fuel RAM 1500 2021 Workshop Manual

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE401
Mileage or time passed (whichever comes first)
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
100,000
110,000
120,000
130,000
140,000
150,000
Or Years: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Or Kilometers:
16,000
32,000
48,000
64,000
80,000
96,000
112,000
128,000
144,000
160,000
176,000
192,000
208,000
224,000
240,000
Additional Inspections
Completely fill the Diesel Exhaust Fluid tank. X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect the CV/Universal joints. X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if
necessary. X X X X X X X
Inspect the front and rear axle fluid. If gear oil leakage is
suspected, check the fluid level. If using your vehicle for
police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing change
the axle fluid. X
XXXX
Inspect the brake linings, parking brake function. X X X X X X X
Additional Maintenance
Replace cabin air filter X X X X X X X
Drain water from fuel filter assembly. X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Replace fuel filter and drain water from the fuel filter
assembly.
1Fuel filter replacement intervals should be every second oil change and must not exceed 20,000 miles (32,000 km) if using diesel fuel up to B5.
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402SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Replace engine air cleaner. XXXXX
Flush and replace the engine coolant at 10 years or
150,000 miles (240,000 km) whichever comes first. X
X
Replace accessory drive belt(s). X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, change for any of the
following: police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing. X
X
Change transfer case fluid. X
1. Under normal conditions the diesel fuel filter should be replaced every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) (every other oil change). If the vehicle is being used in severe operating conditions,
or In certain geographical areas of the country (Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Maryland, West Virginia, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska) due to fuel
cleanliness issues, it’s recommended to replace the fuel filter every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
Mileage or time passed (whichever comes first)
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
100,000
110,000
120,000
130,000
140,000
150,000
Or Years: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Or Kilometers:
16,000
32,000
48,000
64,000
80,000
96,000
112,000
128,000
144,000
160,000
176,000
192,000
208,000
224,000
240,000

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE403
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE — B6 TO
B20 B
IODIESEL
NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 8,000 miles (12,875 km) or
six months, whichever comes first when
using biodiesel blends greater than 5% (B5).
The owner is required to monitor mileage for
B6-B20 biodiesel, the automatic oil change
indicator system does not reflect the use of
biofuels.
Fuel filter change interval is maintained at
every second oil change. This is especially
important with biodiesel usage.
For more information on using biodiesel
Ú page 472.
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or
around a motor vehicle. Do only service
work for which you have the knowledge and
the right equipment. If you have any doubt
about your ability to perform a service job,
take your vehicle to a competent mechanic.
Failure to properly inspect and maintain
your vehicle could result in a component
malfunction and effect vehicle handling
and performance. This could cause an acci -
dent.
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408SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
CHECKING OIL LEVEL
To ensure proper engine lubrication, the engine
oil must be maintained at the correct level.
Check the oil level at regular intervals, such as
every fuel stop. The best time to check the
engine oil level is about five minutes after a fully
warmed up engine is shut off.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level
ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level
readings.
There are four possible dipstick types:
Crosshatched zone.
Crosshatched zone marked SAFE.
Crosshatched zone marked with MIN at the
low end of the range and MAX at the high end
of the range.
Crosshatched zone marked with dimples at
the MIN and the MAX ends of the range.
NOTE:
Always maintain the oil level within the cross -
hatch markings on the dipstick. Adding 1 quart (1.0 liter) of oil when the reading
is at the low end of the dipstick range will raise
the oil level to the high end of the range
marking.
NOTE:
It is possible for your oil level to be slightly
higher than a previous check. This would be due
to diesel fuel that may temporarily be in the
crankcase due to operation of the diesel partic
-
ulate filter regeneration strategy (if equipped).
This fuel will evaporate out under normal oper -
ation.ADDING WASHER FLUID
The fluid reservoir is located under the hood
and should be checked for fluid level at regular
intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield
washer solvent only (not radiator antifreeze).
When refilling the washer fluid reservoir, take
some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or
towel and wipe the wiper blades clean. This will
help blade performance. To prevent freeze-up of your windshield washer
system in cold weather, select a solution or
mixture that meets or exceeds the temperature
range of your climate. This rating information
can be found on most washer fluid containers.
After the engine has warmed up, operate the
defroster for a few minutes to reduce the
possibility of smearing or freezing the fluid on
the cold windshield. Windshield washer solution
used with water as directed on the container,
aids cleaning action, reduces the freezing point
to avoid line clogging, and is not harmful to
paint or trim.
CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will
cause oil aeration or loss of oil pressure. This
could damage your engine.WARNING!
Commercially available windshield washer
solvents are flammable. They could ignite and
burn you. Care must be exercised when filling
or working around the washer solution.

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412SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation
NOTE:
Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is
present before replacing the engine air cleaner
filter.

1. Install the engine air cleaner filter into the housing assembly with the engine air
cleaner filter inspection surface facing
downward.

