check engine light RAM CHASSIS CAB 2007 User Guide

a manual transmission. Models with manual transmis-
sion are equipped with a clutch interlocking cranking
system. The clutch must be fully depressed to start the
vehicle.
3. Turn the ignition key to the ON position and look at
the instrument panel cluster lamps.
CAUTION!If WATER IN FUEL indicator light remains on DO
NOT START engine before you drain water from the
fuel filter to avoid engine damage. See Section 7 —
Maintaining Your Vehicle, for water drain proce-
dures.
4. Turn the ignition key to START and crank the engine.
Do not press the accelerator during starting. CAUTION!Do not crank engine for more than 15 seconds at a
time as starter motor damage may result. Turn key to
OFF and wait at least two minutes before trying
again.
5. When the engine starts, release the key.
6. Check to see that there is oil pressure.
7. Release the parking brake.
Starting Procedure — Engine Manifold Air
Temperature Below 66°F (19°C)
NOTE: The temperature displayed on the overhead
console (if equipped) does not necessarily reflect the
engine manifold air temperature. When certain engine
temperatures fall below 66°F (19°C) the lamp will remain
on indicating the intake manifold heater system is active. STARTING AND OPERATING 253
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Follow the steps in the Normal Starting Procedure ex-
cept:
CAUTION!Do not crank engine for more than 15 seconds at a
time or starter motor damage may result. Turn key to
OFF and wait at least 2 minutes for starter to cool
before repeating start procedure.
• The WAIT TO START light will remain on for a period
of time (length of time depends on engine tempera-
ture).
• After the WAIT TO START light goes off, turn the
ignition key to START. Do not press the accelerator
during starting.
• After engine start-up, check to see that there is oil
pressure. • Allow the engine to idle about three minutes until
the manifold heaters have completed the post-heat
cycle.
• Release the parking brake and drive.
NOTE: Engine idle speed will automatically increase to
1000 rpm at low coolant temperatures to improve engine
warm-up.
NOTE: If the engine stalls or if the ignition switch is left
On for more than 2 minutes after the WAIT TO START
light goes out, reset the grid heaters by turning the
ignition switch to Off for at least 5 seconds and then back
On. Repeat steps 3 through 7 of the normal starting
procedure.
For Extremely Cold Weather Starting — Engine
Manifold Air Temperature Below 0°F (- 18°C)
In extremely cold weather below 0°F (- 18°C) it may be
beneficial to cycle the manifold heaters twice before254 STARTING AND OPERATING

Starting Fluids
WARNING!STARTING FLUIDS or flammable liquids are
NEVER TO BE USED in the Cummins Diesel (see
Warning label). Never pour diesel fuel, flammable
liquid, starting fluids (ether) into the air cleaner
canister, air intake piping, or turbocharger inlet in an
attempt to start the vehicle. This could result in a
flash fire and explosion causing serious personal
injury and engine damage.
The engine is equipped with an automatic electric air
preheating system. If the instructions in this manual are
followed, the engine should start in all conditions. WARNING!Do not leave children or animals inside parked
vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat build up may
cause serious injury or death.
NORMAL OPERATION – DIESEL ENGINE
Observe the following when the engine is operating.
• All message center lights are off.
• Check Engine Lamp is off.
• Engine Oil Pressure is above 10 psi (69 kPa) at idle.
• Low Oil Pressure light is off.
• Voltmeter Operation:
• The voltmeter may show a gauge fluctuation if
certain engine temperatures are below 66°F (19°C).
This cycling operation is caused by the post-heat STARTING AND OPERATING 257
5

WARNING!Your vehicle could move and injure you and others if
it is not completely in P (Park). Check by trying to
move the gearshift lever back and forth without first
pulling it toward you after you have set it in P. Make
sure it is in Park before leaving the vehicle.
WARNING!It is dangerous to shift the selector lever out of “P” or
“N” if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If
your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the
vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in re-
verse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit
someone or something. Only shift into gear when
the engine is idling normally and when your right
foot is firmly on the brake pedal. “R” Reverse
Use this range only after the vehicle has come to a
complete stop.
“N” Neutral
Shift to Neutral when the vehicle is standing for pro-
longed periods with the engine running. The engine may
be started in this range. Set the parking brake if you must
leave the vehicle.
“D” Drive
This position provides all forward gears, including 4th
gear direct and 5th or 6th (if equipped) gear overdrive
(see Overdrive Operation). Use this range for most city
and highway driving.
“3” Third
Use this position for driving in slight heavy city traffic or
on mountain roads where more precise speed control is
desirable. Use it also when climbing long grades, and for274 STARTING AND OPERATING

