transmission fluid DODGE RAM 1500 GAS 2006 3.G User Guide

Limited-Slip Differentialsin 1500 Model vehicles re-
quire that 4 oz. (118 ml) Mopar limited slip additive be
added to the gear lubricant. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants
and Genuine Parts for correct fluid type. The Mopar 
limited slip additive should be added to the gear lubri-
cant whenever a fluid change is made.
Ram 2500/3500 Model Axles DO NOT REQUIREany
limited slip oil additive (friction modifiers).
Transfer Case
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.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.
Manual Transmission
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the fill plug.
If the level of the lubricant is more than 1/4” (6.4 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 the bottom of the filler hole.
Lubricant Selection G238 (6-Speed Manual
Transmission — If Equipped)
This transmission is filled with manual transmission
fluid at the factory. This fluid does not require periodic
changing. If it is necessary to add or change fluid in this
transmission refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type. This is the only lubricant
recommended for use in the Getrag 238 transmission.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 453
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Lubricant Selection G56 (6-Speed Manual
Transmission — If Equipped)
This transmission is filled with manual transmission
fluid at the factory. This fluid does not require periodic
changing. If it is necessary to add or change fluid in this
transmission refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type. This is the only lubricant
recommended for use in the Getrag G56 transmission.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level should be checked when the engine is
fully warmed up and the fluid in the transmission is at
normal operating temperature. Operation of the trans-
mission 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.
Fluid Level Check – 45RFE/545RFE/42RLE
Check the fluid level while the transmission is at normal
operating temperature 82°C (180°F). This occurs after at
least 15 miles (25 km) of driving. At normal operating
temperature the fluid cannot be held comfortably be-
tween the fingertips.
To check the automatic transmission fluid level properly,
the following procedure must be used:
1. Operate the engine at idle speed and normal operating
temperature.
2. The vehicle must be on level ground.
3. Fully apply the parking brake and press the brake
pedal.
4. Place the gear selector momentarily in each gear
position ending with the lever in P (Park).
454 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

5. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it until
seated.
6. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on
both sides. The fluid level should be between the “HOT”
(upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operat-
ing temperature. Verify that solid coating of oil is seen on
both sides of the dipstick. If the fluid is low, add as
required into the dipstick tube. Do not overfill.After
adding any quantity of oil through the oil fill tube, wait
a minimum of two (2) minutes for the oil to fully drain
into the transmission before rechecking the fluid level.
NOTE: If it is necessary to check the transmission below
the operating temperature, the fluid level should be
between the two “COLD” (lower) holes on the dipstick
with the fluid at approximately 70°F (21°C) (room tem-
perature). If the fluid level is correctly established at
room temperature, it should be between the “HOT” (upper) reference holes when the transmission reaches
180°F (82°C). Remember it is best to check the level at the
normal operating temperature.
CAUTION!
Be aware that if the fluid temperature is below 50°F
(10°C) it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough to
produce an accurate reading.
7. Check for leaks. Release parking brake.
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.
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Selection Of Lubricant
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type. It is important that the transmission fluid be
maintained at the prescribed level using the recom-
mended fluid.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turers recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturers recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.
Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Change
It is important that proper lubricant is used in the
transmission. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type.
The fluid and filter(s) should be changed as specified in
the Maintenance Schedule (Section 8).
NOTE: If the transmission is disassembled for any
reason, the fluid and filter(s) should be changed.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against the ad-
dition of any additives to the transmission. Exception to
this policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting
fluid leaks. The use of transmission sealers should be
avoided, since they may adversely affect seals.
456 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.
Automatic Transmission Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Transfer Case Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
NVG 246 Automatic Transfer Case Only Mopar PN 05179014AA, NVG 246 Automatic Transmission Fluid or
equivalent.
Manaul Transmission Fluid (G238) Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Manual Transmission Fluid (G-56) Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Clutch Linkage Multipurpose Grease, NLGI Grade 2 E.P. or equivalent.
1500 Model Front Axle (4X4) GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (MS-9763) or equivalent.
1500 Model Rear Axle Mopar Synthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-140 (MS-8985). Limited-Slip
Rear Axles on 1500 Models Require the addition of 118 ml (4 oz.) Mo-
par  limited slip additive or equivalent.
2500/3500 Model Front and Rear Axle Synthetic, GL-5 SAE, 75W-90 or equivalent. Limited-Slip 10.5/11.5 inch Rear Axles DO NOT REQUIRE a limited slip additive.
Brake Master Cylinder Mopar DOT 3 and SAE J1703 should be used or equivalent. If DOT 3
brake fluid is not available, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only recom-
mended brake fluids.
Power Steering Reservoir Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
486 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

