RAM CHASSIS CAB 2023 Owners Manual

STARTING AND OPERATING189
Adjusting GAIN
NOTE:This should only be performed in a traffic-free envi -
ronment 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 a trailer dealer if
necessary.

2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical connections according to the trailer
manufacturer'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.
* The suggested selection depends and may change depending on the customer preferences for braking performance. Condition of the trailer brakes, driving
and road state may also affect the selection.
Light Electric Heavy Electric Light EOHHeavy EOH
Type of Trailer Brakes Electric Trailer Brakes Electric Trailer Brakes Electric over Hydraulic Trailer
BrakesElectric over Hydraulic Trailer
Brakes
Load *Under 10,000 lb (4,536 kg) *Above 10,000 lb (4,536 kg) *Under 10,000 lb (4,536 kg) *Above 10,000 lb (4,536 kg)
4

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 189

190STARTING AND OPERATING
Display Messages
The trailer brake control interacts with the
instrument cluster display. 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
Ú page 89.
NOTE:
An aftermarket controller may be available for
use with trailers with air or EOH trailer brake
systems. To determine the type of brakes on
your trailer and the availability of controllers,
check with your trailer manufacturer or dealer.
Removal of the ITBM will cause errors and it
may cause damage to the electrical system and
electronic modules of the vehicle. See an autho -
rized dealer if an aftermarket module is to be
installed.
Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And
Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer
size, stoplights and turn signals on the trailer are
required for motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four- and
seven-pin wiring harness. Use a factory approved
trailer harness and connector.
NOTE:Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring
harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to the
vehicle but you must mate the harness to a trailer
connector. Refer to the following illustrations.
NOTE:
Disconnect the trailer wiring connector from the
vehicle (or any other device plugged into
vehicle’s electrical connectors) before
launching a boat into water.
Be sure to reconnect once clear from water
area.

Four-Pin Connector

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 an
increase in stopping distance or trailer instability
which could result in personal injury.
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 an
increase in stopping distance or trailer instability
which could result in damage to your vehicle,
trailer, or other property.
1 — Ground
2 — Park
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Right Stop/Turn

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 190

STARTING AND OPERATING191

Seven-Pin Connector

Trailer Light Check
This feature will run the trailer lights through a
sequence to check the trailer light function. It is
available in the instrument cluster under the
Trailer Tow menu Ú page 95. When activated the feature will enable all of the
exterior lights sequentially for up to five minutes
allowing time to walk around and verify
functionality. The following exterior lights will
remain on for the entirety of the sequence:
Park/Running Lamps
Side Marker Lamps (if equipped)
License Lamp
Signature Lamp (if equipped)
Low Beams
Fog Lamps (if equipped)
Daytime Running Lamps
During this time the following lights will sequence,
each activating for three seconds:

1. Brake and CHMSL (third brake light)

2. Left turn signal
3. Right turn signal
4. Reverse Lamps
5. High Beam
This light check sequence will continue for a total
of five minutes. The sequence will only activate if the following
conditions are met:
Vehicle is equipped with the Trailer Tow
Package
Vehicle is in PARK
Vehicle is not in motion
Ignition in ACC or RUN
Remote start is inactive
Brakes are not applied
Left turn signal is not applied
Right turn signal not applied
Hazard switch is not applied
The sequence will cancel if any of the following
conditions occur:
Brakes are applied
Vehicle is shifted from PARK
Vehicle is no longer stationary
Left turn signal activated from stalk
Right turn signal is activated from stalk
Hazard switch is activated
Any button on the key fob is pushed
Ignition button is pushed
High Beam stalk position is changed
Sequence is canceled in the instrument cluster
1 — Backup Lamps
2 — Running Lamps
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Ground
5 — Battery
6 — Right Stop/Turn
7 — Electric Brakes
4

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192STARTING AND OPERATING
TOWING TIPS
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning,
stopping, and backing up the trailer in an area
located away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission

The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy to
avoid frequent shifting when towing. However, if
frequent shifting does occur while in DRIVE, select
TOW/HAUL mode or select a lower gear range (using
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control).

NOTE:Using TOW/HAUL mode or selecting a lower gear
range (using the ERS shift control) while operating
the vehicle under heavy loading conditions will
improve performance and extend transmission life
by reducing excessive shifting and heat build-up.
This action will also provide better engine braking.
6-Speed Automatic Transmission Only
When towing a loaded trailer up steep grades at
low speeds (20 mph [32 km/h] or below), holding
your vehicle in FIRST gear (using the ERS shift
control) can help to avoid transmission
overheating.

