axle Ram 1500 2020 User Guide

316 STARTING AND OPERATING
This electronically shifted transfer case is designed to be
driven in the two–wheel drive position (2WD) or four-wheel
drive auto position (4WD AUTO) for normal street and
highway conditions on dry, hard surfaced roads. Driving the
vehicle in 2WD will have greater fuel economy benefits as
the front axle is not engaged in 2WD.For variable driving conditions, the 4WD AUTO mode can
be used. In this mode, the front axle is engaged, but the
vehicle's power is sent to the rear wheels. Four-wheel drive
will be automatically engaged when the vehicle senses a loss
of traction. Because the front axle is engaged, this mode will
result in lower fuel economy than the 2WD mode.
When additional traction is required, the transfer case 4WD
HIGH and 4WD LOW positions can be used to maximize
torque to the front driveshaft, forcing the front and rear
wheels to rotate at the same speed. This is accomplished
pushing the desired position on the 4WD Control Switch.
Refer to “Shifting Procedure” in this section for specific
shifting instructions.

The 4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW positions are designed for
loose, slippery road surfaces only. Driving in the 4WD HIGH
and 4WD LOW positions on dry hard surfaced roads may cause
increased tire wear and damage to the driveline components.
NOTE:
The transfer case NEUTRAL button is located in the center of the
4WD Control Switch and is pushed by using a ballpoint pen or
similar object. The transfer case NEUTRAL position is to be used
for recreational towing only. Refer to “Recreational Towing” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information.

WARNING!
• You or others could be injured or killed if you leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the
NEUTRAL (N) position without first fully engaging
the parking brake. The transfer case NEUTRAL (N)
position disengages both the front and rear drive shaft
from the powertrain, and will allow the vehicle to roll,
even if the transmission is in PARK. The parking brake
should always be applied when the driver is not in the
vehicle.
• The transmission may not engage PARK if the vehicle is moving. Always bring the vehicle to a complete stop
before shifting to PARK, and verify that the transmis -
sion gear position indicator solidly indicates PARK (P)
without blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is completely
stopped, and the PARK position is properly indicated,
before exiting the vehicle.
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AXLE LOCKER SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
This vehicle is equipped with an electronically locking rear
differential. This differential, when engaged, mechanically
lock together the axle shafts forcing the wheels to spin at an
equal rate. The locking of the rear differential should only be
engaged during low-speed, extreme off-road situations
where one wheel is likely to not be in contact with the
ground. It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the
differentials locked on pavement due to the reduced ability
to turn and speed limitations.Axle Lock Button The locking rear axle is controlled by the AXLE LOCKER
button.
Under normal driving conditions, the rear axle should be
unlocked.
During the command to lock the rear axle, the indicator light
will flash until the axle is locked. After the lock command has
been successfully executed, the light will remain on solid.
Operating in 4WD LOW the locker can be engaged up to
40 mph (64 km/h) and will remain engaged throughout the
4WD LOW speed range.
CAUTION!
• Do not lock the rear axle on hard surfaced roads. The ability to steer the vehicle is reduced and damage to the
drivetrain may occur when the axle is locked on hard
surfaced roads.
• Do not try to lock the rear axle if the vehicle is stuck and the tires are spinning. You can damage drivetrain
components. Lock the rear axle before attempting situ -
ations or navigating terrain, which could possibly
cause the vehicle to become stuck.
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332 STARTING AND OPERATING
Operating the locker in 2WD, 4WD AUTO, and 4WD
LOCK/HIGH the locker can be engaged up to 20 mph
(32 km/h). While driving with the locker engaged, if speed
exceeds 25 mph (40 km/h), the locker will automatically
disengage, but will automatically reengage at 20 mph
(32 km/h).
NOTE:
Left to right wheel speed difference may be necessary to
allow the rear axle to fully lock. If the indicator light is
flashing after selecting the rear axle lock mode, drive the
vehicle in a turn or on loose gravel to expedite the locking
action.
The axle locker could become torque locked due to side to
side loads on the rear axle. Driving slowly while turning the
steering wheel from a left hand turn to a right hand turn or
driving in REVERSE for a short distance may be required to
release the torque lock and unlock the axles.
To unlock the rear axle; push the AXLE LOCK button. The
AXLE LOCK indicator light will go out when the rear axle is
unlocked.
LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED
The limited-slip differential provides additional traction on
snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel, particularly when there is a difference between the traction characteristics of the
surface under the right and left rear wheels. During normal
driving and cornering, the limited-slip unit performs simi
-
larly to a conventional differential. On slippery surfaces,
however, the differential delivers more of the driving effort
to the rear wheel having the better traction.
