oil RAM CHASSIS CAB 2023 Workshop Manual

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE371
(Continued)
To guarantee optimum performance of the system,
keep the surfaces of the charge air cooler,
condenser and radiator clean and free of debris.
Periodically check the hoses leading to and from
the charge air cooler for cracks or loose clamps
resulting in loss of pressure and reduced engine
performance.
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance, all
brake system components should be inspected
periodically Ú
page 344.
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 Light
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 421.
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 421. Using the wrong type of
brake fluid can severely damage your brake
system and/or impair its performance. 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 an 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 contam -
inate the brake fluid. Brake seal components
could be damaged, causing partial or
complete brake failure. This could result in a
collision.
WARNING!
8

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372SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
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 6-speed
transmissions. Avoid using transmission sealers as
they may adversely affect seals.
Fluid Level Check — 8-Speed Transmission
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not
require adjustment under normal operating
conditions. Routine fluid level checks are not
required, therefore the transmission has no
dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your
transmission fluid level using special service tools. If you notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit an authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level
checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper
fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
Fluid Level Check — 6-Speed Transmission
It is best to check the fluid level when the
transmission is at normal operating temperature
(158-176°F / 70-80°C). This normally occurs
after at least 15 miles (25 km) of driving. At normal
operating temperature the fluid cannot be held
comfortably between the fingertips. You can read
the transmission sump temperature in the
instrument cluster screen Ú page 89.
Use the following procedure to check the
transmission fluid level properly:

1. Monitor the transmission temperature using the instrument cluster display, and operate
the vehicle as required to reach the normal
operating temperature. If the transmission is
not functioning properly, or the vehicle cannot be driven, see the following Note and Caution
about checking the fluid level at colder
temperatures.

2. Park the vehicle on level ground.
3. Run the engine at normal idle speed for at least 60 seconds, and leave the engine
running for the rest of this procedure.
4. Fully apply the parking brake, and press the brake pedal.
5. Place the gear selector momentarily into each gear position (allowing time for the
transmission to fully engage in each position),
ending with the transmission in PARK.
6. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it until seated.
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 421. After adding any
quantity of oil through the dipstick tube, wait a
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An authorized
dealer has the proper tools to adjust the fluid
level accurately.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE373
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
reference when setting the fluid level after a trans -
mission service or fluid change. Re-check the fluid
level, and adjust as required, once the trans -
mission 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 trans -
mission service or fluid change. Re-check the fluid
level, and adjust as required, once the trans -
mission reaches normal operating temperature.
Fluid And Filter Changes — 8-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 — 6-Speed
Transmission
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 344.
In addition, change the fluid and filters if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the
transmission is disassembled for any reason.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid
to ensure optimum transmission performance and
life. Use only the manufacturer’s specified
transmission fluid Ú page 421. It is important to
maintain the transmission fluid at the correct level
using the recommended fluid. No chemical flushes
should be used in any transmission; only the
approved lubricant should be used.
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.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
torque converter shudder, and (for 6-speed
transmissions) will require more frequent fluid
and filter changes Ú page 421.
8

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374SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
REAR AXLE AND 4X4 FRONT DRIVING
A
XLE FLUID LEVEL
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are
not required. When the vehicle is serviced for other
reasons the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly
should be inspected. If gear oil leakage is
suspected, inspect the fluid level with the vehicle
in a level position.
When checking the fluid level, the vehicle should
be in a level position. The fluid level at room
temperature should be as follows:
3500 Front Axle: ¼ inch ± ¼ inch (6.4 mm ±
6.4 mm) below the bottom of the fill hole.
3500 Rear Axle: ¼ inch ± ¼ inch (6.4 mm ±
6.4 mm) below the bottom of the fill hole.
4500/5500 Front Axle: ¼ inch +/- ¼ inch
(6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm) below the bottom of the fill
hole.
4500/5500 Rear Axle: 1/8 inch +/- 1/8 inch (3.2 mm +/- 3.2 mm) below the bottom of the fill
hole.
Drain And Refill
On 4500/5500 vehicles, remove the lower bolt to
drain the axle fluid.
4500/5500 Rear Axle Plugs

For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 344.
Lubricant Selection
For further information Ú page 421.
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 Úpage 344.
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer's recommended fluid
Úpage 421.
NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM REQUIRED
M
AINTENANCE & WARRANTY
All vehicles built over 10,000 lb (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.
1 — 4500/5500 Rear Axle Fluid Fill Plug
2 — 4500/5500 Rear Axle Fluid Drain Plug

