key Ram 2500 2017 Workshop Manual

To turn on the power outlet, simply plug in the device. The
outlet automatically turns off when the device is un-
plugged.
NOTE:Due to built-in overload protection, the power
inverter will shut down if the power rating is exceeded.
WARNING!
To avoid serious injury or death:
• Do not insert any objects into the receptacles.
• Do not touch with wet hands.
• Close the lid when not in use.
• If this outlet is mishandled, it may cause an electric
shock and failure.
AUXILIARY SWITCHES — IF EQUIPPED
There can be up to five auxiliary switches located in the
lower switch bank of the instrument panel which can be
used to power various electronic devices and PTO (Power
Take Off) – If Equipped. If Power Take Off is equipped, it
will take the place of the fifth Auxiliary switch. Connec-
tions to the switches are found under the hood in the
connectors attached to the auxiliary Power Distribution
Center.
You have the ability to configure the functionality of the
auxiliary switches via the instrument cluster display. All
switches can now be configured for setting the switch type
operation to latching or momentary, power source of either
battery or ignition, and ability to hold last state across key
cycles.
NOTE: Holding last state conditions are met when switch
type is set to latching and power source is set to ignition.
For further information on using the auxiliary switches,
please refer to the Ram Body Builders Guide by accessing
www.rambodybuilder.com and choosing the appropriate
links.
190 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CAUTION!
Leaving the lid open for extended periods of time
could cause the vehicle battery to discharge. If the lid
is required to stay open for extended periods of time, it
is recommended that the bin lights be turned off
manually using the on/off switch.
Cargo bins feature two removable drain plugs (to allow
water to drain from bins). To remove plug, pull up on the
edge. To install push plug downward into drain hole.
NOTE: Provisions are provided in the bins for cargo
dividers and shelf supports. These accessories (in addition
to other RamBox accessories) are available from MOPAR.
Locking And Unlocking RamBox
Push and release the lock or unlock button on the key fob
to lock and unlock all doors, the tailgate and the RamBox
(if equipped). Refer to “Remote Keyless Entry” for further
details. The RamBox storage bins can be locked using the vehicle key. To lock and unlock the storage bin, insert the
key into the keyhole on the push button and turn clockwise
to lock or counterclockwise to unlock. Always return the
key to the upright (vertical) position before removing the
key from the push button.
CAUTION!
•
Ensure cargo bin lids are closed and latched before
moving or driving vehicle.
• Loads applied to the top of the bin lid should be
minimized to prevent damage to the lid and latching/
hinging mechanisms.
• Damage to the RamBox bin may occur due to heavy/
sharp objects placed in bin that shift due to vehicle
motion. In order to minimize potential for damage,
secure all cargo to prevent movement and protect
inside surfaces of bin from heavy/sharp objects with
appropriate padding.
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UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 211

Bed Extender — If Equipped
The bed extender has three functional positions:
•Storage Position
• Divider Position
• Extender Position
Storage Position
The storage position for the bed extender is at the front of
the truck bed which maximizes the bed cargo area when
not in use.
To install the bed extender into the storage position,
perform the following:
1. Make sure the center handle is unlocked using the
vehicle key and rotate the center handle vertically to
release the extender side gates.
Center Handle And Lock
1 — Center Handle Lock
2 — Handle
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UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 213

4. Rotate the center handle horizontally to secure the sidegates in the closed position.
5. Lock the center handle using the vehicle key to secure the panel into place.
Divider Position
The divider position is intended for managing your cargo
and assisting in keeping cargo from moving around the
bed. There are 11 divider slots along the bed inner panels
which allow for various positions to assist in managing
your cargo. To install the bed extender into a divider position, perform
the following:
1. Make sure the center handle is unlocked using the
vehicle key and rotate the center handle vertically to
release the extender side gates.
Side Gates Closed
Center Handle And Lock
1 — Center Handle Lock
2 — Handle
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UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 215

