maintenance DODGE RAM 2003 Service Manual PDF
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: DODGE, Model Year: 2003, Model line: RAM, Model: DODGE RAM 2003Pages: 2895, PDF Size: 83.15 MB
Page 1703 of 2895

FUEL FILTER/PRESSURE
REGULATOR
DESCRIPTION
A combination fuel filter and fuel pressure regula-
tor (Fig. 2) is used on all engines. It is located on the
top of the fuel pump module. A separate frame
mounted fuel filter is not used with any engine.
Both fuel filters (at bottom of fuel pump module
and within fuel pressure regulator) are designed for
extended service. They do not require normal sched-
uled maintenance. Filters should only be replaced if
a diagnostic procedure indicates to do so.
OPERATION
Fuel Pressure Regulator Operation:The pres-
sure regulator is a mechanical device that is not con-
trolled by engine vacuum or the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM).
The regulator is calibrated to maintain fuel system
operating pressure of approximately 339 kPa 34
kPa (49.2 psi 5 psi) at the fuel injectors. It contains
a diaphragm, calibrated springs and a fuel return
valve. The internal fuel filter (Fig. 2) is also part of
the assembly.
Fuel is supplied to the filter/regulator by the elec-
tric fuel pump through an opening tube at the bot-
tom of filter/regulator (Fig. 2).
The regulator acts as a check valve to maintain
some fuel pressure when the engine is not operating.
This will help to start the engine. A second check
valve is located at the outlet end of the electric fuel
ADAPTERS, FUEL PRESSURE TEST, 8.0L - #6539
AND/OR #6631
SPANNER WRENCH - #6856
FITTING, AIR METERING - #6714
O2S (OXYGEN SENSOR) REMOVER/INSTALLER -
#C-4907
Fig. 2 SIDE VIEW - FILTER/REGULATOR
1 - INTERNAL FUEL FILTER
2 - FUEL FLOW TO FUEL INJECTORS
3 - FUEL FILTER/FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR
4 - EXCESS FUEL BACK TO TANK
5 - FUEL INLET
6 - RUBBER GROMMET
7 - TOP OF PUMP MODULE
14 - 6 FUEL DELIVERY - GASDR
FUEL DELIVERY - GAS (Continued)
Page 1704 of 2895

pump.Refer to Fuel Pump - Description and
Operation for more information.
If fuel pressure at the pressure regulator exceeds
approximately 49.2 psi, an internal diaphragm opens
and excess fuel pressure is routed back into the tank
through the bottom of pressure regulator.
Both fuel filters (at bottom of fuel pump module
and within fuel pressure regulator) are designed for
extended service. They do not require normal sched-
uled maintenance. Filters should only be replaced if
a diagnostic procedure indicates to do so.
FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT /
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor) is
attached to the side of the fuel pump module. The
sending unit consists of a float, an arm, and a vari-
able resistor track (card).
OPERATION
The fuel pump module has 4 different circuits
(wires). Two of these circuits are used for the fuel
gauge sending unit for fuel gauge operation, and for
certain OBD II emission requirements. The other 2
wires are used for electric fuel pump operation.
For Fuel Gauge Operation:A constant current
source is supplied to the resistor track on the fuel
gauge sending unit. This is fed directly from the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM).NOTE: For
diagnostic purposes, this 12V power source can
only be verified with the circuit opened (fuel
pump module electrical connector unplugged).
With the connectors plugged, output voltages
will vary from about 0.6 volts at FULL, to about
8.6 volts at EMPTY (about 8.6 volts at EMPTY
for Jeep models, and about 7.0 volts at EMPTY
for Dodge Truck models).The resistor track is
used to vary the voltage (resistance) depending on
fuel tank float level. As fuel level increases, the float
and arm move up, which decreases voltage. As fuel
level decreases, the float and arm move down, which
increases voltage. The varied voltage signal is
returned back to the PCM through the sensor return
circuit.