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE381
F41 –10 Amp RedAct Grille Shutter / Dam *
F42 –20 Amp YellowHorn
F43 –15 Amp BlueHeated Strng Wheel *
F44 –10 Amp RedDiagnostic Port
F45 ––Spare
F46 –10 Amp RedUpfitters Relay Coils *
F47 ––Spare
F48 ––Spare
F49 –15 Amp BlueIP Cluster / CSG
F50 –20 Amp YellowAir Suspension Mod *
F51 –10 Amp RedIGN Mod / KINMod / RFHub
F52 –5 Amp TanBatt Snsr
F53 –20 Amp YellowTrlr Tow – Lt Turn/Stop
F54 –20 Amp YellowNon-Memory Adj Pedals *
F55 –10 Amp RedFwd Utility Lamps
F56 –10 Amp RedVBV
F57 –20 Amp YellowTCM / PCM / Trans PRSR SW
F58 –10 Amp RedBed Lighting
F59 ––Spare
F60 ––Spare
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Micro FuseDescription
* If Equipped
8

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382SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
F61 –10 Amp RedNH3 Sensor / PM Sensor *
F62 –10 Amp RedA/C Clutch
F63 –20 Amp YellowIgnition Coils / CAPS
F64 –25 Amp ClearFuel Injectors / PCM *
F65 –10 Amp RedRVDMP / MOD BLE *
F66 –10 Amp RedSunroof / USB RR * / RR Mirror/
Passenger Wind SW
F67 –10 Amp RedUCI / TRLR 360 Cam/ Tach *
F68 –10 Amp RedAEB RACAM HTR *
F69 –15 Amp BlueSCR Mod 12 Volt *
F70 –30 Amp GreenFuel Pump Mtr / Fuel Htr RLY
F71 –25 Amp ClearAmp / Act Noise Cnsl
F72 ––Spare
F73 –20 Amp YellowFuel Transfer Pump *
F74 –10 Amp RedBackup Alarm
F75 –10 Amp RedSCR RLY / ATMM *
F76 –10 Amp RedElectronic Stability Control (ESC) *
F77 –10 Amp RedDTCM / TCM / FAD MOD / STOM
F78 –15 Amp BlueECM / PCM / IRCM / AUX Relay
Feed / HRLS
F79 –15 Amp BlueID / Clearance Lt
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Micro FuseDescription
* If Equipped

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386SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Replacing Exterior Bulbs
BASE QUAD: LOW BEAM HEADLAMP, HIGH
BEAM HEADLAMP, FRONT PARK AND TURN —
IF EQUIPPED
Low Beam
See the following steps to replace:

1. Open the hood.

2. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
3. Reach into the front wheel house ahead of the front wheel, remove the fastener, and lift the
cover over the access hole in the front of the
wheel house splash shield. Access to the rear
of the lamp can be gained through this access
hole.

Splash Shield Access Cover
4. Reach through the access hole of the wheel
house splash shield and disengage the bulb
access cover by rotating counterclockwise.

Bulb Access Cover

5. Disconnect the internal lamp wiring harness connector from the low beam bulb. 6. Rotate the bulb counterclockwise a quarter
turn to unlock the bulb from the lamp.
7. Pull the bulb straight out from the housing.
8. Reverse the procedure for installation of new bulb and covers.
High Beam
See the following steps to replace:

1. Open the hood.

2. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable.

Bulb Access Cover

3. Look under the hood and behind the headlamp to find the high beam bulb access
cover.
4. Reach behind the headlamp and disengage the access cover by rotating counterclockwise.
CAUTION!
Do not contaminate the bulb glass by touching
it with your fingers or by allowing it to contact
other oily surfaces. Shortened bulb life will
result.
Always use the correct bulb size and type for
replacement. An incorrect bulb size or type
may overheat and cause damage to the lamp,
the bulb socket, or the lamp wiring.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE387
5. Disconnect the internal lamp wiring harness connector from the high beam bulb.
6. Rotate the bulb counterclockwise a quarter turn to unlock the bulb from the lamp.
7. Pull the bulb straight out from the housing.
8. Reverse the procedure for installation of new bulb and covers.
Outer Park And Turn
See the following steps to replace:

1. Open the hood.

2. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable.
3. Reach into the front wheel house ahead of the front wheel, remove the fastener, and lift the
cover over the access hole in the front of the
wheel house splash shield. Access to the rear of the lamp can be gained through this access
hole.

Splash Shield Access Cover

4. Reach through the access hole of the wheel house splash shield and disengage the side
marker socket by rotating counterclockwise a
quarter turn.

