oil level RAM CHASSIS CAB 2021 User Guide

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE357
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 cleaner filter. Replace the
engine air cleaner filter, 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.
OIL CHANGE INDICATOR SYSTEM —
C
UMMINS 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.

CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance
items may result in damage to the vehicle.
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358SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
An authorized dealer will reset the oil change
indicator message after completing the
scheduled oil change. If a scheduled oil change
is performed by someone other than an
authorized dealer Úpage 90.
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
operation with biodiesel blend (B6-B20) fuel
meeting ASTM specification D-7467.PERFORM SERVICE INDICATOR —
C
UMMINS DIESEL

Your vehicle will require emissions maintenance
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.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE361
Replace the engine fuel filter. X X X X X X X X X X
Replace the chassis mounted
fuel filter. 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
Change the transfer case fluid
(4x4). X
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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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE363
(Continued)

Inspection and service should also be performed
anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected.
Retain all receipts.
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 engine air cleaner filter 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
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or
around a motor vehicle. Do only service
work for which you have the knowledge and
the right equipment. If you have any doubt
about your ability to perform a service job,
take your vehicle to a competent mechanic.

Failure to properly inspect and maintain your
vehicle could result in a component malfunc -
tion and effect vehicle handling and perfor -
mance. This could cause an accident.

WARNING! (Continued)CAUTION!

***The manufacturer highly recommends that
all cooling system service, maintenance, and
repairs be performed by an authorized dealer.
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366SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
CHECKING OIL LEVEL
To ensure proper engine lubrication, the engine
oil must be maintained at the correct level.
Check the oil level at regular intervals, such as
every fuel stop. The best time to check the
engine oil level is about five minutes after a fully
warmed up engine is shut off.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level
ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level
readings.
There are four possible dipstick types:
Crosshatched zone.
Crosshatched zone marked SAFE.
Crosshatched zone marked with MIN at the
low end of the range and MAX at the high end
of the range.
Crosshatched zone marked with dimples at
the MIN and the MAX ends of the range.
NOTE:
Always maintain the oil level within the cross -
hatch markings on the dipstick. Adding 1 quart (1 liter) of oil when the reading is
at the low end of the dipstick range will raise the
oil level to the high end of the range marking.
ADDING WASHER FLUID

The fluid reservoir is located under the hood and
should be checked for fluid level at regular
intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield
washer solvent only (not radiator antifreeze).
When refilling the washer fluid reservoir, take
some washer fluid and apply it to a cloth or towel
and wipe the wiper blades clean. This will help
blade performance.

To prevent freeze-up of your windshield washer
system in cold weather, select a solution or
mixture that meets or exceeds the temperature
range of your climate. This rating information
can be found on most washer fluid containers.
After the engine has warmed up, operate the
defroster for a few minutes to reduce the
possibility of smearing or freezing the fluid on
the cold windshield. Windshield washer solution
used with water as directed on the container,
aids cleaning action, reduces the freezing point
to avoid line clogging, and is not harmful to
paint or trim.
MAINTENANCE-FREE BATTERY

Your vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-free
battery. You will never have to add water, and
periodic maintenance is not required.

CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will
cause oil aeration or loss of oil pressure.
This could damage your engine.
WARNING!
Commercially available windshield washer
solvents are flammable. They could ignite and
burn you. Care must be exercised when filling
or working around the washer solution.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE387
(Continued)
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance,
all brake system components should be
inspected periodically Ú page 354.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
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.

If necessary, add fluid to bring level within the
designated marks on the side of the reservoir of the
brake master cylinder. Be sure to clean the top of
the master cylinder area before removing 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.

For further information Ú
page 444.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Special Additives

The manufacturer strongly recommends against
using any special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an
engineered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore,
do not add any fluid additives to the transmission.
The only exception to this policy is the use of special
dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks in six-speed
transmissions. Avoid using transmission sealers as
they may adversely affect seals.

WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure
and possibly a collision. 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.WARNING!
Use only manufacturer's recommended
brake fluid Úpage 444. Using the wrong
type of brake fluid can severely damage
your brake system and/or impair its perfor -
mance. The proper type of brake fluid for
your vehicle is also identified on the original
factory installed hydraulic master cylinder
reservoir.

To avoid contamination from foreign matter
or moisture, use only new brake fluid or fluid
that has been in a tightly closed container.
Keep the master cylinder reservoir cap
secured at all times. Brake fluid in a open
container absorbs moisture from the air
resulting in a lower boiling point. This may
cause it to boil unexpectedly during hard or
prolonged braking, resulting in sudden brake
failure. This could result in a collision.

Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can
result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine
parts, causing the brake fluid to catch fire.
Brake fluid can also damage painted and
vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
Do not allow petroleum based fluid to
contaminate the brake fluid. Brake seal
components could be damaged, causing
partial or complete brake failure. This could
result in a collision.
WARNING! (Continued)
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE389
7. Remove the dipstick again and note the
fluid level on both sides. The fluid level
reading is only valid if there is a solid
coating of oil on both sides of the dipstick.
Note that the holes in the dipstick will be full
of fluid if the actual level is at or above the
hole. The fluid level should be between the
“HOT” (upper) reference holes on the
dipstick at normal operating temperature.
If the fluid level is low, add fluid through the
dipstick tube to bring it to the proper level.
Do not overfill. Use ONLY the specified fluid
Ú page 444. 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 60-70°F / 16-21°C. Only
use the COLD region of the dipstick as a rough refer -
ence when setting the fluid level after a transmis -sion service or fluid change. Re-check the fluid level,
and adjust as required, once the transmission
reaches normal operating temperature.

8. Reinsert the dipstick. Check for leaks.
Release the parking brake.
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 68-86°F / 20-30°C. Only use the
COLD region of the dipstick as a rough reference
when setting the fluid level after a transmission
service or fluid change. Re-check the fluid level, and
adjust as required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.

Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed
Transmission
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.

Routine fluid and filter changes are not required.
However, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the
transmission is disassembled for any reason.

Fluid And Filter Changes — Six Speed
Transmission
For the proper maintenance intervals
Ú page 354.
In addition, change the fluid and filters if the
fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.),
or if the transmission is disassembled for any
reason.
CAUTION!
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. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.
CAUTION!
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. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE391
Lubricant Selection
For further information Úpage 444.
NOTE:

The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differ -
ential 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 REQUIRE limited
slip oil additive (friction modifiers).
NOTE:
Slight noise and mild shuddering may be
evident 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
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.
Drain And Refill
For the proper maintenance intervals
Ú page 354.
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer's recommended
fluid Ú page 444.
NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM REQUIRED
M
AINTENANCE & WARRANTY

All vehicles built over 10,000 lbs. (4,535 kg) Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating and manufactured for sale
and use in the United States are required to comply
with the Federal Government's Exterior Noise
Regulations. These vehicles can be identified by
the Noise Emission Control Label located in the
operator's compartment.

