1998 DODGE RAM 1500 service interval

OPERATION
The multistage passenger airbag is deployed by
electrical signals generated by the Airbag Control
Module (ACM) through the passenger airbag squib 1
and squib 2 circuits to the two initiators in the air-
bag inflator. By using two initiators, the airbag can
be deployed at multiple levels of force. The force level
is controlled by the ACM to suit the monitored
impact conditions by providing one of four delay
intervals between the electrical signals provided to
the two initiators. The longer the delay between
these signals, the less forcefully the airbag will
deploy.
When the ACM sends the proper electrical signals to
each initiator, the electrical energy generates enough
heat to initiate a small pyrotechnic charge which, in
turn ignites chemical pellets within the inflator. Once
ignited, these chemical pellets burn rapidly and pro-
duce a large quantity of inert gas. The inflator is
sealed to the airbag cushion and a diffuser in the infla-
tor directs all of the inert gas into the airbag cushion,
causing the cushion to inflate. As the cushion inflates,
the passenger airbag door will split at predetermined
tear seam lines concealed on the inside surface of the
door, then the door will pivot up over the top of the
instrument panel and out of the way. Following an air-
bag deployment, the airbag cushion quickly deflates by
venting the inert gas through vent holes within the
fabric used to construct the back (instrument panel
side) of the airbag cushion.
Typically, both initiators are used during an airbag
deployment event. However, it is possible for only one
initiator to be used during a deployment due to an
airbag system fault; therefore, it is necessary to
always confirm that both initiators have been used in
order to avoid the improper disposal of potentially
live pyrotechnic materials. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT).
REMOVAL
The following procedure is for replacement of a
faulty or damaged passenger airbag. If the airbag is
faulty or damaged, but not deployed, review the rec-
ommended procedures for handling non-deployed
supplemental restraints. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE - HAN-
DLING NON-DEPLOYED SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINTS). If the passenger airbag has been
deployed, review the recommended procedures for
service after a supplemental restraint deployment
before removing the airbag from the vehicle. (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT DEPLOYMENT).WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, WHEN REMOVING A DEPLOYED AIRBAG,
RUBBER GLOVES, EYE PROTECTION, AND A
LONG-SLEEVED SHIRT SHOULD BE WORN. THERE
MAY BE DEPOSITS ON THE AIRBAG UNIT AND
OTHER INTERIOR SURFACES. IN LARGE DOSES,
THESE DEPOSITS MAY CAUSE IRRITATION TO THE
SKIN AND EYES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) Remove the lower surround from the instru-
ment panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT
PANEL/LOWER SURROUND - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the screw that secures the mounting
tab of the panel outlet housing to the upper glove box
opening reinforcement (Fig. 36).
(4) Remove the six screws that secure the inboard
and lower flanges of the passenger airbag door to the
instrument panel.
Fig. 36 Passenger Airbag Door Screws
1 - PASSENGER AIRBAG DOOR
2 - PANEL OUTLET SCREW (1)
3 - GLOVE BOX OPENING UPPER REINFORCEMENT
4 - DOOR SCREW (6)
8O - 40 RESTRAINTSDR
PASSENGER AIRBAG (Continued)

interval at which to de-energize the wiper on/off
relay to complete the wipe-after-wash mode cycle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM
If the wiper motor operates, but the wipers do not
move on the windshield, replace the faulty wiper
module. If the washer pump/motor operates, but no
washer fluid is dispensed on the glass; or, if the wip-
ers operate, but chatter, lift, or do not clear the glass,
clean and inspect the wiper and washer system com-
ponents as required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING) and (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - INSPECTION).
For diagnosis and testing of the multi-function
switch (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHT-
ING - EXTERIOR/MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). Refer to the appropri-
ate wiring information. The wiring information
includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector
repair procedures, details of wire harness routing
and retention, connector pin-out information and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.
