engine Ram 1500 2020 Owner's Manual

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 511
2. Lift and remove the plastic dipstick from the reservoirneck.
Coolant Reservoir Dipstick
3. Check the coolant level on the dipstick.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is no
need to remove the radiator cap unless checking for engine
coolant (antifreeze) freeze point or replacing engine coolant
(antifreeze). Advise your service attendant of this. As long as
the engine operating temperature is satisfactory, the coolant
bottle need only be checked once a month. When additional engine coolant (antifreeze) is needed to
maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant
bottle. Do not overfill.
Points To Remember
NOTE:
When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/kilometers of
operation, you may observe vapor coming from the front of
the engine compartment. This is normally a result of mois
-
ture from rain, snow, or high humidity accumulating on the
radiator and being vaporized when the thermostat opens,
allowing hot engine coolant (antifreeze) to enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be safely
driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
• Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
• Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant (antifreeze)
needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion
bottle must also be protected against freezing.
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512 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions arerequired, the cooling system should be pressure tested for
leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032)
and distilled water for proper corrosion protection of your
engine which contains aluminum components.
• Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter oper -
ation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the
correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsat -
isfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance, poor
gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically. Refer
to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper
maintenance intervals. Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under the hood service or immediately if
the brake system warning lamp indicates system failure.
If necessary, add fluid to bring level within the designated
marks on the side of the reservoir of the brake master
cylinder. Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area
before removing cap.
With disc brakes the fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in fluid
level may be caused by a leak and a system check should be
conducted.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica
-
tions” for further information.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly
a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding on
the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake
damage. You would not have your full braking capacity
in an emergency.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 513
(Continued)
Automatic Transmission
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to ensure
optimum transmission performance and life. Use only the
manufacturer’s specified transmission fluid. Refer to “Fluids
And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”. It is
important to maintain the transmission fluid at the correct
level using the recommended fluid. No chemical flushes
should be used in any transmission; only the approved lubri-
cant should be used.
WARNING!
• Use only manufacturer's recommended brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Speci -
fications” for further information. Using the wrong
type of brake fluid can severely damage your brake
system and/or impair its performance. The proper type
of brake fluid for your vehicle is also identified on the
original factory installed hydraulic master cylinder
reservoir.
• To avoid contamination from foreign matter or mois -
ture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that has been in
a tightly closed container. Keep the master cylinder
reservoir cap secured at all times. Brake fluid in a open
container absorbs moisture from the air resulting in a
lower boiling point. This may cause it to boil unexpect -
edly during hard or prolonged braking, resulting in
sudden brake failure. This could result in a collision.
• Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts, causing the
brake fluid to catch fire. Brake fluid can also damage
painted and vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
• Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contaminate thebrake fluid. Brake seal components could be damaged,
causing partial or complete brake failure. This could
result in a collision.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufacturer’s
recommended fluid may cause deterioration in
transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for fluid specifications.
WARNING! (Continued)
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514 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission. Automatic Transmis-
sion Fluid (ATF) is an engineered product and its perfor -
mance may be impaired by supplemental additives.
Therefore, do not add any fluid additives to the transmis -
sion. Avoid using transmission sealers as they may
adversely affect seals.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not require
adjustment under normal operating conditions. Routine
fluid level checks are not required, therefore the transmis -
sion has no dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your
transmission fluid level using special service tools. If you notice fluid leakage or transmission malfunction, visit
an authorized dealer immediately to have the transmission
fluid level checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper
fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at the
factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the life of the
vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not required. However,
change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contaminated
(with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for
any reason.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as the
chemicals can damage your transmission components.
Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an authorized
dealer immediately. Severe transmission damage may
occur. An authorized dealer has the proper tools to adjust
the fluid level accurately.