Required Maintenance For Noise Control
Systems
The following maintenance services must be
performed every six months or 7,500 miles
(12,000 km) whichever comes first, to ensure
proper operation of the noise control systems.
In addition, inspection and service should be
performed anytime a malfunction is observed or
suspected. Proper maintenance of the entire
vehicle will help the effectiveness of the noise
control systems.
Exhaust System
Inspect the entire exhaust system for leaks and
damaged parts. Devices such as hangers,
clamps, and U-bolts should be tight and in good
condition. Damaged components, burned or
blown out mufflers, burned or rusted out
exhaust pipes should be replaced according to
the procedures and specifications outlined in
the appropriate service manual.
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451
Belts, Seat
..................................................... 330Bluetooth Connecting To A Particular Mobile Phone Or Audio Device After Pairing
................262Body Builders Guide........................................ 10Body Mechanism Lubrication........................ 380B-Pillar Location............................................. 411Brake Assist System...................................... 274Brake Control System.................................... 274Brake Fluid.......................................... 387, 444Brake System...................................... 387, 431Fluid Check............................................... 387Master Cylinder......................................... 387Parking...................................................... 137Warning Light............................................ 107Brake/Transmission Interlock....................... 141Bulb Replacement......................................... 401Bulbs, Light.......................................... 332, 401
C
Cab Top Clearance Lights.............................. 405Camera.......................................................... 186Camera, AUX........................................ 188, 194Camera, Rear...................................... 186, 189Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)......... 439Capacities, Fluid............................................ 439Caps, FillerOil (Engine)................................................ 364Power Steering.......................................... 163Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...................... 385
Car Washes................................................... 428Carbon Monoxide Warning............................ 333Cargo Light....................................................... 54CD................................................................. 255Cellular Phone.............................................. 269Center High Mounted Stop Light................... 405Center Seat Storage Compartment.................. 67Changing A Flat Tire...................................... 339Charge Air Cooler.......................................... 386Chart, Tire Sizing........................................... 407Check Engine Light (Malfunction
Indicator Light).............................................. 117Checking Your Vehicle For Safety................. 330Checks, Safety.............................................. 330Child Restraint.............................................. 312Child RestraintsBooster Seats........................................... 315Child Seat Installation..................... 323, 325How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt.... 322Infant And Child Restraints....................... 313Locating The LATCH Anchorages.............. 320Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children.. 317Older Children And Child Restraints......... 314Seating Positions...................................... 316Clean Air Gasoline......................................... 433CleaningWheels..................................................... 421Climate Control................................................ 58Automatic.................................................... 59Manual........................................................ 62
Cold Weather Operation................................ 122Compact Spare Tire...................................... 419Contract, Service........................................... 446Controls........................................................ 247Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap)............ 385Cooling System............................................. 383Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)...................... 384Coolant Level................................... 384, 386Cooling Capacity....................................... 439Disposal Of Used Coolant......................... 385Drain, Flush, And Refill............................. 384Inspection................................................. 386Points To Remember................................ 386Pressure Cap............................................ 385Radiator Cap............................................. 385Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze)..... 384, 440Corrosion Protection..................................... 427Cruise Control (Speed Control)............. 164, 166Cruise Light................................................... 115Customer Assistance.................................... 445Cybersecurity................................................ 220
D
Daytime Running Lights...................................51Dealer Service............................................... 367Defroster, Rear Window...................................62Defroster, Windshield............................ 62, 331Delay (Intermittent) Wipers..............................57Deleting A Phone........................................... 262Diagnostic System, Onboard......................... 116
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453
Fluid Level Checks Brake
........................................................ 387Power Steering.......................................... 163Fog Lights............................................... 53, 404Fold Flat Load Floor......................................... 70Fold-Flat Seats................................................. 33Forward Collision Warning............................. 281Four Wheel Drive........................................... 153Four-Way Hazard Flasher............................... 334Freeing A Stuck Vehicle................................. 349Front Axle (Differential).................................. 390Fuel............................................ 196, 433, 436Adding....................................................... 195Additives................................................... 434Clean Air.................................................... 433Diesel.............................................. 196, 436Ethanol...................................................... 434Filler Cap (Gas Cap)................................... 196Filter................................................ 375, 440Gasoline.................................................... 433Light.......................................................... 111Materials Added........................................ 434Methanol................................................... 434Octane Rating........................................... 433Requirements................................. 433, 436Specifications............................................ 436Tank Capacity............................................ 439Fuses............................................................. 394
G
Garage Door Opener (HomeLink)..................... 47Gas Cap (Fuel Filler Cap).............................. 196Gasoline, Clean Air........................................ 433Gasoline, Reformulated................................ 433GaugesVoltage..................................................... 128Gear Ranges................................................. 147Gear Selector Override................................. 347Glass Cleaning.............................................. 430Gross Axle Weight Rating.............................. 201Gross Vehicle Weight Rating......................... 201GuideBody Builders.............................................. 10GVWR............................................................ 199
H
HazardDriving Through Flowing, Rising, Or Shallow Standing Water
.................................... 218Hazard Warning Flashers.............................. 334Head Restraints............................................... 38Head Rests...................................................... 38Headlights.................................................... 402Automatic High Beam.................................. 52Cleaning................................................... 427High Beam................................................... 51Lights On Reminder..................................... 53Passing........................................................ 52Switch.......................................................... 50
Heated Mirrors.................................................46Heated Seats...................................................37Hill Descent Control...................................... 278Hill Descent Control Indicator....................... 278Hill Start Assist.............................................. 280HitchesTrailer Towing........................................... 204HomeLink (Garage Door Opener).....................47Hood Prop........................................................79Hood Release...................................................79Hub Caps...................................................... 343
I
Idle-Up Feature............................................. 132Ignition.............................................................18Switch..........................................................18Illuminated Entry..............................................56Inside Rearview Mirror.................... 41, 42, 335Instrument Cluster...................... 85, 86, 88, 89Descriptions.............................................. 115Display.........................................................90Engine Oil Reset..........................................91Instrument Panel Lens Cleaning................... 429Integrated Trailer Brake Control.................... 207Interior Appearance Care.............................. 428Interior Lights...................................................55Intermittent Wipers (Delay Wipers)..................57Intervention Regeneration Strategy..... 101, 379Inverter Outlet (115V)......................................74
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