suspension RAM 1500 2023 User Guide

134STARTING AND OPERATING
Shifting Procedure
If any of the requirements to select a new transfer case
position have not been met, then the transfer case will
not shift. The position indicator light for the previous
position will remain on and the newly selected position
indicator light will continue to flash until all the require -
ments for the selected position have been met.
 If all the requirements to select a new transfer case
position have been met, then the current position
indicator light will turn off and the selected position
indicator light will flash until the transfer case
completes the shift. When the shift is complete, the
position indicator light for the selected position will
stop flashing and remain on.
ACTIVE-LEVEL FOUR CORNER AIR
SUSPENSION SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
DESCRIPTION
The air suspension system provides full-time load-leveling
capability along with the benefit of being able to adjust
vehicle height by using the toggle switch.

Air Suspension Switch

Off-Road 2 (OR2) (Raises the vehicle approximately
2 inches [51 mm]) – This position is intended for
off-road use only where maximum ground clearance is
required. To enter OR2, push the height selector switch
up twice from the NRH position or once from the OR1
position while vehicle speed is below 20 mph
(32 km/h). While in OR2, if the vehicle speed exceeds
25 mph (40 km/h) the vehicle height will be automati -
cally lowered to OR1. Off-Road 2 may not be available
due to vehicle payload, an instrument cluster message
is displayed when this occurs
Úpage 98. 
Off-Road 1 (OR1) (Raises the vehicle approximately
1 inch [26 mm]) – This position should be the primary
position for all off-road driving until Off-Road 2 (OR2) is
needed. A smoother and more comfortable ride will
result. To enter OR1, push the height selector switch up
once from the NRH position while the vehicle speed is
below 35 mph (56 km/h). When in the OR1 position, if the vehicle speed remains between 40 mph (64 km/h)
and 50 mph (80 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or
if the vehicle speed exceeds 50 mph (80 km/h), the
vehicle will be automatically lowered to NRH.
Off-Road 1 may not be available due to vehicle
payload, an instrument cluster message is displayed
when this occurs
Úpage 98.
 Normal Ride Height (NRH) – This is the standard posi -
tion of the suspension and is meant for normal driving.
 Aero Height (Lowers the vehicle approximately 0.6 inch
[15 mm]) – This position provides improved aerody -
namics by lowering the vehicle. The vehicle will auto -
matically enter Automatic Aero Mode when the vehicle
speed remains between 62 mph (100 km/h) and 66 mph (106 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or if
the vehicle speed exceeds 66 mph (106 km/h).
1 — Off-Road 2 Indicator (Customer Selectable)
2 — Off-Road 1 Indicator (Customer Selectable)
3 — Normal Ride Height Indicator (Customer Selectable)
4 — Aero Height Indicator (Customer Selectable)
5 — Entry/Exit Height Indicator (Customer Selectable)
CAUTION!
If the vehicle is in Off-Road 1 or Off-Road 2 setting, be
aware of your surroundings, you may not have the
clearance required for certain areas and vehicle
damage may occur.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 134

STARTING AND OPERATING135
The vehicle will return to NRH from Aero Mode if the
vehicle speed remains between 30 mph (48 km/h)
and 35 mph (56 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or
if the vehicle speed falls below 30 mph (48 km/h).
NOTE:
Automatic Aero mode will be disabled if a trailer is
detected to prevent shifting loads.
 Speed thresholds for raising/lowering the vehicle
automatically at higher speeds only apply if
Automatic Aero Mode is enabled in your Uconnect
Radio settings.
To enter Aero Height manually push the height selector
switch down once from NRH at any vehicle speed. To
return to NRH push the height selector switch up once
while vehicle speed is less than 56 mph (90 km/h).
NOTE:Automatic Aero Mode may be disabled through vehicle
settings in the instrument cluster display Úpage 98 or
through your Uconnect Radio (if equipped) Úpage 191.
 Entry/Exit Height (Lowers the vehicle approximately
2 inches [51 mm]) – This position lowers the vehicle
for easier passenger entry and exit as well as lowering
the vehicle for easier loading and unloading of cargo.
To enter Entry/Exit Mode, push the height selector
switch down once from the NRH while the vehicle
speed is below 33 mph (53 km/h). Once the vehicle
speed goes below 15 mph (24 km/h) the vehicle
height will begin to lower. If the vehicle speed remains
between 15 mph (24 km/h) and 25 mph (40 km/h) for
greater than 60 seconds, or the vehicle speed exceeds
25 mph (40 km/h) the Entry/Exit change will be canceled. To return to Normal Height Mode, push the height
selector switch up once while in Entry/Exit or drive the
vehicle over 15 mph (24 km/h).
NOTE:Entry/Exit Height may be achieved using the Remote
Lowering feature on your key fob for easier entry/loading
Úpage 16.
The system requires that the ignition be in the ON/RUN
position or the engine running for all user requested
changes. When lowering the vehicle, all of the doors must
be closed. If a door is opened at any time while the vehicle
is lowering, the change will not be completed until the
open door(s) is closed.
This system uses a lifting and lowering pattern which
keeps the headlights from incorrectly shining into
oncoming traffic. When raising the vehicle, the rear of the
vehicle will move up first and then the front. When
lowering the vehicle, the front will move down first and
then the rear.
After the engine is turned off, it may be noticed that the air
suspension system operates briefly; this is normal. The
system is correcting the position of the vehicle to ensure a
proper appearance.
To assist with changing a spare tire, the air suspension
system has a feature which allows the automatic leveling
to be disabled
Úpage 98. Default Ride Height:

