Ram 3500 2020 Owner's Manual

STARTING AND OPERATING319
(Continued)
ENGINE RUNAWAY — DIESEL ENGINE
Diesel engine runaway is a rare condition
affecting diesel engines, where the engine
consumes its own lubrication oil and runs at
higher and higher RPM until it overspeeds to a
point where it destroys itself due to either
mechanical failure or engine seizure through
lack of lubrication.
REFUELING THE VEHICLE — GAS ENGINE
The fuel filler cap (gas cap) is located behind the
fuel filler door, on the left side of the vehicle.
Open the fuel door and remove the fuel filler cap
by turning it counter-clockwise.
Fuel Filler Cap

NOTE:
When removing the fuel filler cap, lay the cap
tether in the hook, located on the fuel filler door.
NOTE:
When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the
fuel tank is full.
WARNING!
In case of engine runaway due to flammable
fumes from fuel spills or turbocharger oil
leaks being sucked into the engine, do the
following to help avoid personal injury and/or
vehicle damage:
1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
2. Using a CO2 or dry chemical type fire
extinguisher, direct the spray from the fire
extinguisher into the grille on the driver side
so that the spray enters the engine air intake.
The inlet for the engine air intake is located
behind the drivers side headlamp and
receives air through the grille.
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or
near the vehicle when the gas cap is
removed or the tank is being filled.
Never add fuel to the vehicle when the
engine is running.
A fire may result if gasoline is pumped into
a portable container that is inside of a
vehicle. You could be burned. Always place
gas containers on the ground while filling.
CAUTION!
Damage to the fuel system or emissions
control system could result from using an
improper fuel tank filler tube cap.
A poorly fitting fuel filler cap could let impu-
rities into the fuel system.
A poorly fitting fuel filler cap may cause the
“Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)” to turn
on.
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not
“top off” the fuel tank after filling. When the
fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the fuel
tank is full.
WARNING! (Continued)
5

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 319

320STARTING AND OPERATING
Tighten the gas cap until you hear a “clicking”
sound. This is an indication that the gas cap
is tightened properly. The MIL in the instru -
ment cluster may turn on if the gas cap is not
secured properly. Make sure that the gas cap
is tightened each time the vehicle is refueled.
LOOSE FUEL FILLER CAP MESSAGE
If the vehicle diagnostic system
determines that the fuel filler cap is
loose, improperly installed, or
damaged, a loose gASCAP indicator
will display in the instrument cluster telltale
display area. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument
Panel” for further information. Tighten the fuel
filler cap properly and push the RIGHT button to
turn off the message. If the problem continues,
the message will appear the next time the
vehicle is started.
REFUELING THE VEHICLE — DIESEL ENGINE

1. Open the fuel filler door.

Fill Locations

NOTE:
There is no fuel filler cap. A flapper door inside
the filler pipe seals the system. 2. Insert the fuel nozzle fully into the filler pipe
– the nozzle opens and holds the flapper
door while refueling.
3. Fill the vehicle with fuel – when the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off the fuel tank is
full.
4. Remove the fuel nozzle and close the fuel door.
Emergency Fuel Can Refueling
NOTE:
In the event that you run the vehicle out of fuel,
once refueled, place the ignition in the ON posi -
tion for 30 seconds, then turn the ignition OFF
and wait 30 seconds. Repeat this procedure
three times, prior to cranking the engine.
Most fuel cans will not open the flapper door.
A funnel is provided to open the flapper door to
allow emergency refueling with a fuel can.

1. Retrieve fuel funnel from the jack kit located under the front passenger seat.

2. Insert funnel into same filler pipe opening as the fuel nozzle.
WARNING!
Always place container on the ground
before filling.
Keep the pump nozzle in contact with the
container when you are filling it.
Use only approved containers for flam -
mable liquid.
Do not leave container unattended while
filling.
A static electric charge could cause a spark
and fire hazard.
1 — Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fill Location
2 — Diesel Fuel Fill Location

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 320

STARTING AND OPERATING321
(Continued)