2. Install the engine air cleaner filter cover onto the housing assembly.
3. Tighten the fasteners (six) on the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
DRAINING FUEL/WATER SEPARATOR
F
ILTER — DIESEL ENGINE
The fuel/water separator filter housing is
located inside the frame rail, behind the left
front wheel. The best access to this water drain
valve is from under the vehicle. If water is detected in the water separator while
the engine is running, or while the ignition
switch is in the ON/RUN position, the “Water In
Fuel Indicator Light” will illuminate and an
audible chime will be heard. At this point, you
should stop the engine and drain the water from
the filter housing.

Fuel Filter Assembly
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” comes on
and a single chime is heard while you are
driving, or with the ignition in the ON position,
there may be a problem with your water
separator wiring or sensor. See an authorized
dealer for service.
Upon proper draining of the water from the fuel
filter, the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” will
remain illuminated for approximately 10
seconds. If the water was drained while the
engine was running, the “Water In Fuel Indicator
Light” may remain on for approximately three
minutes.
NOTE:
Care should be taken in disposing of used fluids
from your vehicle. Used fluids, indiscriminately
discarded, can present a problem to the envi
-
ronment. Contact an authorized dealer, service
station, or government agency for advice on
recycling programs and for where used fluids
and filters can be properly disposed of in your
area.
CAUTION!
Do not drain the fuel/water separator filter
when the engine is running.
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appro-
priate container.
1 — Water In Fuel Drain Valve
CAUTION! (Continued)CAUTION!
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” remains
on, DO NOT START the engine before you
drain water from the fuel filter to avoid engine
damage.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE413
Drain the fuel/water separator filter when the
“Water In Fuel Indicator Light” is ON. Within
10 minutes of vehicle shutdown, turn the filter
drain valve (located on the bottom of the filter
housing) counterclockwise to drain fuel/water,
then turn the ignition switch to the ON position,
and allow any accumulated water to drain.
Leave the drain valve open until all water and
contaminants have been removed. When clean
fuel is visible, close the drain valve by turning it
clockwise, and turn the ignition switch to OFF.
If more than two ounces or 60 milliliters of fuel
have been drained Úpage 414.
UNDERBODY MOUNTED FUEL FILTER
R
EPLACEMENT — DIESEL ENGINE
NOTE:
Using a fuel filter that does not meet FCA’s filtra-
tion and water separating requirements can
severely impact fuel system life and reliability.
Under normal conditions the diesel fuel filter
should be replaced every 20,000 miles (every
other oil change). If the vehicle is being used in
severe operating conditions, or In certain
geographical areas of the country (Pennsyl -
vania, New York, Ohio, Maryland, West Virginia,
Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska) due to fuel cleanliness’ issues,
it’s recommended to replace the fuel filter every
10,000 miles.

Fuel Filter Assembly
1. Turn engine off.

2. Place a drain pan under the fuel filter
assembly.
3. Open the water drain valve, and let any accumulated water drain.
4. Close the water drain valve.
5. Remove bottom cover using a strap wrench. Rotate counterclockwise for removal.
Remove the used o-ring and discard it.
6. Remove the used filter cartridge from the housing and dispose of it according to your
local regulations.
7. Wipe the sealing surfaces of the lid and housing clean.
8. Install a new o-ring into the ring groove on the filter housing and lubricate with clean
engine oil.
CAUTION!
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appro-
priate container.
Do not prefill the fuel filter when installing a
new fuel filter. There is a possibility debris
could be introduced into the fuel filter
during this action. It is best to install the
filter dry and allow the in-tank lift pump to
prime the fuel system.
1 — Water In Fuel Drain Valve
2 — Fuel Filter Access
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414SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
PRIMING IF THE ENGINE HAS RUN OUT
O
F FUEL — DIESEL ENGINE

1. Add a substantial amount of fuel to the
tank, approximately 2 to 5 gal (8 L to 19 L).

2. Press ignition switch twice without your foot on brake to put vehicle in ON/RUN position.
This will activate the in tank fuel pump for
approximately 30 seconds. Repeat this
process twice.
3. Start the engine using the “Normal Starting” procedure Ú page 144.
NOTE:
The engine may run rough until the air is forced
from all the fuel lines. NOTE:
Use of biodiesel mixture in excess of 20% can
negatively impact the fuel filter's ability to
separate water from the fuel, resulting in
high pressure fuel system corrosion or
damage.
In addition, commercially available fuel addi
-
tives are not necessary for the proper opera -
tion of your diesel engine.
For extreme cold conditions, "Mopar
Premium Diesel Fuel Treatment" is recom -
mended to assist with cold starting.
INTERVENTION REGENERATION
S
TRATEGY — MESSAGE PROCESS FLOW
(D
IESEL ENGINE)
This engine meets all required diesel engine
emissions standards. To achieve these
emissions standards, your vehicle is equipped
with a state-of-the-art engine and exhaust
system. These systems are seamlessly
integrated into your vehicle and managed by
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM
manages engine combustion to allow the
exhaust system’s catalyst to trap and burn
Particulate Matter (PM) pollutants, with no input
or interaction on your part.
Additionally, your vehicle has the ability to alert
you to additional maintenance required on your
vehicle or engine Ú page 114.WARNING!
Do not open the high pressure fuel system
with the engine running. Engine operation
causes high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel
spray can cause serious injury or death.
CAUTION!
The starter motor will engage for
approximately 30 seconds at a time. Allow
two minutes between cranking intervals.
WARNING!
Do not use alcohol or gasoline as a fuel
blending agent. They can be unstable under
certain conditions and be hazardous or
explosive when mixed with diesel fuel.
CAUTION!
Due to lack of lubricants in alcohol or
gasoline, the use of these fuels can cause
damage to the fuel system.
WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn, such as
grass or leaves, and those items that come
into contact with your exhaust system. Do not
park or operate your vehicle in areas where
your exhaust system can contact anything
that can burn.