Both of the electrical circuits between the fuel
gauge sending unit and the PCM are hard-wired (not
multi-plexed). After the voltage signal is sent from
the resistor track, and back to the PCM, the PCM
will interpret the resistance (voltage) data and send
a message across the multi-plex bus circuits to the
instrument panel cluster. Here it is translated into
the appropriate fuel gauge level reading. Refer to
Instrument Panel for additional information.For OBD II Emission Monitor Requirements:
The PCM will monitor the voltage output sent from
the resistor track on the sending unit to indicate fuel
level. The purpose of this feature is to prevent the
OBD II system from recording/setting false misfire
and fuel system monitor diagnostic trouble codes.
The feature is activated if the fuel level in the tank
is less than approximately 15 percent of its rated
capacity. If equipped with a Leak Detection Pump
(EVAP system monitor), this feature will also be acti-
vated if the fuel level in the tank is more than
approximately 85 percent of its rated capacity.
REMOVAL
The fuel level sending unit (fuel level sensor) and
float assembly is located on the side of the fuel pump
module (Fig. 3).
(1) Remove fuel pump module from fuel tank.
Refer to Fuel Pump Module Removal/Installation.
(2) To remove sending unit from pump module, lift
on plastic locking tab (Fig. 4) while sliding sending
unit tracks.
(3) Disconnect 4±wire electrical connector (Fig. 3)
from fuel pump module. Separate necessary sending
unit wiring from connector using terminal pick /
removal tool. Refer to Special Tools in 8W Wiring for
tool part numbers.
Fig. 3 LOCATION - FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT
1 - FUEL FILTER / FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR
2 - FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLY
3 - 4-WAY ELEC. CONNECT.
4 - FLOAT ARM
5 - ELEC. FUEL PUMP
6 - INLET FILTER
7 - FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT
8 - GASKET (SEAL)
DRFUEL DELIVERY - GAS 14 - 7
FUEL FILTER/PRESSURE REGULATOR (Continued)
Page 1754 of 2895

FUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL
DESCRIPTION - DIESEL FUEL SYSTEM
The fuel system used on the Cummins engine is an
electronically controlled, Bosch HPCR (High-Pressure
Common Rail) system. The HPCR system consists of
five main components:
²Electric Fuel Transfer (lift) Pump
²Fuel Pump/Gear Pump (attached to fuel injec-
tion pump)
²High-Pressure Fuel Injection Pump
²Fuel Injection Rail
²Fuel Injectors
Also to be considered as part of the overall fuel
system are:
²Accelerator Pedal
²Air Cleaner Housing/Element
²Fuel Drain Manifold (passage)
²Fuel Drain Valve (at filter)
²Fuel Filter/Water Separator
²Fuel Heater
²Fuel Heater Relay
²Fuel Level (gauge) Sending Unit
²Fuel Tank
²Fuel Tank Module (containing fuel gauge send-
ing unit and separate fuel filter located at bottom of
tank module)
²Fuel Tank Filler/Vent Tube Assembly
²Fuel Tank Filler Tube Cap
²Fuel Tubes/Lines/Hoses
²High-Pressure Fuel Injector Lines
²In-Tank Fuel Filter (at bottom of fuel tank mod-
ule)
²Low-Pressure Fuel Supply Lines
²Low-Pressure Fuel Return Line
²Overflow Valve
²Quick-Connect Fuel Line Fittings
²Throttle Cable
²Water Draining (maintenance)
²Water-In-Fuel (WIF) Sensor
The fuel injection pump supplies high pressure to
the fuel rail independent of engine speed. This high
pressure is then accumulated in the fuel rail. High
pressure fuel is constantly supplied to the injectors
by the fuel rail. The Engine Control Module (ECM)
controls the fueling and timing of the engine by actu-
ating the injectors.Fuel enters the system from the electric fuel trans-
fer (lift) pump, which is attached to the fuel filter
assembly. Fuel is forced through the fuel filter ele-
ment and then enters the Fuel Pump/Gear Pump,
which is attached to the rear of the fuel injection
pump. The Fuel Pump/Gear Pump is a low-pressure
pump and produce pressures ranging from 551.5 kpa
(80 psi) to 1241 kpa (180) psi. Fuel then enters the
fuel injection pump. Low pressure fuel is then sup-
plied to the FCA (Fuel Control Actuator).
