1998 DODGE RAM 1500 oil dipstick

INSTALLATION
(1) Using a new gasket, install the intake manifold
cover.
(2) Install the cover-to-cylinder head bolts that do
not hold down the fuel rail. Tighten the bolts to 24
N´m (18 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install the high pressure rail and fuel lines
(Refer to 14 - FUEL SYSTEM/FUEL DELIVERY/
FUEL LINES - INSTALLATION).
(4) Using two (2) new gaskets, install the intake
air grid heater and air inlet housing. Position the
ground cable and install and tighten the bolts to 24
N´m (18 ft. lbs.) torque.
(5) Connect the manifold air temperature/pressure
sensor connector.
(6) Install and tighten the air intake heater power
supply nuts to 14 N´m (120 in. lbs.) torque.
(7) Install the APPS bracket. Torque fasteners to
43 N´m (32ft lbs.) torque.
(8) Install oil dipstick tube support at fuel filter
housing.
(9) Install the engine oil dipstick tube and mount-
ing bolt.
(10) Position the charge air cooler outlet tube onto
the air inlet housing. Tighten the clamps to 11 N´m
(100 in. lbs.) torque.
(11) Attach the engine wire harness to the air inlet
housing at two locations.
(12) Prime the fuel system. Refer to the fuel prim-
ing procedure in Group 14, Fuel System.
(13) Connect the battery negative cables.
EXHAUST MANIFOLD
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect the battery negative cables.
(2) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(3) Disconnect the exhaust pipe from the turbo-
charger elbow.
(4) Disconnect oil drain tube from turbocharger.
(5) Lower vehicle.
(6) Disconnect the turbocharger air inlet hose.
(7) Remove air cleaner assembly.
(8) Disconnect the turbocharger oil supply line.
(9) Disconnect the charge air cooler inlet pipe from
the turbocharger.
(10) Remove the turbocharger and gasket from the
exhaust manifold.
(11) Remove the cab heater return pipe nuts from
the exhaust manifold stud. Position the tube out of
the way.
(12) Remove heat shield.
(13) Remove exhaust manifold bolt lockplates.
(14) Remove the exhaust manifold-to-cylinder head
bolts and spacers (Fig. 120).(15) Remove the exhaust manifold and gaskets
(Fig. 120).
CLEANING
Clean the cylinder head and exhaust manifold seal-
ing surfaces with a suitable scraper. Use a Scotch-
BriteŸ pad or equivalent.
INSPECTION
Inspect the exhaust manifold for cracks. Measure
the exhaust manifold for flatness. Place a ruler over
all of the exhaust ports and insert a feeler gauge
between the port flange and the ruler. Maximum
deviation from flat is 0.20 mm (.008 inch).
INSTALLATION
(1) Using new gaskets, install the exhaust mani-
fold and gaskets. Install the bolts and spacers and
tighten the bolts in the sequence shown in to 43 N´m
(32 ft. lbs.) torque.
(2) Retorque the four center bolts.
Fig. 120 Exhaust Manifold and Gaskets
1 - RETAINING STRAP
2 - BOLT (7)
3 - SPACER
4 - MANIFOLD, EXHAUST
5 - GASKET
6 - BOLT (5)
9 - 298 ENGINE 5.9L DIESELDR
INTAKE MANIFOLD (Continued)