If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer towing,
all starts must be in FIRST gear to avoid excessive clutch
slippage.
Towing Tips — Automatic Transmission
The “D” range can be selected when towing. However, if
frequent shifting occurs while in this range, the “TOW
HAUL” or “OD/OFF” range should be selected.
NOTE: Using the “TOW HAUL” or “OD/OFF” range
while operating the vehicle under heavy operating con-
ditions will improve performance and extend transmis-
sion life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build up.
This action will also provide better engine braking.
The automatic transmission fluid and filter should be
changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than
45 minutes of continuous operation. See Schedule “B” in
section 8 of this manual for transmission fluid change
intervals. NOTE: Check the automatic transmission fluid level
before towing.
Towing Tips — Tow/Haul (If Equipped)
To reduce potential for automatic transmission overheat-
ing, turn the “TOW HAUL OD/OFF” feature ON when
driving in hilly areas or shift the transmission to Drive
position 2 on more severe grades.
Towing Tips — Electronic Speed Control (If
Equipped)
Don’t use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
When using the speed control, if you experience 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. STARTING AND OPERATING 353
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Use a container that can hold at least 12 quarts (11.3
Liters) to hold the used oil.
Always check the condition of the used oil. This can give
you an indication of some engine problems that might
exist.
• Thin, black oil indicates fuel dilution.
• Milky discoloration indicates coolant dilution.
Clean the area around the oil filter base. Remove the filter
from the underside of the vehicle using a cap style oil
filter wrench.
Clean the gasket surface of the filter mount. The filter
gasket can stick on the filter mount. Make sure it is
removed.
Change the engine oil filter with every engine oil change.
Only a high quality MOPAR filter should be used to
assure most efficient service. CAUTION!The filtering medium of other aftermarket filters
may disintegrate. Debris from failed filters may plug
the piston oil cooling nozzles, resulting in scuffed
pistons and engine failure.
CAUTION!Fill the oil filter element with clean oil before
installation. Use the same type oil that will be used
in the engine. When filling the oil filter, prevent
foreign material from falling into the filter. Severe
engine damage may occur.
Apply a light film of lubricating oil to the sealing surface
of the filter gasket before installing the filter.404 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

take some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or towel
and wipe clean the wiper blades, this will help blade
performance.
Once a Month
• Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
• Inspect the batteries and clean and tighten the termi-
nals as required.
• Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, and transmission and transfer case (if
equipped), add as needed.
• Check Filter Minder™. Replace air cleaner filter
element if necessary.
• Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
• Drain water from the fuel filter. At Each Oil Change
• Change the engine oil filter.
• Inspect the exhaust system.
• Inspect the brake hoses.
• Inspect the U-Joints ( if equipped) and front suspen-
sion components.
• Check the automatic transmission fluid level.
• Check the manual transmission fluid level.
• Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
• Lubricate outer tie rod ends (4X4) models only.
• Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting ( 4X4).
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime
a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all re-
ceipts. MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 475
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• Check the windshield washer solvent and add if
required. When refilling the washer fluid reservoir,
take some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or towel
and wipe clean the wiper blades, this will help blade
performance.
Once a Month
• Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
• Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the terminals
as required.
• Check the fluid levels of coolant bottle, brake master
cylinder, and transmission and add as needed.
• Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation. At Each Oil Change
• Change the engine oil filter.
• Lubricate Drivetrain/Steering/Suspension Grease Fit-
tings (if equipped)
• Inspect the exhaust system.
• Inspect the brake hoses.
• Inspect the CV joints/U— joints (if equipped) and
front suspension components.
• Check the automatic transmission fluid level.
• Check the manual transmission fluid level.
• Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
• Lubricate Front Drive Shaft Fitting (4X4).486 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Adding Fuel ........................ 333,335
Adjustable Pedals ....................... 130
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner
Filter) .......................... 406,407,446
Air Conditioner Maintenance ............... 420
Air Conditioning Refrigerant ............. 420,421
Air Conditioning System ................ 233,420
Air Conditioning System, Zone Control ........ 236
AirFilter .............................. 407
Air Pressure, Tires .................... 315,323
Airbag .............................. 48,53
Airbag Light ......................... 76,173
Airbag On/Off Switch ..................... 53
Alarm, Panic ............................ 22
Alarm (Security Alarm) ................. 18,175
Alarm System (Security Alarm) ............... 18
Alignment and Balance ................... 322
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle ............. 8
Antenna, Satellite Radio ................... 226 Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) .............. 428,429
Capacities ........................... 468
Anti-Lock Warning Light ............... 177,304
Anti-Theft Security Alarm (Theft Alarm) ........ 18
Anti-Theft System ..................... 18,175
Appearance Care ........................ 452
Ashtray ............................... 151
Auto Unlock, Doors ...................... 145
AutomaticDimmingMirror ................. 84
Automatic Door Locks .................... 145
Automatic Transaxle ...................... 12
Interlock System ........................ 15
Automatic Transmission ........... 267,273,438,441
Fluid and Filter Changes .............. 440,443
Fluid Level Check ................ 439,441,442
FluidType ..................... 438,441,471
Shift Indicator ........................ 175
Special Additives ................... 441,444
Automatic Transmission (Diesel Engine Only) .... 438514 INDEX

Automatic Transmission (Gas Engine Only) ..... 441
AxleFluid .......................... 437,471
Axle Lubrication (Axle Fluid) ............... 437
BallJoints ............................. 422
Battery ............................ 418,419
Blanket .......................... 260,420
Emergency Starting ..................... 382
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE) ....... 24
Saving Feature (Protection) ............... 123
Bearings .............................. 444
Belts,Drive ............................ 406
Belts, Seat .............................. 35
Body Mechanism Lubrication ............... 423
B-Pillar Location ........................ 310
Brake Fluid ............................ 471
Brake System ........................ 301,434
Anti-Lock (ABS) ....................... 302
Disc Brakes .......................... 434 Fluid Check .......................... 435
Hoses .............................. 434
Master Cylinder ....................... 435
Parking ............................. 299
Warning Light ........................ 177
Bulb Replacement ....................... 462
Bulbs,Light ............................ 461
Cab Top Clearance Lights .................. 466
Calibration, Compass .................. 138,148
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ........ 468
Capacities, Fluid ........................ 468
Caps, Filler
Oil (Engine) ....................... 401,403
Power Steering ........................ 421
Radiator (Coolant Pressure) ............... 429
Car Washes ............................ 452
Carbon Monoxide Warning ............... 75,330
Cassette Tape and Player Maintenance ......... 228 INDEX 515
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