length DODGE RAM 2001 Service Owner's Manual

(3) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the 3-way instrument panel wire
harness connector for the heated mirror switch from
the heated mirror switch connector receptacle on the
back of the a/c heater control. Check for continuity
between the ground circuit cavity of the wire harness
connector and a good ground. There should be conti-
nuity. If OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open
ground circuit to ground as required.
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable. Turn the
ignition switch to the On position. Check for battery
voltage at the fused ignition switch output (run/start)
circuit cavity of the 3-way instrument panel wire
harness connector for the heated mirror switch. If
OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the open fused
ignition switch output (run/start) circuit to the fuse
in the JB as required.
(5) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Reconnect the 3-way instrument panel wire harness
connector for the heated mirror switch to the heated
mirror switch connector receptacle on the back of the
a/c heater control. Reconnect the battery negative
cable. Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Depress and release the heated mirror switch. The
amber heated mirror system indicator lamp next to
the heated mirror switch button should light. If OK,
go to Step 6. If not OK, replace the faulty a/c heater
control.
(6) Back probe the fused heated mirror relay out-
put circuit cavity of the 3-way instrument panel wire
harness connector for the heated mirror switch on
the back of the a/c heater control and check for volt-
age (battery voltage less the resistance in both out-
side mirror heating grids). If OK, (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/HEATED MIRRORS/HEATED MIR-
ROR GRID - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
HEATED MIRROR GRID
DESCRIPTION
Vehicles equipped with the optional heated mirror
system have an electrically operated heating grid
located behind the mirror glass of each power oper-
ated outside rear view mirror. The outside mirror
heating grid consists of two thin laminations of plas-
tic that approximate the outer dimensions and shape
of the mirror glass. A single length of resistor wire
weaves in a back and forth pattern between, and is
held in place by the two thin laminations of plastic.
The two ends of the resistor wire terminate near the
inboard edge of the grid, where they are soldered to
the ground feed and battery current feed wires con-
tained in the power mirror wire harness. The heating
grid is then sandwiched between the back of themolded plastic mirror glass case and the mirror
glass, where it remains in direct contact with the
back of the mirror glass at all times.
The outside mirror heating grids cannot be
repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the entire outside
power mirror unit must be replaced. Refer to Power
Mirrors for the service procedures.
OPERATION
One end of the outside mirror heating grid resistor
wire is connected to a ground feed at all times
through a body ground screw located inside the left
rear corner of the truck cab. Battery current is
directed to the other end of the outside mirror heat-
ing grid resistor wire by the energized heated mirror
relay when the heated mirror switch is in the On
position. As electrical current passes through the
heating grid, the resistance of the wire in the heating
grid converts some of that electrical current into
heat. The heat produced by the heating grid is then
conducted through the back of the mirror glass to
help keep the glass clear of ice, snow or fog.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATED MIRROR
GRID
For circuit descriptions and diagrams (Refer to
Appropriate Wiring Information).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the door wire harness connector
from the power mirror wire harness connector at the
power mirror with the inoperative heating grid.
Check for continuity between the ground circuit cav-
ity in the door wire harness connector for the power
mirror and a good ground. If OK, go to Step 2. If not
OK, repair the open ground circuit to ground as
required.
(2) Reconnect the battery negative cable. Turn the
ignition switch to the On position. Turn on the
heated mirror system. Check for voltage (battery
voltage less the resistance in the outside mirror heat-
ing grid that is still connected) at the fused heated
mirror relay output circuit cavity in the door wire
harness connector for the power mirror. If OK, go to
Step 3. If not OK, repair the open fused heated mir-
ror relay output circuit to the heater and air condi-
tioner control unit as required.
(3) Check the outside mirror heating grid by test-
ing for continuity between the ground circuit and the
fused heated mirror relay output circuit cavities in
the power mirror wire harness connector. There
should be continuity. If not OK, replace the faulty
power mirror. If OK, check the resistance through
the outside mirror heating grid. The correct resis-
tance should be from 10 to 16 ohms when measured
at an ambient temperature of 21É C (70É F). If not
OK, replace the faulty power mirror.
8G - 4 HEATED MIRRORSBR/BE
MIRROR SWITCH (Continued)

(3) Reconnect the two instrument panel wire har-
ness connectors to the connector receptacles on the
backs of the heated seat switches.