The FCA is an electronically controlled solenoid
valve. The ECM controls the amount of fuel that
enters the high-pressure pumping chambers by open-
ing and closing the FCA based on a demanded fuel
pressure. The FPS (Fuel Pressure Sensor) on the fuel
rail provides the actual fuel pressure. When the
actuator is opened, the maximum amount of fuel is
being supplied to the fuel injection pump. Any fuel
that does not enter the injection pump is directed to
the overflow valve. The overflow valve regulates how
much excess fuel is used for lubrication of the pump
and how much is returned to the tank through the
drain manifold.
Fuel entering the injection pump is pressurized to
between 300 - 1600 bar by three radial pumping
chambers. The pressurized fuel is then supplied to
the fuel rail.
Some fuel system components are shown in.
WARNING: HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LINES DELIVER
DIESEL FUEL UNDER EXTREME PRESSURE FROM
THE INJECTION PUMP TO THE FUEL INJECTORS.
THIS MAY BE AS HIGH AS 160,000 KPA (23,206
PSI). USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN INSPECTING
FOR HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LEAKS. INSPECT FOR
HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LEAKS WITH A SHEET OF
CARDBOARD. HIGH FUEL INJECTION PRESSURE
CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY IF CONTACT IS
MADE WITH THE SKIN.
Certain fuel system components can be found in
(Fig. 1), or (Fig. 2).
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURES - WATER DRAINING
AT FUEL FILTER
Refer to Fuel Filter/Water Separator removal/in-
stallation for procedures.
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 57
Page 1758 of 2895

FUEL FILTER / WATER
SEPARATOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel filter/water separator assembly is located
on left side of engine above starter motor. The assem-
bly also includes the fuel heater and Water-In-Fuel
(WIF) sensor, and fuel transfer pump.
OPERATION
The fuel filter/water separator protects the fuel
injection pump by removing water and contaminants
from the fuel. The construction of the filter/separator
allows fuel to pass through it, but helps prevent
moisture (water) from doing so. Moisture collects at
the bottom of the canister.
Refer to the maintenance schedules for the recom-
mended fuel filter replacement intervals.
For draining of water from canister, refer to Fuel
Filter/Water Separator Removal/Installation section.A Water-In-Fuel (WIF) sensor is attached to side of
canister. Refer to Water-In-Fuel Sensor Description/
Operation.
The fuel heater is installed into the top of the fil-
ter/separator housing. Refer to Fuel Heater Descrip-
tion/Operation.
REMOVAL
Refer to maintenance schedules in this manual for
recommended fuel filter replacement intervals.
Draining water from fuel filter/water separa-
tor housing:
The housing drain valve (Fig. 3) or (Fig. 4) serves
two purposes. One is topartiallydrain filter hous-
ing of excess water. The other is tocompletelydrain
housing for fuel filter, drain valve, heater element, ,
water-in-fuel sensor replacement or transfer pump
replacement.
The filter housing should be partially drained
whenever water-in-fuel warning lamp remains illumi-
nated. (Note that lamp will be illuminated for
approximately two seconds when ignition key is ini-
tially placed in ON position for a bulb check).
(1) A drain hose (Fig. 3) or (Fig. 4) is located at
bottom of drain valve. Place drain pan under drain.
(2)With engine not running,rotate drain valve
handle rearward to OPEN (DRAIN) position. Hold
drain valve open until all water and contaminants
have been removed and clean fuel exits.
(3) If drain valve, fuel heater element or Water-In-
Fuel (WIF) sensor is being replaced, drain housing
completely. Dispose of mixture in drain pan according
to applicable regulations.
(4) After draining operation, push valve handle
forward to CLOSE position.
