2001 DODGE RAM lock

UNDER HOOD
INSPECTION - HOOD LATCH/SAFETY CATCH
(1) Check operation of hood latch (Fig. 2) and
safety catch (Fig. 3) adjust as required.
NOTE: The safety catch prevents the hood from
going to full open position until it is manually
released. To test the safety catch, unlock the hood
with the interior release, then try to raise the hood
without operating the safety catch.
INSPECTION - FLUID LEVELS
ENGINE OIL
CAUTION: Use only oil that meets the specified
requirements.
NOTE: If oil level is low, inspect for oil leaks.
(1) Check engine oil level. The oil should be in the
safe range or between the minimum and maximum
marks.
²If the oil level is at the minimum mark, add oil
that meets specifications, (Refer to LUBRICATION &
MAINTENANCE/FLUID TYPES - DESCRIPTION).
²The best time to check the oil is about 5 minutes
after a fully warmed-up engine is turned off, or
before starting the engine after it has been off over-
night.²For the most accurate readings, the vehicle
should be on level ground.
²Wipe up any excess oil that may have spilled, or
the customer could mistakenly perceive this as the
result of a leak.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
CAUTION: Only use fluid that meets the vehicle's
specific requirement.
NOTE: Mopar ATF Plus contains special additives
not found in Mercon and Dexron II fLuids. Use of
fluid other than Mopar Plus (when specified) could
result in an upshift shudder in some applications.
Transmission fluid check procedures are specific to
each vehicle line. Refer to the appropriate service
information for correct procedure.
CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER
CAUTION: only use brake fluid that meets specified
requirements (DOT 3 and MVSS 116).
Check the clutch master cylinder fluid level. Add
fluid to the proper level if necessary.
Fig. 2 HOOD LATCH
Fig. 3 HOOD SAFETY CATCH
30 - 4 NEW VEHICLE PREPARATIONBR/BE

BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER
CAUTION: Only use fluid that meets specified
requirements (DOT 3).
NOTE: Wipe the master cylinder cover to remove
any dirt.
NOTE: On vehicles equipped with remote antilock
brakes, the fluid level check is the same as for a
normal system.
Check the brake master cylinder fluid level (Fig.
4). Add fluid to bring the level to the full line on the
side of the reservoir (or above the bottom of the split
ring in the primary filler hole). Be sure both primary
and secondary cavities are full to the maximum level
as indicated.
POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
CAUTION: Only use fluid that meets specified
requirements. Petroleum fluids, such as Mopar
Power Steering Fluid, are specially formulated for
use with power steering hoses and seals.
Check the fluid level; it should be maintained at
the proper level indicated on the dipstick, or as
viewed through the translucent reservoir. If fluid is
required, fill to the proper level. With the engine run-
ning at normal operating temperature, turn the
steering wheel from stop to stop to expel air fromwithin the system Stop the engine, remove the cap,
and recheck the fluid level, making sure that foam-
ing is not present (Fig. 5).
WINDSHIELD WASHER RESERVOIR
CAUTION: Do not add engine coolant (antifreeze) to
this reservoir.
CAUTION: Avoid spilling washer solvent on the
vehicles paint; it could harm the finish.
Fig. 4 BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER FLUID RESERVOIR
Fig. 5 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
Fig. 6 WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 5
UNDER HOOD (Continued)

INSPECTION - BATTERY
When battery is easily accessible, check the test
indicator (green dot), terminal tightness and felt
(grease) washer on battery posts. Recharge battery as
required to assure that the green dot is visible.
When battery is not easily accessible check battery
condition with a voltmeter at the jump start loca-
tions, or check the voltmeter on the instrument panel
(Fig. 11) or (Fig. 12). The reading should be at least
12.4 volts. Recharge battery as required.
NOTE: Refer to service information for proper bat-
tery charging rates and times.
INSPECTION - WIRING
The assembly plant has shipped all vehicles with
the interior lights and most electronic memories non-
functional by way of an Ignition Off Draw (IOD) fuse
removed. The purpose is to reduce the possibility of
battery run-down during shipping and storage.
Vehicles stored after prep should have the IOD
fuse that activates the accessories pulled to prevent
battery drain.
NOTE: Ensure that the IOD fuse is removed to pre-
vent battery drain and possible damage. Vehicles
stored for extended periods after prep should be
washed frequently, to prevent environmental dam-age, and reinspected for storage-related problems
before delivery.
(1) Install the IOD fuse as equipped. (ON vehicles
being delivered, remember to reset radio, clock, com-
pass, etc., as required.)
(2) Check routing and connections of all underhood
wiring-reroute and connect as required.
(3) Make sure the starter, generator and air condi-
tioning clutch wiring are correctly installed, routed,
and in the clips where provided.
(4) For predelivery storage, always pull the IOD
fuse that activates accessories.
Fig. 10 TRANSMISSION COOLER LINES AND
RADIATOR HOSE
1 - TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINES
2 - RADIATOR LOWER HOSE
Fig. 11 BATTERY VOLTAGE GAUGE DIESEL ENGINE
Fig. 12 BATTERY VOLTAGE GAUGE GAS ENGINE
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 7
UNDER HOOD (Continued)