(4) Position the heated seat switch bezel and both
switches in the instrument panel mounting hole as a
unit.
(5) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the heated seat switch bezel to the instrument panel.
Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(6) Install the cluster bezel onto the instrument
panel. Refer toCluster Bezelin the index of this
service manual for the location of the proper cluster
bezel installation procedures.
(7) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
HEATED SEAT ELEMENT
DESCRIPTION
Vehicles equipped with the optional heated seat
system have two sets of electrically operated heating
element grids located in each outboard seating posi-
tion of the front seat, one set for the seat cushion
and the other set for the seat back. Each of the
heated seat element grids consists of a single length
of resistor wire that is routed in a zigzag pattern and
captured between the leather trim cover and the
foam rubber backing on the underside of its respec-
tive seat cushion trim cover and seat back trim cover
assembly. Short pigtail wires with connectors (Fig. 5)
are soldered to each end of each resistor wire ele-
ment grid, which connect all of the element grids foreach seating position to each other in series with the
heated seat module through the seat wire harness.
One temperature sensor is used for each outboard
seating position of the front seat, and it is located in
the center insert area of the seat cushion cover. The
heated seat sensors and their pigtail wires are also
captured between the leather trim cover and the
foam rubber backing on the underside of their
respective seat cushion trim cover assemblies. The
heated seat sensors are Negative Thermal Coefficient
(NTC) thermistors. The sensors for both front seats
receive a voltage feed from a single output of the
heated seat module, but the module receives individ-
ual sensor inputs from the driver side and passenger
side sensors.
The heated seat elements and sensors cannot be
repaired. If damaged or faulty, the front seat cushion
trim cover or front seat back trim cover assembly
must be replaced. Refer toFront Seat Cushion
Cover - Quad CaborFront Seat Back Cover -
Quad Cabin the index of this service manual for
the location of the proper front seat trim cover
removal and installation procedures.
OPERATION
One end of the heated seat element resistor wire is
connected to a ground feed at all times through a
splice in the heated seat module ground circuit. Bat-
tery current is directed to the other end of the heated
seat element resistor wire by the energized N-chan-
nel Field Effect Transistor (N-FET) located within
the heated seat module. The heated seat module will
energize the N-FET only when the heated seat
switch is in the Low or High position and the heated
seat sensor indicates that the seat cushion surface
temperature is below the selected (Low or High) tem-
perature set point. As electrical current passes
through the heating element grid, the resistance of
the wire used in the element disperses some of that
electrical current in the form of heat. The heat pro-
duced by the heated seat element grid then radiates
through the underside of the seat cushion and seat
back trim covers, warming the seat cover and its
occupant.
The resistance of the heated seat sensor increases
and decreases as the surface temperature of the seat
cushion cover changes. The heated seat module sup-
plies each sensor with a voltage feed, then detects
the sensor resistance by monitoring the voltage of the
separate sensor return circuits. The heated seat mod-
ule compares the heated seat sensor resistance (seat
cushion surface temperature) with the heated seat
switch resistance (Low or High set point) to deter-
mine when the heated seat element grids need to be
cycled on or off in order to maintain the selected tem-
perature set point.
Fig. 5 Heated Seat Cushion Trim Cover
1 - TO SEAT BACK COVER
2 - TO SEAT WIRE HARNESS
3 - FOAM PADDING
4 - HEATED SEAT CUSHION TRIM COVER
5 - TO ELEMENT GRIDS
6 - TO ELEMENT GRIDS AND SENSOR
8G - 10 HEATED SEAT SYSTEMBR/BE
DRIVER SEAT HEATER SWITCH (Continued)

CHIPPED ELECTRODE INSULATOR
A chipped electrode insulator usually results from
bending the center electrode while adjusting the
spark plug electrode gap. Under certain conditions,
severe detonation can also separate the insulator
from the center electrode (Fig. 33). Spark plugs with
this condition must be replaced.
PREIGNITION DAMAGE
Preignition damage is usually caused by excessive
combustion chamber temperature. The center elec-
trode dissolves first and the ground electrode dis-
solves somewhat latter (Fig. 34). Insulators appear
relatively deposit free. Determine if the spark plug
has the correct heat range rating for the engine.