Fill Locations And Funnel Usage

NOTE:
Ensure funnel is inserted fully to hold flapper
door open.
3. Pour fuel into funnel opening.
4. Remove funnel from filler pipe, clean off prior to putting back in the jack kit.
DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID
Your vehicle is equipped with a Selective
Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to meet the
very stringent diesel emissions standards
required by the Environmental Protection
Agency.
The purpose of the SCR system is to reduce
levels of NOx (oxides of nitrogen emitted from
engines) that are harmful to our health and the
environment to a near-zero level. A small
quantity of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is injected into the exhaust upstream of a catalyst
where, when vaporized, it converts
smog-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) into
harmless nitrogen (N2) and water vapor (H2O),
two natural components of the air we breathe.
You can operate with the comfort that your
vehicle is contributing to a cleaner, healthier
world environment for this and generations to
come.
System Overview
This vehicle is equipped with a Diesel Exhaust
Fluid (DEF) injection system and a Selective
Catalytic Reduction (SCR) catalyst to meet the
emission requirements.
The DEF injection system consists of the
following components:
DEF tank
DEF pump
DEF injector
Electronically-heated DEF lines
DEF control module
NOx sensors
1 — Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fill Location
2 — Emergency Diesel Fuel Fill Funnel
3 — Diesel Fuel Fill Location
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.
CAUTION!
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not
“top off” the fuel tank after filling.
WARNING!
(Continued)
5

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 321

322STARTING AND OPERATING
Temperature sensors
SCR catalyst
UQS Sensor
Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in
“Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for
system messages and warnings.
NOTE:

Your vehicle is equipped with a DEF injection
system. You may occasionally hear an audible
clicking noise. This is normal operation.

The DEF pump will run for a period of time
after engine shutdown to purge the DEF
system. This is normal operation.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid Storage
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is considered a very
stable product with a long shelf life. If DEF is
kept in temperatures between 10°F and 90°F
(-12°C and 32°C), it will last a minimum of one
year.
DEF is subject to freezing at the lowest
temperatures. For example, DEF may freeze at
temperatures at or below 12°F (-11°C). The
system has been designed to operate in this
environment. NOTE:
When working with DEF, it is important to know
that:
Any containers or parts that come into
contact with DEF must be DEF compatible
(plastic or stainless steel). Copper, brass,
aluminum, iron or non-stainless steel should
be avoided as they are subject to corrosion
by DEF.
If DEF is spilled, it should be wiped up
completely.
Adding Diesel Exhaust Fluid
The DEF gauge (located on the instrument
cluster) will display the level of DEF remaining in
the tank. Refer to “Instrument Cluster” and
“Instrument Cluster Descriptions” in “Getting To
Know Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.
NOTE:
Driving conditions (altitude, vehicle speed,
load, etc.) will affect the amount of DEF that
is used in your vehicle.
Another factor is that outside temperature
can affect DEF consumption. In cold condi
-
tions, 12°F (-11°C) and below, the DEF gauge needle can stay on a fixed position and
may not move for extended periods of time.
This is a normal function of the system.
There is an electric heater inside the DEF
tank that automatically works when neces
-
sary. And if the DEF supply does freeze, the
truck will operate normally until it thaws.
DEF Fill Procedure
NOTE:
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for the correct fluid type.

1. Remove cap from DEF tank (located on driver’s side of the vehicle or in fuel door).

Fill Locations

1 — Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fill Location
2 — Diesel Fuel Fill Location

