power steering RAM CHASSIS CAB 2020 User Guide

STARTING AND OPERATING229
POWER STEERING
Hydraulic Power Steering
The standard power steering system will give
you good vehicle response and increased ease
of maneuverability in tight spaces. The system
will provide mechanical steering capability if
power assist is lost.
If for some reason the power assist is inter -
rupted, it will still be possible to steer your
vehicle. Under these conditions, you will
observe a substantial increase in steering
effort, especially at very low vehicle speeds and
during parking maneuvers.
NOTE:
Increased noise levels at the end of the
steering wheel travel are considered normal
and do not indicate that there is a problem
with the power steering system.
Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the
power steering pump may make noise for a
short amount of time. This is due to the cold,
thick fluid in the steering system. This noise
should be considered normal, and it does not
in any way damage the steering system.
Power Steering Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a
defined service interval is not required. The fluid
should only be checked if a leak is suspected,
abnormal noises are apparent, and/or the
system is not functioning as anticipated. Check
fluid level when the engine is cold and off. Coor -
dinate inspection efforts through an authorized
dealer. If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper
indicated level. With a clean cloth, wipe any
spilled fluid from all surfaces. Refer to “Fluids
And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”
for further information.
CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system at
the end of the steering wheel travel will
increase the steering fluid temperature and it
should be avoided when possible. Damage to
the power steering pump may occur.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level
surface and with the engine off to prevent
injury from moving parts and to ensure
accurate fluid level reading. Do not overfill.
Use only manufacturer's recommended
power steering fluid.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your power
steering system as the chemicals can
damage your power steering components.
Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.5

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STARTING AND OPERATING275
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multi -
plied by the maximum width of the front of a
trailer.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
The TSC 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 tele -
scoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer
swaying motions while traveling.
If equipped, the electronic TSC recognizes a
swaying trailer and automatically applies indi -
vidual 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 accor -
dance 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 fric -
tion/hydraulic sway control also dampens sway
caused by traffic and crosswinds and contrib -
utes positively to tow vehicle and trailer
stability. Trailer Sway Control (TSC) and a weight
distributing (load equalizing) hitch are recom -
mended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW) and
may be required depending on vehicle and
trailer configuration/loading to comply with
GAWR requirements.

Without Weight-Distributing Hitch (Incorrect)
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

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282STARTING AND OPERATING
The trailer and the vehicle’s stop lamps will
come on when braking normally with the vehicle
brake pedal. Only the trailer stop lamps will
come on when the manual brake control lever is
applied.
Trailer Brake Status Indicator Light
This light indicates the trailer electrical connec -
tion status.
If no electrical connection is detected after the
ignition is turned on, pushing the GAIN adjust -
ment 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 (+/-)
Pushing 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 conditions include
trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions and
weather.
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 connections according to the trailer manu -
facturer's instructions.
3. When a trailer with electric/EOH brakes is plugged in, the trailer connected message
should appear in the instrument cluster
display (if the connection is not recognized
by the ITBM, braking functions will not be
available), the GAIN setting will illuminate
and the correct type of trailer must be
selected from the instrument cluster display
options. 4. Push the UP or DOWN button on the
steering wheel until “TRAILER TOW”
appears on the screen.
5. Push the RIGHT arrow on the steering wheel to enter “TRAILER TOW”.
6. Push the UP or DOWN buttons until the Trailer Brake Type appears on the screen.
7. Push the RIGHT arrow and then push the UP or DOWN buttons until the proper Trailer
Brake Type appears on the screen.
8. 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.
9. 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 8 and 9 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.

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298IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
These include, but are not limited to, the
following factors:
Delayed accessories mode is active.
The ignition is in the OFF position.
The vehicle’s electrical systems are not
intact.
The SOS Call system software and/or hard -
ware are damaged during a crash.
The vehicle battery loses power or becomes
disconnected during a vehicle crash.
LTE (voice/data) or 4G (data) network and/or
Global Positioning Satellite signals are
unavailable or obstructed.
Equipment malfunction at the SOS operator
facility.
Operator error by the SOS operator.
LTE (voice/data) or 4G (data) network
congestion.
Weather.
Buildings, structures, geographic terrain, or
tunnels. NOTE:
Your vehicle may be transmitting data as
authorized by the subscriber.
Never place anything on or near the vehicle’s
LTE (voice/data) or 4G (data) and GPS
antennas. You could prevent LTE (voice/
data) or 4G (data) and GPS signal reception,
which can prevent your vehicle from placing
an emergency call. An operable LTE (voice/
data) or 4G (data) network connection and a
GPS signal is required for the SOS Call
system to function properly.
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for compli
-
ance could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment.
WARNING!
ALWAYS obey traffic laws and pay attention to
the road. ALWAYS drive safely with your hands
on the steering wheel. You have full
responsibility and assume all risks related to
the use of the features and applications in
this vehicle. Only use the features and
applications when it is safe to do so. Failure
to do so may result in an accident involving
serious injury or death.
CAUTION!
To avoid damage to the mirror during
cleaning, never spray any cleaning solution
directly onto the mirror. Apply the solution
onto a clean cloth and wipe the mirror clean.

