fuel filter Ram 3500 Chassis Cab 2020 User Guide

198STARTING AND OPERATING
Idle-Up Feature
The driver-controlled high idle speed feature will
help increase cylinder temperatures and
provide additional cab heat, however, excessive
idling may still cause the exhaust aftertreat -
ment system to not properly regenerate.
Extended periods of idle time should be
avoided.
The Idle-Up feature uses the Speed Control
switches to increase engine idle speed and
quickly warm the vehicle's interior.

1. With the transmission in PARK, the parking brake applied, and the engine running,
turn on the speed control, then push the
SET switch.

2. The engine RPM will go up to 1,100 RPM. To increase the RPM, push and hold the
ACCEL/RESUME switch and the idle speed
will increase to approximately 1,500 RPM.
To decrease the RPM, push and hold the
DECEL switch and the idle speed will
decrease to approximately 1,100 RPM.
3. To cancel the Idle–Up feature, either push the CANCEL switch, push the ON/OFF
switch, or press the brake pedal.
Noise
Diesel engines can create noises that may
seem as a concern. The nature of a diesel
engine is compression ignition where
compressed air and fuel are mixed and ignited.
Weather, Barometric Pressure, Altitude and
Temperature will affect how fuel is ignited in the
engine. Engine’s will sound different from day to
day or previous model years. Clicking, ticking, or
light knocking is normal and will change from
day to day, as the engine breaks in, and can
vary with changes in ambient temperature, this
is normal. Diesel equipped vehicles also have
an exhaust aftertreatment system to reduce
emissions utilizing a Diesel Particulate Filter
(DPF) and a Selective Reduction Catalyst (SCR).
The SCR reduces Nox using the Diesel Exhaust
Fluid (DEF) system. DEF is injected directly into
the SCR through an dosing module. This
process will create a clicking sound and at
times, will make noise even with the vehicle shut off. This is normal as the DEF dosing
module is purging DEF. Fuel pump noise may
increase during low speed/light load conditions
when ambient temperature is above 100°F
(38°C), and when fuel tank level is below 10%.
This is a normal condition of the fuel system and
controls strategy. If at any time the check
engine light is on, please visit an authorized
dealer.
Stopping The Engine
Idle the engine a few minutes before routine
shutdown. After full load operation, idle the
engine three to five minutes before shutting it
down. This idle period will allow the lubricating
oil and coolant to carry excess heat away from
the combustion chamber, bearings, internal
components, and turbocharger. This is espe
-
cially important for turbocharged, charge
air-cooled engines. Refer to the following chart
for proper engine shutdown:

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STARTING AND OPERATING201
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Manual
Regeneration - If Equipped
On equipped chassis cabs, a manual regenera -
tion can be enable through the instrument
cluster. The manual regeneration will allow the
DPF to complete a regeneration, lowering the
soot level without having to drive the vehicle.
The vehicle must be in park to access this
feature, and the fuel level must be over 12.5%
full. A message displaying the time left on the
regeneration will appear on the instrument
cluster, and the instrument cluster will display
the soot level. Refer to “Instrument Cluster
Display” in “Getting to Know Your Instrument
Panel” for further information.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED
The engine block heater warms the engine, and
permits quicker starts in cold weather. Connect
the cord to a standard 110-115 Volt AC elec -
trical outlet with a grounded, three-wire exten -
sion cord.
Gas Engine Only
The engine block heater cord is routed through
the grille by the right front tow hook. It includes a removable cap that is secured by a
tethered strap. It also has a c-clip that is used
for storage when not in use for the Winter
months. During Winter months, remove the
heater cord wiring assembly from itself on the
c-clip.
The engine block heater must be plugged in at
least one hour to have an adequate warming
effect on the engine.
Diesel Engine Only
The engine block heater warms engine coolant
and permits quicker starts in cold weather.
Connect the heater cord to a ground-fault inter
-
rupter protected 110–115 Volt AC electrical
outlet with a grounded, three-wire extension
cord.
The engine block heater cord is routed under
the hood to the right side and can be located
just behind the grille near the headlamp. NOTE:
The engine block heater cord is a factory
installed option. If your vehicle is not equipped,
heater cords are available from an authorized
Mopar dealer.
The block heater must be plugged in at least
one hour to have an adequate warming effect
on the coolant.
NOTE:
The block heater will require 110 Volts AC and
6.5 Amps to activate the heater element.
Block Heater Usage
For ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C),
engine block heater usage is recommended.
For ambient temperatures below –20°F
(-29°C), engine block heater usage is required.
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the engine block
heater cord before driving. Damage to the
110-115 Volt electrical cord could cause
electrocution.
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the engine block
heater cord before driving. Damage to the
110-115 Volt electrical cord could cause
electrocution.5