The hard wired circuits and components of the
wiper and washer system may be diagnosed and
tested using conventional diagnostic tools and proce-
dures. However, conventional diagnostic methods
may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
instrument cluster, the Front Control Module (FCM),
or the electronic message inputs to or outputs from
the instrument cluster and the FCM that control the
various wiper and washer system operating modes.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to
diagnose the instrument cluster, the FCM, or the
electronic message inputs and outputs related to the
various wiper and washer system operating modes
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
CLEANING - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The squeegees of wiper blades exposed to the ele-
ments for a long time tend to lose their wiping effec-
tiveness. Periodic cleaning of the squeegees is
suggested to remove any deposits of salt or road film.
The wiper blades, arms, and windshield glass should
only be cleaned using a sponge or soft cloth and
windshield washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-
abrasive cleaner. If the wiper blades continue to
leave streaks, smears, hazing, or beading on the
glass after thorough cleaning of the squeegees and
the glass, the entire wiper blade assembly must be
replaced.
CAUTION: Protect the rubber squeegees of the
wiper blades from any petroleum-based cleaners,
solvents, or contaminants. These products can rap-
idly deteriorate the rubber squeegees.
WASHER SYSTEM
If the washer system is contaminated with foreign
material, drain the washer reservoir by removing the
washer pump/motor from the reservoir. Clean foreign
material from the inside of the washer pump/motor
inlet filter screen and the washer reservoir using
clean washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-abra-
sive cleaner. Flush foreign material from the washer
system plumbing by first disconnecting the washer
hoses from the washer nozzles, then running the
washer pump/motor to run clean washer fluid or
water through the system. Plugged or restricted
washer nozzles should be carefully back-flushed
using compressed air. If the washer nozzle obstruc-
tion cannot be cleared, replace the washer nozzle.
CAUTION: Never introduce petroleum-based clean-
ers, solvents, or contaminants into the washer sys-
tem. These products can rapidly deteriorate the
rubber seals and hoses of the washer system, as
well as the rubber squeegees of the wiper blades.
CAUTION: Never use compressed air to flush the
washer system plumbing. Compressed air pres-
sures are too great for the washer system plumbing
components and will result in further system dam-
age. Never use sharp instruments to clear a
plugged washer nozzle or damage to the nozzle ori-
fice and improper nozzle spray patterns will result.
8R - 6 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

becomes transparent and the fuse that has been
assigned the IOD designation becomes only another
Fused B(+) circuit fuse.
The IOD fuse can be used by the vehicle owner as
a convenient means of reducing battery depletion
when a vehicle is to be stored for periods not to
exceed about thirty days. However, it must be
remembered that disconnecting the IOD fuse will not
eliminate IOD, but only reduce this normal condition.
If a vehicle will be stored for more than about thirty
days, the battery negative cable should be discon-
nected to eliminate normal IOD; and, the battery
should be tested and recharged at regular intervals
during the vehicle storage period to prevent the bat-
tery from becoming discharged or damaged.
REMOVAL
The Ignition-Off Draw (IOD) fuse is disconnected
from Integrated Power Module fuse cavity # 51 when
the vehicle is shipped from the assembly plant.
Dealer personnel must reconnect the IOD fuse when
the vehicle is being prepared for delivery in order to
restore full electrical system operation.
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
(2) Remove the Integrated Power Module cover.
(3) Grasp the outer tabs of the IOD fuse holder
unit in fuse cavity # 51 between the thumb and fore-
finger and pull the unit firmly upward.
(4) Install the Integrated Power Module cover.
INSTALLATION
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
(2) Remove the Integrated Power Module cover.
(3) To install the IOD fuse, use a thumb to press
the IOD fuse holder unit in fuse cavity # 51 firmly
into the Integrated Power Module.
(4) Install the Integrated Power Module cover.