The limited-slip differential is especially helpful during slip -
pery driving conditions. With both rear wheels on a slippery
surface, a slight application of the accelerator will supply
maximum traction. When starting with only one rear wheel
on an excessively slippery surface, slight momentary appli -
cation of the parking brake may be necessary to gain
maximum traction.
Care should be taken to avoid sudden accelerations when
both rear wheels are on a slippery surface. This could cause
both rear wheels to spin, and allow the vehicle to slide side -
ways on the crowned surface of a road or in a turn.
WARNING!
When servicing vehicles equipped with a limited-slip or
locking differential never run the engine with one rear
wheel off the ground since the vehicle may drive
through the rear wheel remaining on the ground and
result in unintended movement.
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STARTING AND OPERATING 405
NOTE:
In certain cold conditions, ice may prevent the fuel filler door
from opening. If this occurs, lightly push on the fuel filler
door around the perimeter to break the ice build up.
Emergency Gas Can Refueling
Most gas cans will not open the flapper doors.
A funnel is provided to open the flapper doors to allow
emergency refueling with a gas can.
1. Retrieve funnel from the jack and jack tool kit.
2. Insert funnel into same filler pipe opening as the fuelnozzle. 3. Ensure funnel is inserted fully to hold flapper doors open.
4. Pour fuel into funnel opening.
5. Remove funnel from filler pipe, clean off prior to putting
back in the jack and jack tool kit.
VEHICLE LOADING
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the total
permissible weight of your vehicle including driver, passen -
gers, vehicle, options and cargo. The label also specifies
maximum capacities of front and rear axle systems Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Total load must be limited so
GVWR and front and rear GAWR are not exceeded.
Payload
The payload of a vehicle is defined as the allowable load
weight a truck can carry, including the weight of the driver,
all passengers, options and cargo.
WARNING!
• Always place container on the ground before filling.
• Keep the pump nozzle in contact with the container when you are filling it.
• Use only approved containers for flammable liquid.
• Do not leave container unattended while filling.
• A static electric charge could cause a spark and fire hazard.
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406 STARTING AND OPERATING
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum permissible load on the front
and rear axles. The load must be distributed in the cargo area
so that the GAWR of each axle is not exceeded.
Each axle GAWR is determined by the components in the
system with the lowest load carrying capacity (axle, springs,
tires or wheels). Heavier axles or suspension components
sometimes specified by purchasers for increased durability
does not necessarily increase the vehicle's GVWR.
Tire Size
The tire size on the Vehicle Certification Label represents the
actual tire size on your vehicle. Replacement tires must be
equal to the load capacity of this tire size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire size listed.
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle for all
loading conditions up to full Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR).
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total weight of
the vehicle with all fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full
capacity conditions, and with no occupants or cargo loaded
into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight values are
determined by weighing your vehicle on a commercial scale
before any occupants or cargo are added.
Loading
The actual total weight and the weight of the front and rear
of your vehicle at the ground can best be determined by
weighing it when it is loaded and ready for operation.
The entire vehicle should first be weighed on a commercial
scale to insure that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
has not been exceeded. The weight on the front and rear of
the vehicle should then be determined separately to be sure
that the load is properly distributed over the front and rear
axle. Weighing the vehicle may show that the Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR) of either the front or rear axles has
been exceeded but the total load is within the specified
GVWR. If so, weight must be shifted from front to rear or
rear to front as appropriate until the specified weight limita-
tions are met. Store the heavier items down low and be sure
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408 STARTING AND OPERATING
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total
allowable weight of your vehicle and trailer when weighed
in combination.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum
capacity of the front and rear axles. Distribute the load over
the front and rear axles evenly. Make sure that you do not
exceed either front or rear GAWR. Refer to “Vehicle
Loading/Vehicle Certification Label” in “Starting And
Operating” for further information.Tongue Weight (TW)
The Tongue Weight (TW) is the downward force exerted on
the hitch ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of
the load on your vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the
maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The Trailer Sway Control (TSC) can be a mechanical tele
-
scoping link that can be installed between the hitch receiver
and the trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable fric -
tion associated with the telescoping motion to dampen any
unwanted trailer swaying motions while traveling.
WARNING!
If the gross trailer weight is 5,000 lbs (2,267 kg) or more,
it is recommended to use a weight-distributing hitch to
ensure stable handling of your vehicle. If you use a
standard weight-carrying hitch, you could lose control of
your vehicle and cause a collision.WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the maximum front
or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can result
if either rating is exceeded. You could lose control of the
vehicle and have a collision.
