to confirm the functionality of the
LED and the cluster control circuitry.
The seatbelt switch is connected in series between
ground and the seat belt indicator driver input to the
instrument cluster. The seatbelt switch input to the
instrument cluster circuitry may be diagnosed using
conventional diagnostic tools and methods. For fur-
ther diagnosis of the seatbelt indicator or the instru-
ment cluster circuitry that controls the LED, (Refer
to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENHANCED
SEATBELT REMINDER PROGRAMMING
The seatbelt indicator also includes a programma-
ble enhanced seatbelt reminder or ªbeltminderº fea-
ture that is enabled when the vehicle is shipped from
the factory. This beltminder feature provides
extended and modified visual seatbelt indicator and
audible chime warning responses to an unbuckled
driver side front seat belt. The beltminder feature
may be disabled or enabled by the customer using
the programming sequence that follows, or by the
dealer using a DRBIIItscan tool. The following
sequence of events must occur within sixty (60) sec-
onds of the ignition switch being placed in the On
position in order for the programming to be com-
pleted successfully.
(1) With the ignition switch in any position except
On or Start, buckle the driver side front seat belt.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position and
wait for the seatbelt indicator reminder function to
conclude (about six seconds).
(3) Unbuckle and buckle the driver side front seat
belt three or more times, ending with the belt buck-
led.
(4) Turn the ignition switch to any position except
On or Start to toggle the beltminder feature from its
current setting (from active to inactive, or from inac-
tive to active). A single chime tone will provide an
audible confirmation that the programming sequence
has been successfully completed.
SECURITY INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A security indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters (Fig. 26). However, on vehicles
not equipped with the optional Vehicle Theft Security
System (VTSS), this indicator is electronically dis-
abled. The security indicator is located in the lower
right quadrant of the instrument cluster, between the
speedometer and the coolant temperature gauge. The
security indicator consists of a small round cutout in
the opaque layer of the instrument cluster overlay.
The dark outer layer of the overlay prevents the indi-
cator from being clearly visible when it is not illumi-
nated. A red Light Emitting Diode (LED) behind the
cutout in the opaque layer of the overlay causes the
indicator to appear in red through the translucent
outer layer of the overlay when it is illuminated from
Fig. 26 Security Indicator
DRINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 35
SEATBELT INDICATOR (Continued)

appears in the lower portion of the odometer/trip
odometer Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) unit.
The VFD is soldered onto the cluster electronic cir-
cuit board and is visible through a window with a
smoked clear lens located on the lower edge of the
tachometer gauge dial face of the cluster overlay. The
dark lens over the VFD prevents the indicator from
being clearly visible when it is not illuminated. The
text ªSERV 4WDº appears in an amber color and at
the same lighting level as the odometer/trip odometer
information when they are illuminated by the instru-
ment cluster electronic circuit board. The service
4WD indicator is serviced as a unit with the VFD in
the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The service 4WD indicator gives an indication to
the vehicle operator when the Transfer Case Control
Module (TCCM) has recorded a Diagnostic Trouble
Code (DTC) for an electronic transfer case circuit or
component malfunction. This indicator is controlled
by a transistor on the instrument cluster circuit
board based upon cluster programming and elec-
tronic messages received by the cluster from the
TCCM over the Programmable Communications
Interface (PCI) data bus. The service 4WD indicator
is completely controlled by the instrument cluster
logic circuit, and that logic will only allow this indi-
cator to operate when the instrument cluster receives
a battery current input on the fused ignition switch
output (run-start) circuit. Therefore, the indicator
will always be off when the ignition switch is in any
position except On or Start. The indicator only illu-
minates when it is switched to ground by the instru-
ment cluster circuitry. The instrument cluster will
turn on the service 4WD indicator for the following
reasons:
²Service 4WD Lamp-On Message- Each time
the cluster receives a service 4WD lamp-on message
from the TCCM, the indicator will be illuminated.
The indicator remains illuminated until the cluster
receives a service 4WD lamp-off message from the
TCCM, or until the ignition switch is turned to the
Off position, whichever occurs first.
