transmission fluid RAM CHASSIS CAB 2009 User Guide

ENGINE COMPARTMENT— 5.7L
1 — Air Cleaner Filter7 — Engine Oil Dipstick
2 — Automatic Transmission Dipstick 8 — Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
3 — Engine Oil Fill 9 — Washer Fluid Reservoir
4 — Brake Fluid Reservoir 10 — Engine Coolant Reservoir
5 — Battery 11 — Coolant Pressure Cap
6 — Integrated Power Module MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 3357

Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in this
section for the correct fluid type.
NOTE:The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differential
components. Operation of the vehicle in water, as may be
encountered in some off-highway types of service, will
require draining and refilling the axle to avoid damage.
Limited-Slip Differentials DO NOT REQUIRE any
limited slip oil additive (friction modifiers).
NOTE: Slight noise and mild shuddering may be evi-
dent while turning a vehicle with limited slip differential
on concrete or dry pavement. These conditions should be
considered normal operation of the limited slip
differential.
Transfer Case — If Equipped
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” in Section 8 of this
manual for the proper maintenance intervals.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in this
section for the correct fluid type.
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler
plug. The fluid level should be to the bottom edge of the
filler plug hole with the vehicle in a level position.
Automatic Transmission
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the
transmission to assure optimum transmission perfor-
mance. Use only manufacturer ’s recommended transmis-
sion fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
356 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Parts” in this section for the correct fluid type. It is
important that the transmission fluid be maintained at
the prescribed level using the recommended fluid.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turer’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
“Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in this sec-
tion for the correct fluid type.
Fluid Level Check – 545RFE Transmission
Check the fluid level while the transmission is at normal
operating temperature 180°F (82°C). This occurs after at
least 15 miles (25 km) of driving. At normal operatingtemperature, the fluid on the end of the dipstick cannot
be held comfortably between the fingertips.
Procedure For Checking Fluid Level
To properly check the automatic transmission fluid level,
the following procedure must be used:
1. Operate the engine at idle speed and normal operating
temperature.
2. The vehicle must be on level ground.
3. Fully apply parking brake.
4. Place the shift lever momentarily in each gear position
ending with the lever in PARK.
5. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it until
seated.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 357
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6. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on
both sides. The fluid level should be between the HOT
(upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operat-
ing temperature. Verify that a solid coating of oil is seen
on both sides of the dipstick. If the fluid is low, add as
required into the dipstick tube.Do not overfill.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 approximately 70°F (21°C) (room tempera-
ture). If the fluid level is correctly established at room
temperature, it should be between the HOT (upper)
reference holes when the transmission reaches 180°F
(21°C). Remember it is best to check the level at the
normal operating temperature.CAUTION!
Be aware that 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.
7. Check for leaks. Release the parking brake.
NOTE: To prevent dirt and water from entering the
transmission after checking or replenishing fluid, make
certain that the dipstick cap is properly reseated. It is
normal for the dipstick cap to spring back slightly from
its fully seated positions, as long as its seal remains
engaged in the dipstick tube.
Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Change
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” in Section 8 of this
manual for the proper maintenance intervals.
358 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE:If the transmission is disassembled for any
reason, the fluid and filter should be changed.
It is important that proper lubricant is used in the
transmission. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts” in this section for the correct fluid type.
Special Additives
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid addi-
tives to the transmission. The only exception to this
policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid
leaks. In addition, avoid using transmission sealers as
they may adversely affect seals.
Appearance Care and Protection from Corrosion
Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion
Vehicle body care requirements vary according to geo-
graphic locations and usage. Chemicals that make roads passable in snow and ice, and those that are sprayed on
trees and road surfaces during other seasons, are highly
corrosive to the metal in your vehicle. Outside parking,
which exposes your vehicle to airborne contaminants,
road surfaces on which the vehicle is operated, extreme
hot or cold weather and other extreme conditions will
have an adverse affect on paint, metal trim, and under-
body protection.
The following maintenance recommendations will enable
you to obtain maximum benefit from the corrosion
resistance built into your vehicle.
What Causes Corrosion?
Corrosion is the result of deterioration or removal of
paint and protective coatings from your vehicle.
The most common causes are:
•Road salt, dirt and moisture accumulation.
