cooling RAM 1500 2023 Owners Manual

6
SAFETY
SAFETY FEATURES........................................................... 262
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ................................. 262Rear Seat Reminder Alert (RSRA) ............................ 263
Electronic Brake Control (EBC) System .................. 263
AUXILIARY DRIVING SYSTEMS ...................................... 269 Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) —
If Equipped ............................................................... 269
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) With
Mitigation — If Equipped ........................................... 274
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ............... 277
OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEMS ................................ 282 Occupant Restraint Systems Features ................... 282Important Safety Precautions .................................. 282Seat Belt Systems .................................................... 282
Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) .................. 288Child Restraints ........................................................ 298
SAFETY TIPS .................................................................... 311 Transporting Passengers .......................................... 311
Transporting Pets ..................................................... 311
Connected Vehicles .................................................. 311
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside
The Vehicle ............................................................... 311
Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make
Outside The Vehicle .................................................. 312
Exhaust Gas ............................................................. 313Carbon Monoxide Warnings .................................... 313
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS .................................... 314
ASSIST AND SOS SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED ................. 314
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING .................................... 317 Preparations For Jacking.......................................... 317Jack Location ............................................................ 318
Removal Of Jack And Tools ...................................... 318
Removing The Spare Tire ......................................... 319
Jacking Instructions.................................................. 321To Stow The Flat Or Spare ....................................... 323
Reinstalling The Jack And Tools .............................. 324
JUMP STARTING ............................................................. 325 Preparations For Jump Start .................................... 325Jump Starting Procedure.......................................... 325
REFUELING IN EMERGENCY........................................... 326
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS ....................................... 327
MANUAL PARK RELEASE ............................................... 328
FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE .......................................... 329
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE ..................................... 330 Two-Wheel Drive Models .......................................... 331Four-Wheel Drive Models ......................................... 331
Emergency Tow Hooks — If Equipped ..................... 332
ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE SYSTEM
(EARS) .............................................................................. 332
EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ..................................... 332
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING ................................................. 333 Maintenance Plan ..................................................... 334
ENGINE COMPARTMENT ................................................337 3.6L Engine With Stop/Start ................................... 337
5.7L Engine Without Stop/Start ............................... 3385.7L Engine With Stop/Start .................................... 339
Checking Oil Level ..................................................... 340Adding Washer Fluid ................................................ 340
Maintenance-Free Battery ....................................... 340Pressure Washing ..................................................... 341
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE ................................................. 341 Engine Oil .................................................................. 341
Engine Oil Filter ........................................................ 342
Engine Air Cleaner Filter .......................................... 342
Air Conditioner Maintenance ................................... 344
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection ............................... 346Body Lubrication ....................................................... 347
Windshield Wiper Blades ......................................... 347
Exhaust System ........................................................ 348
Cooling System ......................................................... 349
Brake System ........................................................... 352
Automatic Transmission .......................................... 353
Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle
Fluid Level ................................................................. 353
Transfer Case ........................................................... 354
Fuses .......................................................................... 354Bulb Replacement .................................................... 365

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 6

54GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
CLIMATE CONTROLS
The Climate Control system allows you to regulate the
temperature, air flow, and direction of air circulating
throughout the vehicle. The controls are located on the
touchscreen, on the sides of the touchscreen, or on the
instrument panel below the radio.
AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL
D
ESCRIPTIONS AND FUNCTIONS

Uconnect 5 or 5 NAV With 8.4-inch Display
Automatic Temperature Controls Uconnect 5 NAV With 12-inch Display
Automatic Temperature Controls