Determine if ignition timing is over advanced or if
other operating conditions are causing engine over-
heating. (The heat range rating refers to the operat-
ing temperature of a particular type spark plug.
Spark plugs are designed to operate within specific
temperature ranges. This depends upon the thick-
ness and length of the center electrodes porcelain
insulator.)
SPARK PLUG OVERHEATING
Overheating is indicated by a white or gray center
electrode insulator that also appears blistered (Fig.
35). The increase in electrode gap will be consider-
ably in excess of 0.001 inch per 2000 miles of opera-
tion. This suggests that a plug with a cooler heat
range rating should be used. Over advanced ignition
timing, detonation and cooling system malfunctions
can also cause spark plug overheating.
REMOVAL
On 3.9L/5.2L/5.9L engines, spark plug cable heat
shields are pressed into the cylinder head to sur-
round each cable boot and spark plug (Fig. 36).
(1) Always remove spark plug or ignition coil
cables by grasping at the cable boot (Fig. 38). Turn
the cable boot 1/2 turn and pull straight back in a
steady motion. Never pull directly on the cable.
Internal damage to cable will result.
(2) Prior to removing the spark plug, spray com-
pressed air around the spark plug hole and the area
around the spark plug. This will help prevent foreign
material from entering the combustion chamber.
(3) Remove the spark plug using a quality socket
with a rubber or foam insert.
(4) Inspect the spark plug condition. Refer to
Spark Plug Condition in the Diagnostics and Testing
section of this group.
Fig. 33 Chipped Electrode Insulator
1 - GROUND ELECTRODE
2 - CENTER ELECTRODE
3 - CHIPPED INSULATOR
Fig. 34 Preignition Damage
1 - GROUND ELECTRODE STARTING TO DISSOLVE
2 - CENTER ELECTRODE DISSOLVED
Fig. 35 Spark Plug Overheating
1 - BLISTERED WHITE OR GRAY COLORED INSULATOR
8I - 18 IGNITION CONTROLBR/BE
SPARK PLUG (Continued)

With the engine running, remove spark plug cable
from spark plug (one at a time) and hold next to a
good engine ground. If the cable and spark plug are
in good condition, the engine rpm should drop and
the engine will run poorly. If engine rpm does not
drop, the cable and/or spark plug may not be operat-
ing properly and should be replaced. Also check
engine cylinder compression.
With the engine not running, connect one end of a
test probe to a good ground. Start the engine and run
the other end of the test probe along the entire
length of all spark plug cables. If cables are cracked
or punctured, there will be a noticeable spark jump
from the damaged area to the test probe. The cable
running from the ignition coil to the distributor cap
can be checked in the same manner. Cracked, dam-
aged or faulty cables should be replaced with resis-
tance type cable. This can be identified by the words
ELECTRONIC SUPPRESSION printed on the cable
jacket.
Use an ohmmeter to test for open circuits, exces-
sive resistance or loose terminals. If equipped,
remove the distributor cap from the distributor.Do
not remove cables from cap.Remove cable from
spark plug. Connect ohmmeter to spark plug termi-
nal end of cable and to corresponding electrode in
distributor cap. Resistance should be 250 to 1000
Ohms per inch of cable. If not, remove cable from dis-
tributor cap tower and connect ohmmeter to the ter-
minal ends of cable. If resistance is not within
specifications as found in the SPARK PLUG CABLE
RESISTANCE chart, replace the cable. Test all spark
plug cables in this manner.
SPARK PLUG CABLE RESISTANCE
MINIMUM MAXIMUM
250 Ohms Per Inch 1000 Ohms Per Inch
3000 Ohms Per Foot 12,000 Ohms Per Foot
To test ignition coil-to-distributor cap cable, do not
remove the cable from the cap. Connect ohmmeter to
rotor button (center contact) of distributor cap and
terminal at ignition coil end of cable. If resistance is
not within specifications as found in the Spark Plug
Cable Resistance chart, remove the cable from the
distributor cap. Connect the ohmmeter to the termi-
nal ends of the cable. If resistance is not within spec-
ifications as found in the Spark Plug Cable
Resistance chart, replace the cable. Inspect the igni-
tion coil tower for cracks, burns or corrosion.