Select Aero Height or Normal Ride Height as the default
for all vehicle speeds and operation. This is the
selected height that the suspension will level for speed
changes (e.g. raising from Entry/Exit Height at speed,
lowering from Off-Road Height at speed, etc.).
 Default ride height can be changed by manually
adjusting the Air Suspension switch to Normal Ride
Height or Aero Ride Height and staying in the selected
height for 2.5 seconds. It will be stored as the default
ride height and the height will be maintained until a
new default ride height is selected.
NOTE:If equipped with a touchscreen radio, all enabling/
disabling of air suspension features must be done through
the radio
Úpage 191.
AIR SUSPENSION MODES
The air suspension system has multiple modes to protect
the system in unique situations. The engine should be
running to change between Air Suspension Modes.
CAUTION!
When in Entry/Exit Height, be aware of your
surroundings, you may not have the clearance required
for certain areas and vehicle damage may occur.
WARNING!
The air suspension system uses a high pressure
volume of air to operate the system. To avoid personal
injury or damage to the system, see an authorized
dealer for service.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 135

136STARTING AND OPERATING
Automatic Aero Mode
To improve aerodynamics, the air suspension system has
a feature which will put the vehicle into Aero Height
automatically at higher speeds
Úpage 98.
Automatic Aero Mode may be disabled through vehicle
settings in the Uconnect Radio (if equipped)
Úpage 191.
Tire Jack Mode
To assist with changing a tire, the air suspension system
has a feature which allows the automatic leveling to be
disabled
Úpage 191.
Transport Mode
For towing your vehicle with four wheels off the road, the
air suspension system has a feature which will put the
vehicle into Entry/Exit height and disable the automatic
load leveling system
Úpage 191.
Wheel Alignment Mode
Before performing a wheel alignment, this mode must be
enabled which will put the vehicle into NRH and disable
automatic leveling
Úpage 191.
Protection Strategy
In order to protect the air suspension system, the vehicle
will disable load leveling as required (suspension
overloaded, battery charge low, etc.). Load leveling will
automatically resume as soon as system operation
requirements are met. See an authorized dealer if system
does not resume.
NOTE:For towing with air suspension Úpage 173.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
M
ESSAGES
When the appropriate conditions exist, a message will
appear in the instrument cluster display Úpage 98.
An audible chime will be heard whenever a system error
has been detected.
See an authorized dealer for system service if normal
operation does not resume.
OPERATION

Air Suspension Switch

The indicator lamps 1 through 5 will illuminate to show the
current position of the vehicle. Flashing indicator lamps
will show a position which the system is working to
achieve. When raising, if multiple indicator lamps are
flashing, the highest flashing indicator lamp is the position
the system is working to achieve.
When lowering, if multiple indicators are flashing, the
lowest solid indicator lamp is the position the system is
working to achieve. Pushing the height selector up once will move the
suspension one position higher from the current position,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., ignition in ON/RUN
position, engine running, speed below threshold, etc.).
The height selector switch can be pushed up multiple
times, each push will raise the requested level by one
position up to a maximum position of OR2 or the highest
position allowed based on current conditions
(i.e., vehicle speed, etc.).
Pushing the height selector down once will move the
suspension one position lower from the current level,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., ignition in ON/RUN
position, engine running, doors closed, speed below
threshold, etc.). The height selector switch can be pushed
down multiple times, each push will lower the requested
level by one position down to a minimum of Entry/Exit
Mode or the lowest position allowed based on current
conditions (i.e., vehicle speed, etc.).
Automatic height changes will occur based on vehicle
speed and the current vehicle height. The indicator lamps
and instrument cluster display messages will operate the
same for automatic changes and user requested changes.

