transmission fluid Ram 2500 2020 Owner's Guide

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE417
checked. Operating the vehicle with an
improper fluid level can cause severe transmis -
sion damage.
Fluid Level Check — Six-Speed Transmission
It is best to check the fluid level when the trans -
mission is at normal operating temperature
(158-176°F / 70-80°C). This normally occurs
after at least 15 miles (25 km) of driving. At normal operating temperature the fluid cannot
be held comfortably between the fingertips. You
can read the transmission sump temperature in
the instrument cluster screen refer to “Instru -
ment Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know Your
Instrument Panel” for further information.
Use the following procedure to check the trans -
mission fluid level properly:

1. Monitor the transmission temperature using the instrument cluster display, and
operate the vehicle as required to reach the normal operating temperature. If the
transmission is not functioning properly, or
the vehicle cannot be driven, see the NOTE
and CAUTION below about checking the
fluid level at colder temperatures.

2. Park the vehicle on level ground.
3. Run the engine at normal idle speed for at least 60 seconds, and leave the engine
running for the rest of this procedure.
4. Fully apply the parking brake, and press the brake pedal.
5. Place the gear selector momentarily into each gear position (allowing time for the
transmission to fully engage in each posi -
tion), ending with the transmission in PARK.
6. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and rein -
sert it until seated.
7. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on both sides. The fluid level
reading is only valid if there is a solid
coating of oil on both sides of the dipstick.
Note that the holes in the dipstick will be full
of fluid if the actual level is at or above the
hole. The fluid level should be between the
“HOT” (upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operating temperature. If
the fluid level is low, add fluid through the
dipstick tube to bring it to the proper level.
Do not overfill.
Use ONLY the specified fluid
refer to "Fluids And Lubricants" in “Tech -
nical Specifications” for fluid specifications.
After adding any quantity of oil through the
dipstick tube, wait a minimum of two
minutes for the oil to fully drain into the
transmission before rechecking the fluid
level.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two “COLD” (lower)
holes on the dipstick with the fluid at 60-70°F /
16-21°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An
authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
7

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418SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
8. Reinsert the dipstick. Check for leaks.
Release the parking brake.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two COLD (lower) holes
on the dipstick with the fluid at 68-86°F /
20-30°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed
Transmission
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not
required. However, change the fluid and filter if
the fluid becomes contaminated (with water,
etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for
any reason.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Six Speed
Transmission
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filters if the
fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.),
or if the transmission is disassembled for any
reason.
Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle Fluid
Level
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks
are not required. When the vehicle is serviced
for other reasons the exterior surfaces of the
axle assembly should be inspected. If gear oil
leakage is suspected inspect the fluid level.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information. This
inspection should be made with the vehicle in a
level position.
For all 2500/3500 Model axles, the fluid level
should be 1/4 in ± 1/4 in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm)
below the fill hole on the 9.25 in front, 11.5 in
rear axle, and 12.0 in rear axle.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information.
NOTE:
The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differ -
ential components. Operation of the vehicle in
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.

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454TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Chassis
FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS — DIESEL ENGINE
Engine
Component Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Automatic Transmission – Eight-Speed Automatic Use only Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid, or
equivalent. Failure to use the correct fluid may affect the function or
performance of your transmission.
Transfer Case We recommend you use Mopar Transfer Case Lubricant for Borg Warner
44-44 and 44-45.
Front and Rear Axle We recommend you use SAE 75W-85 HD Ram GL-5 Synthetic Axle
Lubricant in 9.25 Front, 11.5 and 12.0 (Single Rear Wheel) Rear Axles.
Use Mopar GL-5 Synthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-140 in 12.0 (Dual
Rear Wheel) Rear axles. Limited slip additive is required for limited slip
axles.
Brake Master Cylinder We recommend you use Mopar DOT 3.
Power Steering Reservoir We recommend you use Mopar Power Steering Fluid +4 or Mopar ATF+4
Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Component
Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Engine Coolant We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/
150,000 Mile Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology).