REMOVAL
CAUTION: When disconnecting a high voltage cable
from a spark plug or from the distributor cap, twist
the rubber boot slightly (1/2 turn) to break it loose
(Fig. 38). Grasp the boot (not the cable) and pull it
off with a steady, even force.
INSTALLATION
Install cables into the proper engine cylinder firing
order (Fig. 39), (Fig. 40) or (Fig. 41).
When replacing the spark plug and coil cables,
route the cables correctly and secure in the proper
retainers. Failure to route the cables properly can
cause the radio to reproduce ignition noise. It could
also cause cross ignition of the plugs or short circuit
the cables to ground.
Fig. 37 Heat ShieldsÐ3.9L/5.2L/5.9L Engines
1 - AIR GAP
2 - SPARK PLUG BOOT HEAT SHIELD
Fig. 38 Cable Removal
1 - SPARK PLUG CABLE AND BOOT
2 - SPARK PLUG BOOT PULLER
3 - TWIST AND PULL
4 - SPARK PLUG
8I - 20 IGNITION CONTROLBR/BE
SPARK PLUG CABLE (Continued)

²More Than Full Percent Tank Full Message
- Each time the cluster receives a message from the
PCM indicating the percent tank full is more than
full, the gauge needle is moved to the far left (low)
end of the gauge scale and the low fuel indicator is
illuminated immediately. This message would indi-
cate that the fuel tank sender input to the PCM is an
open circuit.
²Message Failure- If the cluster fails to receive
a percent tank full message, it will hold the gauge
needle at the last indication until a new message is
received, 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 gauge needle will be
swept to several calibration points on the gauge scale
in a prescribed sequence in order to confirm the func-
tionality of the gauge and the cluster control cir-
cuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the fuel tank send-
ing unit, then sends the proper messages to the
instrument cluster. For further diagnosis of the fuel
gauge or the instrument cluster circuitry that con-
trols the gauge, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRU-
MENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
For proper diagnosis of the fuel tank sending unit,
the PCM, the CCD data bus, or the message inputs
to the instrument cluster that control the fuel gauge,
a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the appro-
priate diagnostic information.
GEAR SELECTOR INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A mechanical automatic transmission gear selector
indicator is standard factory-installed equipment on
this model, when it is also equipped with an optional
automatic transmission. The gear selector indicator
consists of a molded black plastic housing with inte-
gral mounting tabs that is secured to the back of the
instrument cluster housing with two screws. A face
plate on the indicator housing is visible through a
rectangular cutout in the lower right corner of the
instrument cluster overlay, just below the fuel gauge.
Vehicles with a manual transmission have a block-off
plate mounted to the back of the instrument cluster
behind this cutout in the overlay, in place of the gear
selector indicator. Near the top of this face plate the
following characters are imprinted from left to right:
ªP,º ªR,º ªN,º ªD,º ª2,º and ª1.º Respectively, these
characters represent the park, reverse, neutral,
drive, second gear, and first gear positions of the
transmission gear selector lever on the steering col-
umn. Directly below each character on the face plateis a small, rectangular window, and behind these
windows is a single, movable red pointer.
The gear selector indicator graphics are white
against a black field except for the single red pointer,
making them clearly visible within the instrument
cluster in daylight. When illuminated from behind by
the panel lamps dimmer controlled cluster illumina-
tion lighting with the exterior lamps turned On, the
white graphics appear blue-green, while the red
pointer still appears red. Indicator illumination is
provided by replaceable incandescent bulb and bulb
holder units located on the instrument cluster elec-
tronic circuit board. The gear selector indicator is
available for service replacement separate from the
instrument cluster. The instrument cluster must be
removed from the instrument panel for service access
to the gear selector indicator. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - REMOVAL).
OPERATION
The mechanical gear selector indicator gives an
indication of the transmission gear that has been
selected with the automatic transmission gear selec-
tor lever. A red pointer appears in a window below
the character in the indicator representing the trans-
mission gear that has been selected. The small,
spring-loaded pointer moves on a track through a
trolley-like mechanism within the indicator housing.
A short length of small diameter stranded cable is
attached to one side of the pointer trolley and is
encased in a tubular plastic housing that exits the
right side of the indicator. The cable is routed
through the instrument panel and under the steering
column to the left side of the column. The looped end
of the cable is hooked over the end of the PRNDL
driver lever on the steering column gearshift mecha-
nism, and the cable housing is secured in a molded
plastic adjuster and bracket on the column housing.