Off-Road 2 (OR2) – Indicator lamps 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 will
be illuminated.
 Off-Road 1 (OR1) – Indicator lamps 5, 4, 3 and 2 will be
illuminated.
 Normal Ride Height (NRH) – Indicator lamps 5, 4 and 3
will be illuminated.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 136

STARTING AND OPERATING137
Aero Height– Indicator lamps 5 and 4 will be
illuminated.
 Entry/Exit – Indicator lamp 5 will be illuminated.
Entry/Exit can be requested up to 33 mph (53 km/h).
If vehicle speed is reduced to, and kept below, 15 mph
(24 km/h) indicator lamp 4 will flash and indicator
lamp 5 will remain solid until Entry/Exit is achieved at
which point indicator lamp 4 will turn off.
 Automatic Aero Mode – Indicator lamps 5 and 4 will be
illuminated.
 Transport Mode – No indicator lamps will be illumi -
nated. Transport Mode is disabled by driving the
vehicle or disabling in the Uconnect settings.
 Tire/Jack Mode – Indicator lamps 5 and 1 will be illumi -
nated. Tire/Jack Mode is disabled by driving the vehicle
or disabling in the Uconnect settings.
 Wheel Alignment Mode – Indicator lamps 3, 4, and 5
will be illuminated. Wheel Alignment Mode is disabled
by driving the vehicle or disabling in the Uconnect
settings.
ACTIVE-LEVEL FOUR CORNER
AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM
(OFF-ROAD GROUP) — IF EQUIPPED
DESCRIPTION
The air suspension system provides full-time load-leveling
capability along with the benefit of being able to adjust
vehicle height by using the toggle switch.

Rebel Air Suspension Controls

Off-Road (OR) (Raises the vehicle approximately 1 inch
[26 mm]) – This position is intended for off-roading use
only where maximum ground clearance is required. To
enter OR, push the height selector switch up once from
the NRH position while vehicle speed is below 20 mph
(32 km/h). While in OR, if the vehicle speed exceeds
25 mph (40 km/h) the vehicle height will be automati -
cally lowered to NRH. Off-Road may not be available
due to vehicle payload, an instrument cluster display
message is shown when this occurs
Úpage 98. 
Normal Ride Height (NRH) – This is the standard posi -
tion of the suspension and is meant for normal driving.
 Aero Height (Lowers the vehicle approximately
0.6 inches [15 mm]) – This position provides improved
aerodynamics by lowering the vehicle. The vehicle will
automatically enter Automatic Aero Mode when the
vehicle speed remains between 62 mph (100 km/h)
and 66 mph (106 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds
or if the vehicle speed exceeds 66 mph (106 km/h).
The vehicle will return to NRH from Aero Mode if the
vehicle speed remains between 30 mph (48 km/h)
and 35 mph (56 km/h) for greater than 20 seconds or
if the vehicle speed falls below 30 mph (48 km/h).
NOTE:

 Automatic Aero mode will be disabled if a trailer is
detected to prevent shifting loads.
 Speed thresholds for raising or lowering the vehicle
only apply if Automatic Aero Mode is enabled
through vehicle settings on your Uconnect Radio.
 To enter Aero Height manually push the height
selector switch down once from NRH at any vehicle
speed. To return to NRH push the height selector
switch up once while vehicle speed is less than
56 mph (90 km/h).
 Automatic Aero Mode may be disabled through
vehicle settings on your Uconnect Radio.