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STARTING AND OPERATING269
REFUELING THE VEHICLE — DIESEL ENGINE
NOTE:
When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the
fuel tank is full.
Tighten the fuel filler cap until you hear a
“clicking” sound. This is an indication that the
fuel filler cap is properly tightened.
Make sure that the fuel filler cap is tightened
each time the vehicle is refueled.
Fuel Filler Cap
If the fuel filler cap is lost or damaged, be sure
the replacement cap is for use with this vehicle.
Avoid Using Contaminated Fuel
Fuel that is contaminated by water or dirt can
cause severe damage to the engine fuel
system. Proper maintenance of the engine fuel
filter and fuel tank is essential. Refer to “Dealer
Service” in “Servicing And Maintenance” for
further information.
Bulk Fuel Storage — Diesel Fuel
If you store quantities of fuel, good mainte -
nance of the stored fuel is also essential. Fuel
contaminated with water will promote the
growth of “microbes.” These microbes form
“slime” that will clog the fuel filtration system
and lines. Drain condensation from the supply
tank and change the line filter on a regular
basis.
NOTE:
When a diesel engine is allowed to run out of
fuel, air is pulled into the fuel system.
If the vehicle will not start, refer to “Priming If
The Engine Has Run Out Of Fuel” in “Servicing
And Maintenance” for further information.CAUTION!
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not
“top off” the fuel tank after filling.
WARNING!
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.
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or
near the vehicle when the fuel filler cap is
removed or the tank filled.
Never add fuel to the vehicle when the
engine is running.
CAUTION!
Damage to the fuel system or emission
control system could result from using an
improper fuel tank filler tube cap. A poorly
fitting cap could let impurities into the fuel
system.
WARNING!
Do not open the high pressure fuel system
with the engine running. Engine operation
causes high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel
spray can cause serious injury or death.
5

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STARTING AND OPERATING285
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.
Six-Speed Automatic Transmission Only
When towing a loaded trailer up steep grades at
low speeds (20 mph [32 km/h] or below),
holding your vehicle in first gear (using the ERS
shift control) can help to avoid transmission
overheating. If you regularly tow a trailer for more than
45 minutes of continuous operation, then
change the automatic transmission fluid and
filter(s) as specified for "police, taxi, fleet, or
frequent trailer towing." Refer to the “Mainte
-
nance Plan” for the proper maintenance inter -
vals.
NOTE:
Check the automatic transmission fluid level
before towing (Six-speed automatic only).
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 Electronic Range Select (ERS)
shift control) on more severe grades.
Speed Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy
loads.
When using the Speed Control, if you experi -
ence speed drops greater than 10 mph
(16 km/h), disengage until you can get back
to cruising speed.
Use Speed Control in flat terrain and with
light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
City Driving
In city traffic — while stopped, place the trans -
mission in NEUTRAL, but do not increase
engine idle speed.
Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Temporarily turn off air conditioning.
5

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334SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING — DIESEL ENGINE
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the maintenance plan on the following
pages for the required maintenance intervals.
More frequent maintenance may be needed in
severe conditions, such as dusty areas and very
short trip driving. In some extreme conditions,
additional maintenance not specified in the
maintenance schedule may be required. At Each Stop For Fuel
Check the engine oil level at least 30 minutes
after a fully warmed engine is shut off. Checking
the oil level while the vehicle is on level ground
will improve the accuracy of the oil level
reading. Add oil only when the level is at or
below the ADD or MIN mark.
Once A Month

Inspect the batteries, and clean and tighten
the terminals as required.
Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir,
brake master cylinder, and automatic trans-
mission, and add as needed. At Each Oil Change