When the gear selector lever is moved the PRNDL
driver lever moves, which moves the pointer through
the mechanical actuator cable. The cable adjuster
and bracket unit mounted on the steering column
housing provides a mechanical means of calibrating
the gear selector indicator mechanism. (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/COLUMN - INSTALLATION).
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A high beam indicator is standard equipment on
all instrument clusters. The high beam indicator is
located near the upper edge of the instrument cluster
overlay, between the tachometer and the speedome-
ter. The high beam indicator consists of a stenciled
cutout of the International Control and Display Sym-
BR/BEINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 21
FUEL GAUGE (Continued)

MESSAGE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
DESCRIPTION............................1
STANDARD PROCEDURE...................4
COMPASS CALIBRATION..................4
COMPASS VARIATION ADJUSTMENT........4
COMPASS DEMAGNETIZING...............5
REMOVAL...............................6
DISASSEMBLY............................7
ASSEMBLY..............................7
INSTALLATION............................8
SPECIAL TOOLS..........................8
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER
DESCRIPTION............................8OPERATION.............................9
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING.................10
COMPASS MINI-TRIP COMPUTER..........10
REMOVAL..............................11
INSTALLATION...........................11
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR
DESCRIPTION...........................11
OPERATION.............................11
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING.................12
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE SENSOR........12
REMOVAL..............................12
INSTALLATION...........................13
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
DESCRIPTION
Two different overhead console units are available
factory-installed options on this model, base or pre-
mium. The base overhead console unit features a
garage door opener storage bin, a sunglasses storage
bin and two reading and courtesy lamps. The pre-
mium overhead console has all of the features of the
base unit, but adds a compass mini-trip computer.
See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for
more information on the features, use and operation
of all of the overhead console components and sys-
tems. Refer toOverhead Consolein the Contents of
Wiring Diagrams for complete circuit diagrams.
The premium overhead console (Fig. 1) includes
two front-mounted reading and courtesy lamps, a
garage door opener storage bin, and a sunglasses
storage bin. The premium overhead console includes
a compass mini-trip computer. The base overhead
console uses the same overhead console housing, but
has a computer cover plug installed in place of the
compass mini-trip computer display module lens and
push buttons.
The rear of the overhead console is secured to two
rear mounting holes in the inner roof panel by two
plastic hook formations that are integral to the over-
head console housing. The front of the overhead con-
sole is secured to the two front mounting holes of the
inner roof panel by two plastic latches that are inte-
gral to the overhead console housing. A single electri-
cal connection joins the overhead console wireharness to the roof wire harness for both the base
and premium overhead console units.
Following are general descriptions of the major
components used in the overhead console. See the
owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for more
information on the use and operation of the various
overhead console features.
GARAGE DOOR OPENER STORAGE BIN
A compartment near the front of the overhead con-
sole is designed to hold most garage door opener
remote control transmitters. The transmitter is
mounted within the compartment with an adhesive-
backed hook and loop fastener patch and, when the
compartment is closed, a push button in the center of
the compartment door is depressed to actuate the
transmitter.
A transmitter mounting kit including the adhesive-
backed hook and loop fastener material is available
for service. The garage door opener storage bin door
and the push button with three assorted length
adapter pegs are also available for service replace-
ment.
The garage door opener storage compartment door
is opened by pressing the integral latch towards the
front of the vehicle. When the compartment door is
opened, the push button unit is removed from the
compartment by squeezing the latch tabs and pulling
the unit downward. With the push button removed,
the garage door opener can be installed in the com-
partment using the adhesive-backed hook and loop
fastener material provided.
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 1

With the transmitter mounted in the storage bin,
adapter pegs located on the garage door opener push
button unit are selected and mounted on one of two
posts on the back side of the push button. The com-
bination of the adapter peg length and the push but-
ton post location must be suitable to depress the
button of the transmitter when the push button in
the center of the garage door opener storage bin door
is depressed. When the proper combination has been
selected, the push button is reinstalled in the com-
partment and the compartment door is closed.
