wheel Ram ProMaster 2020 Owner's Guide
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: RAM, Model Year: 2020, Model line: ProMaster, Model: Ram ProMaster 2020Pages: 264, PDF Size: 10.11 MB
Page 114 of 264

112STARTING AND OPERATING
VEHICLE LOADING
As required by National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration regulations, your vehicle has a
certification label affixed to the driver's side
door or B-Pillar.
If seats are removed for carrying cargo, do not
exceed the specified GVWR and GAWR.
Vehicle Certification Label
Your vehicle has a Vehicle Certification Label
affixed to the drivers side B-Pillar or the rear of
the driver’s door.
The label contains the following information:
Name of manufacturer
Month and year of manufacture
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) front
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) rear
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Type of vehicle
Month, Day, and Hour of manufacture (MDH)
The bar code allows a computer scanner to read
the VIN.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the
total allowable weight of your vehicle. This
includes driver, passengers, and cargo. The
total load must be limited so that you do not
exceed the GVWR.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the
maximum capacity of the front and rear axles.
Distribute the load over the front and rear axles
evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either
front or rear GAWR.
Tire Size
The tire size on the Vehicle Certification Label
represents the actual tire size on your vehicle.
Replacement tires must be equal to the load
capacity of this tire size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire
size listed.
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your
vehicle for all loading conditions up to full Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the
total weight of the vehicle with all fluids,
including vehicle fuel, at full capacity condi -
tions, and with no occupants or cargo loaded
into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight
values are determined by weighing your vehicle
on a commercial scale before any occupants or
cargo are added.
Overloading
The load carrying components (axle, springs,
tires, wheels, etc.) of your vehicle will provide
satisfactory service as long as you do not
exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
and the front and rear Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR).
WARNING!
Because the front wheels steer the vehicle, it
is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous
driving condition can result if either rating is
exceeded. You could lose control of the
vehicle and have a collision.
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Page 116 of 264

114STARTING AND OPERATING
Tongue Weight (TW)
The Tongue Weight (TW) is the downward force
exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. You must
consider this as part of the load on your vehicle.
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
The Trailer Sway Control (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 telescoping 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 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
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.
Trailer Hitch Classification
The following chart provides the industry stan -
dard for the maximum trailer weight a given
trailer hitch class can tow and should be used to
assist you in selecting the correct trailer hitch
for your intended towing condition.
WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous
driving condition can result if either rating is
exceeded. You could lose control of the
vehicle and have a collision.
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight Distributing
Hitch system may reduce handling,
stability, 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.
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STARTING AND OPERATING115
Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer
Weight Ratings)
NOTE:
For trailer towing information (maximum trailer
weight ratings) refer to the following website
addresses:
ramtrucks.com/en/towing_guide/
ramtruck.ca (Canada)
rambodybuilder.com
Trailer And Tongue Weight
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight
stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch.
Weight Distribution
Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions
Class Max. Trailer Hitch Industry Standards
Class I - Light Duty 2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Class II - Medium Duty 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg)
Class III - Heavy Duty 5,000 lbs (2,267 kg)
Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty 10,000 lbs (4,535 kg)
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given
drivetrain.
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.
CAUTION!
Always load a trailer with 60% of the weight in
the front of the trailer. This places 10% of the
GTW on the tow hitch of your vehicle. Loads
balanced over the wheels or heavier in the
rear can cause the trailer to sway severely
side to side which will cause loss of control of
the vehicle and trailer. Failure to load trailers
heavier in front is the cause of many trailer
collisions.
5
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116STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
(Continued)
Consider the following items when computing
the weight on the rear axle of the vehicle:
The tongue weight of the trailer.
The weight of any other type of cargo or
equipment put in or on your vehicle.
The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the
trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also,
additional factory-installed options or
dealer-installed options must be considered as
part of the total load on your vehicle. Refer to
the “Tire And Loading Information” placard for
the maximum combined weight of occupants
and cargo for your vehicle.
Towing Requirements
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle
drivetrain components, the following guidelines
are recommended. Perform the maintenance listed in the “Sched
-
uled Servicing”. Refer to “Scheduled Servicing”
in “Servicing And Maintenance” for the proper
maintenance intervals. When towing a trailer,
never exceed the GAWR or GCWR ratings.
CAUTION!
Do not tow a trailer at all during the first
500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle or other parts could
be damaged.
Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that a trailer is towed, do not drive over
50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make starts
at full throttle. This helps the engine and
other parts of the vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
WARNING!
Make certain that the load is secured in the
trailer and will not shift during travel. When
trailering cargo that is not fully secured,
dynamic load shifts can occur that may be
difficult for the driver to control. You could lose
control of your vehicle and have a collision.
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do
not overload your vehicle or trailer. Over -
loading can cause a loss of control, poor
performance or damage to brakes, axle,
engine, transmission, steering, suspension,
chassis structure or tires.
CAUTION!
(Continued)
Safety chains must always be used
between your vehicle and trailer. Always
connect the chains to the hook retainers of
the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains under
the trailer tongue and allow enough slack
for turning corners.
Vehicles with trailers should not be parked
on a grade. When parking, apply the
parking brake on the tow vehicle. Put the
tow vehicle transmission in PARK. For
four-wheel drive vehicles, make sure the
transfer case is not in NEUTRAL. Always,
block or "chock" the trailer wheels.
GCWR must not be exceeded.
Total weight must be distributed between
the tow vehicle and the trailer such that the
following four ratings are not exceeded:
GVWR
GTW
GAWR
Tongue weight rating for the trailer
hitch utilized.
WARNING!
(Continued)
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Page 122 of 264