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 322

STARTING AND OPERATING323
(Continued)
2. Insert DEF fill adapter/nozzle into DEF tank filler neck.
NOTE:
The DEF gauge may take up to five
seconds to update after adding a gallon
or more of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to
the DEF tank. If you have a fault related
to the DEF system, the gauge may not
update to the new level. See an autho -
rized dealer for service.
The DEF gauge may also not immediately
update after a refill if the temperature of
the DEF fluid is below 12°F (-11°C). The
DEF line heater will possibly warm up the
DEF fluid and allow the gauge to update
after a period of run time. Under very cold
conditions, it is possible that the gauge
may not reflect the new fill level for
several drives.
Excessive overfilling of the DEF tank can
result in a MIL lamp/fault code and inac-
curate level readings. 3. Stop filling the DEF tank immediately when
any of the following happen: DEF stops
flowing from the fill bottle into the DEF tank,
DEF splashes out the filler neck, or a DEF
pump nozzle automatically shuts off.
4. Reinstall cap onto DEF tank.
Filling The Def Tank In Cold Climates
Since DEF will begin to freeze at 12°F (-11°C),
your vehicle is equipped with an automatic DEF
heating system. This allows the DEF injection
CAUTION!
To avoid DEF spillage, and possible
damage to the DEF tank from overfilling, do
not “top off” the DEF tank after filling.
DO NOT OVERFILL. DEF will freeze below
12ºF (-11ºC). The DEF system is designed
to work in temperatures below the DEF
freezing point, however, if the tank is over -
filled and freezes, the system could be
damaged.
When DEF is spilled, clean the area imme -
diately with water and use an absorbent
material to soak up the spills on the ground.
Do not attempt to start your engine if DEF is
accidentally added to the diesel fuel tank
as it can result in severe damage to your
engine, including but not limited to failure
of the fuel pump and injectors.
Never add anything other than DEF to the
tank – especially any form of hydrocarbon
such as diesel fuel, fuel system additives,
gasoline, or any other petroleum-based
product. Even a very small amount of these,
less than 100 parts per million or less than
1 oz. per 78 Gallons (295 Liters) will
contaminate the entire DEF system and will
require replacement. If owners use a
container, funnel or nozzle when refilling
the tank, it should either be new or one that
is has only been used for adding DEF.
Mopar provides an attachable nozzle with
its DEF for this purpose.
CAUTION! (Continued)
5

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 323

324STARTING AND OPERATING
system to operate properly at temperatures
below 12°F (-11°C). If your vehicle is not in
operation for an extended period of time with
temperatures below 12°F (-11°C), the DEF in
the tank may freeze. If the tank is overfilled and
freezes, it could be damaged. Therefore, do not
overfill the DEF tank.
Extra care should be taken when filling with
portable containers to avoid overfilling. Note the
level of the DEF gauge in your instrument
cluster. You may safely add a maximum of
2 Gallons (7.5 Liters) of DEF from portable
containers when your DEF gauge is reading
½ full.
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 axle
systems (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 does 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
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.

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 324

STARTING AND OPERATING325
The entire vehicle should first be weighed on a
commercial scale to ensure that the 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 axles.
Weighing the vehicle may show that the GAWR
of either the front or rear axle 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.TRAILER TOWING
In this section you will find safety tips and
information on limits to the type of towing you
can reasonably do with your vehicle. Before
towing a trailer, carefully review this information
to tow your load as efficiently and safely as
possible.
To maintain the New Vehicle Limited Warranty
coverage, follow the requirements and
recommendations in this manual concerning
vehicles used for trailer towing.
COMMON TOWING DEFINITIONS
The following trailer towing-related definitions
will assist you in understanding the following
information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your
vehicle. This includes driver, passengers, cargo
and tongue weight. The total load must be
limited so that you do not exceed the GVWR.
Refer to “Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certification
Label” in “Starting And Operating” for further
information.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the
weight of all cargo, consumables and
equipment (permanent or temporary) loaded in
or on the trailer in its "loaded and ready for
operation" condition.
The recommended way to measure GTW is to
put your fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale.
The entire weight of the trailer must be
supported by the scale.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the total allowable weight of your
vehicle and trailer when weighed in
combination.
CAUTION!
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. Also
overloading can shorten the life of your
vehicle.
WARNING!

If the gross trailer weight is 5,000 lbs (2,267 kg)
or more, it is recommended to use a
weight-distributing hitch to ensure stable
handling of your vehicle. If you use a standard
weight-carrying hitch, you could lose control of
your vehicle and cause a collision.