(5)Fuel Filter Replacement:The fuel filter is
located inside of the fuel filter housing.
(a) Clean all debris from around canister.
(b) Remove filter lid (Fig. 5) using a socket.
Attach socket to large hex on top of lid (Fig. 5).
Rotate counter-clockwise for removal. Remove
o-ring.
(c) Remove filter element by twisting element
sideways from filter lid.
(6)Water-In-Fuel (WIF) Sensor Replacement:
The WIF sensor is located on the side of the fuel fil-
ter housing (Fig. 3) or (Fig. 4).
(a) Disconnect electrical connector at sensor.
(b) Clean area around sensor.
(c) Remove sensor by rotating counter-clockwise.
(d) Check condition of sensor o-ring. Replace if
damaged.
(7)Fuel Heater Element Replacement:The
heater element is located in the fuel filter housing
(Fig. 3) or (Fig. 4).
(a) Remove fuel filter. See previous steps.
FUEL INJECTOR TUBE (CONNECTOR) REMOVER -
#9015
SPANNER WRENCH (FUEL TANK MODULE
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION) - #6856
ENGINE ROTATING (BARRING) TOOL - #7471B
(ALSO PART OF KIT #6860)
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 61
FUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL (Continued)
Page 1759 of 2895

(b) Disconnect electrical connector.
(c) Remove two T-15 Torx head mounting screws
from fuel heater element.
(d) Remove fuel filter cover and filter element.
(e) Remove fuel heater.
(8)Drain Valve Replacement:The drain valve
assembly is located on the side of the fuel filter hous-
ing (Fig. 3) or (Fig. 4).
(a) Disconnect drain hose from the fuel drain
valve.
(b) Remove 4 drain valve mounting screws (T-15
Torx head).
(c) Remove drain valve from filter housing.
INSTALLATION
Refer to maintenance schedules for recommended
fuel filter replacement intervals.
(1) Thoroughly clean inside of filter housing, filter
cap and all related components.
(2)Fuel Filter:
(a)The engine has a self-priming low-pres-
sure fuel system. Refer to Standard Proce-
dures-Fuel System Priming.
(b) Install new o-ring to canister lid and lubri-
cate o-ring with 30W oil.
Fig. 3 FILTER HOUSING (EARLY)
1 - FILTER HOUSING
2 - FUEL HEATER AND THERMOSTAT
3 - FUEL HEATER MOUNTING SCREWS
4 - FUEL HEATER ELEC. CONNECTOR
5 - DRAIN VALVE
6 - DRAIN VALVE MOUNTING SCREWS
7 - DRAIN HOSE
8 - WIF SENSOR
9 - WIF SENSOR ELEC. CONNECTOR
Fig. 4 FILTER HOUSING (LATE)
1 - FILTER HOUSING
2 - FUEL HEATER AND THERMOSTAT
3 - FUEL HEATER MOUNTING SCREWS
4 - FUEL HEATER ELEC. CONNECTOR
5 - WIF SENSOR
6 - WIF SENSOR ELEC. CONNECTOR
7 - DRAIN HOSE
8 - DRAIN VALVE MOUNTING SCREWS
9 - DRAIN VALVE
Fig. 5 FILTER COVER (LID)
1 - FILTER COVER
2 - ATTACH SOCKET HERE
14 - 62 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR (Continued)
Page 1827 of 2895

STANDARD PROCEDURE - LUBRICATION
Periodic lubrication of the steering system compo-
nents is required. Refer to Lubrication And Mainte-
nance for the recommended maintenance schedule.