NOTE:
Icons and descriptions can vary based upon vehicle
equipment.
MAX A/C Button
Press and release the MAX A/C button on the
touchscreen to change the current setting to
the coldest output of air. The MAX A/C indicator
illuminates when MAX A/C is on. Pressing the
button again will cause the MAX A/C operation to exit.
NOTE:
 MAX A/C sets the control for maximum cooling
performance.
 The MAX A/C button is only available on the
touchscreen.
A/C Button
Press and release this button on the
touchscreen, or push the button on the
faceplate to change the current setting.
The A/C indicator illuminates when A/C is on.
Recirculation Button
Press and release this button on the
touchscreen, or push the button on the
faceplate, to change the system between
Recirculation mode and outside air mode.
The Recirculation indicator and the A/C indicator
illuminate when the Recirculation button is pressed.
Recirculation can be used when outside conditions, such
as smoke, odors, dust, or high humidity are present.
Recirculation can be used in all modes. Recirculation may
be unavailable (button on the touchscreen greyed out) if
conditions exist that could create fogging on the inside of
the windshield. The A/C can be deselected manually
without disturbing the mode control selection. Continuous
use of the Recirculation mode may make the inside air
stuffy and window fogging may occur. Extended use of this
mode is not recommended. Recirculation mode may
automatically adjust to optimize customer experience for
warming, cooling, dehumidification, etc.
In cold weather, use of Recirculation mode may lead to
excessive window fogging. The recirculation feature may
be unavailable if conditions exist that could create fogging
on the inside of the windshield.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 54

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE59
AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL
(ATC) — I
F EQUIPPED
Automatic Operation

1. Push the AUTO button on the faceplate, or the AUTO
button on the touchscreen on the Automatic
Temperature Control (ATC) Panel.

2. Next, adjust the temperature that you would like the system to maintain by adjusting the driver and
passenger temperature control buttons. Once the
desired temperature is displayed, the system will
achieve and automatically maintain that
temperature.
3. When the system is set up for your comfort level, it is not necessary to change the settings. You will
experience the greatest efficiency by simply allowing
the system to function automatically.
NOTE:
It is not necessary to move the temperature settings for
cold or hot vehicles. The system automatically adjusts
the temperature, mode, and blower speed to provide
comfort as quickly as possible.
 The temperature can be displayed in US or Metric units
by selecting the US/Metric customer-programmable
feature within Uconnect Settings
Úpage 191.
To provide you with maximum comfort in the Automatic
mode during cold start-ups, the blower fan will remain on
low until the engine warms up. The blower will increase in
speed and transition into Auto mode.
Manual Operation Override
This system offers a full complement of manual override
features. The AUTO symbol in the front ATC display will be
turned off when the system is being used in the manual
mode.
CLIMATE VOICE RECOGNITION —
I
F EQUIPPED
Adjust vehicle temperatures hands-free and keep
everyone comfortable while you keep moving ahead.
Push the VR button on the steering wheel. After the beep,
say one of the following commands:
 “Set driver temperature to 70 degrees”
 “Set passenger temperature to 70 degrees”
Did you know: Voice Command for Climate may only be
used to adjust the interior temperature of your vehicle.
Voice Command will not work to adjust the heated seats
or steering wheel if equipped.
OPERATING TIPS
Refer to the chart at the end of this section for suggested
control settings for various weather conditions.
Summer Operation
The engine cooling system must be protected with a
high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide proper corrosion
protection and to protect against engine overheating. OAT
coolant (conforming to MS.90032) is recommended.
Winter Operation
To ensure the best possible heater and defroster
performance, make sure the engine cooling system is
functioning properly and the proper amount, type, and
concentration of coolant is used. Use of the Air
Recirculation mode during Winter months is not
recommended, because it may cause window fogging.
Vacation/Storage
For information on maintaining the Climate Control system
when the vehicle is being stored for an extended period of
time, see
Úpage 387.
Window Fogging
Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in mild, rainy,
and/or humid weather. To clear the windows, select
Defrost or Mix mode and increase the front blower speed.
Do not use the Recirculation mode without A/C for long
periods, as fogging may occur.
Outside Air Intake
Make sure the air intake, located directly in front of the
windshield, is free of obstructions, such as leaves. Leaves
collected in the air intake may reduce airflow, and if they
enter the air distribution box, they could plug the water
drains. In Winter months, make sure the air intake is clear
of ice, slush, and snow.
Cabin Air Filter
The Climate Control system filters out dust and pollen
from the air. Contact an authorized dealer to service your
cabin air filter, and to have it replaced when needed.
2

