warning DODGE RAM SRT-10 2006 Service Repair Manual

DESCRIPTION - SRT10
The SRT-10 column has noSTARTposition on the key cylinder. The push starter button switch is mounted on the
Instrument panel center stack. All SRT-10 columns are Tilt columns, Standard cab trucks come with manual trans-
missions, Quad cab trucks come equipped with automatic transmissions.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
STEERING COLUMN
If the vehicle is involved in a front end collision/the air bag has deployedthe column must be inspected. This
inspection will determine if the Column has collapsed. Inspect the columnmounting capsules visually and manually
push and pull them to check for separation or fractures. If capsules are fractured or have moved the column MUST
be replaced.
REMOVAL
WARNING: Before servicing the steering column the airbag system must be disarmed. Refer to electrical
restraint system for service procedures. Failure to do so may result in accidental deployment of the airbag
and possible personal injury.
CAUTION: All fasteners must be torqued to specification to ensure proper operation of the steering column.
1. Position the front wheelsstraight ahead.
2. Disconnect the negative (ground) cable from the battery.
3. Remove the airbag, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
4. Remove the steering wheel (1) with special tool
CJ98–1 (2) or an appropriate steering wheel puller.
(Refer to 19 - STEERING/COLUMN/STEERING
WHEEL - REMOVAL).
CAUTION: Ensure the puller bolts are fully
engaged into the steering wheel and not into the
clockspring, before attempting to remove the
wheel. Failure to do so may damage the steering
wheel/clockspring.

16. Remove the steering column assembly (6) from
the vehicle.
17. Disassemble or transfer any components to be
replaced.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: Before servicing the steering column the airbag system must be disarmed. Refer to electrical
restraint system for service procedures. Failure to do so may result in accidental deployment of the airbag
and possible personal injury.
CAUTION: All fasteners must be torqued to specification to ensure proper operation of the steering column.
1. Position the steering column on the dash panel
support and loosely install the mounting nuts (1&3).
2. Firmly slide the steering column upward against the
studs in dash panel and hand tighten the nuts.
3. Install the steering shaft coupler (5) on the steering
shaft and loosely install anewbolt (4).
4. Center steering column in dash opening and
tighten mounting nuts (1&3) to 28 Nꞏm (250 in.
lbs.).
NOTE: Torque the upper left nut first then the
lower right nut. Then torque the lower left nut then
the upper right nut.
NOTE: A new bolt must be used for reinstallation.
5. Tighten the coupler bolt (4) to 57 Nꞏm (42 ft. lbs.).
6. Install a new brake light switch (2) (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/BRAKE LAMP SWITCH - REMOVAL).

REMOVAL
SERVICE PRECAUTIONS
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission is not equipped with an
internal locking shaft with the ignition cylinder. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for ser-
vice will have to be used.
To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag, Refer to Electrical Restraints and follow all WARNINGS and CAU-
TIONS.
WARNING: The airbag system is a sensitive, complex electro-mechanical unit. Before attempting to diag-
nose, remove or install the airbag system components you must first disconnect and isolate the battery
negative (ground) cable. Then wait two minutes for the system capacitor todischarge. Failure to do so
could result in accidental deployment of the airbag and possible personalinjury. The fasteners, screws, and
bolts, originally used for the airbag components, have special coatings and are specifically designed for the
airbag system. They must never be replaced with any substitutes. Anytime anew fastener is needed,
replace with the correct fasteners provided in the service package or fasteners listed in the parts books.
CAUTION: Do not hammer on steering column shaft. This may cause damage to the shaft or bearing.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove the pivot bolts to disassemble the tilting mechanism.
The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before
removing ignition switch.
1. Remove the negative (ground) cable from the battery.
2. Disable the airbag, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG- REMOVAL).
3. Remove the kneeblocker and steering column reinforcement panel.
4. Remove the lower and upper shrouds.
5. Remove key cylinder. (Refer to 19 - STEERING/COLUMN/LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING - REMOVAL).
6. Remove the tilt lever release knob bracket. (if
equipped).

INSTALLATION - SRT10
1. Ensure the ignition switch is in the RUN position
and the actuator shaft (2) in the lock housing (1) is
in the RUN position.
2. Carefully install the ignition switch. The switch will
snap over the retaining tabs. Install mounting
screw.
3. Install electrical connectors to ignition switch.
4. Install the multi-function switch and tighten the 2
screws.
5. Install upper and lower shrouds.
6. Install key cylinder (cylinder retaining tab will depress only in the RUN position).
7. Connect negative cable to battery.
8. Check for proper operation of ignition switch and key-in warning switch.