The following components must be lubricated:
²Tie rod
²Tie rod end
²Drag link
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE CHART
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Pitman Arm
Gear Shaft Nut300 225 Ð
Drag Link
Pitman Arm88 65 Ð
Drag Link
Tie Rod108 80 Ð
Drag Link
Adjuster Clamp61 45 Ð
Tie Rod End
Knuckle108 80 Ð
Tie Rod End
Adjuster Clamp61 45 Ð
Stabilizer Bar Link to Axle 68 50 Ð
Steering Damper
Axle95 70 Ð
Steering Damper
Tie Rod81 60 Ð
Fig. 2 Ball Stud Puller
1 - CLAMP
2 - ADJUSTMENT SLEEVE
3 - PULLER TOOL C-3894±A
4 - SEAL
5 - TIE-ROD END
19 - 34 LINKAGE - LINK/COILDR
LINKAGE - LINK/COIL (Continued)
Page 2042 of 2895

STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
REPLACEMENT
For proper service intervals (Refer to LUBRICA-
TION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE SCHED-
ULES - DESCRIPTION). The service fluid fill after a
filter change is approximately 3.8 liters (4.0 quarts).
REMOVAL
(1) Hoist and support vehicle on safety stands.
(2) Place a large diameter shallow drain pan
beneath the transmission pan.
(3) Remove bolts holding front and sides of pan to
transmission (Fig. 98).
(4) Loosen bolts holding rear of pan to transmis-
sion.
(5) Slowly separate front of pan and gasket away
from transmission allowing the fluid to drain into
drain pan.
(6) Hold up pan and remove remaining bolt hold-
ing pan to transmission.
(7) While holding pan level, lower pan and gasket
away from transmission.
(8) Pour remaining fluid in pan into drain pan.
(9) Remove screws holding filter to valve body
(Fig. 99).
(10) Separate filter from valve body and pour fluid
in filter into drain pan.
(11) Dispose of used trans fluid and filter properly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position a new transmission oil filter onto the
valve body.
(2) Install the screws to hold the filter to the valve
body. Tighten the screws to 4 N´m (35 in.lbs.).
(3) Clean the gasket surfaces of the transmission
oil pan and transmission pan rail.NOTE: The transmission pan oil gasket is reusable.
Inspect the sealing surfaces of the gasket. If the
sealing ribs on both surfaces appear to be in good
condition, clean the gasket of any foreign material
and reinstall.
(4) Position the oil pan gasket onto the oil pan.
(5) Position the oil pan and gasket onto the trans-
mission and install several bolts to hold the pan and
gasket to the transmission.
(6) Install the remainder of the oil pan bolts.
Tighten the bolts to 13.6 N´m (125 in.lbs.).
(7) Lower vehicle and fill transmission. (Refer to
21 - TRANSMISSION/AUTOMATIC/FLUID - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE)
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TRANSMISSION
FILL
To avoid overfilling transmission after a fluid
change or overhaul, perform the following procedure:
(1) Remove dipstick and insert clean funnel in
transmission fill tube.
(2) Add following initial quantity of MopartAT F
+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid, to transmission:
(a) If only fluid and filter were changed, add3
pints (1-1/2 quarts)of ATF +4 to transmission.
(b) If transmission was completely overhauled,
or torque converter was replaced or drained, add
12 pints (6 quarts)of ATF +4 to transmission.
(3) Apply parking brakes.
(4) Start and run engine at normal curb idle
speed.
(5) Apply service brakes, shift transmission
through all gear ranges then back to NEUTRAL, set
parking brake, and leave engine running at curb idle
speed.
Fig. 98 Transmission Pan
1 - TRANSMISSION
2 - GASKET
3-PAN
Fig. 99 Transmission Filter
1 - TRANSMISSION
2 - FILTER
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE 21 - 203
FLUID AND FILTER (Continued)
Page 2222 of 2895

STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
REPLACEMENT
For proper service intervals (Refer to LUBRICA-
TION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE SCHED-
ULES - DESCRIPTION). The service fluid fill after a
filter change is approximately 3.8 liters (4.0 quarts).
REMOVAL
(1) Hoist and support vehicle on safety stands.
(2) Place a large diameter shallow drain pan
beneath the transmission pan.
(3) Remove bolts holding front and sides of pan to
transmission (Fig. 91).
(4)
Loosen bolts holding rear of pan to transmission.