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 59

94GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
MIDLINE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
D
ESCRIPTIONS — GASOLINE

1. Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM x 1000).
2. Voltmeter When the vehicle is in the RUN state, the gauge
indicates the electrical system voltage. The
pointer should stay within the normal range if the
battery is charged. If the pointer moves to either
extreme left or right and remains there during
normal driving, the electrical system should be
serviced.
NOTE:In vehicles equipped with Stop/Start, a reduced voltage
may be present during an Autostop.
3. Instrument Cluster Display
When the appropriate conditions exist, this display
shows the instrument cluster display messages
Úpage 98.
 The display always shows one of the main menu
items after ignition on. 4. Oil Pressure Gauge
The pointer should always indicate the oil pres -
sure when the engine is running. A continuous
high or low reading under normal driving condi -
tions may indicate a lubrication system malfunc -
tion. Immediate service should be obtained from
an authorized dealer.
NOTE:In vehicles equipped with Stop/Start, an oil pressure indi -
cation of zero is normal during an Autostop.
5. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
6. Temperature Gauge The pointer shows engine coolant temperature.
The pointer positioned within the normal range
indicates that the engine cooling system is oper -
ating satisfactorily.
 The pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera -
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain
grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be
allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal
operating range. 7. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank
when the ignition is in the ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to the
side of the vehicle where the fuel door
is located.
WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or others
could be badly burned by steam or boiling coolant.
You may want to call an authorized dealer for service if
your vehicle overheats
Úpage 350.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads “H,” pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air
conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into
the normal range. If the pointer remains on the “H,”
turn the engine off immediately and call an authorized
dealer for service.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 94

96GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
HIGHLINE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
D
ESCRIPTIONS — GASOLINE

1. Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM x 1000).
2. Instrument Cluster Display When the appropriate conditions exist, this display
shows the instrument cluster display messages
Úpage 98.
 The display always shows one of the main menu
items after ignition on.
3. Speedometer Indicates vehicle speed. 4. Temperature Gauge
The pointer shows engine coolant temperature.
The pointer positioned within the normal range
indicates that the engine cooling system is oper -
ating satisfactorily.
 The pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera -
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain
grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be
allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal
operating range. 5. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank
when the ignition is in the ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to the
side of the vehicle where the fuel door
is located.WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or others
could be badly burned by steam or boiling coolant. You
may want to call an authorized dealer for service if your
vehicle overheats
Úpage 350.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads “H,” pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air
conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into
the normal range. If the pointer remains on the “H,”
turn the engine off immediately and call an authorized
dealer for service.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 96

98GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
PREMIUM INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
D
ESCRIPTIONS — GASOLINE

1. Temperature Gauge

The temperature gauge shows engine coolant
temperature. Any reading within 203°F - 230°F
(95°C - 110°C) indicates that the engine cooling
system is operating satisfactorily.
 The pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera -
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain
grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be
allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal
operating range. 2. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
3. Fuel Gauge The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank
when the Keyless Push Button Ignition is in the
ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to the
side of the vehicle where the fuel door
is located.
4. Tachometer Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per
minute (RPM x 1000).
5. Instrument Cluster Display The instrument cluster display features a driver
interactive display
Úpage 98.
NOTE:The hard telltales will illuminate for a bulb check when the
ignition is first cycled.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
Depending on your vehicles trim level, features and
options may vary.
Your vehicle will be equipped with an instrument cluster
display, which offers useful information to the driver. With
the ignition in the OFF mode, opening/closing of a door will
activate the display for viewing, and display the total miles,
or kilometers, in the odometer. Your instrument cluster
display is designed to display important information about
your vehicle’s systems and features. Using a driver interactive display located on the
instrument panel, your instrument cluster display can
show you how systems are working and give you warnings
when they are not. The steering wheel mounted controls
allow you to scroll through the main menus and
submenus. You can access the specific information you
want and make selections and adjustments.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
L
OCATION AND CONTROLS

