2001 DODGE RAM engine

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)

Check windshield washer solvent reservoir and fill
as necessary (Fig. 6).
NOTE: When using concentrated solvent such as
MoparTAll-Weather Windshield Washer Solution,
dilute per container directions.
COOLING SYSTEM RESERVOIR
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE RADIATOR CAP
WHILE COOLING SYSTEM IS UNDER PRESSURE.
NOTE: Add coolant only to plastic reserve tank if it is
required. Engine must be at normal operating temper-
ature before adding coolant to reserve tank. In cold
climates, coolant in reserve tank may appear low; do
not add coolant until normal temperature is reached.
Check coolant level with engine idling at normal
operating temperature. Coolant level in plastic
reserve tank must be between the minimum and
maximun marks (Fig. 7).
If coolant is added, use a 50/50 (-309F protection) con-
centration of the recommended (Refer to the Service
Information for specificate Mopartantifreeze recom-
mendation ) antifreeze and distilled water. Use a
higher concentration (up to 65%) if a lower freeze point
is required. Do not use recycled coolant in new vehicles.
INSPECTION - LINES/HOSES
Inspect the following for line and hose leaks. Also
inspect routing and connections and reroute and
tighten as required.²Brake Lines (Fig. 8)
²Fuel Lines (Fig. 9)
²Power Steering Hoses
²Vacuum Hoses
²Heating/Coolant Hoses
²Clutch Lines
²Refrigerant Lines
²Transmission oil cooler lines (Fig. 10)
Fig. 7 ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIRFig. 8 PARKING BRAKE CABLE AND BRAKE LINE
Fig. 9 BRAKE LINES AND FUEL LINES
1 - FUEL LINE
2 - BRAKE LINE
30 - 6 NEW VEHICLE PREPARATIONBR/BE
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)

UNDER VEHICLE
INSPECTION - TIRE PRESSURES
(1) Using the tire placard or the Safety Certifica-
tion Label, check that the correct tires are mounted
on the vehicle.
(2) Install valve stem extensions as required.
(3) Using the tire placard or the Safety Certifica-
tion Label, check tire pressure (including spare) and
adjust as required to recommended pressure.
(4) Inspect the spare tire for correct pressure and
proper mounting (Fig. 13).
NOTE: Tire pressure may have been set above nor-
mal during manufacturing in order to properly seat
the tire bead. Be sure to adjust to proper specifica-
tion.
INSPECTION - VISUAL
CAUTION: Before raising the vehicle on a hoist,
(Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING
- STANDARD PROCEDURE) for the proper lifting
points.
(1) Visually inspect the following for loose attach-
ment, leakage, clearance and routing, and tighten
connections and clamps as required:
²Engine
²Oil Cooler
²Cooling System
²Transmission
²Driveshaft Boots²Differential
²Transfer Case (Fig. 19)
²Transmission Cooler and Lines (Fig. 18)
²Brake System and Lines (Fig. 14)
²Fuel System
²Exhaust System (Fig. 15), (Fig. 16) and (Fig. 17)
²Steering and Suspension Components
Fig. 13 SPARE TIRE INSPECTION
Fig. 14 BRAKE LINES TO CALIPERS (REAR)
Fig. 15 EXHAUST CLAMPS
30 - 8 NEW VEHICLE PREPARATIONBR/BE

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

4X4 TRANSFER CASE
(1) Shift the transfer case through all ranges to
make sure shifting is smooth and all gear positions
respond accordingly (Fig. 39).
INSPECTION - ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Check the engine for proper performance. It
should:²Start promptly
²Be free from stalling
²Idle smoothly and at proper speed
²Be free from stumbling or hesitation
²Produce sufficient power
²Be free from unusual noises
²Operate within the proper temperature range
²Stop when the ignition key is shut off
Fig. 36 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION RANGE
SELECTOR
Fig. 37 CLUTCH PEDAL OPERATION
Fig. 38 MANUAL TRANSMISSION RANGE
SELECTOR
Fig. 39 TRANSFER CASE SELECTOR
30 - 16 NEW VEHICLE PREPARATIONBR/BE
ROAD TEST (Continued)

INSPECTION - PARKING BRAKE
(1) Ensure that the parking brake is easy to oper-
ate (Fig. 40).
(2) Make sure the parking brake does not drag.
(3) With the vehicle stopped on a grade, firmly
apply the service brakes, place the transmission in
NEUTRAL and set the parking brake. Slowly release
the service brakes to see if the parking brake will
hold.
(4) Check that the parking brake warning light
comes on when the parking brake is applied, and is
off when the brake is released.
INSPECTION - SERVICE BRAKES
(1) Check brake warning light operation at vehicle
startup.
(2) Check ABS warning light operation at vehicle
startup.
(3) Inspect service brake pedal travel and feel (Fig.
41).
(4) Put the vehicle in gear and apply the brakes
while the car is in motion. Be sure brake operation is
smooth and positive.
(5) Make sure that the vehicle stops in a straight
line, without pulling to one side.
(6) Check that the brakes operate quietly, without
noise.
(7) Ensure there is no shudder or vibration when
braking.
INSPECTION - SPEED CONTROL
Check the following speed control functions (Fig.
42):²Check on/off switch
²Check ªsetº operation
²Check ªresumeº function
²Check ªaccelerateº and ªdecelerateº functions
²Check brake release function
²Check ªcancelº function
INSPECTION - TRIP COMPUTER/
MAINTENANCE REMINDER
NOTE: Reset the average fuel economy when the
road test is complete.
Check that all modes operate correctly (Fig. 43).
INSPECTION - RADIO
(1) Check for good AM/FM reception, ensure that
the cassette and/or compact disc (CD) player works
properly (Fig. 44).
(2) Check for good sound quality from all speakers.
(3) Ensure that the radio displays the correct time.
(4) Check the steering wheel controls (if equipped).
INSPECTION - HEATER/AIR CONDITIONER
(1) Check that heater/defroster works properly
(Fig. 45).
(2) Turn on the heater when the engine reaches
operating temperature.
(3) Operate the blower motor in all speeds.
(4) Operate system in all modes (heat, defrost,
etc.).
(5) Operate the rear heater (if equipped).
(6) Check for hot air output at all outlets.
Fig. 40 PARKING BRAKE OPERATION
Fig. 41 SERVICE BRAKE PEDAL
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 17
ROAD TEST (Continued)

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)