Change the engine oil filter.
Inspect the exhaust system.
Inspect engine air filter cleaner. Replace the
air filter cleaner, if necessary.
Inspect the CV/Universal joints.
Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
Inspect front end, and lubricate — If equipped
with serviceable fittings.
Inspect and replace the Evaporative System
Fresh Air Filter as necessary, replacement
may be more frequent if vehicle is operated
in extreme dusty conditions.
Inspection and service should also be
performed anytime a malfunction is observed or
suspected. Retain all receipts.
NOTE:
Using white lithium grease, lubricate the door
hinge pivot joints twice a year to prevent prema-
ture wear.
CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance
items may result in damage to the vehicle.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE335
Oil Change Indicator System — Cummins
Diesel
Your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil
change indicator system. This system will alert
you when it is time to change your engine oil by
displaying the words “Oil Change Due” in your
instrument cluster display. The oil change
reminder will remind the owner to change the
engine oil every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or
500 hours, whichever comes first, except for
the Chassis Cab models configured with
optional B20 capability that are using greater
than 5% levels of biodiesel, which are
12,500 miles (20,000 km) or 400 hours,
whichever comes first. Failure to change the
engine oil per the maintenance schedule can
result in internal engine damage.
An authorized dealer will reset the oil change
indicator message after completing the sched -
uled oil change. If a scheduled oil change is
performed by someone other than an autho -
rized dealer, the message can be reset by refer -
ring to the steps described under “Instrument
Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know Your
Instrument Panel” for further information. Replace the engine oil and oil filter every 15,
000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or
sooner if prompted by the oil change indicator
system. Under no circumstances should oil
change intervals exceed 15,000 miles (24,
000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
or 12 months or 500 Hours, whichever
comes first.
Replace the engine oil and oil filter every
12,500 miles (20,000 km) or 400 hours,
whichever comes first when running greater
than 5% levels of biodiesel (Chassis Cab
models configured with optional B20 capa
-
bility).
If Chassis Cab models configured with optional
B20 capability are operated with greater than
5% levels of biodiesel, the oil change interval
must not exceed 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or
400 hours, whichever comes first under any
circumstances. See the Fuel Requirements
section for more information regarding opera -
tion with biodiesel blend (B6-B20) fuel meeting
ASTM specification D-7467.
Perform Service Indicator — Cummins
Diesel
Your vehicle will require emissions mainte -
nance at a set interval. To help remind you
when this maintenance is due, the instrument
cluster will display “Perform Service”. When the
“Perform Service” message is displayed on the
instrument cluster it is necessary to have the
emissions maintenance performed. Emissions
maintenance may include replacing the Closed
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) filter element. The
procedure for clearing and resetting the
“Perform Service” indicator message is located
in the appropriate Service Information.
7

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338SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Additional Maintenance
Replace cabin air filter. XXXXXX
Replace engine fuel filter
element. X X X X X X X X X X
Replace chassis mounted fuel
filter element. X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect the front and rear axle
surfaces. If gear oil leakage is
suspected, check the fluid level.
If using your vehicle for police,
taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent
trailer towing change the axle
fluid.
3
Inspect the transfer case fluid
(4x4), change for any of the
following: police, taxi, fleet, or
frequent trailer towing. X
XXX X
Mileage or time passed
(whichever comes first):
7,500
15,000
22,500
30,000
37,500
45,000
52,500
60,000
67,500
75,000
82,500
90,000
97,500
105,000
112,500
120,000
127,500
135,000
142,500
150,000
Or Months:6
12
18
24
30
36
42
48
54
60
66
72
78
84
90
96
102
108
114
120
Or Kilometers:
12,000
24,000
36,000
48,000
60,000
72,000
84,000
96,000
108,000
120,000
132,000
144,000
156,000
168,000
180,000
192,000
204,000
216,000
228,000
240,000

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354SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
NOTE:
Ensure the glove compartment door hinges and
glove compartment travel stops are fully
engaged.
9. Reattach the glove compartment tension
tether by inserting the tether clip in the
glove compartment and sliding the clip
away from the face of the glove compart -
ment door.
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection
When inspecting accessory drive belts, small
cracks that run across ribbed surface of belt
from rib to rib, are considered normal. These
are not a reason to replace belt. However,
cracks running along a rib (not across) are not
normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib
must be replaced. Also have the belt replaced if
it has excessive wear, frayed cords or severe
glazing.

Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)