Park And Turn Sockets
5. Pull the socket and bulb straight out from the
housing.
6. Separate the bulb from the socket without twisting.
7. Reverse the procedure for installation of new bulb and covers.
FOG LAMPS — IF EQUIPPED
Halogen
See the following steps to replace:

1. Reach under and behind the front fascia/bumper to access the back of the front fog
lamp housing.

2. Disconnect the fog lamp wiring harness connector from the fog lamp bulb.

Fog Lamp Bulb

CAUTION!
Do not contaminate the bulb glass by touching
it with your fingers or by allowing it to contact
other oily surfaces. Shortened bulb life will
result.
Always use the correct bulb size and type for
replacement. An incorrect bulb size or type
may overheat and cause damage to the lamp,
the bulb socket, or the lamp wiring.
8

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388SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
3. Rotate the bulb counterclockwise a quarter turn to unlock the bulb from the housing.
4. Pull the bulb straight out from the housing.
5. Reverse the procedure to install the bulb and cover.
CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP (CHMSL)
WITH CARGO LAMP
See the following steps to replace:

1. Remove the two screws holding the housing/lens to the body as shown.

CHMSL Mounting Screw Locations
2. Separate the connector holding the housing
and wiring harness to the body.

CHMSL Connector Location

3. Turn the desired bulb socket a quarter turn and remove the socket and bulb from housing.
4. Pull the desired bulb straight from the socket.
Outside Bulbs: Cargo Lamps
Inside Bulb: Center High Mounted Stop
Lamp
5. Reverse the procedure for installation of bulbs and housing.
CAB TOP CLEARANCE LAMPS — IF EQUIPPED
See the following steps to replace:

1. Remove the two screws from the top of the lamp.

Removing Rear Screw From Clearance Lamp

2. Rotate the bulb socket a quarter turn and pull it from the lamp assembly.
CAUTION!
Do not contaminate the bulb glass by touching it
with your fingers or by allowing it to contact other
oily surfaces. Shortened bulb life will result.
CAUTION!
Do not contaminate the bulb glass by touching it
with your fingers or by allowing it to contact other
oily surfaces. Shortened bulb life will result.

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400SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
NOTE:Wheel valve stem must be replaced as well when
installing new tires due to wear and tear in existing
tires.
Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with as
little exposure to light as possible. Protect tires
from contact with oil, grease, and gasoline.
Replacement Tires
The tires on your new vehicle provide a balance of
many characteristics. They should be inspected
regularly for wear and correct cold tire inflation
pressures. The manufacturer strongly
recommends that you use tires equivalent to the
originals in size, quality and performance when
replacement is needed Úpage 399. Refer to the
Tire And Loading Information Placard or the
Vehicle Certification Label for the size designation
of your tire. The Load Index and Speed Symbol for
your tire will be found on the original equipment
tire sidewall.
For more information relating to the Load Index
and Speed Symbol of a tire Ú page 389.
It is recommended to replace the two front tires or
two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can
seriously affect your vehicle’s handling. If you ever
replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s
specifications match those of the original wheels. It is recommended you contact an authorized tire
dealer or original equipment dealer with any
questions you may have on tire specifications or
capability. Failure to use equivalent replacement
tires may adversely affect the safety, handling, and
ride of your vehicle.
TIRE TYPES
All Season Tires — If Equipped
All Season tires provide traction for all seasons
(Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter). Traction
levels may vary between different all season tires.
All season tires can be identified by the M+S, M&S,
M/S or MS designation on the tire sidewall. Use all
season tires only in sets of four; failure to do so
may adversely affect the safety and handling of
your vehicle.
Summer Or Three Season Tires —
If Equipped
Summer tires provide traction in both wet and dry
conditions, and are not intended to be driven in
snow or on ice. If your vehicle is equipped with
Summer tires, be aware these tires are not
designed for Winter or cold driving conditions.
Install Winter tires on your vehicle when ambient
temperatures are less than 40°F (5°C) or if roads
are covered with ice or snow. For more
information, contact an authorized dealer.
WARNING!
Do not use a tire, wheel size, load rating, or
speed rating other than that specified for your
vehicle. Some combinations of unapproved
tires and wheels may change suspension
dimensions and performance characteristics,
resulting in changes to steering, handling, and
braking of your vehicle. This can cause unpre
-
dictable handling and stress to steering and
suspension components. You could lose
control and have a collision resulting in
serious injury or death. Use only the tire and
wheel sizes with load ratings approved for
your vehicle.
Never use a tire with a smaller load index or
capacity, other than what was originally
equipped on your vehicle. Using a tire with a
smaller load index could result in tire over -
loading and failure. You could lose control and
have a collision.
Failure to equip your vehicle with tires having
adequate speed capability can result in
sudden tire failure and loss of vehicle control.
CAUTION!
Replacing original tires with tires of a different
size may result in false speedometer and
odometer readings.

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