(6) Check that the hood panel has even gaps and
fits well with adjacent panels (Fig. 23).
(7) Ensure that the body is free from dents and
dings.
INSPECTION - KEYLESS ENTRY
Check operation of keyless entry system and pro-
gram the transmitter/receiver if necessary.
INSPECTION - DOORS AND DOOR LOCKS
(1) Check operation of doors and locks, keyless
entry, security alarm, and tailgate. Adjust strikers
(Fig. 24) and latches (Fig. 25) as required.
(2) Remove any protective covers from the door
sills.
NOTE: Windows should be in the full up position
during these tests (except for the lock tests).
²Open each door (inside and out) to check the
release mechanism and ease of operation.
²Partially close the door to check the open-door
detent.
²Close the door to check the latches and striker.
²Open the door, lower the window depress the
lock plunger and close the door to check the lock.
²Unlock each door (using both keys) to check lock
and key operation.
NOTE: Child proof door locks should be disabled
when delivered to the customer.
Fig. 23 HOOD ALIGNMENT
Fig. 24 DOOR STRIKER
Fig. 25 DOOR LATCH
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 11
EXTERIOR (Continued)

BODY INTERIOR
INSPECTION - COMPASS
NOTE: Set variance after calibration.
(1) Calibrate and set compass variance (Fig. 26), if
so equipped (use appropriate procedures in service
information).
(2) Remove protective film from overhead console,
if equipped.
INSPECTION - FIT AND FINISH
(1) Remove any interior covers.
(2) Inspect the instrument panel, glove box door
(Fig. 27) and interior moldings for even gaps and
alignments.
(3) Check that the door panel material is clean,
free from wrinkles and installed correctly.
(4) Check that the seat material is clean, secure
and free of wrinkles.
(5) Check that the carpet is clean, secure and free
of wrinkles.
(6) Check that the headliner is clean, free of lint
and dirt smudges.
INSPECTION - LIGHTS AND SWITCHES
(1) Remove protective film from all switch bezels.
(2) Operate and visually inspect all interior lights
and switches, including:
²Dome/map lamps
²Vanity mirror lamps
²Glove box light²Ashtray light
²Cigar lighter light
²All gauge lights
²Radio display
²Door-mounted lights, if equipped
²Illuminated entry system, if equipped
(3) Visually inspect and operate all exterior lights
and their switches, including:
NOTE: Headlamp aim is preset during vehicle
assembly.
²Headlights, including high beam, optical horn
(ªflash to passº) and daylight running lamps (DRL's)
(Fig. 28)
²Tail/stop lamps (including center high-mounted
stop lamp)
²Parking lights Turn signals Brake lights (includ-
ing center high mounted stop lamp)
²Emergency flashers (Fig. 29)
²Fog/driving lights, if equipped
²Off-road or other lights, if equipped
²Cargo bed lights, if equipped
(4) Check ignition switch for proper operation in
all positions (accessory, lock, on, start and off).
INSPECTION - SEAT BELTS, SHOULDER
BELTS, RETRACTORS AND HEAD RESTRAINTS
(1) Inspect all seat belts and harnesses to ensure
that they connect and hold properly.
(2) Inspect the condition of the belts and anchors.
(3) Inspect for proper seat belt retraction.
Fig. 26 COMPASS OPERATION
Fig. 27 GLOVE BOX DOOR
30 - 12 NEW VEHICLE PREPARATIONBR/BE

INSPECTION - WINDOWS, DOORS AND LOCKS
(1) Check all power window switches for proper
operation (Fig. 32).
(2) Run all power or manually operated door, quar-
ter and vent windows to the fully closed position to
check operation and sealing.
(3)
(4) Check all power/manual door locks for correct
operation (Fig. 32).
(5)
Ensure that all doors open/close easily (Fig. 33).
(6) Check that the glove box door opens/closes eas-
ily (Fig. 34).
(7) Check that the console door opens/closes easily
(Fig. 35).
INSTALLATION - SHIPPED LOOSE ITEMS
(1) Install the antenna mast.
(2) Install rear license plate holder and front
license plate holder (if required).
(3) Install wheel covers (if required).
Fig. 32 POWER WINDOW AND LOCK SWITCHES
Fig. 33 DOOR OPERATION
Fig. 34 GLOVE BOX DOOR
Fig. 35 CENTER CONSOLE
30 - 14 NEW VEHICLE PREPARATIONBR/BE
BODY INTERIOR (Continued)