1 — Off-Road Indicator (Customer Selectable)
2 — Normal Ride Height Indicator (Customer Selectable)
3 — Aero Height Indicator (Customer Selectable)
4 — Entry/Exit Height Indicator (Customer Selectable)
CAUTION!
If the vehicle is in Off-Road setting, be aware of your
surroundings, you may not have the clearance required
for certain areas and vehicle damage may occur.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 137

138STARTING AND OPERATING
Entry/Exit Height (Lowers the vehicle approximately
3 inches [73 mm]) – This position lowers the vehicle
for easier passenger entry and exit as well as lowering
the vehicle for easier loading and unloading of cargo.
To enter Entry/Exit Mode, push the height selector
switch down twice from the NRH while the vehicle
speed is below 33 mph (53 km/h). Once the vehicle
speed goes below 15 mph (24 km/h) the vehicle
height will begin to lower. If the vehicle speed remains
between 15 mph (24 km/h) and 25 mph (40 km/h) for
greater than 60 seconds, or the vehicle speed exceeds
25 mph (40 km/h) the Entry/Exit change will be canceled. To return to Normal Height Mode, push the
height selector switch up twice while in Entry/Exit or
drive the vehicle over 15 mph (24 km/h). Entry/Exit Height may not be available due to vehicle payload, an
instrument cluster display message is shown when this
occurs
Úpage 98.
The system requires that the ignition be in the ON/RUN
position or the engine running for all user requested
changes. When lowering the vehicle, all of the doors must
be closed. If a door is opened at any time while the vehicle
is lowering, the change will not be completed until the
open door(s) is closed. This system uses a lifting and lowering pattern which
keeps the headlights from incorrectly shining into
oncoming traffic. When raising the vehicle, the rear of the
vehicle will move up first and then the front. When
lowering the vehicle, the front will move down first and
then the rear.
After the engine is turned off, it may be noticed that the air
suspension system operates briefly; this is normal.
The system is correcting the position of the vehicle to
ensure a proper appearance.
To assist with changing a spare tire, the air suspension
system has a feature which allows the automatic leveling
to be disabled
Úpage 191.
Default Ride Height:
 Select Aero Height or Normal Ride Height as the default
for all vehicle speeds and operation. This is the
selected height that the suspension will level for speed
changes (e.g. raising from Entry/Exit Height at speed,
lowering from Off-Road Height at speed, etc.).
 Default ride height can be changed by manually
adjusting the Air Suspension switch to Normal Ride
Height or Aero Ride Height and staying in the selected
height for 2.5 seconds. It will be stored as the default
ride height and the height will be maintained until a
new default ride height is selected.
NOTE:If equipped with a touchscreen radio, all enabling/
disabling of air suspension features must be done through
the radio
Úpage 191.
AIR SUSPENSION MODES
The air suspension system has multiple modes to protect
the system in unique situations:
Automatic Aero Mode
To improve aerodynamics, the air suspension system has
a feature which will put the vehicle into Aero height
automatically at higher speeds
Úpage 98.
Tire Jack Mode
To assist with changing a tire, the air suspension system
has a feature which allows the automatic leveling to be
disabled
Úpage 191.
Transport Mode
For towing your vehicle with four wheels off the road, the
air suspension system has a feature which will put the
vehicle into Entry/Exit height and disable the automatic
load leveling system
Úpage 191.
CAUTION!
When in Entry/Exit Height, be aware of your
surroundings, you may not have the clearance required
for certain areas and vehicle damage may occur.
WARNING!
The air suspension system uses a high pressure
volume of air to operate the system. To avoid personal
injury or damage to the system, see an authorized
dealer for service.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 138

STARTING AND OPERATING139
Wheel Alignment Mode
Before performing a wheel alignment, this mode must be
enabled which moves the vehicle to normal ride height
and disables the automatic leveling
Úpage 191.
Protection Strategy
In order to protect the air suspension system, the vehicle
will disable load leveling as required (suspension
overloaded, battery charge low, etc.). Load leveling will
automatically resume as soon as system operation
requirements are met. See an authorized dealer if system
does not resume.
NOTE:For towing with air suspension Úpage 173.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
M
ESSAGES
When the appropriate conditions exist, a message will
appear in the instrument cluster display Úpage 98.
An audible chime will be heard whenever a system error
has been detected.
See an authorized dealer for system service if normal
operation does not resume.
OPERATION

Air Suspension Switch

The indicator lamps 1 through 4 will illuminate to show the
current position of the vehicle. Flashing indicator lamps
will show a position which the system is working to
achieve. When raising or lowering, the flashing indicator
lamp is the position the system is working to achieve.
Pushing the height selector switch up once will move the
suspension one position higher from the current position,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., key in ON/RUN
position, engine running, speed below threshold, etc.).
The height selector switch can be pushed up multiple
times, each push will raise the requested level by one
position up to a maximum position of OR or the highest
position allowed based on current conditions
(i.e., vehicle speed, etc.). Pushing the height selector switch down once will move
the suspension one position lower from the current level,
assuming all conditions are met (i.e., key in ON/RUN
position, engine running, doors closed, speed below
threshold, etc.). The height selector switch can be pushed
down multiple times, each push will lower the requested
level by one position down to a minimum of Entry/Exit
Mode or the lowest position allowed based on current
conditions (i.e., vehicle speed, etc.).
Automatic height changes will occur based on vehicle
speed and the current vehicle height. The indicator lamps
and instrument cluster display messages will operate the
same for automatic changes and user requested changes.