²Communication Error- If the cluster receives
no messages from the TCCM for five seconds, the
service 4WD indicator is illuminated by the instru-
ment cluster to indicate a loss of TCCM communica-
tion. The indicator remains controlled and
illuminated by the cluster until a valid message is
received from the TCCM.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the service 4WD indicator
will be turned on, then off again during the VFD por-
tion of the test to confirm the functionality of the
VFD and the cluster control circuitry.The TCCM continually monitors the electronic
transfer case switch and circuits to determine the
condition of the system. The TCCM then sends the
proper lamp-on or lamp-off messages to the instru-
ment cluster. For further diagnosis of the service
4WD indicator or the instrument cluster circuitry
that controls the VFD, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). For proper diagnosis of the TCCM, the
PCI data bus, or the electronic message inputs to the
instrument cluster that control the service 4WD indi-
cator, a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
SPEEDOMETER
DESCRIPTION
A speedometer is standard equipment on all instru-
ment clusters. The speedometer is located next to the
tachometer, just to the right of center in the instru-
ment cluster. The speedometer consists of a movable
gauge needle or pointer controlled by the instrument
cluster circuitry and a fixed 210 degree primary scale
on the gauge dial face that reads left-to-right either
from ª0º to ª120º mph, or from ª0º to ª200º km/h,
depending upon the market for which the vehicle is
manufactured. Each version also has a secondary
inner scale on the gauge dial face that provides the
equivalent opposite units from the primary scale.
Text appearing on the cluster overlay just below the
hub of the speedometer needle abbreviates the unit
of measure for the primary scale (i.e.: MPH or km/h),
followed by the unit of measure for the secondary
scale (Fig. 28). The speedometer graphics are black
(primary scale) and blue (secondary scale) against a
white field, making them clearly visible within the
instrument cluster in daylight. When illuminated
from behind by the panel lamps dimmer controlled
cluster illumination lighting with the exterior lamps
turned On, the black graphics appear dark blue and
the blue graphics appear light blue. The orange
gauge needle is internally illuminated. Gauge illumi-
nation is provided by replaceable incandescent bulb
and bulb holder units located on the instrument clus-
ter electronic circuit board. The speedometer is ser-
viced as a unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The speedometer gives an indication to the vehicle
operator of the vehicle road speed. This gauge is con-
Fig. 28 Speedometer Text
DRINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 37
SERVICE 4WD INDICATOR (Continued)

trolled by the instrument cluster circuit board based
upon cluster programming and electronic messages
received by the cluster from the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) over the Programmable Communica-
tions Interface (PCI) data bus. The speedometer is an
air core magnetic unit that receives battery current
on the instrument cluster electronic circuit board
through the fused ignition switch output (run-start)
circuit whenever the ignition switch is in the On or
Start positions. The cluster is programmed to move
the gauge needle back to the low end of the scale
after the ignition switch is turned to the Off position.
The instrument cluster circuitry controls the gauge
needle position and provides the following features:
²Vehicle Speed Message- Each time the clus-
ter receives a vehicle speed message from the PCM it
will calculate the correct vehicle speed reading and
position the gauge needle at that relative speed posi-
tion on the gauge scale. The cluster will receive a
new vehicle speed message and reposition the gauge
pointer accordingly about every 88 milliseconds. The
gauge needle will continue to be positioned at the
actual vehicle speed position on the gauge scale until
the ignition switch is turned to the Off position.