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420SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
Installing The Front Wipers

1. Lift the wiper arm off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.

2. Position the wiper blade near the hook on the tip of the wiper arm.
3. Slide the wiper blade up into the hook on the wiper arm, latch engagement will be
accompanied by an audible click.
4. Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The best protection against carbon monoxide
entry into the vehicle body is a properly
maintained engine exhaust system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the
exhaust system; or if the exhaust fumes can be
detected inside the vehicle; or when the
underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged;
have an authorized technician inspect the
complete exhaust system and adjacent body
areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated, or
mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose
connections could permit exhaust fumes to
seep into the passenger compartment. In
addition, have the exhaust system inspected each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or
oil change. Replace as required.
Under normal operating conditions, the
catalytic converter will not require
maintenance. However, it is important to keep
the engine properly tuned to assure proper
catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst
damage.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly
malfunctioning engine operation, a scorching
odor may suggest severe and abnormal catalyst
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They
contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is
colorless and odorless. Breathing it can
make you unconscious and can eventually
poison you. To avoid breathing CO see
Úpage 369.
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such
materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system. Do
not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact
anything that can burn.
CAUTION!
The catalytic converter requires the use of
unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will
destroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as
an emissions control device and may seri -
ously reduce engine performance and
cause serious damage to the engine.
Damage to the catalytic converter can
result if your vehicle is not kept in proper
operating condition. In the event of engine
malfunction, particularly involving engine
misfire or other apparent loss of perfor -
mance, have your vehicle serviced
promptly. Continued operation of your
vehicle with a severe malfunction could
cause the converter to overheat, resulting
in possible damage to the converter and
vehicle.
CAUTION! (Continued)

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE425
(Continued)
and through another hose to the intake
manifold of the engine. This cooling process
enables more efficient burning of fuel resulting
in fewer emissions.
To guarantee optimum performance of the
system, keep the surfaces of the charge air
cooler, condenser and radiator clean and free
of debris. Periodically check the hoses leading
to and from the charge air cooler for cracks or
loose clamps resulting in loss of pressure and
reduced engine performance.
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance,
all brake system components should be
inspected periodically Ú page 395.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the brake master cylinder
should be checked whenever the vehicle is
serviced, or immediately if the brake system
warning light is on. 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, fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake pads wear. Brake fluid level should be
checked when pads are replaced. If the brake
fluid is abnormally low, check the system for
leaks Úpage 478.
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.
WARNING!
Use only manufacturer's recommended
brake fluid Ú page 478. Using the wrong
type of brake fluid can severely damage
your brake system and/or impair its perfor -
mance. 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 moisture, use only new brake fluid or
fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container. Keep the master cylinder reser -
voir 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 unexpectedly 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 the brake fluid. Brake seal
components could be damaged, causing
partial or complete brake failure. This could
result in a collision.
WARNING! (Continued)
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428SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
The fuses protect electrical systems against
excessive current.
When a device does not work, you must check
the fuse element inside the blade fuse for a
break/melt.
Also, please be aware that when using power
outlets for extended periods of time with the
engine off may result in vehicle battery
discharge.
Blade Fuses

External Power Distribution Center
The Power Distribution Center is located in the
engine compartment near the battery. This
center contains cartridge fuses, micro fuses,
relays, and circuit breakers. A description of
each fuse and component may be stamped on
the inside cover, otherwise the cavity number of
each fuse is stamped on the inside cover that
corresponds to the following chart.

Power Distribution Center
CAUTION!
If it is necessary to wash the engine
compartment, take care not to directly hit the
fuse box, and the windshield wiper motors
with water.
1 — Fuse Element
2 — Blade Fuse with a good/functional fuse ele -
ment
3 — Blade fuse with a bad/not functional fuse el -
ement (blown fuse)
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Micro Fuse Description
F01–25 Amp Clear Fuel Pump Motor
F03 –5 Amp Tan MGU
F04 ––Spare
F05 ––Spare

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