(5) Slowly separate front of pan and gasket away
from transmission allowing the fluid to drain into
drain pan.
(6) Hold up pan and remove remaining bolt hold-
ing pan to transmission.
(7) While holding pan level, lower pan and gasket
away from transmission.
(8) Pour remaining fluid in pan into drain pan.
(9) Remove screws holding filter to valve body
(Fig. 92).
(10) Separate filter from valve body and pour fluid
in filter into drain pan.
(11) Dispose of used trans fluid and filter properly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position a new transmission oil filter onto the
valve body.
(2) Install the screws to hold the filter to the valve
body. Tighten the screws to 4 N´m (35 in.lbs.).
(3) Clean the gasket surfaces of the transmission
oil pan and transmission pan rail.NOTE: The transmission pan oil gasket is reusable.
Inspect the sealing surfaces of the gasket. If the
sealing ribs on both surfaces appear to be in good
condition, clean the gasket of any foreign material
and reinstall.
(4) Position the oil pan gasket onto the oil pan.
(5) Position the oil pan and gasket onto the trans-
mission and install several bolts to hold the pan and
gasket to the transmission.
(6) Install the remainder of the oil pan bolts.
Tighten the bolts to 13.6 N´m (125 in.lbs.).
(7) Lower vehicle and fill transmission. (Refer to
21 - TRANSMISSION/AUTOMATIC/FLUID - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE)
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TRANSMISSION
FILL
To avoid overfilling transmission after a fluid
change or overhaul, perform the following procedure:
(1) Remove dipstick and insert clean funnel in
transmission fill tube.
(2) Add following initial quantity of MopartAT F
+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid, to transmission:
(a) If only fluid and filter were changed, add3
pints (1-1/2 quarts)of ATF +4 to transmission.
(b) If transmission was completely overhauled,
or torque converter was replaced or drained, add
12 pints (6 quarts)of ATF +4 to transmission.
(3) Apply parking brakes.
(4)
Start and run engine at normal curb idle speed.
(5)Apply service brakes, shift transmission through
all gear ranges then back to NEUTRAL, set parking
brake, and leave engine running at curb idle speed.
(6) Remove funnel, insert dipstick and check fluid
level. If level is low,add fluid to bring level to
MIN mark on dipstick.Check to see if the oil level
Fig. 91 Transmission Pan
1 - TRANSMISSION
2 - GASKET
3-PAN
Fig. 92 Transmission Filter
1 - TRANSMISSION
2 - FILTER
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48RE 21 - 383
FLUID AND FILTER (Continued)
Page 2381 of 2895

²internal failure that generates debris
²overheat that generates sludge (fluid break-
down)
²failure to replace contaminated converter after
repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in
transmission failure. The usual results are erratic
shifts, slippage, abnormal wear and eventual failure
due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid
this condition by using recommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped
clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and
other foreign material on the cap and tube could fall
into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the
time to wipe the cap and tube clean before withdraw-
ing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is gener-
ally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy
is to replace the radiator as the cooler in the radiator
is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated
through the transmission, an overhaul is necessary.
The torque converter should be replaced whenever
a failure generates sludge and debris. This is neces-
sary because normal converter flushing procedures
will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL
CHECK
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions
because it allows the pump to take in air along with
the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be
low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transmssion has too much fluid, the
geartrain churns up foam and cause the same condi-
tions which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating
and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can
interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transmission vent where it may be mis-
taken for a leak.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
The transmission has a dipstick to check oil level.
It is located on the right side of the engine. Be sure
to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
The torque converter fills in both the P (PARK)
and N (NEUTRAL) positions. Place the selector lever
in P (PARK) to be sure that the fluid level check is
accurate.The engine should be running at idle
speed for at least one minute, with the vehicleon level ground.At normal operating temperature
(approximately 82 C. or 180 F.), the fluid level is cor-
rect if it is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on
the oil level indicator. The fluid level will be approx-
imately at the upper COLD hole of the dipstick at
70É F fluid temperature.
