1) Disconnect negative battery cable. On A/T models, turn
ignition switch to UNLOCK position and shift gear selector to "1"
position. On models equipped with tilt steering wheel, tilt wheel to
lowest position. On all models, open power outlet door and remove
instrument cluster bezel retaining screw. Pry cluster bezel away from
clips securing it to instrument panel. See Fig. 3. Disconnect
electrical connectors from power outlet to cluster bezel.
2) Remove 4 instrument cluster screws. On A/T models, shift
gear selector to PARK position. On all models, pull cluster rearward,
and disconnect 2 electrical connectors. On A/T models, pull cluster
rearward enough to gain access to shift indicator retaining screws in
back of instrument cluster. Remove shift indicator. Remove instrument
cluster. To install, reverse removal procedure.
Fig. 3: Removing Instrument Cluster Bezel (Ram Pickup)
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
Removal & Installation (Ram Van & Ram Wagon)
1) Disconnect negative battery cable. Turn ignition switch to
UNLOCK position, set parking brake and shift gear selector to "1"
position. On models equipped with tilt steering wheel, tilt wheel to
lowest position. On all models, pry cluster bezel away from clips
securing it to instrument panel. See Fig. 4. Pull left side of bezel
far enough to clear trip odometer reset button and remove bezel.
2) Remove 4 instrument cluster screws. Shift gear selector
into PARK position. Pull cluster rearward, and disconnect 2 electrical
connectors. Pull cluster rearward enough to gain access to shift
indicator retaining screws in back of instrument cluster. Remove shift
indicator. Remove instrument cluster. To install, reverse removal
procedure.
Fig. 4: Exploded View Of Instrument Panel (Ram Van & Ram Wagon)
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
CENTRAL TIMER MODULE (CTM)
NOTE: Before removing Central Timer Module (CTM) use scan tool to
view settings for programmable features. Use these settings
to program replacement CTM.
Removal & Installation (Ram Pickup)
1) Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove left underdash
cover and knee bolster reinforcement. Remove 2 CTM retaining screws at
right side of underdash opening. See Fig. 5.
2) Slide CTM down into opening far enough to gain access to
connectors. Disconnect harness connectors and remove CTM from
underdash. To install, reverse removal procedure. Reprogram new CTM.
See appropriate BODY CONTROL COMPUTER TESTS article.
Fig. 5: Identifying CTM Location (Ram Pickup)
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
Removal & Installation (Ram Van & Ram Wagon)
1) Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove engine cover.
Fig. 8: Removing Shift Indicator (Ram Van & Ram Wagon)
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
HEADLIGHT SWITCH
Removal & Installation (Ram Pickup)
1) Disconnect negative battery cable. Open power outlet door
and remove instrument cluster bezel retaining screw. Pry cluster bezel
from clips securing it to instrument panel. See Fig. 3. Disconnect
electrical connectors from power outlet to cluster bezel. Remove
cluster bezel.
2) Remove 3 screws and headlight switch. Disconnect
electrical connectors. Pull knob and stem to stop. Hold down button on
top of switch and remove switch. Remove 2 screws and bezel. To install
switch, reverse removal procedure.
Removal & Installation (Ram Van & Ram Wagon)
1) Disconnect negative battery cable. Turn ignition switch to
UNLOCK position and shift gear selector to "1" position. On models
equipped with tilt steering wheel, tilt wheel to lowest position. On
all models, pry cluster bezel away from clips securing it to
instrument panel. See Fig. 4. Pull left side of bezel far enough to
clear trip odometer reset button and remove bezel.
2) Remove switch bezel attaching screws. Remove switch, and
disconnect wiring harness. Pull headlight switch knob to on position.
Hold down button on top of switch and remove knob and shaft assembly.
Remove switch spanner nut and remove bezel from switch. To install
switch, reverse removal procedure.
MAIN TE N AN CE IN FO RM ATIO N
1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
1997-99 MAINTENANCE
Chrysler Motors Maintenance Information
Dodge: Ram Pickup R1500
Ram Pickup R2500
Ram Pickup R3500
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
Before preforming maintenance on vehicle, ensure that all
cautions and warnings have been observed to prevent vehicle damage or
personal injury. See CAUTIONS & WARNINGS.
NOTE: For scheduled maintenance intervals and the related fluid
capacities, fluid specifications and labor times for major
service intervals, see SCHEDULED SERVICES article below:
R1500
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (GAS)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - SEVERE SERVICE (GAS)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (DIESEL)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (DIESEL)
R2500
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (GAS)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - SEVERE SERVICE (GAS)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (GAS - MD)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - SEVERE SERVICE (GAS - MD)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (DIESEL)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (DIESEL)
R3500
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (GAS - MD)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - SEVERE SERVICE (GAS - MD)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (DIESEL)
* SCHEDULED SERVICES - NORMAL SERVICE (DIESEL)
Warranty information and specifications for fluid
capacities, lubrication specifications, wheel and tire size,
and battery type are covered in this article.
MODEL IDENTIFICATION
VIN LOCATION
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the
left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN
chart explains the code characters.
VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION
BR3500 (8 Stud Dual Wheel)........................ 145 (195)\
\
\
\
\
\
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicle is factory equipped with a maintenance free battery.
The top of the battery is permanently sealed, and water never has to
be added, and periodic maintenance is not required either. But,
periodically check the battery terminals and battery hold-down bracket
for corrosion. Replace with a battery of the same group number as
shown on original battery's label.
CAUTION: When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with
computers may lose memory data. When battery power is
restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles.