1. Raise the front end of the vehicle off the ground until the wheels are freeto turn.
2. Remove the return line from the pump.
NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with a hydraulic booster remove both return lines from the pump.
3. Plug the return line port/ports at the pump.
4. Position the return line/lines into a large container to catch the fluid.
5. While an assistant is filling the pump reservoir start the engine.
6. With the engine running at idle turn the wheel back and forth.
NOTE: Do not contact or hold the wheel against the steering stops.
7. Run a quart of fluid through the system then stop the engine and install the return line/lines.
8. Fill the system with fluid and perform Steering Pump Initial Operation,(Refer to 19 - STEERING/PUMP - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE).
9. Start the engine and run it for fifteen minutes then stop the engine.
10. Remove the return line/lines from the pump and plug the pump port/ports.
11. Pour fresh fluid into the reservoir and check the draining fluid for contamination. If the fluid is still contaminated,
then flush the system again.
12. Install the return line/lines and perform Steering Pump Initial Operation, (Refer to 19 - STEERING/PUMP -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
POWER STEERING PUMP - INITIAL OPERATION
WARNING: THE FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE CHECKED WITH ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT INJURYFROMMOV-
ING COMPONENTS.
CAUTION: MOPAR
ATF+4 is to be used in the power steering system. No other power steering or auto-
matic transmission fluid is to be used in the system. Damage may result to the power steering pump and
system if any other fluid is used, and do not overfill.
Wipe filler cap clean, then check the fluid level. The dipstick should indicateCOLDwhen the fluid is at normal
temperature.
1. Turn steering wheel all the way to the left.
2. Fill reservoir up to FULL HOT level and crank engine until it just starts.(DO NOT TURN STEERING WHEEL).
Then turn vehicle off. And recheck fluid level, to Full COLD.
3. Crank engine again until it just starts, (DO NOT MOVE STEERING WHEEL). and turn vehicle off. Recheck fluid
leveltoFullCOLD.
4. Turn engine on again, (DO NOT MOVE STEERING WHEEL) and let the vehicle idle for 5 minutes. If possible
apply a 20 in-Hg vacuum to the reservoir, while engine is idling.
5. Turn engine off and recheck fluid level, to FULL COLD.
6.If the Steering gear is replacedensure reservoir is at FULL HOT level, start engine and turn wheel to left. Stop
Engine and recheck fluid level to FULL HOT. Start engine and turn wheel to the right. Stop engine and check
fluid level is at FULL COLD.
7. Fill the pump fluid reservoir to the proper level and let the fluid settlefor at least two (2) minutes.
8. Start the engine. With the engine idling maintain the fluid level.
9. Raise the front wheels off the ground.
10. Slowly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock 20 times with the engine off while checking the fluid level.
NOTE: For vehicles with long return lines or oil coolers turn wheel 40 times.
11. Lower the front wheels and let the engine idle for two minutes.
12. Turn the steering wheel in both direction and verify power assist and quiet operation of the pump.
If the fluid is extremely foamy or milky looking, allow the vehicle to standa few minutes and repeat the procedure.

FLUID
DESCRIPTION
NOTE: It is normal that some pressure will build up inside the reservoir, especially, with a warm vehicle. A
slight popping noise upon removal ofthe cap is normal. The fluid level should read between the ADD and
the FULL COLD marks. When the fluid is hotit should read between ADD and FULLHOT marks. Only add
fluid when the vehicle is cold.
The recommended fluid for the power steering system is Mopar
AT F + 4 .
Mopar
ATF+4, when new is red in color. The ATF+4 is dyed red so it can be identified from other fluids used in the
vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red color is not permanent andis not an indicator of fluid condition, As
the vehicle is driven, the ATF+4 will begin to look darker in color and may eventually become brown.THIS IS NOR-
MAL.ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to
indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid change.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL CHECKING
WARNING: FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE CHECKED WITH THE ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT PERSONAL INJURY
FROM MOVING PARTS.
CAUTION: MOPAR
ATF+4 is to be used in the power steering system. No other power steering or auto-
matic transmission fluid is to be used in the system. Damage may result to the power steering pump and
system if any other fluid is used, and do not overfill.
The power steering fluid level can be viewed on the dipstick attached to thefiller cap. There are two ranges listed
on the dipstick, COLD and HOT. Before opening power steering system, wipe the reservoir filler cap free of dirt and
debris. Remove the cap and check the fluid level on its dipstick. When the fluid is at normal ambient temperature,
approximately 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F), the fluid level should read between the minimum and maximum area of
the cold range. When the fluid is hot, fluid level is allowed to read up to thehighest end of the HOT range. Only add
fluid when the vehicle is cold.
Use only Mopar
AT F + 4 .Do not overfill the power steering system.