INTAKE AIR HEATER
DESCRIPTION
The intake manifold air heater element assembly
is located in the top of the intake manifold.
OPERATION
The air heater elements are used to heat incoming
air to the intake manifold. This is done to help
engine starting and improve driveability with cool or
cold outside temperatures.
Electrical supply for the 2 air heater elements is
controlled by the Engine Control Module (ECM)
through the 2 air heater relays. Refer to Intake Man-
ifold Air Heater Relays for more information.
Two heavy-duty cables connect the 2 air heater ele-
ments to the 2 air heater relays. Each of these cables
will supply approximately 95 amps at 12 volts to an
individual heating element within the heater block
assembly.
Refer to the Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures
manual for electrical operation and complete descrip-
tion of the intake heaters, including pre-heat and
post-heat cycles.
REMOVAL
If servicing either of the heater elements, the
entire block/element assembly must be replaced.
(1) Disconnect both negative battery cables at both
batteries. Cover and isolate ends of both cables.
(2) Remove both the intake manifold air intake
tube (above injection pump), and its rubber connector
hose (Fig. 26).
(3) Lift 2 rubber covers (Fig. 27) to gain access to 2
positive (+) cable nuts. Remove these 2 nuts (Fig. 28)
and remove 2 cables from studs.
(4) Disconnect ground strap (Fig. 27) at heater ele-
ment stud.
(5) Remove wiring harness clips.
(6) Remove engine oil dipstick tube bracket from
air inlet connection and fuel filter housing.
(7) Remove 4 housing mounting bolts (Fig. 27) and
remove heater element assembly.
INSTALLATION
If servicing either of the heater elements, the
entire block/element assembly must be replaced.
(1) Using 2 new gaskets, position element assem-
bly and air housing to intake manifold.
(2) Install ground cable to air housing.
(3) Install 4 housing bolts and tighten to 24 N´m
(18 ft. lbs.) torque.
(4) Connect 2 positive (+) heater cables at cable
mounting studs.Do not allow either of the cable
eyelets to contact any other metal source other
than the cable nuts/studs.
Fig. 24 INLET/PRESSURE SENSOR REMOVAL/
INSTALLATION
1 - INLET/PRESSURE SENSOR
2 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
3 - SENSOR MOUNTING SCREWS (2)
4 - TOP OF AIR FILTER COVER
Fig. 25 SENSOR O-RING
1 - IAT/PRESSURE SENSOR
2 - O-RING
14 - 80 FUEL INJECTION - DIESELDR
INLET AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR/PRESSURE SENSOR (Continued)

(5) Install engine oil dipstick tube and mounting
bolt.
(6) Connect rubber connector hose and intake tube
to air intake housing. Tighten clamp bolts to 11 N´m
(95 in. lbs.) torque.
(7) Connect both negative battery cables at both
batteries.
Fig. 26 INTAKE TUBE AND CONNECTING HOSE
1 - MANIFOLD ABOVE HEATERS
2 - RUBBER CONNECTING HOSE
3 - METAL INTAKE TUBE
4 - CLAMPS (2)
Fig. 27 AIR HEATER MANIFOLD
1 - GROUND CABLE
2 - MOUNTING BOLTS (4)
3 - RUBBER COVERS
4 - OIL DIPSTICK TUBE
5 - DIPSTICK MOUNTING BOLT
6 - NUT (GROUND CABLE)
Fig. 28 AIR HEATER ELEMENTS
1 - MOUNTING BOLTS (4)
2 - AIR HEATER MANIFOLD
3 - INTAKE MANIFOLD
4 - HEATER ELEMENTS
5 - LOWER GASKET
6 - NUTS (2) POSITIVE CABLES
7 - UPER GASKET
DRFUEL INJECTION - DIESEL 14 - 81
INTAKE AIR HEATER (Continued)

OPERATION
Hydraulic pressure is provided for the power steer-
ing gear by the belt driven power steering pump (Fig.
1). The power steering pumps are constant flow rate
and displacement, vane-type pumps.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PUMP LEAKAGE
The pump is serviced as an assembly and should
not be disassembled. The plastic pump reservoir and
the reservoir o-rings can be replaced.
Check for leaks in the following areas:
²Pump shaft seal behind the pulley
²Pump to reservoir O-ring
²Reservoir cap
²Pressure and return lines
²Flow control valve fitting
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - POWER STEERING
PUMP - INITIAL OPERATION
WARNING: THE FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE
CHECKED WITH ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT INJURY
FROM MOVING COMPONENTS.
CAUTION: MOPARTATF+4 is to be used in the
power steering system. No other power steering or
automatic transmission fluid is to be used in the
system. Damage may result to the power steeringpump and system if any other fluid is used, and do
not overfill.
Wipe filler cap clean, then check the fluid level.
The dipstick should indicateCOLDwhen the fluid is
at normal temperature.
(1) Turn steering wheel all the way to the left
(2) Fill the pump fluid reservoir to the proper level
and let the fluid settle for at least two (2) minutes.
(3) Raise the front wheels off the ground.
(4) Slowly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock 20
times with the engine off while checking the fluid
level.
NOTE: For vehicles with long return lines or oil
coolers turn wheel 40 times.
(5) Start the engine. With the engine idling main-
tain the fluid level.
(6) Lower the front wheels and let the engine idle
for two minutes.
(7) Turn the steering wheel in both direction and
verify power assist and quiet operation of the pump.
If the fluid is extremely foamy or milky looking,
allow the vehicle to stand a few minutes and repeat
the procedure.
CAUTION: Do not run a vehicle with foamy fluid for
an extended period. This may cause pump damage.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUSHING POWER
STEERING SYSTEM
Flushing is required when the power steering/hy-
draulic booster system fluid has become contami-
nated. Contaminated fluid in the steering/booster
system can cause seal deterioration and affect steer-
ing gear/booster spool valve operation.
(1) Raise the front end of the vehicle off the
ground until the wheels are free to turn.
(2) Remove the return line from the pump.
NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with a hydraulic
booster remove both return lines from the pump.
(3) Plug the return line port/ports at the pump.
(4) Position the return line/lines into a large con-
tainer to catch the fluid.
(5) While an assistant is filling the pump reservoir
start the engine.
(6) With the engine running at idle turn the wheel
back and forth.
NOTE: Do not contact or hold the wheel against the
steering stops.
(7) Run a quart of fluid through the system then
stop the engine and install the return line/lines.
Fig. 1 POWER STEERING PUMP
1 - 3.7L & 4.7L (6 GROOVE)
PHENOLIC (PLASTIC TYPE) PULLEY
1 - 5.7L,5.9L & 8.0L (7 GROOVE)
PHENOLIC (PLASTIC TYPE) PULLEY
1 - 5.9L DIESEL (8 GROOVE)
STEEL PULLEY
2 - PUMP ASSEMBLY
3 - RESERVOIR
4 - CAP
19 - 40 PUMPDR
PUMP (Continued)