Instrument Cluster Display/Controls Location

WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or others
could be badly burned by steam or boiling coolant. You
may want to call an authorized dealer for service if your
vehicle overheats
Úpage 350.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot engine cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads “H,” pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air
conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into
the normal range. If the pointer remains on the “H,”
turn the engine off immediately and call an authorized
dealer for service.1 — Instrument Cluster Display Screen
2 — Instrument Cluster Display Controls

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142STARTING AND OPERATING
To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following Must Occur:

1. The system must be in STOP/START READY state. A
STOP/START READY message is displayed in the
instrument cluster within the Stop/Start section

Ú
page 98.

2. The vehicle must be decelerating and likely coming to a complete stop.
3. The transmission gear selector must be in DRIVE and the brake pedal pressed.
The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to the
zero position and the Stop/Start telltale will illuminate
indicating you are in an Autostop. While in an Autostop,
the Climate Controls system may automatically adjust
airflow to maintain cabin comfort. Customer settings will
be maintained upon return to an engine running condition.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions to see if they are fulfilled.
In following situations, the engine will not Autostop:
 Driver’s seat belt is not buckled
 Driver’s door is not closed
 The vehicle is on a steep grade
 Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an accept -
able cabin temperature has not been achieved 
HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower speed
 Engine has not reached normal operating temperature
 Engine or exhaust temperature is too high
 The battery is charging
 The transmission is not in DRIVE
 Hood is open
 Transfer case is in 4WD LOW
 TOW/HAUL mode is selected
 Accelerator pedal input
 Excessive 12 Volt loads
 Brake application is adequate to obtain and maintain
a stop
It may be possible to operate the vehicle several
consecutive times in extreme conditions and not meet all
criteria to enable an Autostop state.TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN
A
UTOSTOP MODE
While in DRIVE, the engine will start when the brake pedal
is released or the accelerator pedal is pressed and the
transmission will automatically reengage upon engine
restart. Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start
Automatically While In Autostop Mode
The engine will start automatically when:

The transmission selector is moved from DRIVE to
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, or PARK
 To maintain cabin temperature near the HVAC settings
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode
 12 Volt demand requires engine restart
 Stop/Start OFF switch is pushed
 Transfer case is in 4WD LOW
 The emissions system override is present
 A Stop/Start system error is present
Conditions That Force An Automatic Shift To Park While In
Autostop Mode
The engine will not start automatically and the
transmission will be placed in PARK if:
 The driver door is open and brake pedal released
 The driver door is open and the driver seat belt is
unbuckled
 The engine hood has been opened
 A Stop/Start system error is present
The engine may then be restarted by moving the
transmission shift selector out of PARK (e.g., to DRIVE) or,
in some cases, only by a key start. The instrument cluster
will display a “SHIFT OUT OF PARK” message, or a
“STOP/START KEY START REQUIRED” message, to
indicate which action is required
Úpage 98.

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SAFETY313
(Continued)
Lights
Have someone observe the operation of brake lights and
exterior lights while you work the controls. Check turn
signal and high beam indicator lights on the instrument
panel.
Door Latches
Check for proper closing, latching, and locking.
Fluid Leaks
Check area under the vehicle after overnight parking for
fuel, coolant, oil, or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline
fumes are detected or if fuel or brake fluid leaks are
suspected, the cause should be located and corrected
immediately.
EXHAUST GAS
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into
the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust
system.
Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the exhaust
system, when exhaust fumes can be detected inside the
vehicle, or when the underside or rear of the vehicle is
damaged, have an authorized dealer 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,
inspect the exhaust system each time the vehicle is raised
for lubrication or oil change. Replace as required.
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNINGS
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), follow
these safety tips:
Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in
confined areas any longer than needed to move your
vehicle in or out of the area.
If you are required to drive with the trunk/liftgate/
rear doors open, make sure that all windows are
closed and the climate control BLOWER switch is set
at high speed. DO NOT use the recirculation mode.
 If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running, adjust your heating or cooling
controls to force outside air into the vehicle. Set the
blower at high speed.
WARNING!
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 condi -
tions repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive with all
side windows fully open.
6