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306IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Power Distribution Center
The Power Distribution Center is located in the
engine compartment near the battery. This
center contains cartridge fuses, micro fuses,
relays, and circuit breakers. A description of
each fuse and component may be stamped on
the inside cover, otherwise the cavity number of
each fuse is stamped on the inside cover that
corresponds to the following chart.

Power Distribution Center Location
If a general protection fuse for safety
systems (air bag system, braking system),
power unit systems (engine system, trans-
mission system) or steering system blows,
contact an authorized dealer.
WARNING! (Continued)
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Micro Fuse Description
F0180 Amp Black –Rad Fan Control Module – If Equipped (DS 1500 Only)
F02 60 Amp Yellow –ABS Pump Motor (HD Only)
F03 60 Amp Yellow –Rad Fan – If Equipped
F04 50 Amp Red 400W Inverter – If Equipped (HD Only)
F05 40 Amp Green
50 Amp Red (Special
Services Vehicle (SSV)) –
Compressor For Air Suspension – If Equipped
F06 40 Amp Green –ABS Pump Motor (DS 1500 Only)
Steering Torque Overlay Module (STOM) (HD Only)
F07 40 Amp Green –Starter Solenoid
F08 20 Amp Blue (DS 1500 LD/
Cummins Diesel)40 Amp Green –
–
NOX Sensor – If Equipped
Aux Relay Output- SSV Only

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY309
F3630 Amp Pink –Electric Back Light – If Equipped
F37 30 Amp Pink –Fuel Heater #2, Aux Relay 2 – If Equipped (HD Only)
SSV (DS 1500 Only)
F38 30 Amp Pink –Integrated Trailer Brake Module – If Equipped (HD Only)
Power Inverter 115 Volt AC – If Equipped (DS 1500 Only)
F39 20 Amp Blue –Power Outlet – SSV Only
F40 –10 Amp Red Ventilated Seats – If Equipped (HD Only)
F41 –10 Amp Red Active Grille Shutter / Active Air Dam – If Equipped
F42 –20 Amp Yellow Horn
F43 –15 Amp Blue Heated Steering Wheel – If Equipped (HD Only)
F44 –10 Amp Red Diagnostic Port
F46 –10 Amp RedUpfitters Relay Coil – If Equipped (HD Only)
Spare (DS 1500 Only)
F49 –10 Amp RedInstrument Panel Cluster / HVAC (DS 1500 Only)
Instrument Cluster / MOD CSG (HD Only)
F50 –20 Amp Yellow Air Suspension Control Module – If Equipped
F51 –10 Amp RedIgnition Node Module / Keyless Ignition Node Module,
Radio Frequency Hub Module / Electric Steering Column
Lock - If Equipped
F52 –5 Amp Tan Battery Sensor
F53 –20 Amp Yellow Trailer Tow – Left Turn/Stop Lights - If Equipped
F54 –20 Amp Yellow Non Memory Adjustable Pedals - If Equipped
CavityCartridge Fuse Micro Fuse Description
6

