load capacity DODGE RAM 2500 DIESEL 2008 3.G User Guide

2. GTW
3. GAWR
4. Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch utilized
(This requirement may limit the ability to always
achieve the 10% to 15% range of tongue weight as a
percentage of total trailer weight).
Towing Requirements Ð Tires
þ
Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact
spare tire.
þProper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe
and satisfactory operation of your vehicle. Refer to the
Tires±General Information section of this manual on
Tire Pressures for proper tire inflation procedures.
þAlso, check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation
pressures before trailer usage.
þCheck for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage
before towing a trailer. Refer to the Tires±General
Information section of this manual on Tread Wear
Indicators for the proper inspection procedure.
þWhen replacing tires refer to the Tires±General Infor-
mation section of this manual on Replacement Tires for
proper tire replacement procedures. Replacing tires
with a higher load carrying capacity will not increase
the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.
Towing Requirements Ð Trailer Brakes
þ
Donotinterconnect the hydraulic brake system or
vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer.
This could cause inadequate braking and possible
personal injury.
364 STARTING AND OPERATING

þAn electronically actuated trailer brake controller is
required when towing a trailer with electronically
actuated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with
a hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic
brake controller is not required.
þTrailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000
lbs (454 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000
lbs (907 kg).
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (454 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they
should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this
could lead to accelerated brake lining wear, higher
brake pedal effort, and longer stopping distances.
WARNING!
Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's hy-
draulic brake lines. It can overload your brake sys-
tem and cause it to fail. You might not have brakes
when you need them and could have an accident.
Towing any trailer will increase your stopping dis-
tance. When towing you should allow for additional
space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front
of you. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
Towing Requirements Ð Trailer Lights & Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.
STARTING AND OPERATING 365
5

Before plowing
²
Check the hydraulic system for leaks and proper fluid
level.
²Check the mounting bolts and nuts for proper tight-
ness.
²Check the runners and cutting edge for excessive wear.
The cutting edge should be 1/4 to 1/2 inch above
ground in snow plowing position.
²Check that snowplow lighting is connected and func-
tioning properly.
Snowplow Prep Package Model Availability
For Information about snowplow applications visit
www.dodge.com or refer to the current Dodge Body
Builders Guide.
1. The maximum number of occupants in the truck
should not exceed two.2. The total GVWR or the Front GAWR or the Rear
GAWR should never be exceeded.
3. The snowplow prep packages are not available with
the Sport Package.
4. Cargo capacity will be reduced by the addition of
options or passengers, etc.
The loaded vehicle weight, including the snowplow
system, all aftermarket accessories, driver, passengers,
options, and cargo, must not exceed either the Gross
Vehicle Weight (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight (GAWR)
ratings. These weights are specified on the Safety Com-
pliance Certification Label on the driver's side door
opening.
NOTE:Detach the snowplow when transporting pas-
sengers.
Vehicle front end wheel alignment was set to specifica-
tions at the factory without consideration for the weight
372 STARTING AND OPERATING

Fan .................................. 442
Filters
Closed Crankcase Ventilation (CCV)......... 426
Engine Oil.....................413,416,480
Flashers
Turn Signal.......................... 133
Flat Tire Stowage.....................386,396
Fluid, Brake........................... 482
Fluid Capacities......................... 479
Fluid Level Checks
Brake............................... 444
Manual Transmission.................446,447
Power Steering........................ 431
Transfer Case......................... 446
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.......... 480
Fog Lights.......................132,193,469
Fold Flat Load Floor..................... 174
Four Wheel Drive....................... 294
Four-Way Hazard Flasher.................. 384Freeing A Stuck Vehicle................... 400
Front Axle (Differential)................432,446
Fuel..............................348,349
Adding............................. 349
Diesel.........................348,349,480
Gauge.............................. 199
Light............................... 199
Requirements......................... 348
Specifications......................... 349
Tank Capacity........................ 479
Fuses................................ 459
Garage Door Opener (HomeLinkt) ........... 151
Gauges............................... 189
Coolant Temperature.................... 191
Fuel................................ 199
Oil Pressure.......................... 191
Speedometer......................... 190
Tachometer.......................... 190
INDEX 511
10

Inflation Pressures..................... 325
Jacking............................. 387
Life of Tires.......................... 330
Load Capacity.....................320,321
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)........... 338
Pressure Warning Light.................. 196
Quality Grading....................... 503
Radial.............................. 327
Replacement......................... 331
Rotation............................. 335
Safety...........................316,324
Sizes............................... 317
Snow Tires........................... 335
Spare Tire........................... 386
Spinning............................ 329
Tread Wear Indicators................... 330
Wheel Mounting....................... 387
Wheel Nut Torque..................... 392
Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight.............. 361Torque Converter Clutch.................. 290
Tow Hooks, Emergency................... 401
Tow/Haul............................. 288
Towing............................... 356
24-Hour Towing Assistance............... 102
Disabled Vehicle....................... 402
Guide.............................. 361
Recreational.......................... 375
Weight.............................. 361
Towing Assistance....................... 102
Traction.............................. 307
Traction Control......................... 446
Trailer Towing.......................... 356
Cooling System Tips.................... 369
Hitches............................. 360
Minimum Requirements................. 362
Mirrors...........................87,370
Trailer and Tongue Weight................ 361
Wiring.............................. 365
INDEX 521
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