SUNGLASS STORAGE BIN
A sunglasses storage bin is included in the over-
head console. The storage bin is located near the rear
of the overhead console and is held in the closed posi-
tion by a latch that is integral to the storage bin
door. The interior of the bin is lined with a foam rub-
ber padding material to protect the sunglasses from
being scratched. Dampening springs that are located
on the back of the overhead console reading and
courtesy lamp housing contact the hinges of the sun-
glasses storage bin for a smooth opening action.
The sunglasses storage bin and door unit is avail-
able for service replacement. The hinge dampening
springs are serviced as a unit with the overhead con-
sole reading and courtesy lamp housing.
The sunglasses storage bin is opened by pressing
the latch on the rear edge of the door towards the
front of the vehicle, then pulling the bin downward to
the open position. The integral latch on the sun-
glasses bin door will automatically engage when the
bin is closed. See the owner's manual in the vehicle
glove box for more information on the use and oper-
ation of the sunglasses storage bin.
COMPASS
While in the compass/temperature mode, the com-
pass will display the direction in which the vehicle is
pointed using the eight major compass headings
(Examples: north is N, northeast is NE), along with
the outside ambient temperature. When the compass
unit is placed in the compass/compass in degreesmode, the compass will display the direction the
vehicle is heading using the eight major compass
headings and in degrees (0 to 359 degrees). North is
0 degrees, East is 90 degrees, South is 180 degrees
and West is 270 degrees. It will not display the head-
ings in minutes or seconds.
The self-calibrating compass unit requires no
adjusting in normal use. The compass unit will com-
pensate for magnetism the body of the vehicle may
acquire during normal use. However, avoid placing
anything magnetic directly on the roof of the vehicle.
Magnetic mounts for an antenna, a repair order hat,
or a funeral procession flag can exceed the compen
sating ability of the compass unit if placed on the
roof panel. If the vehicle roof should become magne-
tized, the demagnetizing and calibration procedures
found in this group may be required to restore proper
compass operation.
THERMOMETER
The thermometer displays the outside ambient
temperature in whole degrees. The temperature dis-
play can be changed from Fahrenheit to Celsius
using the U.S./Metric push button. The displayed
temperature is not an instant reading of conditions,
but an average temperature. It may take the ther-
mometer display several minutes to respond to a
major temperature change, such as driving out of a
heated garage into winter temperatures.
When the ignition switch is turned to the Off posi-
tion, the last displayed temperature reading stays in
the thermometer unit memory. When the ignition
switch is turned to the On position again, the ther-
mometer will display the memory temperature if the
engine coolant temperature is above about 43É C
(109É F). If the engine coolant temperature is below
about 43É C (109É F), the thermometer will display
the actual temperature sensed by the ambient tem-
perature sensor. The thermometer temperature dis-
play update interval varies with the vehicle speed;
therefore, if the temperature reading seems inaccu-
rate, drive the vehicle for at least three minutes
1 - SUNGLASSES STORAGE BIN
2 - GARAGE DOOR OPENER STORAGE BIN DOOR
3 - COMPUTER LENS OR COVER PLUG
4 - HOOK AND LOOP FASTENER
5 - SECURITY INDICATOR LAMP
6 - COMPASS MINI-TRIP COMPUTER MODULE
7 - SCREW (3)
8 - SCREW (4)
9 - BULB HOLDERS
10 - SWITCHES11 - WIRE HARNESS
12 - SPRINGS (2)
13 - READING AND COURTESY LAMP HOUSING
14 - REFLECTORS
15 - OVERHEAD CONSOLE HOUSING
16 - LENSES
17 - BUMPER
18 - GARAGE DOOR OPENER PUSH BUTTON
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 3
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

(3) Depress both the U.S./Metric and the Step
push buttons at the same time and hold them down
for more than 100 milliseconds, but not more than
one second. The compass mini-trip computer will
enter the variation adjustment mode and ªVARº
along with the current variance zone will appear in
the display.
(4) Within the next five seconds, momentarily
depress and release the U.S./Metric push button. The
variance zone will automatically be set in the com-
pass mini-trip computer module memory and normal
operation will resume.