POWER OUTLET
DESCRIPTION
Two power outlets are utilized on this model. One
in the instrument panel center lower bezel and the
other in the center console. The power outlet bases
are secured by a snap fit within the instrument
panel or trim panel. A plastic protective cap snaps
into the power outlet base when the power outlet is
not being used, and hangs from the power outlet base
mount by an integral bail strap while the power out-
let is in use.The power outlet receptacle unit and the accessory
power outlet protective cap are available for service.
The power outlet receptacle cannot be repaired and,
if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The power outlet base or receptacle shell is con-
nected to ground, and an insulated contact in the
bottom of the shell is connected to battery current.
The power outlet receives battery voltage from a fuse
in the integrated power module at all times.
While the power outlet is very similar to a cigar
lighter base unit, it does not include the two small
spring-clip retainers inside the bottom of the recepta-
cle shell that are used to secure the cigar lighter
heating element to the insulated contact.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER OUTLET
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toWiring
Diagrams.
(1) Check the fused B(+) fuse in the integrated
power module. If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair
the shorted circuit or component as required and
replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) fuse
in the integrated power module. If OK, go to Step 3.
If not OK, repair the open fused B(+) circuit to the
battery as required.
(3) Remove the plastic protective cap from the
power outlet receptacle. Check for continuity between
the inside circumference of the power outlet recepta-
cle and a good ground. There should be continuity. If
OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, go to Step 5.
(4) Check for battery voltage at the insulated con-
tact located at the back of the power outlet recepta-
cle. If not OK, go to Step 5.
(5) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Remove the power outlet receptacle from the
instrument panel. Disconnect the wire harness con-
nector from the power outlet receptacle. Check for
continuity between the ground circuit cavity of the
power outlet wire harness connector and a good
ground. There should be continuity. If OK, go to Step
6. If not OK, repair the open ground circuit to ground
as required.
(6) Connect the battery negative cable. Check for
battery voltage at the fused B(+) circuit cavity of the
power outlet wire harness connector. If OK, replace
the faulty power outlet receptacle. If not OK, repair
the open fused B(+) circuit to the integrated power
module fuse as required.
DR8W-97 POWER DISTRIBUTION 8W - 97 - 7
IOD FUSE (Continued)

OIL
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENGINE OIL LEVEL
CAUTION: Do not overfill crankcase with engine oil,
oil foaming and oil pressure loss can result.
To ensure proper lubrication of an engine, the
engine oil must be maintained at an acceptable level.
The acceptable oil level is in the SAFE RANGE on
the engine oil dipstick (Fig. 107).
(1) Position vehicle on level surface.
(2) With engine OFF, allow approximately 15 min-
utes for oil to settle to bottom of crankcase, remove
engine oil dipstick.
(3) Wipe dipstick clean.
(4) Replace dipstick and verify it is seated in the
tube.
(5) Remove dipstick, with handle held above the
tip, take oil level reading.
(6) Add oil only if level is below the SAFE RANGE
area on the dipstick.
(7) Replace dipstick
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENGINE OIL
SERVICE
WARNING: HOT OIL CAN CAUSE PERSONAL
INJURY.
NOTE: Change engine oil and filter at intervals
specified in the owner's manual.
(1) Operate the engine until the water tempera-
ture reaches 60ÉC (140ÉF). Shut the engine off.
(2) Use a container that can hold at least 14 liters
(15 quarts) to hold the used oil. Remove the oil drain
plug and drain the used engine oil into the container.
(3) Always check the condition of the used oil. This
can give you an indication of engine problems that
might exist.
²Thin, black oil indicates fuel dilution.
²Milky discoloration indicates coolant dilution.
(4) Clean the area around the oil filter head.
Remove the filter (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LUBRICA-
TION/OIL FILTER - REMOVAL).
(5) Install new oil filter (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LU-
BRICATION/OIL FILTER - INSTALLATION).
(6) Clean the drain plug and the sealing surface of
the pan. Check the condition of the threads and seal-
ing surface on the oil pan and drain plug.
(7) Install the drain plug. Tighten the plug to 50
N´m (37 ft. lbs.) torque.