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546
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
IDENTIFICATION DATA
Vehicle Identification Number
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is found on the left
front corner of the instrument panel, visible through the
windshield. This number also appears on the vehicle frame
etched on right hand center rail, as well as the Automobile
Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on your
vehicle, the vehicle registration and title.Vehicle Identification Number
NOTE:
It is illegal to remove or alter the VIN.
BRAKE SYSTEM
If power assist is lost for any reason (for example, repeated
brake applications with the engine off), the brakes will still
function. However, you will experience a substantial
increase in braking effort to stop the vehicle.
If either the front or rear hydraulic system loses normal
braking capability, the remaining system will still function
with some loss of overall braking effectiveness. This will be
evident by increased pedal travel during application, greater
pedal force required to slow or stop, and activation of the
“Brake Warning Light” and the “ABS Warning Light” (if
equipped) during brake use.
WHEEL AND TIRE TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
Proper lug nut/bolt torque is very important to ensure that
the wheel is properly mounted to the vehicle. Any time a
wheel has been removed and reinstalled on the vehicle, the
lug nuts/bolts should be torqued using a properly calibrated
torque wrench using a high quality six sided (hex) deep wall
socket.
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548 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Tighten the lug nuts/bolts in a star pattern until each nut/
bolt has been tightened twice. Ensure that the socket is fully
engaged on the lug nut/bolt (do not insert it halfway).
After 25 miles (40 km), check the lug nut/bolt torque to be
sure that all the lug nuts/bolts are properly seated against
the wheel.Four, Five, And Six Lug Nuts/Bolts Torque Pattern
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
3.6L Engine
Do not use E-85 flex fuel or ethanol blends greater than 15%
in this engine. These engines are designed to meet all emissions
regulations and provide optimum fuel economy and
performance when using high quality unleaded
“Regular” gasoline having a posted octane number of 87 as
specified by the (R+M)/2 method. The use of higher octane
“Premium” gasoline is not required, as it will not provide
any benefit over “Regular” gasoline in these engines.
WARNING!
To avoid the risk of forcing the vehicle off the jack, do
not tighten the lug nuts/bolts fully until the vehicle has
been lowered. Failure to follow this warning may result
in personal injury.
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 549
While operating on gasoline with an octane number of 87,
hearing a light knocking sound from the engine is not a cause
for concern. However, if the engine is heard making a heavy
knocking sound, see an dealer immediately. Use of gasoline
with an octane number lower than 87 can cause engine
failure and may void or not be covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such as hard
starting, stalling, and hesitations. If you experience these
symptoms, try another brand of gasoline before considering
service for the vehicle.
5.7L Engine
Do not use E-85 flex fuel or ethanol blends greater than 15%
in this engine.This engine is designed to meet all emissions regula -
tions and provide satisfactory fuel economy and
performance when using high-quality unleaded
gasoline having an octane range of 87 to 89 as specified by
the (R+M)/2 method. The use of 89 octane “Plus” gasoline is
recommended for optimum performance and fuel economy.
While operating on gasoline with an octane number of 87,
hearing a light knocking sound from the engine is not a cause
for concern. However, if the engine is heard making a heavy knocking sound, see your dealer immediately. Use of gaso
-
line with an octane number lower than 87 can cause engine
failure and may void or not be covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such as hard
starting, stalling, and hesitations. If you experience these
symptoms, try another brand of gasoline before considering
service for the vehicle.
Reformulated Gasoline
Many areas of the country require the use of cleaner burning
gasoline referred to as “Reformulated Gasoline”. Reformu-
lated gasoline contains oxygenates and are specifically
blended to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality.
The use of reformulated gasoline is recommended. Properly
blended reformulated gasoline will provide improved
performance and durability of engine and fuel system
components.
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550 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Materials Added To Fuel
Besides using unleaded gasoline with the proper octane
rating, gasolines that contain detergents, corrosion and
stability additives are recommended. Using gasolines that
have these additives will help improve fuel economy, reduce
emissions, and maintain vehicle performance.Designated TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline contains a
higher level of detergents to further aide in mini -
mizing engine and fuel system deposits. When avail -
able, the usage of TOP TIER Detergent gasoline is
recommended. Visit www.toptiergas.com for a list of TOP
TIER Detergent Gasoline Retailers.