To remove the cleats from the utility rail, remove the end
cap screw located in the center of the end cap, using a #T30
Torx head driver. Remove the end cap and slide the cleat
off the end of the rail.SLIDE-IN CAMPERS
Camper Applications
Certain truck models are not recommended for slide-in
campers. To determine if your vehicle is excluded, please
refer to the “Consumer Information Truck-Camper Load-
ing” document available from your authorized dealer. For
safety reasons, follow all instructions in this important
document.
NOTE:When a cap or pickup camper is installed on a
vehicle, an alternate Center High-Mounted Stop Light
(CHMSL) must be provided.
EASY-OFF TAILGATE
To simplify mounting of a camper unit with an overhang,
the tailgate can be removed.
NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with a rear camera or
Remote Keyless Entry, the electrical connector must be
disconnected prior to removing the tailgate.
Utility Rail End Cap
220 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Disconnecting The Rear Camera Or Remote
Keyless Entry — If Equipped
1. Open the tailgate to access the rear camera or RemoteKeyless Entry connector bracket located on the rear sill. 2. Remove the connector bracket from the sill by pushing
inward in the locking tab.
3. Disconnect the chassis wiring harness, ensuring the connector bracket does not fall into the sill.
4. Connect the chassis plug and bracket (provided in the glove compartment) to the chassis wiring harness and
insert the bracket back into the sill.
5. Connect the tailgate plug (provided in the glove com- partment) to the tailgate wiring harness to ensure that
the terminals do not corrode.
Connector Bracket
Locking Tab
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UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 221

WARNING!
To avoid inhaling carbon monoxide, which is deadly,
the exhaust system on vehicles equipped with “Cap or
Slide-In Campers” should extend beyond the over-
hanging camper compartment and be free of leaks.
Locking Tailgate
The lock is located next to the tailgate handle. The tailgate
can be locked using the vehicle key or by locking the truck
with the key fob if equipped with remote keyless entry.
TRI-FOLD TONNEAU COVER — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with a Tri-Fold Tonneau
Cover which consists of different features:
•Easy Tri-Fold cover
• Tonneau fore aft locator
• Crosscar inside bed locator
• Front and rear clamps
• Stowage strap
• Locking Capability NOTE:
The Tonneau Cover can be folded up and secured
at the front of the box without removing completely.
Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover Removal
To remove the Tonneau Cover follow the following steps:
1. Lower the tailgate to gain access to the first set of two Tonneau Cover clamps located on the driver and pas-
senger underside of the Tonneau Cover.
Clamped Position
NOTE: If clamp wire is damaged replace immediately.
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 223

Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning Light
Red TelltaleLight What It Means
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning Light
This light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. If a prob-
lem is detected while the engine is running, the light will either stay on or flash depending on
the nature of the problem. Cycle the ignition key when the vehicle is safely and completely
stopped and the transmission is placed in the PARK position. The light should turn off. If the
light remains on with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be drivable; however, see an
authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.
If the light continues to flash when the engine is running, immediate service is required and you
may experience reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle, or engine stall and your vehicle
may require towing. The light will come on when the ignition is first turned to ON/RUN and
remain on briefly as a bulb check. If the light does not come on during starting, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer.
246 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Yellow Telltale Indicator Lights
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
Yellow TelltaleLight What It Means
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is a part of an Onboard Diagnostic System
called OBD II that monitors engine and automatic transmission control systems. The light will
illuminate when the ignition is in the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the bulb does not
come on when turning the key from OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition checked promptly.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the
light after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on through several typical
driving styles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing.
When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to alert serious conditions that could lead to im-
mediate loss of power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle should be serviced as
soon as possible if this occurs.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as referenced
above, can reach higher temperatures than in normal
operating conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive
slowly or park over flammable substances such as dry
plants, wood, cardboard, etc. This could result in death or
serious injury to the driver, occupants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause damage to the engine
control system. It also could affect fuel economy and
driveability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic
converter damage and power loss will soon occur.
Immediate service is required.
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 249

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY
Your vehicle may be equipped with an instrument cluster
display, which offers useful information to the driver. With
the ignition in the STOP/OFF position (and the key
removed, for vehicles with mechanical key), 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 instru-
ment panel, your instrument cluster display can show you
how systems are working and give you warnings when
they aren’t. The steering wheel mounted controls allow
you to scroll through and enter the main menus and
submenus. You can access the specific information you
want and make selections and adjustments.
Instrument Cluster Display Controls
The instrument cluster display features a driver-interactive
display that is located in the instrument cluster.
Base Instrument Cluster Display
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 267