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 454

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS457
Chassis
Component Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Automatic Transmission – 6.7L Diesel with 68RFE Only use ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid. Failure to use ATF+4 fluid
may affect the function or performance of your transmission. We
recommend Mopar ATF+4 fluid.
Automatic Transmission – 6.7L Diesel with AS69RC Only use Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.Failure
to use the proper fluid may affect the function orperformance of your
transmission
Transfer Case We recommend you use Mopar BW44–44 Transfer Case Fluid.
Front and Rear Axle Fluid (2500/3500) We recommend you use SAE 75W-85 HD Ram GL-5 Synthetic Axle
Lubricant in 9.25 Front, 11.5 and 12.0 (Single Rear Wheel) Rear Axles.
Use Mopar GL-5 Synthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-140 in 12.0 (Dual
Rear Wheel) Rear axles. Limited slip additive is required for limited slip
axles.
Brake Master Cylinder We recommend you use Mopar DOT 3.
8

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540
INDEX
A
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (Cruise
Control)
.......................................................... 275
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)............... 413
Adding Fuel.......................................... 312, 313
Additives, Fuel............................................... 446AdjustDown
........................................................... 34
Forward....................................................... 34
Rearward..................................................... 34
Up................................................................ 34
Adjustable Pedals............................................ 43
Air BagAir Bag Operation
...................................... 184
Air Bag Warning Light................................ 181Enhanced Accident Response......... 189, 371
Event Data Recorder (EDR)....................... 371
If Deployment Occurs................................ 188Knee Impact Bolsters................................ 184
Maintaining Your Air Bag System.............. 189
Maintenance............................................. 189Redundant Air Bag Warning Light.............182
Transporting Pets...................................... 208
Air Bag Light............................... 130, 181, 209
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner
Filter)
................................................... 398, 419
Air Conditioner Maintenance........................ 400
Air Conditioner Refrigerant........................... 400
Air Conditioner System................................. 400
Air Conditioning......................................... 57, 68
Air Conditioning Filter..............................70, 401
Air Conditioning System................................... 68Air Conditioning, Operating Tips....................... 69
Air Filter........................................................ 398
Air PressureTires
......................................................... 429
AlarmPanic
........................................................... 15
Security Alarm....................................25, 131
Alterations/ModificationsVehicle
......................................................... 12Android Auto................................................. 533
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)................. 412, 451
Capacites................................................. 451Disposal................................................... 414
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)...................... 144
Anti-Lock Warning Light................................ 136Apple CarPlay................................................ 533
Assist, Hill Start............................................. 151
Audio Systems (Radio).................................. 458
Auto Down Power Windows............................. 71
Automatic Door Locks...................................... 31
Automatic Headlights.......................................51
Automatic Tailgate Release.............................75
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)..............68
Automatic Transmission....................... 233, 418
Adding Fluid.............................................. 418
Fluid And Filter Change............................. 418Fluid Change............................................. 418
Fluid Level Check............................. 416, 417
Fluid Type...............................416, 454, 457
Shifting..................................................... 237
Special Additives...................................... 416
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode... 236
AUX Camera......................................... 304, 311
Auxiliary Driving Systems.............................. 153
Axle Fluid.....................................418, 454, 457Axle Lubrication............................................ 418
B
Back-Up
......................................................... 302
Back-Up Camera........................................... 302
Bar, Stabilizer/Sway System......................... 253Battery................................................. 132, 395
Blanket..................................................... 223
Charging System Light.............................. 132Keyless Key Fob Replacement....................15
Battery Saver Feature......................................53