²Communication Error- If the cluster fails to
receive a speedometer message, it will hold the gauge
needle at the last indication for about three seconds,
or until the ignition switch is turned to the Off posi-
tion, whichever occurs first. After three seconds, the
gauge needle will return to the left end of the gauge
scale.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the speedometer needle
will be swept to several calibration points on the
gauge scale in a prescribed sequence in order to con-
firm the functionality of the gauge and the cluster
control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the vehicle speed
sensor to determine the vehicle road speed. The PCM
then sends the proper vehicle speed messages to the
instrument cluster. For further diagnosis of the
speedometer or the instrument cluster circuitry that
controls the gauge, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/IN-
STRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING). For proper diagnosis of the vehicle speed
sensor, the PCM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic
message inputs to the instrument cluster that control
the speedometer, a DRBIIItscan tool is required.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
TACHOMETER
DESCRIPTION
A tachometer is standard equipment on all instru-
ment clusters. The tachometer is located to the left ofthe speedometer, just to the left of center in the
instrument cluster. The tachometer consists of a
movable gauge needle or pointer controlled by the
instrument cluster circuitry and a fixed 210 degree
scale on the gauge dial face that reads left-to-right
from ª0º to ª7º for gasoline engines. On vehicles with
a diesel engine, the scale reads from ª0º to ª5º. The
text ªRPM X 1000º imprinted on the cluster overlay
directly below the hub of the tachometer needle iden-
tifies that each number on the tachometer scale is to
be multiplied by 1000 rpm (Fig. 29). The tachometer
graphics are black against a white field, making
them clearly visible within the instrument cluster in
daylight. When illuminated from behind by the panel
lamps dimmer controlled cluster illumination lighting
with the exterior lamps turned On, the black graph-
ics appear blue. The orange gauge needle is inter-
nally illuminated. Gauge illumination is provided by
replaceable incandescent bulb and bulb holder units
located on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board. The tachometer is serviced as a unit with the
instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The tachometer gives an indication to the vehicle
operator of the engine speed. This gauge is controlled
by the instrument cluster circuit board based upon
cluster programming and electronic messages
received by the cluster from the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) on vehicles with a gasoline engine, or
from the Engine Control Module (ECM) on vehicles
equipped with a diesel engine over the Programma-
ble Communications Interface (PCI) data bus. The
tachometer is an air core magnetic unit that receives
battery current on the instrument cluster electronic
circuit board through the fused ignition switch out-
put (run-start) circuit whenever the ignition switch is
in the On or Start positions. The cluster is pro-
grammed to move the gauge needle back to the low
end of the scale after the ignition switch is turned to
the Off position. The instrument cluster circuitry
controls the gauge needle position and provides the
following features:
²Engine Speed Message- Each time the cluster
receives an engine speed message from the PCM or
ECM it will calculate the correct engine speed read-
ing and position the gauge needle at that relative
speed position on the gauge scale. The cluster will
receive a new engine speed message and reposition
the gauge pointer accordingly about every 88 milli-
seconds. The gauge needle will continually be reposi-
Fig. 29 Tachometer Text
8J - 38 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
SPEEDOMETER (Continued)

the upper edge of the instrument cluster, between
the speedometer and the tachometer. Each turn sig-
nal indicator consists of a stencil-like cutout of the
International Control and Display Symbol icon for
ªTurn Warningº in the opaque layer of the instru-
ment cluster overlay. The dark outer layer of the
overlay prevents these icons from being clearly visi-
ble when they are not illuminated. A green Light
Emitting Diode (LED) behind each turn signal indi-
cator cutout in the opaque layer of the overlay causes
the icon to appear in green through the translucent
outer layer of the overlay when the indicator is illu-
minated from behind by the LED, which is soldered
onto the instrument cluster electronic circuit board.
The turn signal indicators are serviced as a unit with
the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The turn signal indicators give an indication to the
vehicle operator that the turn signal (left or right
indicator flashing) or hazard warning (both left and
right indicators flashing) have been selected and are
operating. These indicators are controlled by transis-
tors on the instrument cluster electronic circuit board
based upon the cluster programming, a hard wired
multiplex input received by the cluster from the turn
signal and hazard warning switch circuitry of the
multi-function switch on the turn/hazard switch mux
circuit, and electronic messages received from the
Front Control Module (FCM) over the Programmable
Communications Interface (PCI) data bus. Each turn
signal indicator Light Emitting Diode (LED) is com-
pletely controlled by the instrument cluster logic cir-
cuit, and that logic will allow this indicator to
operate whenever the instrument cluster receives a
battery current input on the fused B(+) circuit.