If you regularly tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes
of continuous operation, then change the automatic
transmission fluid and filter(s) as specified for "police,
taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing."
Ú
page 344.

NOTE:Check the automatic transmission fluid level
before towing (6-speed automatic only).
Tow/Haul Mode
To reduce potential for automatic transmission
overheating, activate TOW/HAUL mode when
driving in hilly areas, or select a lower gear range
(using the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift
control) on more severe grades.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
When using the Cruise Control, if you experience
speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h),
disengage until you can get back to cruising
speed.
Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with light
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
SNOWPLOW — IF EQUIPPED
Snowplow Prep Packages are available as a factory
installed option. These packages include
components necessary to equip your vehicle with a
snowplow.
NOTE:Before installation of a snowplow it is highly recom -
mended that the owner/installer obtain and follow
the recommendations contained within the current
Body Builder’s Guide. See an authorized dealer, installer or snowplow manufacturer for this infor
-
mation. There are unique electrical systems that
must be connected to properly ensure operator
safety and prevent overloading vehicle systems.
BEFORE PLOWING
Check the hydraulic system for leaks and proper
fluid level.
Check the mounting bolts and nuts for proper
tightness.
Check the runners and cutting edge for exces -
sive wear. The cutting edge should be ¼ to ½
inches (6 cm to 1.2 cm) above ground in snow
plowing position.
Check that snowplow lighting is connected and
functioning properly.
WARNING!
Attaching a snowplow to this vehicle could
adversely affect performance of the airbag
system in a collision. Do not expect that the
airbag will perform as described earlier in this
manual.
CAUTION!
The “Lamp Out” indicator could illuminate if
exterior lamps are not properly installed.

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 192

STARTING AND OPERATING193
SNOWPLOW PREP PACKAGE MODEL
A
VAILABILITY
For Information about snowplow applications visit
www.ramtrucks.com or refer to the current Body
Builder’s Guide.

1. The maximum number of occupants in the
truck should not exceed two.

2. The total GVWR or the Front GAWR or the Rear GAWR should never be exceeded.
3. Cargo capacity will be reduced by the addition of options or passengers, etc.
The loaded vehicle weight, including the snowplow
system, all aftermarket accessories, driver,
passengers, options, and cargo, must not exceed
either the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). These weights
are specified on the Safety Compliance
Certification Label on the driver's side door
opening.
NOTE:Detach the snowplow when transporting
passengers.
Vehicle front end wheel alignment was set to
specifications at the factory without consideration
for the weight of the plow. Front end toe-in should
be checked and reset if necessary at the beginning
and end of the snowplow season. This will help
prevent uneven tire wear. The blade should be lowered whenever the vehicle
is parked.
Maintain and operate your vehicle and snowplow
equipment following the recommendations
provided by the specific snowplow manufacturer.
OVER THE ROAD OPERATION WITH
S
NOWPLOW ATTACHED
The blade restricts air flow to the radiator and
causes the engine to operate at higher than
normal temperatures. Therefore, when
transporting the plow, angle the blade completely
and position it as low as road or surface conditions
permit. Do not exceed 40 mph (64 km/h). The
operator should always maintain a safe stopping
distance and allow adequate passing clearance.
OPERATING TIPS
Under ideal snow plowing conditions, 20 mph
(32 km/h) should be maximum operating speed.
The operator should be familiar with the area and
surface to be cleaned. Reduce speed and use
extreme caution when plowing unfamiliar areas or
under poor visibility.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Snowplows should be maintained in accordance
with the plow manufacturer's instructions.
Keep all snowplow electrical connections and
battery terminals clean and free of corrosion.
When plowing snow, to avoid transmission and
drivetrain damage, the following precautions
should be observed.
Operate with transfer case in 4WD LOW when
plowing small or congested areas where speeds
are not likely to exceed 15 mph (24 km/h). At
higher speeds operate in 4WD HIGH.
Vehicles with automatic transmissions should
use 4WD LOW when plowing deep or heavy
snow for extended periods of time to avoid
transmission overheating.
Do not shift the transmission unless the engine
has returned to idle and wheels have stopped.
Make a practice of stepping on the brake pedal
while shifting the transmission.
4

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 193

194STARTING AND OPERATING
RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME)
TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE
NOTE:When towing your vehicle, always follow applicable state and provincial laws. Contact state and provincial Highway Safety offices for additional details.
Towing Condition Wheels OFF The
Ground Two-Wheel Drive
Models Four-Wheel Drive Models
Flat Tow
NONENOT ALLOWED See InstructionsAutomatic transmission in PARK
Transfer case in N (Neutral)
Tow in forward direction
Dolly Tow Front
NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED
Rear OK NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer ALLOK OK