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541
Belts, Seat
..................................................... 209
Blind Spot Monitoring.................................... 153
Body Builders Guide........................................ 12
Body Mechanism Lubrication........................ 408
B-Pillar Location............................................. 426
Brake Assist System...................................... 145
Brake Control System.................................... 145Brake Fluid.......................................... 415, 454
Brake System...................................... 415, 444
Fluid Check............................................... 415Master Cylinder......................................... 415
Parking...................................................... 229
Warning Light............................................ 130
Brake/Transmission Interlock....................... 232
Bulb Replacement......................................... 372Bulbs, Light.......................................... 210, 372
C
Cab Top Clearance Lights
.............................. 378
Camera.......................................................... 302
Camera, AUX........................................ 304, 311
Camera, Rear...................................... 302, 305
Camper.......................................................... 100
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)......... 451Capacities, Fluid............................................ 451
Caps, Filler Oil (Engine)
...................................... 391, 397
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...................... 413
Car Washes................................................... 440
Carbon Monoxide Warning.................. 208, 448
Cargo Light....................................................... 52
Cellular Phone.............................................. 527
Center High Mounted Stop Light................... 377
Center Seat Storage Compartment.................. 82
Charge Air Cooler.......................................... 415
Chart, Tire Sizing........................................... 423
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator
Light)............................................................. 142
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety................. 208
Checks, Safety.............................................. 208Child Restraint.............................................. 190
Child RestraintsBooster Seats
........................................... 193
Child Seat Installation..................... 201, 202
How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt.... 200Infant And Child Restraints....................... 192
Locating The LATCH Anchorages.............. 198
Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children.. 195
Older Children And Child Restraints......... 193Seating Positions...................................... 194
Clean Air Gasoline......................................... 446
CleaningWheels
..................................................... 434
Climate Control................................................ 57
Automatic.................................................... 61
Manual........................................................ 57
Cold Weather Operation............................... 215
Compact Spare Tire...................................... 433
Contract, Service.......................................... 537
Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap)............ 413
Cooling System............................................. 411
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)...................... 413
Coolant Level................................... 412, 414
Cooling Capacity....................................... 451
Disposal Of Used Coolant......................... 414
Drain, Flush, And Refill............................. 412
Inspection................................................. 414Points To Remember................................ 414
Pressure Cap............................................ 413
Radiator Cap............................................. 413Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze)
............... 412, 451, 452, 454
Corrosion Protection..................................... 439
Cruise Control (Speed Control)............. 273, 275
Cruise Light................................................... 141Cupholders.......................................................87
Customer Assistance.................................... 536
Cybersecurity................................................ 458
D
Daytime Running Lights
...................................49
Dealer Service............................................... 396
Defroster, Rear Window...................................57
Defroster, Windshield............................ 57, 209Delay (Intermittent) Wipers..............................55
Diagnostic System, Onboard......................... 141
Diesel Exhaust Brake.................................... 230
Diesel Fuel.................................................... 448
Diesel Fuel Requirements............................. 448
Diesel Fuel System, Re-Priming.................... 407
11

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548
Tires
................................... 210, 428, 433, 438
Aging (Life Of Tires)................................... 431
Air Pressure............................................... 428
Chains....................................................... 435
Compact Spare......................................... 433
Dual................................................. 437, 444
General Information........................ 428, 433High Speed................................................ 429
Inflation Pressure...................................... 429
Life Of Tires............................................... 431Load Capacity.................................. 426, 427
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
........................................ 135, 163
Quality Grading.......................................... 438
Radial........................................................ 429Replacement............................................. 431
Rotation.................................................... 436
Safety.............................................. 422, 428
Sizes.......................................................... 423Snow Tires................................................. 432
Spare Tires...................................... 433, 434
Spinning.................................................... 430
Trailer Towing............................................ 324
Tread Wear Indicators............................... 430
Wheel Nut Torque..................................... 444
To Open Hood.................................................. 74
Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight....................... 323
Tonneau Cover.................................... 101, 440
Tonneau Cover Cleaning................................ 440
Torque Converter Clutch................................ 243
Towing................................................. 318, 369
Disabled Vehicle....................................... 369
Guide........................................................ 323
Recreational............................................. 331
Weight...................................................... 323
Towing Behind A Motorhome........................ 331
Traction......................................................... 335Traction Control............................................ 153
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)............................. 153
Trailer Towing............................................... 318Cooling System Tips................................. 329
Hitches..................................................... 322
Minimum Requirements........................... 323
Mirrors......................................................... 46
Tips........................................................... 328Trailer And Tongue Weight........................ 323
Wiring....................................................... 327
Trailer Towing Guide..................................... 323
Trailer Weight................................................ 323Transfer Case............................................... 419
Electronically Shifted................................ 244
Fluid................................................ 454, 457
Transmission................................................ 233
Automatic............................... 233, 237, 416
Fluid................................................ 454, 457
Maintenance............................................ 416
Shifting..................................................... 231
Transporting Pets.......................................... 208
Tread Wear Indicators.................................. 430
Turn Signals......................... 52, 140, 374, 376
U
UconnectUconnect Settings
.. 466, 467, 483, 485, 502, 504
Uconnect PhoneCall Continuation
...................................... 524
Uconnect SettingsCustomer Programmable Features
.. 28, 466, 467, 483, 485, 502,
504
Passive Entry Programming
............... 28, 466, 483, 502
Uconnect Voice Command............................ 529
Uniform Tire Quality Grades.......................... 438
Universal Garage Door Opener (HomeLink).....76
Universal Transmitter.......................................76
Unleaded Gasoline........................................ 446
Untwisting Procedure, Seat Belt.................... 176
USB............................................................... 525
Utility Rails, Rear Cargo Area...........................98
V
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
.............. 444
Vehicle Loading.................................... 317, 427
Vehicle Modifications/Alterations....................12
Vehicle Storage...................................... 69, 439

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