Off-Road 1 (OR1) – Indicator lamps 4, 3, 2, and 1 will
be illuminated.
 Normal Ride Height (NRH) – Indicator lamps 4, 3, and
2 will be illuminated.
 Aero Height– Indicator lamps 4 and 3 will be
illuminated.
 Entry/Exit – Indicator lamp 4 will be illuminated.
Entry/Exit can be requested up to 33 mph (53 km/h).
If vehicle speed is reduced to, and kept below, 15 mph
(24 km/h) indicator lamp 3 will flash and indicator
lamp 4 will remain solid until Entry/Exit is achieved at
which point indicator lamp 3 will turn off.
 Automatic Aero Mode – Indicator lamps 5 and 4 will be
illuminated.
 Transport Mode – No indicator lamps will be illumi -
nated. Transport Mode is disabled by driving the
vehicle or disabling through the Uconnect settings.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 139

STARTING AND OPERATING145
(Continued)
To Deactivate
A tap on the brake pedal, pushing the CANC (cancel)
button, or normal brake pressure while slowing the vehicle
will deactivate the Cruise Control system without erasing
the set speed from memory.
The following conditions will also deactivate the Cruise
Control system without erasing the set speed from
memory:
Vehicle parking brake is applied
 Stability event occurs
 Gear selector is moved out of DRIVE
 Engine overspeed occurs
Pushing the on/off button or placing the ignition in the OFF
position, erases the set speed from memory.
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) increases the driving
convenience provided by Cruise Control while traveling on
highways and major roadways. However, it is not a safety
system and not designed to prevent collisions. The Cruise
Control function performs differently
Úpage 143.
ACC will allow you to keep Cruise Control engaged in light
to moderate traffic conditions without the constant need
to reset your speed. ACC utilizes a radar sensor and a
forward facing camera designed to detect a vehicle
directly ahead of you to maintain a set speed.
NOTE:
 If the ACC sensor detects a vehicle ahead, ACC will
apply limited braking or acceleration (not to exceed the
original set speed) automatically to maintain a preset
following distance, while matching the speed of the
vehicle ahead.
 Any chassis/suspension or tire size modifications to
the vehicle will affect the performance of the Adaptive
Cruise Control and Forward Collision Warning system.
 Fixed Speed Cruise Control (ACC not enabled) will not
detect vehicles directly ahead of you. Always be aware
of the feature selected
Úpage 402.
WARNING!
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is a convenience
system. It is not a substitute for active driver involve -
ment. It is always the driver’s responsibility to be
attentive of road, traffic, and weather conditions,
vehicle speed, distance to the vehicle ahead and,
most importantly, brake operation to ensure safe
operation of the vehicle under all road conditions.
Your complete attention is always required while
driving to maintain safe control of your vehicle.
Failure to follow these warnings can result in a colli -
sion and death or serious personal injury.
 The ACC system:
 Does not react to pedestrians, oncoming vehi -
cles, and stationary objects (e.g., a stopped
vehicle in a traffic jam or a disabled vehicle).
 Cannot take street, traffic, and weather condi -
tions into account, and may be limited upon
adverse sight distance conditions.
 Does not always fully recognize complex driving
conditions, which can result in wrong or missing
distance warnings.
 Will bring your vehicle to a complete stop while
following a vehicle ahead and hold your vehicle
for approximately three minutes in the stop posi -
tion. If the vehicle ahead does not start moving
within three minutes the parking brake will be
activated, and the ACC system will be canceled.
You should not utilize the ACC system:
 When driving in fog, heavy rain, heavy snow, sleet,
heavy traffic, and complex driving situations (i.e., in
highway construction zones).
 When entering a turn lane or highway off-ramp; when
driving on roads that are winding, icy, snow-covered,
slippery, or have steep uphill or downhill slopes.
 When towing a trailer up or down steep slopes.
 When circumstances do not allow safe driving at a
constant speed.
WARNING!
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 145