(5) If the ªVARº in the display flashes twice before
the compass mini-trip computer module resumes nor-
mal operation, the new variance zone setting was not
accepted. Reorient the vehicle so it is headed within
45 degrees of north or south and repeat this proce-
dure.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPASS
DEMAGNETIZING
A degaussing tool (Special Tool 6029) is used to
demagnetize, or degauss, the overhead console for-
ward mounting screw and the roof panel above the
overhead console. Equivalent units must be rated as
continuous duty for 110/115 volts and 60 Hz. They
must also have a field strength of over 350 gauss at 7
millimeters (0.25 inch) beyond the tip of the probe.
To demagnetize the roof panel and the overhead
console forward mounting screw, proceed as follows:(1) Be certain that the ignition switch is in the Off
position, before you begin the demagnetizing proce-
dure.
(2) Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical
outlet, while keeping the tool at least 61 centimeters
(2 feet) away from the compass unit.
(3) Slowly approach the head of the overhead con-
sole forward mounting screw with the degaussing
tool connected.
(4) Contact the head of the screw with the plastic
coated tip of the degaussing tool for about two sec-
onds.
(5) With the degaussing tool still energized, slowly
back it away from the screw. When the tip of the tool
is at least 61 centimeters (2 feet) from the screw
head, disconnect the tool.
(6) Place a piece of paper approximately 22 by 28
centimeters (8.5 by 11 inches), oriented on the vehicle
lengthwise from front to rear, on the center line of
the roof at the windshield header (Fig. 3). The pur-
pose of the paper is to protect the roof panel from
scratches, and to define the area to be demagnetized.
(7) Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical
outlet, while keeping the tool at least 61 centimeters
(2 feet) away from the compass unit.
(8) Slowly approach the center line of the roof
panel at the windshield header, with the degaussing
tool connected.
(9) Contact the roof panel with the plastic coated
tip of the degaussing tool. Be sure that the template
Fig. 2 Variance Settings
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 5
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

REMOVAL
The washer fluid level switch can be removed from
the washer reservoir without removing the reservoir
from the vehicle.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Disconnect the washer hose from the barbed
outlet nipple of the washer pump/motor unit and
allow the washer fluid to drain into a clean container
for reuse.
(3) Disconnect the headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the washer fluid level switch from
the switch connector receptacle (Fig. 2).
NOTE: The pivoting float of the washer fluid level
switch must be in a horizontal position within the
reservoir in order to be removed. With the reservoir
empty and in an upright position, the pivoting float
will orient itself to the horizontal position when the
switch connector receptacle is pointed straight
downwards.
(4) Using a trim stick or another suitable wide
flat-bladed tool, gently pry the barbed nipple of the
washer fluid level switch out of the rubber grommet
seal on the rear of the reservoir. Care must be taken
not to damage the reservoir.
(5) Remove the washer fluid level switch and float
from the washer reservoir.
(6) Remove the rubber grommet seal from the
washer fluid level switch mounting hole in the
washer reservoir and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install a new rubber grommet seal into the
washer fluid level switch mounting hole in the front
of the washer reservoir. Always use a new rubber
grommet seal on the reservoir.
(2) Position the float of the washer fluid level
switch through the rubber grommet seal in the
washer reservoir (Fig. 2). The connector receptacle of
the washer fluid level switch should be pointed
downward.
(3) Press firmly and evenly on the washer fluid
level switch using hand pressure until the barbed
nipple is fully seated in the rubber grommet seal in
the washer reservoir mounting hole.
(4) Reconnect the headlamp and dash wire harness
connector for the washer fluid level switch to the
switch connector receptacle.
(5) Reconnect the washer hose to the barbed outlet
nipple of the washer pump/motor unit.
(6) Refill the washer reservoir with the washer
fluid drained from the reservoir during the removal
procedure.
(7) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
WASHER HOSES/TUBES
DESCRIPTION
The washer plumbing consists of a small diameter
rubber hose that is routed from the barbed outlet
nipple of the washer pump/motor on the washer res-
ervoir through the engine compartment along the left
inner fender shield to a molded plastic in-line fitting
with barbed nipples near the dash panel. A second
section of washer hose passes from the engine com-
partment into the cowl plenum area through a dedi-
cated hole with a rubber grommet near the left end
of the cowl plenum panel. Beneath the cowl plenum
cover/grille panel, a molded plastic wye fitting with
barbed nipples joins the engine compartment hose to
the two washer nozzle hoses. The two washer hoses
are routed through locating clips on the underside of
the cowl plenum cover/grille panel to the two washer
nozzles.