Therefore, each LED can be illuminated regardless of
the ignition switch position. The LED only illumi-
nates when it is provided a path to ground by the
instrument cluster transistor. The instrument cluster
will turn on the turn signal indicators for the follow-
ing reasons:
²Turn Signal-On Input- Each time the cluster
detects a turn signal-on input from the turn signal
switch circuitry of the multi-function switch on the
turn/hazard switch mux circuit, the requested turn
signal lamps and turn signal indicator will be flashed
on and off, and an electromechanical relay soldered
onto the cluster electronic circuit board will produce
a clicking sound to emulate a conventional turn sig-
nal flasher. The turn signals and the turn signal
indicators continue to flash on and off until the clus-
ter receives a turn signal-off input from the multi-
function switch, or until the ignition switch is turned
to the Off position, whichever occurs first.²Hazard Warning-On Input- Each time the
cluster detects a hazard warning-on input from the
hazard warning switch circuitry of the multi-function
switch on the turn/hazard switch mux circuit, all of
the turn signal lamps and both turn signal indicators
will be flashed on and off, and an electromechanical
relay soldered onto the cluster electronic circuit
board will produce a clicking sound to emulate a con-
ventional hazard warning flasher. The turn signals
and the turn signal indicators continue to flash on
and off until the cluster receives a hazard warning-
off input from the multi-function switch.
²Lamp Out Mode- The instrument cluster also
sends electronic turn signal on and off messages to
the FCM over the PCI data bus, and the FCM
flashes the appropriate exterior turn signal lamps. If
the FCM detects an inoperative turn signal lamp or
circuit, it increases the flash rate for the remaining
operative turn signals and sends an electronic mes-
sage back to the instrument cluster. The instrument
cluster then increases the flash rate of the turn sig-
nal indicator(s) and the clicking rate of the electro-
mechanical relay to provide an indication of the
problem to the vehicle operator.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the turn signal indicators
will be turned on, then off again during the bulb
check portion of the test to confirm the functionality
of each LED and the cluster control circuitry.
The instrument cluster continually monitors the
multi-function switch and electronic messages from
the FCM to determine the proper turn signal and
hazard warning system control. For further diagnosis
of the turn signal indicators or the instrument clus-
ter circuitry that controls the indicators, (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNO-
SIS AND TESTING). For proper diagnosis of the
turn signal and hazard warning system, the multi-
function switch, the FCM, the PCI data bus, or the
electronic message inputs to the instrument cluster
that control the turn signal indicators, a DRBIIIt
scan tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information.
UPSHIFT INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
An upshift indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters (Fig. 33). However, on vehicles
not equipped with a manual transmission, this indi-
Fig. 33 Upshift Indicator
DRINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 41
TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR (Continued)

cator is electronically disabled. The upshift indicator
consists of an upward pointed arrow icon, which
appears on the right side of the electronic gear selec-
tor indicator Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD)
unit. The VFD is soldered onto the cluster electronic
circuit board and is visible through a window with a
smoked clear lens located on the lower edge of the
speedometer gauge dial face of the cluster overlay.
The dark lens over the VFD prevents the indicator
from being clearly visible when it is not illuminated.
The icon appears in a blue-green color and at the
same lighting level as the odometer/trip odometer
information when it is illuminated by the instrument
cluster electronic circuit board. The upshift indicator
is serviced as a unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The upshift indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator when the manual transmission
should be shifted to the next highest gear in order to
achieve the best fuel economy. This indicator is con-
trolled by the instrument cluster circuit board based
upon cluster programming and electronic messages
received by the cluster from the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) on vehicles with a gasoline engine, or
from the Engine Control Module (ECM) on vehicles
with a diesel engine over the Programmable Commu-
nications Interface (PCI) data bus. The upshift indi-
cator is completely controlled by the instrument
cluster logic circuit, and that logic will only allow
this indicator to operate when the instrument cluster
receives a battery current input on the fused ignition
switch output (run-start) circuit. Therefore, the indi-
cator will always be off when the ignition switch is in
any position except On or Start. The indicator only
illuminates when it is switched to ground by the
instrument cluster circuitry. The instrument cluster
will turn on the upshift indicator for the following
reasons:
²Upshift Lamp-On Message- Each time the
cluster receives an upshift lamp-on message from the
PCM or ECM indicating the engine speed and load
conditions are right for a transmission upshift to
occur, the upshift indicator is illuminated. The indi-
cator remains illuminated until the cluster receives
an upshift lamp-off message from the PCM or ECM,
or until the ignition switch is turned to the Off posi-
tion, whichever occurs first. The PCM or ECM will
normally send an upshift lamp-off message three to
five seconds after a lamp-on message, if an upshift is
not performed. The indicator will then remain off
until the vehicle stops accelerating and is brought
back into the range of indicator operation, or until
the transmission is shifted into another gear.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the upshift indicator willbe turned on, then off again during the VFD portion
of the test to confirm the functionality of the VFD
and the cluster control circuitry.
