2003 DODGE RAM engine

dicted fluid temperature which is calculated from a
combination of inputs:
²Battery (ambient) temperature
²Engine coolant temperature
²In-gear run time since start-up
VALVE BODY
DESCRIPTION
The valve body consists of a cast aluminum valve
body, a separator plate, and a transfer plate. The
valve body contains valves and check balls that con-
trol fluid delivery to the torque converter clutch,
bands, and frictional clutches. The valve body con-
tains the following components (Fig. 129) and (Fig.
130):
²Solenoid switch valve
²Manual valve
²Low/reverse switch valve
²5 Accumulators
²7 check balls
Fig. 129 Valve Body Components
1 - LOW/REVERSE ACCUMULATOR 6 - OVERDRIVE ACCUMULATOR
2 - LOW/REVERSE SWITCH VALVE 7 - UNDERDRIVE ACCUMULATOR
3 - UPPER VALVE BODY 8 - 4C ACCUMULATOR
4 - MANUAL VALVE 9 - 2C ACCUMULATOR
5 - SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE
Fig. 130 Check Ball Locations
21 - 584 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 45RFE/545RFEDR
TRANSMISSION TEMPERATURE SENSOR (Continued)

TRANSFER CASE - NV241 GENII
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
TRANSFER CASE - NV241 GENII
DESCRIPTION........................591
OPERATION..........................591
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TRANSFER
CASE - NV241 GENII..................592
REMOVAL............................593
DISASSEMBLY........................593
CLEANING...........................602
INSPECTION.........................602
ASSEMBLY...........................604
INSTALLATION........................614
SPECIFICATIONS
TRANSFER CASE - NV241 GENII........614
SPECIAL TOOLS
TRANSFER CASE - NV241/NV243........615
EXTENSION HOUSING BUSHING AND SEAL
REMOVAL............................616INSTALLATION........................616
FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID DRAIN AND
REFILL............................617
FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT SEAL
REMOVAL............................617
INSTALLATION........................618
POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................618
OPERATION..........................619
REMOVAL............................619
INSTALLATION........................619
SHIFT LEVER
REMOVAL............................620
INSTALLATION........................621
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENT - SHIFT LEVER..........622
TRANSFER CASE - NV241
GENII
DESCRIPTION
The NV241 GENII transfer case is a part-time
transfer case with a low-range gear system. It pro-
vides three operating ranges plus a NEUTRAL posi-
tion. The low range position provides a gear
reduction ratio of 2.72:1 for increased low speed
torque capability.
The gear cases and extension are all of aluminum
(Fig. 1). Drive sprockets and an interconnecting drive
chain are used to transmit engine torque to the front/
rear propeller shafts. The mainshaft, input gear and
front output shaft are supported by ball and needle
bearings.
IDENTIFICATION
An identification tag (Fig. 2) is attached to the rear
case of every transfer case. The tag provides the
transfer case model number, assembly number, serial
number, and low range ratio.
The transfer case serial number also represents
the date of build.
OPERATION
OPERATING RANGE
Transfer case operating ranges are:
²2H (2-wheel drive)²4H (4-wheel drive)
²4LO (4-wheel drive low range
The 2H range is for use on any road surface at any
time.
The 4H and 4LO ranges are for off road use only.
They are not for use on hard surface roads. The only
exception being when the road surface is covered by
ice and snow.
The low range reduction gear system is operative
in 4LO range only. This range is for extra pulling
Fig. 1 Transfer Case - Front View
1 - TRANSFER CASE
2 - MANUAL LEVER
3 - POSITION SENSOR
DRTRANSFER CASE - NV241 GENII 21 - 591