120STARTING AND OPERATING
RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.)
Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle
Recreational Towing
Recreational towing is allowed ONLY if the front
wheels are OFF the ground. This may be accom -
plished 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 instruc -
tions.
2. Drive the front wheels onto the tow dolly. 3. Firmly apply the parking brake. Place the
transmission in PARK.
4. Properly secure the front wheels to the dolly, following the dolly manufacturer's
instructions.
5. Release the parking brake.
Towing Condition Wheels OFF the Ground Automatic Transmission
Flat TowNONE NOT ALLOWED
Dolly Tow Front OK
Rear NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer ALL OK
NOTE:
When towing your vehicle, always follow applicable state and provincial laws. Contact state and provincial Highway Safety offices for additional details.
CAUTION!
DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the
drivetrain will result. If this vehicle requires
towing, make sure the drive wheels are OFF
the ground.
Towing this vehicle in violation of the above
requirements can cause severe transmis -
sion damage. Damage from improper
towing is not covered under the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
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STARTING AND OPERATING121
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 front (driving)
wheels.
Traction
When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is
possible for a wedge of water to build up
between the tire and road surface. This is hydro -
planing and may cause partial or complete loss
of vehicle control and stopping ability. To
reduce this possibility, the following precau -
tions should be observed:
Slow down during rainstorms or when the
roads are slushy.
Slow down if the road has standing water or
puddles.
Replace the tires when tread wear indicators
first become visible.
Keep tires properly inflated.
Maintain sufficient distance between your
vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to avoid
a collision in a sudden stop.
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 Water
WARNING!
Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is
dangerous. Unequal traction can cause
sudden pulling of the front 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.
5
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Page 128 of 264

126IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Daytime Running Lamp (DRL)/Front Side Marker
Lamp
1. Remove one retaining screw on the lower headlamp filler panel. Remove filler panel.
2. Remove two retaining screws on the upper headlamp filler panel. Remove filler panel.
3. Remove one upper retaining screw from the headlamp housing.
4. Remove two lower retaining screws from the headlamp housing.
5. Pull Headlamp forward, disconnect the harness electrical connector and remove
the headlamp assembly from vehicle.
6. Remove the Daytime Running Lamp (DRL), side marker bulb by pulling straight out.
7. Replace lamp as required and lock in place.
8. Reinstall plastic cap.
9. Carefully reinstall headlamp in the same position on the vehicle, as not to affect
headlamp aiming.
10. Install the one upper retaining screw on the headlamp housing. 11. Install the two lower retaining screws on the
headlamp housing.
12. Carefully reinstall the lower headlamp filler panel and one retaining screw.
13. Carefully reinstall the upper headlamp filler panel and two retaining screws.
Front Fog Lamps
1. Turn front wheels inboard to access cover inwheel liner.
2. Open the cover on the front of the wheel liner.
3. Remove connection and replace the bulb.
4. Connect the wire and rotate bulb/socket clockwise into lamp locking it in place.
5. Reinstall the plastic cap and close the cover on the wheel liner.
Front, Rear Roof Lamps
1. Remove two screw and remove the lampassembly.
2. Remove the socket bulb by turning counter -
clockwise. 3. Remove bulb and replace as needed.
4. Reinstall the bulb socket and rotate clock-
wise to lock in place.
5. Reinstall lamp.
Rear Tail, Stop, Backup, Turn Signal And Rear Side
Marker Lamps
1. Open rear doors.
2. Remove the seven (7) fasteners from the rear access cover and remove cover to gain
access to the Tail lamp assembly fasteners.
Rear Access Cover
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Page 135 of 264

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY133
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING Jack Location
The jack and jack tools are stored under the
front passenger seat in a box, or next to or
behind the driver seat in a tool bag. The box and
the tool bag contain the same items.
Jack Kit Location
To release the jack kit for it’s storage location,
turn the lock knob a quarter turn counterclock -
wise to the unlock position. Lock Knob
To open the jack kit container, you must push
the container’s release to separate the top and
bottom.
Container ReleaseWARNING!
Do not attempt to change a tire on the side
of the vehicle close to moving traffic. Pull
far enough off the road to avoid the danger
of being hit when operating the jack or
changing the wheel.
Being under a jacked-up vehicle is
dangerous. The vehicle could slip off the
jack and fall on you. You could be crushed.
Never put any part of your body under a
vehicle that is on a jack. If you need to get
under a raised vehicle, take it to a service
center where it can be raised on a lift.
Never start or run the engine while the
vehicle is on a jack.
The jack is designed to be used as a tool for
changing tires only. The jack should not be
used to lift the vehicle for service purposes.
The vehicle should be jacked on a firm level
surface only. Avoid ice or slippery areas.
CAUTION!
Do not force lock knob over limit. Damage to
lock knob may occur.
1 — Unlock Position
2 — Lock Position
6
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134IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Jacking Tools
Spare Tire Removal
1. Remove the spare tire before attempting to
jack up the vehicle. Attach the lug bolt
adapter to the winch extension and insert it
into the winch mechanism. Jack Tools
Winch Location The winch mechanism is located under the
rear of the vehicle to the right of the spare
tire.
Winch Extension
2. Rotate the wheel wrench handle counter -
clockwise until the spare tire is on the
ground with enough cable slack to allow you
to pull it out from under the vehicle.
1 — Tow Eye
2 — Wrench Handle
3 — Lug Bolt Adaptor
4 — Jack
5 — Reversible Tool
6 — Tool Handle
7 — Winch Extension1 — Wrench Handle
2 — Lug Bolt Adapter
3 — Winch Extension
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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY135
NOTE:
The winch mechanism is designed for use with
the winch extension tube only. Use of an air
wrench or other power tools is not recom-
mended and can damage the winch.
Lowering Spare Tire
3. Pull the spare tire out from under the vehicle to gain access to the spare tire
retainer. Spare Tire
4. Lift the spare tire with one hand to give clearance to tilt the retainer at the end of
the cable.
Lifting Spare Tire
5. Pull the retainer through the center of the wheel. Retainer
Preparations For Jacking
1. Park the vehicle on a firm, level surface.
Avoid ice or slippery areas.
2. Turn on the Hazard Warning flashers.
3. Apply the parking brake firmly.
4. Place the transmission in PARK (P) or REVERSE (R) for manual transmission.
5. Turn the ignition OFF.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of
the vehicle close to moving traffic. Pull far
enough off the road to avoid being hit when
operating the jack or changing the wheel.
6
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