On vehicles with a gasoline engine, the PCM con-
tinually monitors the engine speed and load condi-
tions to determine the proper fuel and ignition
requirements. On vehicles with a diesel engine, the
ECM continually monitors the engine speed and load
conditions to determine the proper fuel requirements.
The PCM or ECM then sends the proper upshift indi-
cator lamp-on and lamp-off messages to the instru-
ment cluster. For further diagnosis of the upshift
indicator or the instrument cluster circuitry that con-
trols the indicator, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/IN-
STRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). For proper diagnosis of the PCM, the
ECM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic message
inputs to the instrument cluster that control the
upshift indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is required.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
VOLTAGE GAUGE
DESCRIPTION
A voltage gauge is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters. The voltage gauge is located in
the upper left quadrant of the instrument cluster,
above the fuel gauge. The voltage gauge consists of a
movable gauge needle or pointer controlled by the
instrument cluster circuitry and a fixed 90 degree
scale on the cluster overlay that reads left-to-right
from ªLº (or Low) to ªHº (or High) for gasoline
engines. On vehicles with a diesel engine, the scale
reads from ª8º to ª18º volts. An International Control
and Display Symbol icon for ªBattery Charging Con-
ditionº is located on the cluster overlay, directly
below the right end of the gauge scale (Fig. 34). The
voltage gauge graphics are black against a white
field except for a single red graduation at each end of
the gauge scale, making them clearly visible within
the instrument cluster in daylight. When illuminated
from behind by the panel lamps dimmer controlled
cluster illumination lighting with the exterior lamps
turned On, the black graphics appear blue and the
red graphics still appear red. The orange gauge nee-
dle is internally illuminated. Gauge illumination is
provided by replaceable incandescent bulb and bulb
holder units located on the instrument cluster elec-
tronic circuit board. The voltage gauge is serviced as
a unit with the instrument cluster.
Fig. 34 Battery Charging Condition Icon
8J - 42 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
UPSHIFT INDICATOR (Continued)

(5) Verify operation of one-way check valve and
check it for leaks.
(a) Locate one-way check valve. The valve is
located in vacuum line between vacuum reservoir
and engine vacuum source. Disconnect vacuum
hoses (lines) at each end of valve.
(b) Connect a hand-operated vacuum pump to
reservoir end of check valve. Apply vacuum. Vac-
uum should not bleed off. If vacuum is being lost,
replace one-way check valve.
(c) Connect a hand-operated vacuum pump to
vacuum source end of check valve. Apply vacuum.
Vacuum should flow through valve. If vacuum is
not flowing, replace one-way check valve. Seal the
fitting at opposite end of valve with a finger and
apply vacuum. If vacuum will not hold, diaphragm
within check valve has ruptured. Replace valve.
5.7 Gas
Vacuum is not used for any part of the speed con-
trol system if equipped with a 5.7L V-8 engine.
5.9L Diesel Engine With Manual Trans.
Vacuum is not used for any part of the speed con-
trol system if equipped with a diesel engine and a
manual transmission.
5.9L Diesel Engines With Automatic Trans.
If equipped with a diesel powered engine and an
automatic transmission, an electric vacuum pump
and vacuum lines are used to supply vacuum to the
speed control servo. A vacuum reservoir is not used.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TEST
Perform a vehicle road test to verify reports of
speed control system malfunction. The road test
should include attention to the speedometer. Speed-ometer operation should be smooth and without flut-
ter at all speeds.
Flutter in the speedometer indicates a problem
which might cause surging in the speed control sys-
tem. The cause of any speedometer problems should
be corrected before proceeding. Refer to Instrument
Cluster for speedometer diagnosis.