At Each Stop for Fuel
•Check the engine oil level about 5 minutes after a fully
warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level while
the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accu-
racy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when the
level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and add if
required. When refilling the washer fluid reservoir,
take some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or towel
and wipe clean the wiper blades, this will help blade
performance.
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 bottle, brake master
cylinder, and transmission and add as needed.
•Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Lubricate Drivetrain/Steering/Suspension Grease Fit-
tings (if equipped)
•Inspect the exhaust system.
•Inspect the brake hoses.
•Inspect the CV joints/U— joints (if equipped) and
front suspension components.
•Check the automatic transmission fluid level.
•Check the manual transmission fluid level.
•Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
•Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500, 4X4).
490 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Miles 48,000 51,000 54,000 57,000 60,000
(Kilometers) (80 000) (85 000) (90 000) (95 000) (100 000)
Change engine oil and engine oil filter at interval
shown or 3 months, whichever comes first. X X XXX
Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/3500,
4X4). X X XXX
Rotate tires. X X X
Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct
stowage. XXX
Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4) mod-
els only. XXX
Flush and replace engine coolant at 60 months, or
102,000 miles (170 000 km) whichever comes first. X
Drain and refill transfer case fluid (4X4). X
Change rear axle fluid. X
Change front axle fluid (4X4). X
Change 6-spd manual transmission fluid 2500/3500
models only. X
SCHEDULE “B” 495
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Miles 48,000 51,000 54,000 57,000 60,000
(Kilometers) (80 000) (85 000) (90 000) (95 000) (100 000)
Inspect brake linings. X X
Inspect engine air cleaner filter, replace if neces-
sary. X
Replace spark plugs. X
Inspect and replace ignition cables if necessary. X
Inspect PCV valve, replace as necessary. ** X
Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid and
change main sump filter*. X
496 SCHEDULE “B”
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Miles 105,000 108,000 111,000 114,000 117,000 120,000
(Kilometers) (175 000) (180 000) (185 000) (190 000) (195 000) (200 000)
Change engine oil and engine oil filter at in-
terval shown or 3 months, whichever comes
first. X X XXXX
Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (2500/
3500, 4X4). X X XXXX
Rotate tires. X X X
Check spare tire for proper pressure and cor-
rect stowage. XXX
Lubricate outer tie rod ends 2500/3500 (4X4)
models only. XXX
Drain and refill transfer case fluid (4X4). X
Change rear axle fluid. X X
Change front axle fluid (4X4). X X
Change 6-spd manual transmission fluid
2500/3500 models only. X
Inspect brake linings. X X
500 SCHEDULE “B”
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Miles 105,000 108,000 111,000 114,000 117,000 120,000
(Kilometers) (175 000) (180 000) (185 000) (190 000) (195 000) (200 000)
Inspect engine air cleaner filter, replace if
necessary. XX
Replace spark plugs. X
Inspect and replace ignition cables if neces-
sary. X
Inspect PCV valve, replace as necessary. ** X
Inspect auto tension drive belt and replace if
required (3.7L/4.7L/5.7L). XX
Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid
and change main sump and spin-on cooler
return filter (if equipped)*. X
Flush and replace engine coolant at 120
months if not replaced at 102,000 miles (170
000 km). X
SCHEDULE “B” 501
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