2001 DODGE RAM check engine

NEW VEHICLE PREPARATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
INTRODUCTION
DESCRIPTION............................1
RECEIVING
INSPECTION.............................3
UNDER HOOD
INSPECTION.............................4
UNDER VEHICLE
INSPECTION.............................8
INSTALLATION...........................10
EXTERIOR
INSPECTION............................10
BODY INTERIOR
INSPECTION............................12
INSTALLATION...........................14
ROAD TEST
DESCRIPTION...........................15INSPECTION............................15
PRE DELIVERY STORAGE
DESCRIPTION...........................19
STANDARD PROCEDURE..................20
PRE DELIVERY STORAGE................20
PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC FEATURES
DESCRIPTION...........................20
OPERATION.............................20
APPEARANCE TIPS
CLEANING..............................21
FINAL STEPS
STANDARD PROCEDURE..................22
NEW VEHICLE PREPARATION FORM.......22
OWNER CHECK OUT....................22
INSPECTION............................22
INTRODUCTION
DESCRIPTION - THE IMPORTANCE OF
CAREFUL NEW VEHICLE PREPARATION
Today, the automobile industry is more competitive
than it has been for decades. Automakers around the
world, including DaimlerChrysler, have made tre-
mendous improvements in the quality of their vehi-
cles.
As a result, customer expectations have also risen.
Today's customers are more particular about their
vehicles than ever before. The result is that problems
once regarded as insignificant (such as a squeak or
rattle) can now make the difference between a repeat
customer and one who never purchases another vehi-
cle from you dealership or another DaimlerChrysler
Corporation product.
As a technician preparing a new car or truck for
delivery, you are the final step in the entire quality
process. Your inspection is the final opportunity to
detect any flaws that would disappoint the customer.
Your efforts will reflect upon the thousands of men
and women who design, engineer and build Daimler-
Chrysler products as well as upon your dealership
and on yourself as a competent, conscientious techni-
cian.
As manufacturing quality has improved, prep pro-
cedures have come to serve as additional quality
checks. However, there are several compelling rea-
sons for careful new vehicle preparation.²Safety-You assure the customer that his or her
new vehicle meets all federal safety standards.
²Emissions Controls-When your customers are
assured that their new cars meet emissions stan-
dards, they will know that they are contributing to
cleaner air and helping control pollution.
²Customer Satisfaction-First impressions are very
important on a new vehicle. Careful new vehicle
preparation will impress your customer.
²Competition-It is common knowledge in the
industry that the availability of efficient service is
one of the decisive factors in determining which cars
will sell. A vehicle delivered to your customers in
first class condition, inside and out, will bring them
back to the dealership for the kind of service you
have led them to expect and for their next new car.
This information outlines service procedures which
will ensure that DaimlerChrysler Corporation vehi-
cles are ready for delivery to the customer when they
are complete. These procedures follow a logical order,
from a careful underhood inspection, to the moment
when you complete the warranty certificate and turn
the keys over to your customer.
When you have completed the procedures described
in this information, both you and your customer will
be assured that his or her new vehicle will perform
as expected.
USING THE MANUAL
This guide to new vehicle preparation covers all
items on the New Vehicle Preparation Form (Fig. 1).
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 1

Items found requiring adjustment and/or repair
should be corrected before delivery of the vehicle.
NOTE: It is the dealer's responsibility to protect
new vehicles from damage and deterioration prior
to retail delivery both before and after new vehicle
preparation.
The information includes the following features:
Inspection points are cross-referenced to the New
Vehicle Preparation Form as follows:
²Titles indicate the general area being inspected
or the types of checks being made (i.e., underhood,
body-exterior, road test, etc.).
²Sub-Titles identify the types of items to be
inspected in that area (i.e., lines/hoses, wiring, etc.).
Procedures follow a logical order to prevent dupli-
cation and wasted effort.
Tips to help you do a better job are found as
NOTES.
RECEIVING
INSPECTION
The following procedures are recommended for
your own protection upon receipt of new vehicles.
When a new car is delivered by the carrier, it should
be inspected to ensure that it is in good condition
and to determine if there is any shortage or transpor-
tation damage.
EXTERIOR
Upon receipt of a new vehicle, check immediately
for:
²Under carriage damage
²Chipped or cracked windshield, broken windows,
and loose or missing moldings and name-plates
²Dents, scrapes, scratches, chips, dirt in paints or
other damage to the body exterior
²Damaged or missing side view mirror(s)
²Missing wheel nuts
²Broken or missing lenses
²Chafing, bruises, cuts, or scrapes on tire side-
walls or tread
²Missing underhood items
²Missing fuel filler cap
²Shipped loose items-license plate bracket, spare
tire, jack and tire wrench, radio antenna, floor mats,
wheel covers, cargo nets, fuses and other items²Ensure that IOD fuse is removed
²Check battery test indicator when easily visible,
or use voltmeter (battery must be at 12.4 volts or
greater). Charge to ensure green dot-visibility, per-
manent damage may occur if battery remains in a
discharged state for any length of time.
INTERIOR
Check interior items such as:
²Rearview mirror
²Accessory control knobs
²Smokers package items
²Keys
²Radio
²Special equipment items listed on shipper
²Owner's Manual and Consumer information Bro-
chures (normally stored in the glove box).
²Cuts, abrasions or stains on interior trim.
NOTE: Remember a careful look at new vehicles
when they are received may prevent problems when
preparing vehicles for delivery to your customers.
MAJOR INSPECTION POINTS
(1) Check operation of hood latch and safety catch-
adjust as required.
(2) Check all fluids for proper level and top off
with the proper fluid as required-engine oil, auto-
matic transmission fluid, brake master cylinder,
clutch master cylinder, power steering, windshield
washer, and cooling system. (Vehicle must be at nor-
mal operating temperature for some of these checks.)
(3) Check brake, clutch, fuel, and power steering
lines and hoses for leaks and clearance from moving
and hot objects-reroute to the proper location and
tighten as required.
(4) Check battery state of charge-recharge if neces-
sary, to ensure green dot is visible or instrument
panel voltmeter indicates 12.4 volts or greater.
(5) Check routing and connections of underhood
wiring, vacuum hoses, refrigerant lines and coolant
hoses for leaks, loose connections and clearance from
moving objects reroute and tighten connections as
required. Install IOD fuse on applicable vehicles.
NOTE: Reset radio, clock, compass, etc., after
installing, if vehicle is being delivered.
BR/BENEW VEHICLE PREPARATION 30 - 3
INTRODUCTION (Continued)

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)

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