(8) Use only High-Quality Multi-Viscosity lubricat-
ing oil in the Cummins Turbo Diesel engine. Choose
the correct oil for the operating conditions (Refer to
LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/FLUID TYPES -
DESCRIPTION).
(9) Fill the engine with the correct grade of new oil
(Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/FLUID
CAPACITIES - SPECIFICATIONS).
(10) Start the engine and operate it at idle for sev-
eral minutes. Check for leaks at the filter and drain
plug.
(11) Stop engine. Wait 15 minutes to allow the oil
to drain back to the pan and check the level again.
USED ENGINE OIL DISPOSAL
Care should be exercised when disposing of used
engine oil after it has been drained from a vehicle's
engine.
1 - ROCKER ARM
2 - ROCKER SHAFT
3 - PEDESTAL
4 - FROM MAIN OIL RIFLE
5 - TO VALVE TRAIN
6 - MAIN OIL RIFLE
7 - FROM MAIN OIL RIFLE8 - TO CAMSHAFT
9 - TO PISTON COOLING NOZZLE
10 - FROM OIL COOLER
11 - CRANKSHAFT MAIN JOURNAL
12 - ROD JOURNAL
13 - TO ROD BEARING
14 - MAIN OIL RIFLE
Fig. 107 Oil Level Indicator (Dipstick)
1 - ADD OIL MARK
2 - O-RING
3 - SAFE RANGE
9 - 292 ENGINE 5.9L DIESELDR
LUBRICATION (Continued)

STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURES - WATER DRAINING
AT FUEL FILTER
Refer to Fuel Filter/Water Separator removal/in-
stallation for procedures.
STANDARD PROCEDURES - CLEANING FUEL
SYSTEM PARTS
CAUTION: Cleanliness cannot be overemphasized
when handling or replacing diesel fuel system com-
ponents. This especially includes the fuel injectors,
high-pressure fuel lines and fuel injection pump.
Very tight tolerances are used with these parts. Dirt
contamination could cause rapid part wear and pos-
sible plugging of fuel injector nozzle tip holes. This
in turn could lead to possible engine misfire.
Always wash/clean any fuel system component
thoroughly before disassembly and then air dry.
Cap or cover any open part after disassembly.
Before assembly, examine each part for dirt, grease
or other contaminants and clean if necessary. When
installing new parts, lubricate them with clean
engine oil or clean diesel fuel only.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FUEL SYSTEM
PRIMING
A certain amount of air becomes trapped in the
fuel system when fuel system components on the
supply and/or high-pressure side are serviced or
replaced. Fuel system priming is accomplished using
the electric fuel transfer (lift) pump.
Servicing or replacing fuel system components will
not require fuel system priming.
The fuel transfer (lift) pump is self-priming: When
the key is first turned on (without cranking engine),
the pump operates for approximately 1 to 2 second
and then shuts off. The pump will also operate for up
to 25 seconds after the starter is quickly engaged,
and then disengaged without allowing the engine to
start. The pump shuts off immediately if the key is
on and the engine stops running.
(1) Turn key to CRANK position and quickly
release key to ON position before engine starts. This
will operate fuel transfer pump for approximately 25
seconds.
(2) Crank engine. If the engine does not start after
25 seconds, turn key OFF. Repeat previous step until
engine starts.
(3) Fuel system priming is now completed.
(4) Attempt to start engine. If engine will not
start, proceed to following steps.When engine does
start, it may run erratically and be noisy for a
few minutes. This is a normal condition.
CAUTION: Do not engage the starter motor for more
than 30 seconds at a time. Allow two minutes
between cranking intervals.
(5) Perform previous fuel priming procedure steps
using fuel transfer pump. Be sure fuel is present at
fuel tank.
(6) Crank the engine for 30 seconds at a time to
allow fuel system to prime.