Indiscriminate use of fuel system cleaning agents should be
avoided. Many of these materials intended for gum and
varnish removal may contain active solvents or similar
ingredients. These can harm fuel system gasket and
diaphragm materials.
Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends
Some fuel suppliers blend unleaded gasoline with oxygen -
ates such as ethanol.
Problems that result from using gasoline containing more
than 15% ethanol (E-15) or gasoline containing methanol are
not the responsibility of the manufacturer and may void or
not be covered under New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
DO NOT use E-85, gasoline containing methanol, or
gasoline containing more than 15% ethanol (E-15). Use of
these blends may result in starting and drivability
problems, damage critical fuel system components, cause
emissions to exceed the applicable standard, and/or
cause the Malfunction Indicator Light to illuminate.
Please observe pump labels as they should clearly
communicate if a fuel contains greater than 15% ethanol
(E-15).
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 551
(Continued)
Do Not Use E-85 In Non-Flex Fuel Vehicles
Non-Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFV) are compatible with gasoline
containing up to 15% ethanol (E-15). Use of gasoline with
higher ethanol content may void the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
If a Non-FFV vehicle is inadvertently fueled with E-85 fuel,
the engine will have some or all of these symptoms:
• Operate in a lean mode.
• OBD II Malfunction Indicator Light on.
• Poor engine performance.
• Poor cold start and cold drivability.
• Increased risk for fuel system component corrosion.
CNG And LP Fuel System Modifications
Modifications that allow the engine to run on Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquid Propane (LP) may result in
damage to the engine, emissions, and fuel system compo-
nents. Problems that result from running CNG or LP are not
the responsibility of the manufacturer and may void or not
be covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
MMT In Gasoline
Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl (MMT) is a
manganese-containing metallic additive that is blended into
some gasoline to increase octane. Gasoline blended with
MMT provides no performance advantage beyond gasoline
of the same octane number without MMT. Gasoline blended
with MMT reduces spark plug life and reduces emissions
system performance in some vehicles. The manufacturer
recommends that gasoline without MMT be used in your
vehicle. The MMT content of gasoline may not be indicated
on the gasoline pump; therefore, you should ask your gaso -
line retailer whether the gasoline contains MMT. MMT is
prohibited in Federal and California reformulated gasoline.
Fuel System Cautions
CAUTION!
Follow these guidelines to maintain your vehicle’s
performance:
• The use of leaded gasoline is prohibited by Federal law. Using leaded gasoline can impair engine perfor -
mance and damage the emissions control system.8
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552 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with the emissions control system can
result in civil penalties being assessed against you.
Carbon Monoxide Warnings
• An out-of-tune engine or certain fuel or ignitionmalfunctions can cause the catalytic converter to over -
heat. If you notice a pungent burning odor or some
light smoke, your engine may be out of tune or
malfunctioning and may require immediate service.
Contact an authorized dealer for service assistance.
• The use of fuel additives, which are now being sold as octane enhancers, is not recommended. Most of these
products contain high concentrations of methanol. Fuel
system damage or vehicle performance problems
resulting from the use of such fuels or additives is not
the responsibility of the manufacturer and may void or
not be covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty. CAUTION!
(Continued)WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is deadly.
Follow the precautions below to prevent carbon
monoxide poisoning:
• Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, which can kill.
Never run the engine in a closed area, such as a garage,
and never sit in a parked vehicle with the engine
running for an extended period. If the vehicle is
stopped in an open area with the engine running for
more than a short period, adjust the ventilation system
to force fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
• Guard against carbon monoxide with proper mainte -
nance. Have the exhaust system inspected every time
the vehicle is raised. Have any abnormal conditions
repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive with all side
windows fully open.
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