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 194

STARTING AND OPERATING195
(Continued)
RECREATIONAL TOWING — TWO-WHEEL
D
RIVE MODELS
DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the
drivetrain will result.
Recreational towing (for two-wheel drive models) is
allowed ONLY if the rear wheels are OFF the
ground. This may be accomplished using a tow
dolly or vehicle trailer. If using a tow dolly, follow
this procedure:

1. Properly secure the dolly to the tow vehicle, following the dolly manufacturer's
instructions.

2. Drive the rear wheels onto the tow dolly.
3. Firmly apply the parking brake. Place automatic transmission in PARK.
4. Properly secure the rear wheels to the dolly, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.
5. Turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key fob.
6. Install a suitable clamping device, designed for towing, to secure the front wheels in the
straight position.
RECREATIONAL TOWING —
F
OUR-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS
NOTE:Both the manual shift and electronically shifted
transfer cases must be shifted into N (Neutral) for
recreational towing. Automatic transmissions must
be shifted into PARK for recreational towing. Refer
to the following for the proper transfer case N
(Neutral) shifting procedure for your vehicle.
CAUTION!
Towing with the rear wheels on the ground will
cause severe transmission damage. Damage
from improper towing is not covered under the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Do not disconnect the driveshaft because
fluid may leak from the transmission, causing
damage to internal parts.
CAUTION!
DO NOT dolly tow any four-wheel drive vehicle.
Towing with only one set of wheels on the
ground (front or rear) will cause severe trans -
mission and/or transfer case damage. Tow
with all four wheels either ON the ground, or
OFF the ground (using a vehicle trailer).
Tow only in the forward direction. Towing this
vehicle backwards can cause severe damage
to the transfer case.
Before recreational towing, the transfer case
must be in N (Neutral). To be certain the
transfer case is fully in N (Neutral), perform
the procedure outlined under “Shifting Into N
(Neutral)”. Internal transmission damage will
result, if the transfer case is not in N (Neutral)
during towing.
The transmission must be placed in PARK for
recreational towing.
Towing this vehicle in violation of the above
requirements can cause severe transmission
and/or transfer case damage. Damage from
improper towing is not covered under the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Do not disconnect the rear driveshaft because
fluid will leak from the transfer case, causing
damage to internal parts.
Do not use a bumper-mounted clamp-on tow
bar on your vehicle. The bumper face bar will
be damaged.
CAUTION!
4

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 195

196STARTING AND OPERATING
Shifting Into N (Neutral)
Use the following procedure to prepare your
vehicle for recreational towing.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on level
ground, with the engine running. Firmly apply
the parking brake.

2. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.
3. Press and hold the brake pedal. 4. Shift the transfer case into N (Neutral):With manual shift transfer case, shift the
transfer case lever into N (Neutral).
With electronically shifted transfer case,
push and hold the transfer case N (Neutral)
button. Some models have a small,
recessed "N" button (at the center of the
transfer case switches) that must be
pressed using a ballpoint pen or similar
object. Other models have a rectangular N
(Neutral) switch, below the rotary transfer
case control knob. The N (Neutral) indicator
light will blink while the shift is in progress.
The light will stop blinking (stay on solid)
when the shift to N (Neutral) is complete.
After the shift is completed and the N
(Neutral) light stays on, release the N
(Neutral) button.
5. Release the parking brake.
6. Shift the transmission into REVERSE.
7. Release the brake pedal for five seconds and ensure that there is no vehicle movement.
8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 with automatic transmission in DRIVE.
9. Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL. Firmly apply the parking brake. Turn off the engine.
For vehicles with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™, push
and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button until
the engine shuts off. 10. Shift the transmission into PARK.
11. Place the ignition in the OFF position, and
remove the key fob.
12. Attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle using a suitable tow bar.
13. Release the parking brake.
NOTE:With electronically shifted transfer case:
Steps 2 through 3 are requirements that must
be met before pushing the N (Neutral) button,
and must continue to be met until the shift has
been completed. If any of these requirements
are not met before pushing the N (Neutral)
button or are no longer met during the shift, the
N (Neutral) indicator light will flash continuously
until all requirements are met or until the N
(Neutral) button is released.
The ignition must be in the ON/RUN position for
a shift to take place and for the position indi -
cator lights to be operable. If the ignition is not
in the ON/RUN position, the shift will not take
place and no position indicator lights will be on
or flashing.
A flashing N (Neutral) position indicator light
indicates that shift requirements have not been
met.
WARNING!
You or others could be injured or killed if you
leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer
case in the N (Neutral) position without first fully
engaging the parking brake. The transfer case N
(Neutral) position disengages both the front and
rear driveshafts from the powertrain, and will
allow the vehicle to roll, even if the automatic
transmission is in PARK. The parking brake
should always be applied when the driver is not
in the vehicle.
CAUTION!
It is necessary to follow these steps to be certain
that the transfer case is fully in N (Neutral)
before recreational towing to prevent damage to
internal parts.