These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER
RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION
section.
CAUTIONS & WARNINGS
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG)
NOTE: See the AIR BAGS article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Section.
Modifications or improper maintenance, including incorrect
removal and installation of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS),
can adversely affect system performance. DO NOT cover, obstruct or
change the steering wheel horn pad in any way, as such action could
cause improper function of the system. Use only plain water when
cleaning the horn pad. Solvents or cleaners could adversely affect the
air bag cover and cause improper deployment of the system.
WARNING: To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and
carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See
appropriate AIR BAGS article in ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT.
WARNING: Any maintenance performed on or near the components of the
SRS must be performed only by an authorized dealer.
Do not permit anyone else to service, inspect maintain, or
service any SRS components or wiring. Similarly, no part of
the SRS should ever be handled or disposed of by anyone
except an authorized dealer.
Improper work on the SRS components or wiring could result in
inadvertent deployment of the airbags or could render the SRS
system inoperative. Either situation could result in serious
injury
WARNING: If the car has had any front-end damage, have the SRS system
inspected by an authorized dealer to ensure it is working
properly.
WARNING: If any of the following conditions occur, the SRS is not
working properly. Immediately have it inspected by an
authorized dealer:
* The SRS warning light does not illuminate when you start
the car.
* The SRS warning light does not go off after about 7 seconds.
* The SRS warning light illuminates while driving.
CAUTION: Disconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air
bag system, steering column or passenger side dash
component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON
position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of
accidental air bag inflation
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING
WARNING: Avoid breathing R-134a refrigerant and PAG lubricant vapors,
exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. To remove
R-134a from system use R-134a recycling equipment that meets
SAE J2210 specifications. If accidental system discharge
occurs, ventilate work area before resuming service.
WARNING: R-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C systems SHOULD NOT
be pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air. Some
mixtures of air/R134a have shown to be combustible at
elevated pressures. These mixtures are dangerous and may
cause fire and/or explosions. See AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE
article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.
AIR CONDITIONING MAINTENANCE
WARNING: NEVER add A/C refrigerant to correct a non-cooling problem
unless pressure gauges are connected to the system by a
certified technician. Lack of cooling may be caused by a
restriction, therefore adding refrigerant can cause a
dangerous pressure rise.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
CAUTION: The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that
can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly
installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since
this interference could cause the possible loss of the
antilock braking capability, such equipment should be
installed by qualified professionals.
On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS
observe the following cautions:
* DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first
referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article
in the BRAKES Section.
* DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the
original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable.
Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some
manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and
type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate
wheel speed readings.
* Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake
fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID SERVICE
WARNING: Make certain no fluid is spilled when the transaxle fluid
is inspected. Wipe up any spilled fluid completely.
AXLE FLUID
CAUTION: Axle lubricant should be changed whenever the axle has
been submerged in water. Water can enter through the axle
vent hole and contaminate the lubricant.
BATTERY WARNING
WARNING: When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with
computers may lose memory data. When battery power is
restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles.
These vehicles may require a relearn procedure.
WARNING: Batteries produce flammable hydrogen gas. Keep flames and
sparks away from the battery or and explosion may occur.
Never smoke when working in the vicinity of the battery.
WARNING: When checking or servicing the battery, disconnect the
negative cable. Be careful not to cause a short circuit by
allowing metal objects to contact the battery posts and the
vehicle at the same time.
REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
CAUTION: Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off
all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical
system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated
amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse
may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.
BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning
that brake pads need replacement.
BRAKE HOSES
WARNING: Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure. If
any sign of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots are found,
replace the brake hoses immediately.
BRAKE FLUID
WARNING: The use of incorrect fluid in the brake system may cause
damage to components. DO NOT use any fluid other than DOT-3
brake fluid. DO NOT use reclaimed fluid or fluid that has
been stored in old or open containers. It is essential that
foreign particles and other liquids are kept out of the
brake fluid reservoir.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
CAUTION: Continued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction
could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible
damage to converter and vehicle.
COOLANT
CAUTION: To avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol
based coolants with a mixture ratio from 50-70% anti-freeze.
DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation
of cooling system deposits.
DIESEL FUEL ANTI-FUNGAL ADDITIVES
Fig. 20: Underhood Power Distribution Center
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
WARNING: Always disconnect battery ground cable before servicing
"high-current fuses. It is recommended that "high-current"
fuses be replaced by a qualified technician.
Power Distribution Center Relay & Fuse Identification
A - Starter Relay
B - Trailer Lights Relay
C - Auto Transmission Relay
D - Anti-Lock Brake System Relay
E - Auto Shutdown Relay
F - Air Conditioning Clutch Relay
G - Horn Relay
H - Fuel System Relay
J - ABS Warning Light Relay
K - Fog Lamp 2 Relay
L - Fog Lamp 1 Relay
1 - 30 Amp (Pink)
Engine Control
2 - 40 Amp (Green)
Ignition Run/Accessory
3 - 40 Amp (Green)
Ignition Run
4 - 50 Amp (Red)
Instrument Panel, Horn, Parking Lights
5 - 20 Amp (Blue)
Fuel Pump
6 - 30 Amp (Pink)
Trailer Lights
7 - 40 Amp (Green)
Stop/Headlight
8 - 40 Amp (Green)
ABS Pump
9 - 20 Amp (Yellow)
Hazard Lights
10 - 20 Amp (Yellow)
Horn/AC
11 - 15 Amp (Blue)