If a road test verifies a system problem and the
speedometer operates properly, check for:
²A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). If a DTC
exists, conduct tests per the Powertrain Diagnostic
Procedures service manual.
²A misadjusted brake (stop) lamp switch. This
could also cause an intermittent problem.
²Loose, damaged or corroded electrical connec-
tions at the servo (if used). Corrosion should be
removed from electrical terminals and a light coating
of Mopar MultiPurpose Grease, or equivalent,
applied.
²Leaking vacuum reservoir (if used).
²Loose or leaking vacuum hoses or connections (if
used).
²Defective one-way vacuum check valve (if used).
²Secure attachment of both ends of the speed con-
trol servo cable (if used).
²Smooth operation of throttle linkage (if used)
and throttle body air valve.
²Failed speed control servo (if used). Do the servo
vacuum test.
CAUTION: When test probing for voltage or conti-
nuity at electrical connectors, care must be taken
not to damage connector, terminals or seals. If
these components are damaged, intermittent or
complete system failure may occur.
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - SPEED CONTROL
DESCRIPTION N-m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Servo Mounting Bracket-
to-Servo Nuts7-60
Servo Mounting Bracket-
to-Battery Tray Screws4-30
Speed Control Switch
Mounting Screws1.7 - 15
Vacuum Reservoir
Mounting Nuts3-20
DRSPEED CONTROL 8P - 3
SPEED CONTROL (Continued)

(3) Have helper start and run engine at 1600 rpm
for test.
(4)
Move transmission shift lever four detents rear-
ward from full forward position. This is Reverse range.
(5) Move transmission throttle lever fully forward
then fully rearward and note reading at Gauge
C-3293-SP.
(6) Pressure should be 145 - 175 psi (1000-1207
kPa) with throttle lever forward and increase to 230 -
280 psi (1586-1931 kPa) as lever is gradually moved
rearward.
Test Five - Governor Pressure
This test checks governor operation by measuring
governor pressure response to changes in vehicle
speed. It is usually not necessary to check governor
operation unless shift speeds are incorrect or if the
transmission will not downshift. The test should be
performed on the road or on a hoist that will allow
the rear wheels to rotate freely.
(1) Move 100 psi Test Gauge C-3292 to governor
pressure port.
(2) Move transmission shift lever two detents rear-
ward from full forward position. This is D range.
(3) Have helper start and run engine at curb idle
speed. Then firmly apply service brakes so wheels
will not rotate.
(4) Note governor pressure:
²
Governor pressure should be no more than 20.6
kPa (3 psi) at curb idle speed and wheels not rotating.
²If pressure exceeds 20.6 kPa (3 psi), a fault
exists in governor pressure control system.
(5) Release brakes, slowly increase engine speed,
and observe speedometer and pressure test gauge (do
not exceed 30 mph on speedometer). Governor pres-
sure should increase in proportion to vehicle speed.
Or approximately 6.89 kPa (1 psi) for every 1 mph.
(6) Governor pressure rise should be smooth and
drop back to no more than 20.6 kPa (3 psi), after
engine returns to curb idle and brakes are applied to
prevent wheels from rotating.
(7)
Compare results of pressure test with analysis
chart.
Test Six - Transmission In Overdrive Fourth Gear
This test checks line pressure at the overdrive
clutch in fourth gear range. Use 300 psi Test Gauge
C-3293-SP for this test. The test should be performed
on the road or on a chassis dyno.
(1)
Remove tachometer; it is not needed for this test.
(2) Move 300 psi Gauge to overdrive clutch pres-
sure test port. Then remove other gauge and reinstall
test port plug.
(3) Lower vehicle.
(4) Turn OD switch on.(5) Secure test gauge so it can be viewed from
drivers seat.
(6) Start engine and shift into D range.
(7) Increase vehicle speed gradually until 3-4 shift
occurs and note gauge pressure.
(8) Pressure should be 524-565 kPa (76-82 psi)
with closed throttle and increase to 690-896 kPa
(100-130 psi) at 1/2 to 3/4 throttle. Note that pres-
sure can increase to around 965 kPa (140 psi) at full
throttle.
(9) Return to shop or move vehicle off chassis
dyno.