TRANSFER CASE - NV271
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
TRANSFER CASE - NV271
DESCRIPTION........................623
OPERATION..........................623
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TRANSFER
CASE - NV271.......................624
REMOVAL............................625
DISASSEMBLY........................625
CLEANING...........................635
INSPECTION.........................635
ASSEMBLY...........................637
INSTALLATION........................649
SPECIFICATIONS
TRANSFER CASE - NV271.............649
SPECIAL TOOLS
TRANSFER CASE NV271/NV273.........650
EXTENSION HOUSING SEAL AND DUST BOOT
REMOVAL............................652INSTALLATION........................652
FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID DRAIN AND
REFILL............................652
FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT SEAL
REMOVAL............................653
INSTALLATION........................653
POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................654
OPERATION..........................654
REMOVAL............................654
INSTALLATION........................654
SHIFT LEVER
REMOVAL............................655
INSTALLATION........................656
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENT - SHIFT LEVER..........657
TRANSFER CASE - NV271
DESCRIPTION
The NV271 transfer case is a part-time transfer
case with a low-range gear system. It provides three
operating ranges plus a NEUTRAL position. The low
range position provides a gear reduction ratio of
2.72:1 for increased low speed torque capability.
The gear cases and extension are all of aluminum
(Fig. 1). Drive sprockets and an interconnecting drive
chain are used to transmit engine torque to the front/
rear propeller shafts. The mainshaft, input gear and
front output shaft are supported by ball and needle
bearings.
IDENTIFICATION
An identification tag (Fig. 2) is attached to the rear
case of every transfer case. The tag provides the
transfer case model number, assembly number, serial
number, and low range ratio.
The transfer case serial number also represents
the date of build.
OPERATION
OPERATING RANGE
Transfer case operating ranges are:
²2H (2-wheel drive)
²4H (4-wheel drive)
²4LO (4-wheel drive low rangeThe 2H range is for use on any road surface at any
time.
The 4H and 4LO ranges are for off road use only.
They are not for use on hard surface roads. The only
exception being when the road surface is covered by
ice and snow.
The low range reduction gear system is operative
in 4LO range only. This range is for extra pulling
power in off road situations. Low range reduction
ratio is 2.72:1.
Fig. 1 Transfer Case - Front View
1 - TRANSFER CASE
2 - MANUAL LEVER
3 - POSITION SENSOR
DRTRANSFER CASE - NV271 21 - 623

For dynamic balancing, the balancing equipment is
designed to locate the amount of weight to be applied
to both the inner and outer rim flange (Fig. 10).
TIRES
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - SPARE TIRE / TEMPORARY
The temporary spare tire is designed for emer-
gency use only. The original tire should be repaired
or replaced at the first opportunity, then reinstalled.
Do not exceed speeds of 50 M.P.H. when using the
temporary spare tire. Refer to Owner's Manual for
complete details.
DESCRIPTION - TIRES
Tires are designed and engineered for each specific
vehicle. They provide the best overall performance
for normal operation. The ride and handling charac-
teristics match the vehicle's requirements. With
proper care they will give excellent reliability, trac-
tion, skid resistance, and tread life.
Driving habits have more effect on tire life than
any other factor. Careful drivers will obtain in most
cases, much greater mileage than severe use or care-
less drivers. A few of the driving habits which will
shorten the life of any tire are:
²Rapid acceleration
²Severe brake applications²High speed driving
²Excessive speeds on turns
²Striking curbs and other obstacles
Radial-ply tires are more prone to irregular tread
wear. It is important to follow the tire rotation inter-
val shown in the section on Tire Rotation, (Refer to
22 - TIRES/WHEELS - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
This will help to achieve a greater tread life.
TIRE IDENTIFICATION
Tire type, size, aspect ratio and speed rating are
encoded in the letters and numbers imprinted on the
side wall of the tire. Refer to the chart to decipher
the tire identification code (Fig. 11).
Performance tires have a speed rating letter after
the aspect ratio number. The speed rating is not
always printed on the tire sidewall. These ratings
are:
²Qup to 100 mph
²Rup to 106 mph
²Sup to 112 mph
²Tup to 118 mph
²Uup to 124 mph
²Hup to 130 mph
²Vup to 149 mph
²Zmore than 149 mph (consult the tire manu-
facturer for the specific speed rating)
An All Season type tire will have eitherM+S,M
&SorM±S(indicating mud and snow traction)
imprinted on the side wall.
Fig. 10 Dynamic Unbalance & Balance
1 - CENTER LINE OF SPINDLE
2 - ADD BALANCE WEIGHTS HERE3 - CORRECTIVE WEIGHT LOCATION
4 - HEAVY SPOT WHEEL SHIMMY AND VIBRATION
DRTIRES/WHEELS 22 - 5
TIRES/WHEELS (Continued)