Conditions that would require replacement:
Rib chunking (one or more ribs has sepa -
rated from belt body)
Rib or belt wear
Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between
two ribs)
Belt slips
“Groove jumping" (belt does not maintain
correct position on pulley)
Belt broken (note: identify and correct
problem before new belt is installed)
Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or
rumble is heard or felt while drive belt is in
operation)
Some conditions can be caused by a faulty
component such as a belt pulley. Belt pulleys
should be carefully inspected for damage and
proper alignment.
Belt replacement on some models requires the
use of special tools, we recommend having your
vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.
Draining Fuel/Water Separator Filter
There are two fuel filter assemblies. One is
located on the driver's side of the engine. The
best access to this water drain valve is from
under the hood. The second one is on the under
body, located in front of the rear axle above the
drive shaft on pick-up models. The Chassis Cab
models second filter location is on the frame
behind the front axle. The best access to this
water drain valve is from under the vehicle.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to inspect an accessory
drive belt with vehicle running.
When working near the radiator cooling fan,
disconnect the fan motor lead. The fan is
temperature controlled and can start at any
time regardless of ignition mode. You could
be injured by the moving fan blades.
You can be badly injured working on or
around a motor vehicle. Only do service
work for which you have the knowledge and
the proper equipment. If you have any
doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a compe -
tent mechanic.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE355
If water is detected in the water separator while
the engine is running, or while the ignition
switch is in the ON position, the “Water In Fuel
Indicator Light” will illuminate and an audible
chime will be heard five times. At this point you
should stop the engine and drain the water from
both of the filters.
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” comes on
and a single chime is heard while you are
driving, or with the ignition switch in the ON
position, there may be a problem with your
water separator wiring or sensor. See an autho -
rized dealer for service. Upon proper draining of the water from both
fuel filters, the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light”
will remain illuminated for approximately 10
seconds. If the water was drained while the
engine was running, the “Water In Fuel Indicator
Light” may remain on for approximately three
minutes.
NOTE:
Care should be taken in disposing of used fluids
from your vehicle. Used fluids, indiscriminately
discarded, can present a problem to the envi
-
ronment. Contact an authorized dealer, service
station, or government agency for advice on
recycling programs and for where used fluids
and filters can be properly disposed of in your
area.
Drain the fuel/water separator filters when the
“Water In Fuel Indicator Light” is ON. Within
10 minutes of vehicle shutdown, turn the
engine mounted filter drain valve (located on
the side of the filter assembly) counterclock -
wise quarter turn, and turn the under body
mounted filter drain valve (located on the
bottom of the filter assembly) counterclockwise
wise 1 full turn. Then turn the ignition switch to the ON position, and allow any accumulated
water to drain. Leave the drain valve open until
all water and contaminants have been
removed. When clean fuel is visible, close the
drain valve following these guidelines:

1. Rotate the drain clockwise to close until
you feel resistance from the internal seal.

2. Continue turning the drain half of a turn to properly compress the seal.
NOTE:
Over-compression of the seal due to over-tight -
ening of the drain will damage the seal, cause a
leak, and require the entire sensor to be
replaced.
3. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
The sensor drain should not be over-tightened
during normal service operations to avoid
internal damage and future fuel leaks. The
drain should be closed and secured without the
use of tools.
If more than a couple ounces/milliliters of fuel
have been drained, follow the directions for
“Priming If The Engine Has Run Out Of Fuel.”
CAUTION!
Do not drain the fuel/water separator filter
when the engine is running.
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appro-
priate container.
CAUTION!
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” remains
on, DO NOT START the engine before you
drain water from the fuel filters to avoid
engine damage.
7

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356SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Engine Mounted Fuel Filter Replacement
NOTE:
Using a fuel filter that does not meet the
manufacturer's filtration and water sepa -
rating requirements can severely impact fuel
system life and reliability.
The engine mounted filter housing is
equipped with a No-Filter-No-Run (NFNR)
feature. Engine will not run if:
a. No filter is installed.
b. Inferior/Non-approved filter is used. Use of OEM filter is required to ensure vehicle
will run.

Engine Mounted Fuel Filter Assembly
1. Ensure engine is turned off.

2. Place drain pan under the fuel filter drain
hose.
3. Open the water drain valve a quarter turn counterclockwise and completely drain fuel
and water into the approved container.
4. Close the water drain valve.
5. Remove lid using a socket or strap wrench. Rotate counterclockwise for removal.
Remove used o-ring and discard it.
6. Remove the used filter cartridge from the housing and dispose of according to your
local regulations. 7. Wipe clean the sealing surfaces of the lid
and housing.
8. Install new o-ring back into ring groove on the filter housing and lubricate with clean
engine oil.
9. Remove new filter cartridge from plastic bag and install into housing.
NOTE:
Do not remove cartridge from bag until you
reach this step in order to keep cartridge clean.
10. Push down on the cartridge to ensure it is properly seated. Do not pre-fill the filter
housing with fuel.
11. Install lid onto housing and tighten to 22.5 ft lbs (30.5 N.m). Do not overtighten
the lid.
12. Prime the engine using the procedure in “Priming If The Engine Has Run Out Of Fuel.”
Then start the engine and confirm there are
no leaks.
1 — Drain Valve
CAUTION!
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appro-
priate container.
Do not prefill the fuel filter when installing a
new fuel filter. There is a possibility debris
could be introduced into the fuel filter
during this action. It is best to install the
filter dry and allow the in-tank lift pump to
prime the fuel system.

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