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If equipped, the electronic TSC recognizes a swaying trailer
and automatically applies individual wheel brakes and/or
reduces engine power to attempt to eliminate the trailer sway.

Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight,
just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some other
connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of hitches are the
most popular on the market today and they are commonly
used to tow small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing system works by applying leverage
through spring (load) bars. They are typically used for
heavier loads to distribute trailer tongue weight to the tow
vehicle's front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in
accordance with the manufacturer's directions, it provides
for a more level ride, offering more consistent steering and
brake control, thereby enhancing towing safety. The addi-
tion of a friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens sway
caused by traffic and crosswinds and contributes positively
to tow vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer sway control and
a weight distributing (load equalizing) hitch are recom -
mended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW) and may be
required depending on vehicle and trailer configuration/
loading to comply with GAWR requirements. Without Weight-Distributing Hitch (Incorrect)WARNING!
• An improperly adjusted weight distributing hitch system may reduce handling, stability and braking
performance and could result in a collision.
• Weight distributing systems may not be compatible with surge brake couplers. Consult with your hitch and
trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational
Vehicle dealer for additional information.
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(Continued)
Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight
Ratings)
NOTE:
For trailer towing information (maximum trailer weight
ratings) refer to the following website addresses:
•ramtrucks.com/en/towing_guide/
• ramtruck.ca (Canada)
• rambodybuilder.com
Trailer And Tongue Weight
Weight Distribution Consider the following items when computing the weight on
the rear axle of the vehicle:
• The tongue weight of the trailer.
• The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put in
or on your vehicle.
• The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the trailer adds to
the load on your vehicle. Also, additional factory-installed
options or dealer-installed options must be considered as
part of the total load on your vehicle. Refer to the “Tire And
Loading Information” placard for the maximum combined
weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle.
Towing Requirements
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain
components, the following guidelines are recommended.
CAUTION!
• Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle or
other parts could be damaged.
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414 STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
Perform the maintenance listed in the “Scheduled
Servicing”. Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in “Servicing
And Maintenance” for the proper maintenance intervals.
When towing a trailer, never exceed the GAWR or GCWR
ratings.• Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that a trailer is
towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and do not
make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and
other parts of the vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.
WARNING!
• Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer and will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo that
is not fully secured, dynamic load shifts can occur that
may be difficult for the driver to control. You could lose
control of your vehicle and have a collision.
• When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a loss of
control, poor performance or damage to brakes, axle,
engine, transmission, steering, suspension, chassis
structure or tires. CAUTION!
(Continued)
• Safety chains must always be used between your
vehicle and trailer. Always connect the chains to the
hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains
under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for
turning corners.
• Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. When parking, apply the parking brake on the tow
vehicle. Put the tow vehicle transmission in PARK. For
four-wheel drive vehicles, make sure the transfer case
is not in NEUTRAL. Always, block or "chock" the
trailer wheels.
• GCWR must not be exceeded.
• Total weight must be distributed between the tow vehicle and the trailer such that the following four
ratings are not exceeded:
• GVWR
• GTW
• GAWR
• Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch utilized.
WARNING! (Continued)
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STARTING AND OPERATING 423
be placed in Transport mode (for example, engine will not
run), tie-downs must be fastened to the axles (not to the
body). Failure to follow these instructions may cause fault
codes to be set and/or cause loss of proper tie-down
tension.
Recreational Towing — Two-Wheel Drive Models
DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the drivetrain
will result.
Recreational towing (for two-wheel drive models) is allowed
ONLY if the rear wheels are OFF the ground. This may be
accomplished using a tow dolly or vehicle trailer. If using a
tow dolly, follow this procedure:
NOTE:
If vehicle is equipped with air suspension, ensure the vehicle
is set to Normal Ride Height.
1. Properly secure the dolly to the tow vehicle, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.
2. Drive the rear wheels onto the tow dolly.
3. Apply the parking brake. Place the transmission in PARK. 4. Properly secure the rear wheels to the dolly, following the
dolly manufacturer's instructions.
5. Turn the ignition OFF.
6. Install a suitable clamping device, designed for towing, to secure the front wheels in the straight position.
Recreational Towing — Four-Wheel Drive Models
NOTE:
The transfer case must be shifted into NEUTRAL (N) for
recreational towing. The transmission must be shifted into
PARK for recreational towing. Refer to the following for the
proper transfer case NEUTRAL (N) shifting procedure for
your vehicle. CAUTION!
Towing with the rear wheels on the ground will cause
severe transmission damage. Damage from improper
towing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
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