NOTE: Engine and Transmission should be at nor-
mal operating temperature before performing this
procedure.
(1) Start engine and apply parking brake.
(2) Shift the transmission into DRIVE for approxi-
mately 2 seconds.
(3) Shift the transmission into REVERSE for
approximately 2 seconds.
(4) Shift the transmission into PARK.
(5) Hook up DRBtscan tool and select transmis-
sion.
(6) Select sensors.
(7) Read the transmission temperature value.
(8) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
chart. (Fig. 66)
(9) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
dipstick according to the chart.
NOTE: After adding any fluid to the transmission,
wait a minimum of 2 minutes for the oil to fully
drain from the fill tube into the transmission before
rechecking the fluid level.
(10) Check transmission for leaks.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
REPLACEMENT
For proper service intervals (Refer to LUBRICA-
TION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE SCHED-
ULES - DESCRIPTION).
REMOVAL
(1) Hoist and support vehicle on safety stands.
(2) Place a large diameter shallow drain pan
beneath the transmission pan.
(3) Remove bolts holding front and sides of pan to
transmission.
(4) Loosen bolts holding rear of pan to transmis-
sion.
(5) Slowly separate front of pan away from trans-
mission allowing the fluid to drain into drain pan.
(6) Hold up pan and remove remaining bolts hold-
ing pan to transmission.
(7) While holding pan level, lower pan away from
transmission.
(8) Pour remaining fluid in pan into drain pan.
(9) Remove screw holding filter to valve body (Fig.
67).
21 - 542 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 45RFE/545RFEDR
FLUID AND FILTER (Continued)
Page 2561 of 2895

METHOD 2 (RELOCATE TIRE ON WHEEL)
NOTE: Rotating the tire on wheel is particularly
effective when there is runout in both tire and
wheel.
(1) Remove tire from wheel and mount wheel on
service dynamic balance machine.
(2) Check wheel radial runout (Fig. 2) and lateral
runout (Fig. 3).
²STEEL WHEELS: Radial runout 0.031 in., Lat-
eral runout 0.031 in. (maximum)
²ALUMINUM WHEELS: Radial runout 0.020 in.,
Lateral runout 0.025 in. (maximum)
(3) If point of greatest wheel lateral runout is near
original chalk mark, remount tire 180 degrees.
Recheck runout, Refer to match mounting procedure.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TIRE ROTATION
Tires on the front and rear axles operate at differ-
ent loads and perform different steering, driving, and
braking functions. For these reasons, the tires wear
at unequal rates. They may also develop irregular
wear patterns. These effects can be reduced by rotat-
ing the tires according to the maintenance schedule
in the Owners Manual. This will improve tread life,
traction and maintain a smooth quiet ride.
The recommended method of tire rotation is (Fig.
4) & (Fig. 5). Other methods can be used, but may
not provide the same tire longevity benefits.
CAUTION: 3500 Dual rear tires have a new tire rota-
tion pattern. This is to accommodate the asymmet-rical design of the ON/OFF road tires and the use of
the outlined white letter (OWL) tires. When replac-
ing a flat, the spare tire may have to be remounted
on the rim or installed at a different location to
maintain the correct placement of the asymmetrical
design or the (OWL).
Fig. 1 Checking Tire/Wheel/Hub Runout
1 - RADIAL RUNOUT
2 - LATERAL RUNOUT
Fig. 2 Radial Runout
1 - MOUNTING CONE
2 - SPINDLE SHAFT
3 - WING NUT
4 - PLASTIC CUP
5 - DIAL INDICATOR
6 - WHEEL
7 - DIAL INDICATOR
Fig. 3 Lateral Runout
1 - MOUNTING CONE
2 - SPINDLE SHAFT
3 - WING NUT
4 - PLASTIC CUP
5 - DIAL INDICATOR
6 - WHEEL
7 - DIAL INDICATOR
22 - 2 TIRES/WHEELSDR
TIRES/WHEELS (Continued)