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312IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
F78 –10 Amp RedEngine Control Module / Powertrain Control Module /
Electric Power Steering (DS 1500 Only)
F78 –15 Amp BlueEngine Control Module / Powertrain Control Module / AEB
RACM MOD / Feed To AUX PDC Relay Coils/ HRLS (HD
Only)
F79 –15 Amp Blue ID / Clearance Lights
F80 –10 Amp RedUniversal Garage Door Opener / Compass / Anti-Intrusion
Module (DS 1500 Only)
ASSY Overhead Console / SW Assist / SW 911 – If
Equipped (HD Only)
F81 –20 Amp Yellow Trailer Tow Right Turn / Stop Lights - If Equipped
F82 –10 Amp Red Steering Column Control Module / Cruise Control
F83 ––No Connection
F84 –15 Amp Blue ASBM / HVAC / ICS / Rear Heated Seat Switches
F85 –10 Amp Red Airbag Module
F86 –10 Amp Red Airbag Module
F87 –10 Amp RedAir Suspension / ITBM / Steering Column Control Module
/ MOD Gateway CAN-C Trailer TPM (HD Only)
Air Suspension / Trailer Tow / DC/DC Converter (Voltage
Stabilizer) / Steering Column Control Module / Occupant
Classification Sensor (DS 1500 Only)
F88 –15 Amp Blue Instrument Panel Cluster
CavityCartridge Fuse Micro Fuse Description

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY313
F90/F91 –20 Amp Yellow IGN or BATT Customer Selectable – If Equipped (HD Only)
Power Outlet (Rear Seats) Customer Selectable (DS 1500
Only)
F93 –20 Amp Yellow Cigar Lighter - If Equipped
F94 –10 Amp RedShift-By-Wire / Transfer Case Switch (DS 1500 Only)
Shift-By-Wire / Transfer Case Switch / Module TPM Trailer
(HD Only) / Module Gateway Can-C Trailer TPM (HD Only)
F95 –10 Amp RedRearview Camera / Park Assist / CHMSL Camera / Blind
Spot Sensor / Surround View Camera (HD Only)
Rear Camera / Park Assist / Blind Spot Sensor / Compass
(DS 1500 Only)
F96 –10 Amp RedRear Seat Heater Switch / Trunk Lamp With Flashlamp
Charger / Truck Lamp - If Equipped (DS 1500 Only)
Trailer Camera – If Equipped (HD Only)
F97 –25 Amp ClearRear Heated Seats And Heated Steering Wheel – If
Equipped (DS 1500 Only)
F97 –20 Amp Yellow Front Heated Seat Passenger – If Equipped (HD Only)
F98 –25 Amp Clear Front Heated Seats – If Equipped (DS 1500 Only)
F98 –20 Amp Yellow Front Heated Seat Driver – If Equipped (HD Only)
F99 –10 Amp RedHVAC / DASM (DS 1500 Only)
HVAC / In-Car Temperature Sensor / CSG MOD (HD Only)
F100 –10 Amp Red Upfitters – If Equipped (HD Only)
F101 –15 Amp Blue SSV Only
CavityCartridge Fuse Micro Fuse Description
6

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329
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING — GAS ENGINE
Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic oil
change indicator system. The oil change indi-
cator system will remind you that it is time to
take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance.
Based on engine operation conditions, the oil
change indicator message will illuminate. This
means that service is required for your vehicle.
Operating conditions such as frequent
short-trips, trailer tow, extremely hot or cold
ambient temperatures, and E85 fuel usage will
influence when the “Oil Change Required”
message is displayed. Severe Operating Condi-
tions can cause the change oil message to illu -
minate as early as 3,500 miles (5,600 km)
since last reset. Have your vehicle serviced as
soon as possible, within the next 500 miles
(805 km). 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.
Gas Engines:
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 8,000 miles (13,000 km),
12 months or 350 hours of engine run time,
whichever comes first. The 350 hours of engine
run or idle time is generally only a concern for
fleet customers.
Severe Duty:
Change Engine Oil at 4,000 miles (6,500 km) or
350 hours of engine run time if the vehicle is
operated in a dusty and off road environment or
is operated predominately at idle or very low
engine RPM. This type of vehicle use is consid -
ered Severe Duty. Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:Check engine oil level.
Check windshield washer fluid level.
Check the tire inflation pressures and look
for unusual wear or damage. Rotate at the
first sign of irregular wear.
Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir,
brake master cylinder, power steering and
automatic transmission (six-speed only), and
fill as needed.
Check function of all interior and exterior
lights.
7

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE341
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.Flush and replace power
steering fluid.
X
Flush and replace engine
coolant. *** X
1. Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months or 500 Hours, whichever comes
first.
2. Under no circumstances should the air cleaner filter element exceed 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, whichever comes first.
3. Inspect the front and rear axle surfaces every 20,000 miles (32,000 km). 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 every 20,000 miles (32,000 km).
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
7

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