172STARTING AND OPERATING
VEHICLE LOADING
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING
(GVWR)
The GVWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle
including driver, passengers, vehicle, options and cargo.
The label also specifies maximum capacities of front and
rear 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.
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, do 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 ensure 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 limitations are met. Store the
heavier items down low and be sure that the weight is
distributed equally. Stow all loose items securely before
driving.
Improper weight distributions can have an adverse effect
on the way your vehicle steers and handles and the way
the brakes operate.
WARNING!
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or
the maximum front and rear GAWR. If you do, parts on
your vehicle can break, or it can change the way your
vehicle handles. This could cause you to lose control.
Overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 172

STARTING AND OPERATING175
RECOMMENDED DISTRIBUTION HITCH
ADJUSTMENT
Towing With Air Suspension — If Equipped

1. Verify that the vehicle is at the normal ride height.

NOTE:The vehicle must remain in the engine run position with all
doors closed while attaching a trailer for proper leveling of
the air suspension system.
2. Position the truck to be ready to connect to the trailer
(do not connect the trailer).
3. Enable tire jack mode through the instrument cluster or touchscreen radio settings. Tire jack mode will be
canceled and the procedure must be restarted if the
vehicle is driven at speeds above 5 mph (8 km/h).
4. Measure the height from the top of the front wheel opening on the fender to ground; this is height H1.

Measuring Height (H)

5. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight-distributing bars connected.
6. Measure the height from the top of the front wheel opening on the fender to the ground; this is height H2.
7. Install and adjust the tension in the weight-distributing bars per the manufacturer’s
recommendations so that the height of the front
fender is approximately (H2-H1)/3+H1
(about 1/3 the difference between H2 and H1 above
normal ride height [H1]). 8. Use the instrument cluster or touchscreen radio
settings and switch off tire jack mode. Make sure the
truck returns to normal ride height. Perform a visual
inspection of the trailer and weight-distributing hitch
to confirm the manufacturer’s recommendations
have been met.
9. The truck can now be driven.
NOTE:For all towing conditions, we recommend towing with
Tow/Haul mode engaged.
Measurement Example Example Height (mm)
H1 925
H2 946
H2-H1 21
(H2-H1)/3 7
(H2-H1)/3 + H1 932
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 175

184STARTING AND OPERATING
TOWING TIPS
Before towing, practice turning, stopping, and backing up
the trailer in an area located away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy to avoid
frequent shifting when towing. However, if frequent
shifting does occur while in DRIVE, select TOW/HAUL
mode or select a lower gear range (using the Electronic
Range Select (ERS) shift control).
NOTE:Using TOW/HAUL mode or selecting a lower gear range
(using the ERS shift control) while operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions will improve performance
and extend transmission life by reducing excessive
shifting and heat build up. This action will also provide
better engine braking.
Tow/Haul Mode
To reduce potential for automatic transmission
overheating, activate TOW/HAUL mode when driving in
hilly areas, or select a lower gear range (using the (ERS)
shift control) on more severe grades.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
 When using the Cruise Control, if you experience speed
drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed.
 Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with light loads to
maximize fuel efficiency.
Air Suspension System
To aid in attaching/detaching the trailer from the vehicle,
the air suspension system can be used Úpage 134.
Selecting Tow/Haul or connecting a trailer with an
Integrated Trailer Brake Module (ITBM) will disable
Automatic Aero mode to avoid height changes while
towing and shifting loads or tongue weights.
NOTE:The vehicle must remain in the engine running position
while attaching a trailer for proper leveling of the air
suspension system.
SNOWPLOW
Snowplow Prep Packages are available as a factory
installed option. These packages include components
necessary to equip your vehicle with a snowplow.
NOTE:Before installation of a snowplow it is highly recom -
mended that the owner/installer obtain and follow the
recommendations contained within the current Body
Builder’s Guide. See an authorized dealer, installer or
snowplow manufacturer for this information. There are
unique electrical systems that must be connected to
properly ensure operator safety and prevent overloading
vehicle systems.
WARNING!
Attaching a snowplow to this vehicle could adversely
affect performance of the airbag system in a collision.
Do not expect that the airbag will perform as described
earlier in this manual.
CAUTION!
The “Lamp Out” indicator could illuminate if exterior
lamps are not properly installed.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 184