Owners Manual. A Certification Label on the drivers
side door pillar provides the minimum tire and rim size
for the vehicle. The label also list the cold inflation pres-
sure for these tires at full load operation
Tire pressures have been chosen to provide safe
operation, vehicle stability, and a smooth ride. Tire
pressure should be checked cold once a month. Tire
pressure decreases as the ambient temperature
drops. Check tire pressure frequently when ambient
temperature varies widely.
Tire inflation pressures are cold inflation pressure.
The vehicle must sit for at least 3 hours to obtain the
correct cold inflation pressure reading. Or be driven
less than one mile after sitting for 3 hours. Tire
inflation pressures may increase from 2 to 6 pounds
per square inch (psi) during operation. Do not reduce
this normal pressure build-up.
WARNING: OVER OR UNDER INFLATED TIRES CAN
AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND TREAD WEAR.
THIS MAY CAUSE THE TIRE TO FAIL SUDDENLY,
RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRESSURE
GAUGES
A quality air pressure gauge is recommended to
check tire pressure. After checking the air pressure,
replace valve cap finger tight.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TIRE NOISE OR
VIBRATION
Radial-ply tires are sensitive to force impulses
caused by improper mounting, vibration, wheel
defects, or possibly tire imbalance.
To find out if tires are causing the noise or vibra-
tion, drive the vehicle over a smooth road at varying
speeds. Note the noise level during acceleration and
deceleration. The engine, differential and exhaust
noises will change as speed varies, while the tire
noise will usually remain constant.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TREAD WEAR
INDICATORS
Tread wear indicators are molded into the bottom
of the tread grooves. When tread depth is 1.6 mm
(1/16 in.), the tread wear indicators will appear as a
13 mm (1/2 in.) band (Fig. 14).
Tire replacement is necessary when indicators
appear in two or more grooves or if localized balding
occurs.
Fig. 12 Under Inflation Wear
1 - THIN TIRE THREAD AREAS
Fig. 13 Over Inflation Wear
1 - THIN TIRE THREAD AREA
Fig. 14 Tread Wear Indicators
1 - TREAD ACCEPTABLE
2 - TREAD UNACCEPTABLE
3 - WEAR INDICATOR
DRTIRES/WHEELS 22 - 7
TIRES (Continued)

VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE WATER LEAK TESTS
Verify that floor and body plugs are in place, body
drains are clear, and body components are properly
aligned and sealed. If component alignment or seal-
ing is necessary, refer to the appropriate section of
this group for proper procedures.
WATER LEAK TESTS
WARNING: DO NOT USE ELECTRIC SHOP LIGHTS
OR TOOLS IN WATER TEST AREA. PERSONAL
INJURY CAN RESULT.
When the conditions causing a water leak have
been determined, simulate the conditions as closely
as possible.
²If a leak occurs with the vehicle parked in a
steady light rain, flood the leak area with an open-
ended garden hose.
²If a leak occurs while driving at highway speeds
in a steady rain, test the leak area with a reasonable
velocity stream or fan spray of water. Direct the
spray in a direction comparable to actual conditions.
²If a leak occurs when the vehicle is parked on an
incline, hoist the end or side of the vehicle to simu-
late this condition. This method can be used when
the leak occurs when the vehicle accelerates, stops or
turns. If the leak occurs on acceleration, hoist the
front of the vehicle. If the leak occurs when braking,
hoist the back of the vehicle. If the leak occurs on left
turns, hoist the left side of the vehicle. If the leak
occurs on right turns, hoist the right side of the vehi-
cle. For hoisting recommendations (Refer to LUBRI-
CATION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
WATER LEAK DETECTION
To detect a water leak point-of-entry, do a water
test and watch for water tracks or droplets forming
on the inside of the vehicle. If necessary, remove inte-
rior trim covers or panels to gain visual access to the
leak area. If the hose cannot be positioned without
being held, have someone help do the water test.
Some water leaks must be tested for a considerable
length of time to become apparent. When a leak
appears, find the highest point of the water track or
drop. The highest point usually will show the point of
entry. After leak point has been found, repair the
leak and water test to verify that the leak has
stopped.
Locating the entry point of water that is leaking
into a cavity between panels can be difficult. The
trapped water may splash or run from the cavity,
often at a distance from the entry point. Most water
leaks of this type become apparent after accelerating,
stopping, turning, or when on an incline.MIRROR INSPECTION METHOD
When a leak point area is visually obstructed, use
a suitable mirror to gain visual access. A mirror can
also be used to deflect light to a limited-access area
to assist in locating a leak point.
BRIGHT LIGHT LEAK TEST METHOD
Some water leaks in the luggage compartment can
be detected without water testing. Position the vehi-
cle in a brightly lit area. From inside the darkened
luggage compartment inspect around seals and body
seams. If necessary, have a helper direct a drop light
over the suspected leak areas around the luggage
compartment. If light is visible through a normally
sealed location, water could enter through the open-
ing.
PRESSURIZED LEAK TEST METHOD
When a water leak into the passenger compart-
ment cannot be detected by water testing, pressurize
the passenger compartment and soap test exterior of
the vehicle. To pressurize the passenger compart-
ment, close all doors and windows, start engine, and
set heater control to high blower in HEAT position. If
engine can not be started, connect a charger to the
battery to ensure adequate voltage to the blower.
With interior pressurized, apply dish detergent solu-
tion to suspected leak area on the exterior of the
vehicle. Apply detergent solution with spray device or
soft bristle brush. If soap bubbles occur at a body
seam, joint, seal or gasket, the leak entry point could
be at that location.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIND NOISE
Wind noise is the result of most air leaks. Air leaks
can be caused by poor sealing, improper body compo-
nent alignment, body seam porosity, or missing plugs
in the engine compartment or door hinge pillar areas.
All body sealing points should be airtight in normal
driving conditions. Moving sealing surfaces will not
always seal airtight under all conditions. At times,
side glass or door seals will allow wind noise to be
noticed in the passenger compartment during high
cross winds. Over compensating on door or glass
adjustments to stop wind noise that occurs under
severe conditions can cause premature seal wear and
excessive closing or latching effort. After a repair pro-
cedure has been performed, test vehicle to verify
noise has stopped before returning vehicle to use.
VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE TESTS
Verify that floor and body plugs are in place and
body components are aligned and sealed. If compo-
nent alignment or sealing is necessary, refer to the
appropriate section of this group for proper proce-
dures.
23 - 2 BODYDR
BODY (Continued)

OPENING DIMENSIONS
SPECIFICATIONS - BODY OPENING
DIMENSIONS
INDEX
DESCRIPTION FIGURE
WINDSHIELD OPENING 4
DOOR OPENING - STANDARD
CAB5
DOOR OPENINGS - QUAD CAB 6
REAR WINDOW OPENING 7
ENGINE COMPARTMENT/FRONT
STRUCTURE8
Fig. 4 WINDSHIELD OPENING
DRBODY STRUCTURE 23 - 99

Fig. 8 ENGINE COMPARTMENT/FRONT STRUCTURE
23 - 102 BODY STRUCTUREDR
OPENING DIMENSIONS (Continued)