ROAD TEST
DESCRIPTION - ROAD TEST INSPECTION
The following items must be inspected during the
road test portion of the new vehicle inspection.
²Check neutral safety switch operation
²Check operation of shift/clutch interlock system
²Check operation of gauges and warning lights
²Check horn operation
²Check operation of turn signals and emergency
flashers
²Check all mirror adjustments, including day/
night function
²Check windshield wipers for proper wipe pattern
and intermittent mode (if equipped)
²Check washer spray pattern
²Check heater, defroster and air conditioning for
proper operation
²Check that the fan operates quietly
²Check the rear window defroster (if equipped)
²Leave air selection lever in the fresh air position
²Check the rear heater and air conditioning for
proper operation
²Check the rear air register locations
²Check that the indicator lamps operate properly
²Check the operation of the radio, cassette and/or
compact disc player, and that sound quality is good
²Ensure that the clock displays the correct time
²Check that the trip computer/maintenance
reminder operates in all modes
²Check all speed control functions
²Check the service brakes to ensure that they
stop the vehicle in a straight line, without noise,
shudder or vibration
²Check the brake warning light
²Check the parking brake operation
²Check the engine's performance
²Check the transmission's performance for
smooth, quiet operation. If the vehicle is a 4x4, check
that the transfer case shifts easily among all ranges
²Check Autostick function (if equipped)
²Check the vehicle's steering and handling
²The steering wheel should be centered when
traveling in a straight line
²The vehicle should not pull or vibrate
²Check for squeaks, rattles and wind noise
²Check any other vehicle aspects you believe are
important, but that may not be included on the New
Vehicle Preparation Form
²Fill fuel tank with specified grade of fuel
INSPECTION - FUEL
Fill fuel tank with specified grade of gasoline (reg-
ular, midgrade or premium).
INSPECTION - OTHER
As part of DaimlerChrysler's Customer One philos-
ophy, the ªOtherº blank is provided on the New Vehi-
cle Preparation Form. This is designed to encourage
you to check any aspects of vehicle operation that
you believe are important to your customers, but that
do not appear elsewhere on the form.
INSPECTION - SQUEAKS, RATTLES AND WIND
NOISE
(1) Make sure that the instrument panel, glove
box, seats, steering wheel and column are free from
squeaks and rattles. Tighten any obvious loose fas-
teners.
(2) Check that the windows and doors are free
from squeaks, rattles and wind noise.
(3) Check that the vehicle exterior is free from
squeaks, rattles and noise, front and rear.
(4) Make sure that all interior panels are free from
squeaks and rattles.
INSPECTION - STEERING AND HANDLING
(1) Check that the power assist works properly (if
equipped). Steering should not require excessive
effort.
(2) Make sure the steering wheel does not vibrate
at idle or road speed.
(3) Ensure that the steering wheel is centered
when traveling straight ahead.
(4) Check that the vehicle does not drift to one
side.
(5) Make sure that the vehicle does not vibrate/
shake.
INSPECTION - TRANSMISSION/TRANSFER
CASE
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
(1) Make sure that the park lock holds the vehicle
With the vehicle on a grade, put automatic trans-
mission in PARK and slowly release the service
brake to see if park lock holds. If it does not hold, the
transmission requires further service.
(2) Make sure shift lever operates easily/ smoothly
(Fig. 36).
Check for smooth shifting. Check for proper
upshifting and downshifting.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
(1) Check that the shifter operates easily (Fig. 38).
(2) Make sure that the clutch operates smoothly
(Fig. 37).
(3) Look for proper synchronization.
The gears should not grind.
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 15

INSPECTION - MIRROR
(1) Check operation of rearview mirror's day/night
function (if equipped).
(2) Check ease of adjustment for all mirrors (power
or manual) (Fig. 46) and (Fig. 47).
INSPECTION - TURN AND EMERGENCY
SIGNALS
(1) Ensure that the turn signals work properly
(including canceling after completing a turn).
(2) Ensure that the emergency flashers work prop-
erly.
INSPECTION - HORN
Ensure that the horn works properly.
INSPECTION - GAUGES/WARNING LIGHTS
(1) Ensure that all gauges, instrument indicator
lights, warning lights and instrument panel lights
are functioning properly.
(2) Inspect operation of message center (if
equipped).
INSPECTION - SHIFT/CLUTCH INTERLOCK
SYSTEM
(1) On vehicles with a manual transmission or
transaxle, be sure engine starts only when clutch is
depressed.
(2) Some vehicles equipped with an automatic
transmission also have a brake interlock system. On
these vehicles, be sure that you cannot shift out of
PARK without pressing the brake pedal.
INSPECTION - NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH
(1) On vehicles with an automatic transmission or
transaxle, check shift indicator alignment in all
ranges.
(2) Be sure the engine starts in both PARK and
NEUTRAL.
(3) Verify that the engine does not start in any
REVERSE/DRIVE positions.
PRE DELIVERY STORAGE
DESCRIPTION
Pre Delivery Storage information is provided to
recommend practices to use when storing new vehi-
cles prior to delivery to the customer.
If you have prepared a vehicle that will not be
immediately delivered to the customer, store the
vehicle according to guidelines outlined in (Refer to
30 - NEW VEHICLE PREP/PREDELIVERY STOR-
AGE - STANDARD PROCEDURE) to prevent unnec-
essary wear and tear on the vehicles electrical
systems, paint and finish and damage due to pilfer-
age and vandalism.
Fig. 46 INSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR
Fig. 47 OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 19
ROAD TEST (Continued)