•Stone and gravel impact.
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Chassis
ComponentFluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Automatic Transmission (5-Speed
545RFE) MOPAR\3
ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid
Transfer Case MOPAR\3ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid
Front and Rear Axle Fluid (4500/
5500) GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic (MS-9763) or equivalent.
Brake Master Cylinder MOPAR\3DOT 3 and SAE J1703 should be used or equivalent. If DOT 3
brake fluid is not available, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only recom-
mended brake fluids.
Power Steering Reservoir MOPAR\3ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 379
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•Change your engine oil more often if you drive your
vehicle off-road for an extended period of time.
•Under no circumstances should oil change intervals
exceed 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 6 months, whichever
comes first.
Your dealer will reset the oil change indicator message
after completing the scheduled oil change. If this sched-
uled oil change is performed by someone other than your
dealer the message can be reset by referring to the steps
described under “Odometer/Trip Odometer” under “In-
strument Cluster Description” in Section 4 of this.
At Each Stop for Fuel
•Check the engine oil level about 5 minutes after a fully
warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level while
the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accu-
racy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when the
level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and add if
required.
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 reservoir, brake
master cylinder, power steering and transmission and
add as needed.
•Check all lights and other electrical items for correct
operation.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 383
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54,000 Miles (90,000 km) or
54 Months Maintenance
Service Schedule
\2Change the engine oil and engine oil
filter.
\2 Rotate tires.
\2 Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
\2 Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
\2 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
\2Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
\2 Rotate tires.
\2 Replace the engine air cleaner filter.
\2 Replace the spark plugs (5.7L engine).
\2 Inspect the brake linings, replace if necessary.
\2 Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
\2 Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
\2 Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter(s) if using your vehicle for any of the
following: police, taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing.
\2 Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.
\2 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
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 389
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120,000 Miles (200,000 km) or 120 Months Maintenance Service
Schedule
\2Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
\2 Rotate tires.
\2 Replace the engine air cleaner filter.
\2 Replace the spark plugs (5.7L engine).
\2 Inspect the brake linings, replace if necessary.
\2 Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
\2 Inspect the front suspension, tie rod ends, and boot seals, replace if necessary.
\2 Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
\2 Inspect the CV Joints.
\2 Inspect exhaust system.
\2 Inspect the transfer case fluid, change if using your vehicle for any of the following: fleet,
off-road, or frequent trailer towing.
\2 Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter(s).
\2 Replace accessory drive belt(s).
Odometer Reading Date
Repair Order #Dealer Code
Signature Authorized Chrysler Dealer
126,000 Miles (210,000 km) or
126 Months Maintenance
Service Schedule
\2Change the engine oil and engine oil
filter.
\2 Rotate tires.
\2 Lube front drive shaft fitting (4x4 only).
\2 Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
\2 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
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 395
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Adding Fuel........................... 285
Adjustable Pedals ....................... 131
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . . . 340
Air Conditioner Maintenance ............... 342
Air Conditioning Refrigerant .............342,343
Air Conditioning System ................207,342
Air Conditioning System, Zone Control ........ 210
Air Pressure, Tires .................... 267,276
Airbag .............................. 48,53
Airbag Light ......................... 75,163
Airbag On/Off Switch ..................... 53
Alarm Light ........................... 165
Alarm (Security Alarm) .................... 19
Alarm System (Security Alarm) ............... 19
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle ............. 7
Antenna, Satellite Radio ................... 200
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ..............349,350
Capacities ........................... 377
Disposal ............................ 352 Anti-Lock Warning Light
...............170,257
Anti-Theft Security Alarm (Theft Alarm) ........ 19
Anti-Theft System ........................ 19
Appearance Care ........................ 359
Ashtray ............................... 145
Assistance Towing ....................... 100
Automatic Dimming Mirror ................. 82
Automatic Transaxle ...................... 12
Automatic Transmission ................... 356
Fluid and Filter Changes ................. 358
Fluid Level Check ..................... 357
Fluid Type ........................ 356,379
Shifting ............................. 224
Special Additives ...................... 359
Automatic Transmission (Diesel Engine Only) .... 356
Axle Fluid .......................... 356,379
Axle Lubrication (Axle Fluid) ............... 356
Battery ............................... 341
410 INDEX