STANDARD PROCEDURE
INITIAL OPERATION
WARNING: The fluid level should be checked with engine off to prevent injury from moving components.
NOTE: Remove as much of the old fluid out of the system as possible with a suction tool or by removing
a hose, when a component has failed. Then refill it with fresh fluid until itis clean. This may have to be
done more than once.
CAUTION: MOPAR
ATF+4 is to be used in the power steering system. No other power steering or auto-
matic transmission fluid is to be used in the system. Damage may result to the power steering pump and
system if any other fluid is used, and do not overfill.
Wipe filler cap clean, then check the fluid level. The dipstick should indicateCOLDwhen the fluid is at normal
ambient temperature.
1. Fill the pump fluid reservoir to the proper level and let the fluid settlefor at least two minutes.
2. Start the engine and let run for a few seconds then turn engine off.
3. Add fluid if necessary. Repeat the above procedure until the fluid levelremains constant after running the engine.
4. Raise the front wheels off the ground.
5. Slowly turn the steering wheel right and left, lightly contacting the wheel stops at least 20 times.
6. Check the fluid level add if necessary.
7. Lower the vehicle, start the engine, and use the DRB III to activate the hydraulic fan on full fan operation.
8. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock.
9. Stop the engine, check the fluid level and refill as required and repeat the process
CAUTION: Do not run a vehicle with foamy fluid for an extended period. This may cause pump damage.
10. If the fluid is extremely foamy or milky looking, allow the vehicle to stand a few minutes and repeat the pro-
cedure.
11. While the vehicle is in park, use the DRB III to activate the hydraulic fan to full fan operation and briefly rev the
engine up to 3000 rpm to fully engage the hydraulic fan.
12. Check the fluid level add if necessary.

ASSEMBLY
1. Align fluid cooler line (3) with quick connect fitting
(1) while pushing straight into the fitting.
2. Push in on oil cooler line until a “click” is heard or
felt.
3. Slide dust cap (4) down the oil cooler line and snap
it over the quick connect fitting until it is fully
seated and rotates freely. Dust cap (4) will only
snap over quick connect fitting when the cooler line
is properly installed.
NOTE: If dust cap will not snap into place, repeat
assembly step #2.
REMOVAL
NOTE: Review all Warnings and Cautions. (Refer to 19 - STEERING - WARNING).
CAUTION: Cap all open ends of power steering hoses, power steering pump fittings and steering gear ports
when disconnected. This will prevent the entry of foreign material into the components during servicing.
1. Disconnect negative (-) cable from battery and isolate cable.
2. Siphon power steering fluid from fluid reservoir.
3. Remove the coolant recovery container (Refer to 7 - COOLING/ENGINE/COOLANT RECOVERY CONTAINER -
REMOVAL).
4. Remove the air cleaner housing lid and tube assembly (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/AIR INTAKE SYSTEM/AIR
CLEANER HOUSING - REMOVAL).
5. Remove accessory drive belt from tensioner pulley and power steering pump drive pulley. (Refer to 7 - COOL-
ING/ACCESSORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS - REMOVAL)
6. Unthread quick-connect fitting and remove power steering pressure hose from power steering pump pressure
fitting. Drain excess power steering fluid from line.

HOSES
REMOVAL
PRESSURE HOSE - PUMP TO FAN
NOTE: Review all Warnings and Cautions. (Refer to 19 - STEERING - WARNING).
CAUTION: Cap all open ends of power steering hoses, power steering pump fittings and steering gear ports
when disconnected. This will prevent the entry of foreign material into the components during servicing.
1. Siphon power steering fluid from fluid reservoir.
2. Unthread power steering pressure hose quick-connect (10) from power steering pump pressure fitting. Drain
excess power steering fluid from line.
3. Unthread power steering pressure hose quick-connect (8) from hydraulic fan (6). Drain excess power steering
fluid from line.
4. Remove power steering pressure hose (7) from routing clip on cooling module (5). Remove hose.
PRESSURE HOSE - FAN TO GEAR
NOTE: Review all Warnings and Cautions. (Refer to 19 - STEERING - WARNING).
CAUTION: Cap all open ends of power steering hoses, power steering pump fittings and steering gear ports
when disconnected. This will prevent the entry of foreign material into the components during servicing.
1. Siphon power steering fluid from fluid reservoir.

2. Unthread power steering pressure hose quick-con-
nect (6) from hydraulic fan (1). Drain excess power
steering fluid from line.
3. Unthread power steering pressure hose tube nut
from power steering gear port. Drain excess power
steering fluid from line.
4. Remove power steering pressure hose.
RETURN HOSE - FAN TO PUMP
NOTE: Review all Warnings and Cautions. (Refer to 19 - STEERING - WARNING).
CAUTION: Cap all open ends of power steering hoses, power steering pump fittings and steering gear ports
when disconnected. This will prevent the entry of foreign material into the components during servicing.
1. Siphon power steering fluid from fluid reservoir.
2. Remove clamp, then return hose at reservoir (9).
3. Remove clamp, then return hose at fan (9).
4. Remove hose.
RETURN HOSE - GEAR TO COOLER
NOTE: Review all Warnings and Cautions. (Refer to 19 - STEERING - WARNING).