brakes Ram 5500 Chassis Cab 2011 User Guide

Manual Brake Control Lever
Slide the manual brake control lever to the right to
activate power to the trailer’s electric brakes independent
of the tow vehicle’s brakes. If the manual brake control
lever is activated while the brake is also applied, the
greater of the two inputs determines the power sent to
the trailer brakes.
The trailer and the vehicle’s brake lamps will come on
when either vehicle braking or manual trailer brakes are
applied.
Trailer Brake Status Indicator Light
This light indicates the trailer electrical connection status.
If no electrical connection is detected after the ignition is
turned on, pressing the GAIN adjustment button or
sliding the manual brake control lever will display the
GAIN setting for 10 seconds and the “Trailer Brake Status
Indicator Light” will not be displayed.If a fault is detected in the trailer wiring or the Integrated
Trailer Brake Module (ITBM), the “Trailer Brake Status
Indicator Light” will flash.
GAIN Adjustment Buttons (+/-)
Pressing these buttons will adjust the brake control
power output to the trailer brakes in 0.5 increments. The
GAIN setting can be increased to a maximum of 10 or
decreased to a minimum of 0 (no trailer braking).
GAIN
The GAIN setting is used to set the trailer brake control
for the specific towing condition and should be changed
as towing conditions change. Changes to towing condi-
tions include trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions
and weather.
340 STARTING AND OPERATING

Adjusting GAIN
NOTE:This should only be performed in a traffic free
environment at speeds of approximately 20–25 mph
(30–40 km/h).
1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working
condition, functioning normally, and properly adjusted.
See your trailer dealer if necessary.
2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical connec-
tions according to the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.
3. When a trailer with electric brakes is plugged in, the
GAIN setting will illuminate.
4. Use the GAIN adjustment (+/-) buttons to increase or
decrease the GAIN setting to the desired starting point. A
GAIN setting of 6 is a good starting point for heavier
loads. 5. In a traffic-free environment, tow the trailer on a dry,
level surface at a speed of 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h) and
squeeze the manual brake control lever completely.
6. If the trailer wheels lockup (indicated by squealing
tires), reduce the GAIN setting; if the trailer wheels turn
freely, increase the GAIN setting.
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until the GAIN setting is at a point
just below trailer wheel lockup. If towing a heavier
trailer, trailer wheel lockup may not be attainable even
with the maximum GAIN setting of 10.
EVIC Display Messages
The trailer brake control interacts with the Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC). Display messages,
along with a single chime, will be displayed when a
malfunction is determined in the trailer connection,
trailer brake control, or on the trailer. Refer to “Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in “Understanding
Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 341

CAUTION!
Connecting a trailer that is not compatible with the
ITBM system may result in reduced or complete loss
of trailer braking. There may be a increase in stop-
ping distance or trailer instability which could result
in damage to your vehicle, trailer, or other property.
WARNING!
Connecting a trailer that is not compatible with the
ITBM system may result in reduced or complete loss
of trailer braking. There may be a increase in stop-
ping distance or trailer instability which could result
in personal injury.
NOTE: A aftermarket controller may be available for
use with trailers with air or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brake systems. To determine the type of brakes on your
trailer and the availability of controllers, check with your
trailer manufacturer or dealer.
Towing Requirements – Trailer Lights and Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.
NOTE:
Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s
wiring harness.
WARNING!
Any work done to the vehicle’s electrical system or
wiring should be performed by a qualified automo-
tive technician. If done improperly it may cause
damage to the electrical system wiring and could
result in serious or fatal injury.
342 STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and
possibly an accident. Driving with your foot resting
or riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally
high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and
possible brake damage. You would not have your full
braking capacity in an emergency.
Brake Fluid Level Check
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under the hood service or immediately
if the brake system warning lamp indicates system
failure.
The brake master cylinder has a translucent plastic
reservoir. On the outboard side of the reservoir, there is a
“MAX” dot and an “MIN” dot. The fluid level must be
kept within these two dots. Do not add fluid above the
MAX mark because leakage may occur at the cap.With disc brakes the fluid level can be expected to fall as
the brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in
fluid level may be caused by a leak and a system check
should be conducted.
Use only the manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid.
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.
402 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

30,000 Miles (50,000 km) or
30 Months Maintenance
Service Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil
filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ Replace the engine air cleaner filter.
❏ Replace the spark plugs (5.7L engine).
❏ Adjust parking brake on vehicles
equipped with four wheel disc brakes.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Inspect the transfer case fluid.
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
36,000 Miles (60,000 km) or 36 Months Maintenance Service
Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ If using your vehicle for any of the following: Dusty or off-road conditions. Inspect the
engine air cleaner filter, replace if necessary.
❏ Inspect the brake linings, replace if necessary.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Inspect the front & rear axle fluid. Change if using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet,
off-road or frequent trailer towing.
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
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SMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 435

54,000 Miles (90,000 km) or
54 Months Maintenance
Service Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil
filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Inspect the front & rear axle fluid.
Change if using your vehicle for police,
taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer
towing.
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
60,000 Miles (100,000 km) or 60 Months Maintenance Service
Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ Replace the engine air cleaner filter.
❏ Replace the spark plugs (5.7L engine).
❏ Adjust parking brake on vehicles equipped with four wheel disc brakes.
❏ Inspect the brake linings, replace if necessary.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter(s) if using your vehicle for any of the
following: police, taxi, fleet, snow plowing, or frequent trailer towing.
❏ Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.
❏ Flush and replace the engine coolant at 60 months if not done at 102,000 miles
(170 000 km).
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
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SMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 437

90,000 Miles (150,000 km) or 90 Months Maintenance Service
Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ Replace the engine air cleaner filter.
❏ Replace the spark plugs (5.7L engine).
❏ Inspect and replace PCV valve if necessary. †
❏ Adjust parking brake on vehicles equipped with four wheel disc brakes.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Inspect the front & rear axle fluid. Change if using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet,
off-road or frequent trailer towing.
❏ Inspect the transfer case fluid.
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
8
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S440 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

120,000 Miles (200,000 km) or 120 Months Maintenance Service Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ Replace the engine air cleaner filter.
❏ Replace the spark plugs (5.7L engine).
❏ Adjust parking brake on vehicles equipped with four wheel disc brakes.
❏ Inspect the brake linings, replace if necessary.
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Inspect the front suspension, tie rod ends, and boot seals, replace if necessary.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Inspect the CV Joints.
❏ Inspect exhaust system.
❏ Inspect the transfer case fluid, change if using your vehicle for any of the following: fleet, off-road, or frequent trailer towing.
❏ Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter(s).
❏ Replace accessory drive belt(s).
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
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SMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 443

144,000 Miles (240,000 km) or 144 Months Maintenance Service
Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ If using your vehicle for any of the following: Dusty or off-road conditions. Inspect the
engine air cleaner filter, replace if necessary.
❏ Inspect the brake linings, replace if necessary.
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Inspect the front suspension, tie rod ends, and boot seals, replace if necessary.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Inspect the front & rear axle fluid. Change if using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet,
off-road or frequent trailer towing.
❏ Inspect the CV Joints.
❏ Inspect exhaust system.
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
150,000 Miles (250,000 km) or
150 Months Maintenance
Service Schedule
❏Change the engine oil and engine oil
filter.
❏ Rotate tires.
❏ Replace the engine air cleaner filter.
❏ Replace the spark plugs (5.7L engine).
❏ Adjust parking brake on vehicles
equipped with four wheel disc brakes.
❏ Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
❏ Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
❏ Inspect the transfer case fluid.
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
8
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N A
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SMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 445