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY325
JUMP STARTING
If your vehicle has a discharged battery, it can be jump
started using a set of jumper cables and a battery in
another vehicle, or by using a portable battery booster
pack. Jump starting can be dangerous if done improperly,
so please follow the procedures in this section carefully.
NOTE:When using a portable battery booster pack, follow the
manufacturer's operating instructions and precautions.
PREPARATIONS FOR JUMP START
The battery in your vehicle is located in the front of the
engine compartment, behind the left headlight assembly.

Positive (+) Battery Post Location

NOTE:
The positive battery post may be covered with a protective
cap. Lift up on the cap to gain access to the positive
battery post. Do not jump off fuses. Only jump directly off
positive post which has a positive (+) symbol on or around
the post.
See the following steps to prepare for jump starting:

1. Shift the automatic transmission into PARK, apply the parking brake and turn the ignition OFF.

2. Turn off the heater, radio, and all electrical accessories.
3. If using another vehicle to jump start the battery, park the vehicle within the jumper cables’ reach, apply the
parking brake and make sure the ignition is OFF. 4. Pull upward and remove the protective cover over the
positive (+) battery post.
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE
WARNING!
Do not attempt jump starting if the battery is frozen. It
could rupture or explode and cause personal injury.
CAUTION!
Do not use a portable battery booster pack or any other
booster source with a system voltage greater than
12 Volts or damage to the battery, starter motor,
alternator or electrical system may occur.
WARNING!
Do not allow vehicles to touch each other as this could
establish a ground connection and personal injury
could result.
WARNING!
 Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan whenever
the hood is raised. It can start anytime the ignition
switch is ON. You can be injured by moving fan
blades.
 Remove any metal jewelry such as rings, watch
bands and bracelets that could make an inadvertent
electrical contact. You could be seriously injured.
 Batteries contain sulfuric acid that can burn your
skin or eyes and generate hydrogen gas which is
flammable and explosive. Keep open flames or
sparks away from the battery.
WARNING!
Failure to follow this jump starting procedure could
result in personal injury or property damage due to
battery explosion.
CAUTION!
Failure to follow these procedures could result in
damage to the charging system of the booster vehicle
or the discharged vehicle.
7

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY327
(Continued)

Fuel Funnel Location

NOTE:
In certain cold conditions, ice may prevent the fuel door
from opening. If this occurs, lightly push on the fuel door
to break the ice buildup and re-release the fuel door using
the inside release button. Do not pry on the door.
Emergency Gas Can Refueling:
Most gas cans will not open the flapper doors. A funnel is
provided to allow emergency refueling with a gas can.
See the following steps for refueling:

1. Retrieve funnel from under the passenger’s front seat.

2. Insert funnel into same filler pipe opening as the fuel nozzle.

Inserting Funnel

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 spare tire storage area.IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
If the vehicle is overheating, it will need to be serviced by
an authorized dealer.
Potential signs of vehicle overheating:
Temperature gauge is at HOT (H)
 Strong smell of coolant
 White smoke coming from engine or exhaust
 Coolant bottle coolant has bubbles present
CAUTION!
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not “top off” the
fuel tank after filling.
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or near the
vehicle when the fuel door is open or the tank is
being filled.
Never add fuel when the engine is running. This is in
violation of most state and federal fire regulations
and may cause the Malfunction Indicator Light to
turn on.
 A fire may result if fuel is pumped into a portable
container that is inside of a vehicle. You could be
burned. Always place fuel containers on the ground
while filling.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot engine
coolant (antifreeze) or steam from your radiator. If you
see or hear steam coming from under the hood, do not
open the hood until the radiator has had time to cool.
Never try to open a cooling system pressure cap when
the radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
WARNING!
7

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