WARNING: THE FUEL INJECTION PUMP SUPPLIES
EXTREMELY HIGH FUEL PRESSURE TO EACH INDI-
VIDUAL INJECTOR THROUGH THE HIGH-PRES-
SURE LINES. FUEL UNDER THIS AMOUNT OF
PRESSURE CAN PENETRATE THE SKIN AND
CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY. WEAR SAFETY GOG-
GLES AND ADEQUATE PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.
DO NOT LOOSEN FUEL FITTINGS WHILE ENGINE
IS RUNNING.
WARNING: ENGINE MAY START WHILE CRANKING
STARTER MOTOR.
Fig. 2 FUEL INJECTORS
1 - SOLENOID CONNECTIONS
2 - ROCKER HOUSING
3 - FUEL INJECTOR
4 - PASSTHROUGH CONNECTOR
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 47
FUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL (Continued)

PROCEDURE TWO
(1) Start engine and apply parking brake.
(2) Shift the transmission into DRIVE for approxi-
mately 2 seconds.
(3) Shift the transmission into REVERSE for
approximately 2 seconds.
(4) Shift the transmission into PARK.
(5) Hook up DRBtscan tool and select engine.
(6) Select sensors.
(7) Read the transmission temperature value.
(8) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
chart.
(9) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
dipstick according to the chart (Fig. 88).
NOTE: After adding any fluid to the transmission,
wait a minimum of 2 minutes for the oil to fully
drain from the fill tube into the transmission before
rechecking the fluid level.
(10) Check transmission for leaks.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
REPLACEMENT
For proper service intervals (Refer to LUBRICA-
TION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE SCHED-
ULES - DESCRIPTION). The service fluid fill after a
filter change is approximately 3.8 liters (4.0 quarts).
REMOVAL
(1) Hoist and support vehicle on safety stands.
(2) Place a large diameter shallow drain pan
beneath the transmission pan.
(3) Remove bolts holding front and sides of pan to
transmission (Fig. 89).
(4) Loosen bolts holding rear of pan to transmis-
sion.
Fig. 88 48RE Fluid Fill Graph
Fig. 89 Transmission Pan
1 - TRANSMISSION
2 - REUSABLE GASKET
3-PAN
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48RE 21 - 203
FLUID AND FILTER (Continued)

imately at the upper COLD hole of the dipstick at
70É F fluid temperature.
NOTE: Engine and Transmission should be at nor-
mal operating temperature before performing this
procedure.
(1) Start engine and apply parking brake.
(2) Shift the transmission into DRIVE for approxi-
mately 2 seconds.
(3) Shift the transmission into REVERSE for
approximately 2 seconds.
(4) Shift the transmission into PARK.
(5) Hook up DRBtscan tool and select transmis-
sion.
(6) Select sensors.
(7) Read the transmission temperature value.
(8) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
chart. (Fig. 66)
(9) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
dipstick according to the chart.
NOTE: After adding any fluid to the transmission,
wait a minimum of 2 minutes for the oil to fully
drain from the fill tube into the transmission before
rechecking the fluid level.
(10) Check transmission for leaks.STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
REPLACEMENT
For proper service intervals (Refer to LUBRICA-
TION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE SCHED-
ULES - DESCRIPTION).
REMOVAL
(1) Hoist and support vehicle on safety stands.
(2) Place a large diameter shallow drain pan
beneath the transmission pan.
(3) Remove bolts holding front and sides of pan to
transmission.
(4) Loosen bolts holding rear of pan to transmis-
sion.
(5) Slowly separate front of pan away from trans-
mission allowing the fluid to drain into drain pan.
(6) Hold up pan and remove remaining bolts hold-
ing pan to transmission.
(7) While holding pan level, lower pan away from
transmission.
(8) Pour remaining fluid in pan into drain pan.
(9) Remove screw holding filter to valve body (Fig.
67).
(10) Separate filter from valve body and oil pump
and pour fluid in filter into drain pan.
Fig. 66 Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 45RFE/545RFE 21 - 367
FLUID AND FILTER (Continued)