5

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 325

326STARTING AND OPERATING
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front
and rear axles. Distribute the load over the front
and rear axles evenly. Make sure that you do
not exceed either front or rear GAWR. Refer to
“Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certification Label” in
“Starting And Operating” for further
information.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The tongue weight is the downward force
exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. You must
consider this as part of the load on your vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height
multiplied by the maximum width of the front of
a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The trailer sway control can be a mechanical
telescoping link that can be installed between
the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue that
typically provides adjustable friction associated
with the telescoping motion to dampen any
unwanted trailer swaying motions while
traveling.
If equipped, the electronic Trailer Sway Control
(TSC) recognizes a swaying trailer and
automatically applies individual wheel brakes
and/or reduces engine power to attempt to
eliminate the trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer
tongue weight, just as if it were luggage located
at a hitch ball or some other connecting point of
the vehicle. These kinds of hitches are the most
popular on the market today and they are
commonly used to tow small and medium sized
trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing system works by applying
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are
typically used for heavier loads to distribute
trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle's front
axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in
accordance with the manufacturer's directions,
it provides for a more level ride, offering more
consistent steering and brake control, thereby
enhancing towing safety. The addition of a
friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens
sway caused by traffic and crosswinds and
contributes positively to tow vehicle and trailer
stability. Trailer Sway Control (TSC) and a weight
distributing (load equalizing) hitch are
recommended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW)
and may be required depending on vehicle and
trailer configuration/loading to comply with
GAWR requirements.
WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous
driving condition can result if either rating is
exceeded. You could lose control of the
vehicle and have a collision.

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 326

STARTING AND OPERATING327

With Weight-Distributing Hitch (Correct) Without Weight-Distributing Hitch (Incorrect)
Improper Adjustment Of Weight-Distributing Hitch (Incorrect)
Recommended Distribution Hitch Adjustment
Towing With 2500/3500 Air Suspension

1. Position the truck to be ready to connect to
the trailer (do not connect the trailer).

NOTE:
Normal Ride Height (NRH) or Alternate Trailer
Height (ATH) can be used. The vehicle must
remain in the engine running position while
attaching a trailer for proper leveling of the air
suspension system. It may not be possible to
enter Alternate Trailer Height (ATH) while lightly
loaded.
2. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the fender to ground, this
is height H1.
3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight distribution bars connected.
4. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the fender to ground, this
is height H2.
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted weight distributing
hitch system may reduce handling, stability
and braking performance and could result
in a collision.
Weight distributing systems may not be
compatible with surge brake couplers.
Consult with your hitch and trailer manufac -
turer or a reputable Recreational Vehicle
dealer for additional information.
5

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 327

328STARTING AND OPERATING
5. Install and adjust the tension in the weight
distributing bars per the manufacturers’
recommendations so that the height of the
front fender is approximately (H2-H1)/
2+H1 (about 1/2 the difference between
H2 and H1 above normal ride height [H1]).
6. Perform a visual inspection of the trailer and weight distributing hitch to confirm
manufacturers’ recommendations have
been met.
NOTE:
For all towing conditions, we recommend towing
with TOW/HAUL mode engaged. Towing With All Other 2500/3500 (Non-Air
Suspension)

1. Position the truck to be ready to connect to
the trailer (do not connect the trailer).

2. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the fender to ground, this
is height H1.
3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight distribution bars connected.
4. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the fender to ground, this
is height H2.
5. Install and adjust the tension in the weight distributing bars per the manufacturers’
recommendations so that the height of the
front fender is approximately (H2-H1)/
2+H1 (about 1/2 the difference between
H2 and H1 above normal ride height [H1]).
6. Perform a visual inspection of the trailer and weight distributing hitch to confirm
manufacturers’ recommendations have
been met. NOTE:
For all towing conditions, we recommend towing
with TOW/HAUL mode engaged.
Fifth-Wheel Hitch

The fifth-wheel hitch is a special high platform with
a coupling that mounts over the rear axle of the
tow vehicle in the truck bed. It connects a vehicle
and fifth-wheel trailer with a coupling king pin.

Your truck may be equipped with a fifth wheel
hitch option. Refer to the separately provided
fifth wheel hitch safety, care, assembly, and
operating instructions.
Gooseneck Hitch
The gooseneck hitch employs a pivoted
coupling arm which attaches to a ball mounted
in the bed of a pickup truck. The coupling arm
connects to the hitch mounted over the rear
axle in the truck bed.
Measurement
Example Example 2500/
3500 Height (mm)
H1 1030
H2 1058
H2-H1 28
(H2-H1)/2 14
(H2-H1)/2 + H1 1044
Measurement
Example Example 2500/
3500 Height (mm)
H1 1030
H2 1058
H2-H1 28
(H2-H1)/2 14
(H2-H1)/2 + H1 1044

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 328