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 196

STARTING AND OPERATING197
Shifting Out Of N (Neutral)
Use the following procedure to prepare your
vehicle for normal usage:

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, leaving
it connected to the tow vehicle.

2. Firmly apply the parking brake.
3. Press and hold the brake pedal.
4. Start the engine, and shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
With manual shift transfer case, shift the
transfer case lever to the desired position.
With electronically shifted transfer case
with rotary selector switch, push and hold
the transfer case N (Neutral) button until
the N (Neutral) indicator light turns off. After
the N (Neutral) indicator light turns off,
release the N (Neutral) button. After the N
(Neutral) button has been released, the
transfer case will shift to the position indi -
cated by the selector switch.
With electronically shifted transfer case
with push-button selector switch, push and
hold the switch for the desired transfer case
position, until the N (Neutral) indicator light
turns off and the desired position indicator
light turns on.
NOTE:When shifting the transfer case out of N (Neutral),
turning the engine off is not required, but may be
helpful to avoid gear clash. With 8-speed auto -
matic transmission, the engine must remain
running, since turning the engine off will shift the
transmission to PARK (and the transmission must
be in NEUTRAL for the transfer case to shift out of
NEUTRAL).
5. Turn the engine off. Shift automatic transmission into PARK. On 8-speed
transmissions the shifter will automatically
select PARK when the engine is turned off.
6. Release the brake pedal.
7. Disconnect vehicle from the tow vehicle.
8. Start the engine.
9. Press and hold the brake pedal.
10. Release the parking brake.
11. Shift the transmission into gear, release the brake pedal, and check that the vehicle
operates normally.
NOTE:With electronically shifted transfer case:
Steps 3 and 4 are requirements that must be
met before pushing the button to shift out of N
(Neutral), and must continue to be met until the
shift has been completed. If any of these
requirements are not met before pushing the
button or are no longer met during the shift, the
N (Neutral) indicator light will flash continuously
until all requirements are met or until the button
is released.
The ignition must be in the ON/RUN position for
a shift to take place and for the position indi -
cator lights to be operable. If the ignition is not
in the ON/RUN position, the shift will not take
place and no position indicator lights will be on
or flashing.
A flashing N (Neutral) position indicator light
indicates that shift requirements have not been
met.
DRIVING TIPS
DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES
Acceleration
Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other
slippery surfaces may cause the driving wheels to
pull erratically to the right or left. This phenomenon
occurs when there is a difference in the surface
traction under the rear (driving) wheels.
4

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198STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to
ensure safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.
Flowing/Rising WaterShallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
shallow standing water, consider the following
Warnings and Cautions before doing so.WARNING!
Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is
dangerous. Unequal traction can cause sudden
pulling of the rear wheels. You could lose control
of the vehicle and possibly have a collision.
Accelerate slowly and carefully whenever there
is likely to be poor traction (ice, snow, wet, mud,
loose sand, etc.).
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where
water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm
run-off). Flowing water can wear away the road
or path's surface and cause your vehicle to sink
into deeper water. Furthermore, flowing and/or
rising water can carry your vehicle away swiftly.
Failure to follow this warning may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
WARNING!
Driving through standing water limits your
vehicle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed
5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through
standing water.
Driving through standing water limits your
vehicle’s braking capabilities, which increases
stopping distances. Therefore, after driving
through standing water, drive slowly and
lightly press on the brake pedal several times
to dry the brakes.
Failure to follow these warnings may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
CAUTION!
Always check the depth of the standing water
before driving through it. Never drive through
standing water that is deeper than the bottom
of the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.
Determine the condition of the road or the
path that is under water and if there are any
obstacles in the way before driving through
the standing water.
Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving
through standing water. This will minimize
wave effects.
Driving through standing water may cause
damage to your vehicle’s drivetrain compo -
nents. Always inspect your vehicle’s fluids
(i.e., engine oil, transmission, axle, etc.) for
signs of contamination (i.e., fluid that is milky
or foamy in appearance) after driving through
standing water. Do not continue to operate
the vehicle if any fluid appears contaminated,
as this may result in further damage. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can
cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause
serious internal damage to the engine. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!

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