Washer hose is available for service only as roll
stock, which must then be cut to length. The molded
plastic washer hose fittings cannot be repaired. If
these fittings are faulty or damaged, they must be
replaced.
OPERATION
Washer fluid in the washer reservoir is pressurized
and fed by the washer pump/motor through the
washer system plumbing and fittings to the two
washer nozzles. Whenever routing the washer hose
or a wire harness containing a washer hose, it must
Fig. 2 Washer Reservoir
1 - FAN SHROUD
2 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
3 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
4 - WASHER RESERVOIR
8R - 8 WIPERS/WASHERSBR/BE
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH (Continued)

²Element- The wiper element or squeegee is the
resilient rubber member of the wiper blade that con-
tacts the glass.
²Flexor- The flexor is a rigid metal component
running along the length of each side of the wiper
element where it is gripped by the claws of the
superstructure.
All Ram truck models have two 50 centimeter
(19.69 inch) wiper blades with non-replaceable rub-
ber elements (squeegees). These wiper blades also
include an anti-lift feature. The wiper blades cannot
be adjusted or repaired. If faulty, worn, or damaged
the entire wiper blade unit must be replaced.
OPERATION
The wiper blade is moved back and forth across the
glass by the wiper arms when the wipers are being
operated. The wiper blade superstructure is the flex-
ible frame that grips the wiper blade element and
evenly distributes the force of the spring-loaded
wiper arm along the length of the element. The com-
bination of the wiper arm force and the flexibility of
the superstructure makes the element conform to
and maintain proper contact with the glass, even as
the blade is moved over the varied curvature found
across the glass surface. The wiper element flexor
provides the claws of the blade superstructure with a
rigid, yet flexible component on the element which
can be gripped. The rubber element is designed to be
stiff enough to maintain an even cleaning edge as it
is drawn across the glass, but resilient enough to
conform to the glass surface and flip from one clean-
ing edge to the other each time the wiper blade
changes directions.
REMOVAL
NOTE: The driver side and passenger side wiper
blades are not interchangeable. The driver side
wiper blade has an extra bridge and eight pairs of
claws securing the wiper element. The passenger
side wiper blade has six pairs of claws securing the
wiper element. The notched retainer end of both
wiper elements should always be oriented towards
the end of the wiper blade that is nearest to the
wiper pivot.
(1) Turn the wiper control knob on the end of the
multi-function switch control stalk to the On posi-
tion. Cycle the wiper blades to a convenient working
location on the windshield by turning the ignition
switch to the On and Off positions.
(2) Lift the wiper arm to raise the wiper blade and
element off of the glass.
(3) To remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm,
push the pivot block latch release tab under the tip
of the arm and slide the blade away from the tiptowards the pivot end of the arm far enough to dis-
engage the pivot block from the hook (Fig. 7).
(4) Extract the hook formation on the tip of the
wiper arm from the opening in the wiper blade
superstructure ahead of the wiper blade pivot block/
latch unit.
CAUTION: Do not allow the wiper arm to spring
back against the glass without the wiper blade in
place or the glass may be damaged.
(5) Gently lower the wiper arm tip onto the glass.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: The driver side and passenger side wiper
blades are not interchangeable. The driver side
wiper blade has an extra bridge and eight pairs of
claws securing the wiper element. The passenger
side wiper blade has six pairs of claws securing the
wiper element. The notched retainer end of both
wiper elements should always be oriented towards
the end of the wiper blade that is nearest to the
wiper pivot.
(1) Lift the wiper arm off of the windshield glass.
(2) Position the wiper blade near the hook forma-
tion on the tip of the arm with the notched retainer
for the wiper element oriented towards the end of the
wiper arm that is nearest to the wiper pivot.
(3) Insert the hook formation on the tip of the
wiper arm through the opening in the wiper blade
superstructure ahead of the wiper blade pivot block/
latch unit far enough to engage the pivot block with
the hook (Fig. 7).
(4) Slide the wiper blade pivot block/latch up into
the hook formation on the tip of the wiper arm until
the latch release tab snaps into its locked position.
(5) Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.
Fig. 7 Wiper Blade Remove/Install - Typical
1 - RELEASE TAB
BR/BEWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 13
WIPER BLADE (Continued)