FLUID
DESCRIPTION
The recommended fluid for the power steering sys-
tem is MopartATF +4.
MopartATF+4, when new is red in color. The
ATF+4 is dyed red so it can be identified from other
fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or anti-
freeze. The red color is not permanent and is not an
indicator of fluid condition, As the vehicle is driven,
the ATF+4 will begin to look darker in color and may
eventually become brown.THIS IS NORMAL.
ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with
age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to
indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid
change.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - POWER STEERING
FLUID LEVEL CHECKING
WARNING: FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE CHECKED
WITH THE ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT PERSONAL
INJURY FROM MOVING PARTS.
CAUTION: MOPARTATF+4 is to be used in the
power steering system. No other power steering or
automatic transmission fluid is to be used in the
system. Damage may result to the power steering
pump and system if any other fluid is used, and do
not overfill.
The power steering fluid level can be viewed on the
dipstick attached to the filler cap. There are two
ranges listed on the dipstick, COLD and HOT. Before
opening power steering system, wipe the reservoir
filler cap free of dirt and debris. Remove the cap and
check the fluid level on its dipstick. When the fluid is
at normal ambient temperature, approximately 21ÉC
to 27ÉC (70ÉF to 80ÉF), the fluid level should read
between the minimum and maximum area of the cold
range. When the fluid is hot, fluid level is allowed to
read up to the highest end of the HOT range. Only
add fluid when the vehicle is cold.
Use only MopartATF+4Do not overfill the
power steering system.
FLUID COOLER
REMOVAL
(1) Drain and siphon the power steering fluid.
(2) Disconnect the return and supply hoses con-
nected to the power steering fluid cooler.
(3) Remove the mounting bracket bolts securing
the fluid cooler to the brace. (Fig. 4)& (Fig. 5)(4) Remove the fluid cooler from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the fluid cooler to the vehicle.
(2) Install the mounting bracket bolts securing the
fluid cooler to the brace (Fig. 4)& (Fig. 5).
(3) Reclamp the return and supply hoses to the
power steering fluid cooler.
(4) Refill the power steering fluid (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/PUMP - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
Fig. 4 V6 & V8 P/S FLUID COOLER
1 - POWER STEERING FLUID COOLER
2 - MOUNTING BOLTS
Fig. 5 V10 & DIESEL P/S FLUID COOLER
1 - RADIATOR
2 - POWER STEERING HOSES
3 - MOUNTING BOLTS
4 - P/S FLUID COOLER
DRPUMP 19 - 43

CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
NO DRIVE OR REVERSE
(VEHICLE WILL NOT
MOVE)1. Fluid Level Low. 1. Add fluid and check for leaks if drive is
restored.
2. Gearshift Linkage/Cable
Loose/Misadjusted.2. Inspect, adjust and reassemble linkage
as needed. Replace worn/damaged parts.
3. U-Joint/Axle/Transfer Case
Broken.3. Perform preliminary inspection procedure
for vehicle that will not move. Refer to
procedure in diagnosis section.
4. Filter Plugged. 4. Remove and disassemble transmission.
Repair or replace failed components as
needed. Replace filter. If filter and fluid
contained clutch material or metal particles,
an overhaul may be necessary. Perform
lube flow test. Flush oil. Replace cooler as
necessary.
5. Oil Pump Damaged. 5. Perform pressure test to confirm low
pressure. Replace pump body assembly if
necessary.
6. Valve Body Malfunctioned. 6. Check and inspect valve body. Replace
valve body (as assembly) if any valve or
bore is damaged. Clean and reassemble
correctly if all parts are in good condition.
7. Transmission Internal Component
Damaged.7. Remove and disassemble transmission.
Repair or replace failed components as
needed.
8. Park Sprag not Releasing - Check
Stall Speed, Worn/Damaged/Stuck.8. Remove, disassemble, repair.
9. Torque Converter Damage. 9. Inspect and replace as required.
SHIFTS DELAYED OR
ERRATIC (SHIFTS ALSO
HARSH AT TIMES)1. Fluid Level Low/High. 1. Correct fluid level and check for leaks if
low.
2. Fluid Filter Clogged. 2. Replace filter. If filter and fluid contained
clutch material or metal particles, an
overhaul may be necessary. Perform lube
flow test.
3. Throttle Linkage Mis-adjusted. 3. Adjust linkage as described in service
section.
4. Throttle Linkage Binding. 4. Check cable for binding. Check for return
to closed throttle at transmission.
5. Gearshift Linkage/Cable
Mis-adjusted.5. Adjust linkage/cable as described in
service section.
6. Clutch or Servo Failure. 6. Remove valve body and air test clutch,
and band servo operation. Disassemble
and repair transmission as needed.
7. Governor Circuit Electrical Fault. 7. Test using DRBTscan tool and repair as
required.
8. Front Band Mis-adjusted. 8. Adjust band.
9. Pump Suction Passage Leak. 9. Check for excessive foam on dipstick
after normal driving. Check for loose pump
bolts, defective gasket. Replace pump
assembly if needed.
21 - 148 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48REDR
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48RE (Continued)

(2) Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not prop-
erly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer tow-
ing or similar high load operation will overheat the
transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly
equipped. Such vehicles should have an auxiliary
transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling sys-
tem, and the engine/axle ratio combination needed to
handle heavy loads.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FLUID
CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a
result of:
²adding incorrect fluid
²failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when
checking level
²engine coolant entering the fluid
²internal failure that generates debris
²overheat that generates sludge (fluid break-
down)
²failure to replace contaminated converter after
repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in
transmission failure. The usual results are erratic
shifts, slippage, abnormal wear and eventual failure
due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid
this condition by using recommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped
clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and
other foreign material on the cap and tube could fall
into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the
time to wipe the cap and tube clean before withdraw-
ing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is gener-
ally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy
is to replace the radiator as the cooler in the radiator
is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated
through the transmission, an overhaul is necessary.
The torque converter should also be replaced when-
ever a failure generates sludge and debris. This is
necessary because normal converter flushing proce-
dures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL
CHECK
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions
because it allows the pump to take in air along with
the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be
low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transmssion has too much fluid, thegeartrain churns up foam and cause the same condi-
tions which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating
and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can
interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transmission vent where it may be mis-
taken for a leak.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
The transmission has a dipstick to check oil level.
It is located on the right side of the engine. Be sure
to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
Fluid level is checked with the engine running at
curb idle speed, the transmission in NEUTRAL and
the transmission fluid at normal operating tempera-
ture.The engine should be running at idle
speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle
on level ground.
The transmission fluid level can be checked two
ways.
PROCEDURE ONE
(1) Transmission fluid must be at normal operat-
ing temperature for accurate fluid level check. Drive
vehicle if necessary to bring fluid temperature up to
normal hot operating temperature of 82ÉC (180ÉF).
(2) Position vehicle on level surface.
(3) Start and run engine at curb idle speed.
(4) Apply parking brakes.
(5) Shift transmission momentarily into all gear
ranges. Then shift transmission back to NEUTRAL.
(6) Clean top of filler tube and dipstick to keep
dirt from entering tube.
(7) Remove dipstick (Fig. 87) and check fluid level
as follows:
(a) Correct acceptable level is in crosshatch area.
(b) Correct maximum level is to MAX arrow
mark.
(c) Incorrect level is at or below MIN line.
(d) If fluid is low, add only enough MopartAT F
+4 to restore correct level. Do not overfill.
Fig. 87 Dipstick Fluid Level Marks - Typical
1 - DIPSTICK
2 - MAXIMUM CORRECT FLUID LEVEL
3 - ACCEPTABLE FLUID LEVEL
21 - 202 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 48REDR
FLUID AND FILTER (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)