PRESSURE TEST ANALYSIS CHART
TEST CONDITION INDICATION
Line pressure OK during
any one testPump and regulator
valve OK
Line pressure OK in R
but low in D, 2, 1Leakage in rear clutch
area (seal rings, clutch
seals)
Pressure low in D Fourth
Gear RangeOverdrive clutch piston
seal, or check ball
problem
Pressure OK in 1, 2 but
low in D3 and RLeakage in front clutch
area
Pressure OK in 2 but low
in R and 1Leakage in rear servo
Front servo pressure in 2 Leakage in servo; broken
servo ring or cracked
servo piston
Pressure low in all
positionsClogged filter, stuck
regulator valve, worn or
faulty pump, low oil level
Governor pressure too
high at idle speedGovernor pressure
solenoid valve system
fault. Refer to diagnostic
book.
Governor pressure low at
all mph figuresFaulty governor pressure
solenoid, transmission
control module, or
governor pressure
sensor
Lubrication pressure low
at all throttle positionsClogged fluid cooler or
lines, seal rings leaking,
worn pump bushings,
pump, clutch retainer, or
clogged filter.
Line pressure high Output shaft plugged,
sticky regulator valve
Line pressure low Sticky regulator valve,
clogged filter, worn pump
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48RE 21 - 143
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48RE (Continued)

sure curve is higher than normal to make the
transmission shift at normal speeds and sooner. The
PCM uses a temperature sensor in the transmission
oil sump to determine when low temperature gover-
nor pressure is needed.
NORMAL OPERATION
Normal operation is refined through the increased
computing power of the PCM and through access to
data on engine operating conditions provided by the
PCM that were not available with the previous
stand-alone electronic module. This facilitated the
development of a load adaptive shift strategy - the
ability to alter the shift schedule in response to vehi-
cle load condition. One manifestation of this capabil-
ity is grade9hunting9prevention - the ability of the
transmission logic to delay an upshift on a grade if
the engine does not have sufficient power to main-
tain speed in the higher gear. The 3-2 downshift and
the potential for hunting between gears occurs with a
heavily loaded vehicle or on steep grades. When
hunting occurs, it is very objectionable because shifts
are frequent and accompanied by large changes in
noise and acceleration.
WIDE OPEN THROTTLE OPERATION
In wide-open throttle (WOT) mode, adaptive mem-
ory in the PCM assures that up-shifts occur at the
preprogrammed optimum speed. WOT operation is
determined from the throttle position sensor, which
is also a part of the emission control system. The ini-
tial setting for the WOT upshift is below the opti-
mum engine speed. As WOT shifts are repeated, the
PCM learns the time required to complete the shifts
by comparing the engine speed when the shifts occur
to the optimum speed. After each shift, the PCM
adjusts the shift point until the optimum speed is
reached. The PCM also considers vehicle loading,
grade and engine performance changes due to high
altitude in determining when to make WOT shifts. It
does this by measuring vehicle and engine accelera-
tion and then factoring in the shift time.
TRANSFER CASE LOW RANGE OPERATION
On four-wheel drive vehicles operating in low
range, the engine can accelerate to its peak more
rapidly than in Normal range, resulting in delayed
shifts and undesirable engine9flare.9The low range
governor pressure curve is also higher than normal
to initiate upshifts sooner. The PCM compares elec-
tronic vehicle speed signal used by the speedometer
to the transmission output shaft speed signal to
determine when the transfer case is in low range.REMOVAL
(1) Hoist and support vehicle on safety stands.
(2) Remove transmission fluid pan and filter.
(3) Disengage wire connectors from pressure sen-
sor and solenoid (Fig. 78).
(4) Remove screws holding pressure solenoid
retainer to governor body.
(5) Separate solenoid retainer from governor (Fig.
79).
Fig. 78 Governor Solenoid And Pressure Sensor
1 - PRESSURE SENSOR
2 - PRESSURE SOLENOID
3 - GOVERNOR
Fig. 79 Pressure Solenoid Retainer
1 - PRESSURE SOLENOID RETAINER
2 - GOVERNOR
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48RE 21 - 199
ELECTRONIC GOVERNOR (Continued)