2005 DODGE RAM 1500 GAS automatic transmission

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (OBD II)
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated onboard
diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors
the performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic
transmission control systems. When these systems are
operating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent
performance and fuel economy, as well as engine emis-
sions well within current government regulations.
If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the “Malfunction Indicator Light.” It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist your service technician in making repairs. Al-
though your vehicle will usually be driveable and not
need towing, see your dealer for service as soon as
possible.CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the “Malfunction Indicator
Light” on could cause further damage to the emis-
sion control system. It could also affect fuel economy
and driveability. The vehicle must be serviced before
any emissions tests can be performed.
If the “Malfunction Indicator Light” is flashing,
severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
350 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Lubricant Selection Getrag G56 (6-Speed Manual
Transmission — If Equipped)
This transmission is filled with manual transmission
fluid at the factory. This fluid does not require periodic
changing. If it is necessary to add or change fluid in this
transmission refer to Recommended Fluids, Lubricants
and Genuine Parts for correct fluid type. This is the only
lubricant recommended for use in the Getrag G56 trans-
mission.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level should be checked when the engine is
fully warmed up and the fluid in the transmission is at
normal operating temperature. Operation of the trans-
mission with an improper fluid level will greatly reduce
the life of the transmission and of the fluid. Check the
fluid level whenever the vehicle is serviced.
Fluid Level Check – 45RFE/545RFE
Check the fluid level while the transmission is at normal
operating temperature 82°C (180°F). This occurs after at
least 15 miles (25 km) of driving. At normal operating
temperature the fluid cannot be held comfortably be-
tween the fingertips.
To check the automatic transmission fluid level properly,
the following procedure must be used:
1. Operate the engine at idle speed and normal operating
temperature.
2. The vehicle must be on level ground.
3. Fully apply the parking brake and press the brake
pedal.
4. Place the gear selector momentarily in each gear
position ending with the lever in P (Park).
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 377
7

Selection Of Lubricant
Refer to Recommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type. It is important that the
transmission fluid be maintained at the prescribed level
using the recommended fluid.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turers recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturers recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts
for correct fluid type.
Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Change
It is important that proper lubricant is used in the
transmission. Refer to Recommended Fluids, Lubricants
and Genuine Parts for correct fluid type.
The fluid and filter(s) should be changed as specified in
the Maintenance Schedule (Section 8).
NOTE:If the transmission is disassembled for any
reason, the fluid and filter(s) should be changed.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against the ad-
dition of any additives to the transmission. Exception to
this policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting
fluid leaks. The use of transmission sealers should be
avoided, since they may adversely affect seals.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 379
7

Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.
Automatic Transmission MoparATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid or or equivalent.
Transfer Case MoparATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid NV 4500 75W-85 Synthetic, API grade GL4, MoparP/N 4874459 or equivalent.
Manaul Transmission Fluid (G238). MoparATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid (G-56) MoparATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
Clutch Linkage Multipurpose Grease, NLGI Grade 2 E.P. or equivalent.
1500 Model Front Axle (4X4) GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or equivalent.
1500 Model Rear Axle MoparSynthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-140 (MS-8985). Limited-Slip
Rear Axles on 1500 Models Require the addition of 118 ml (4 oz.) Mopar
limited slip additive or equivalent.
2500/3500 Model Front and Rear
AxleSynthetic, GL-5 SAE, 75W-90 or equivalent. Limited-Slip 10.5/11.5 inch
Rear AxlesDO NOT REQUIREa limited slip additive.
Brake Master Cylinder MoparDOT 3 and SAE J1703 should be used or equivalent. If DOT 3
brake fluid is not available, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only recom-
mended brake fluids.
Power Steering Reservoir MoparATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
406 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

At Each Stop for Fuel
•Check the engine oil level about 5 minutes after a fully
warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level while
the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accu-
racy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when the
level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and add if
required.
Once a Month
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
•Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the terminals
as required.
•Check the fluid levels of coolant bottle, brake master
cylinder, and transmission and add as needed.
•Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Lubricate Drivetrain/Steering/Suspension Grease Fit-
tings (if equipped)
•Inspect the exhaust system.
•Inspect the brake hoses.
•Inspect the CV joints (if equipped) and front suspen-
sion components.
•Check the automatic transmission fluid level.
•Check the manual transmission fluid level.
•Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
410 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Miles 48,000 51,000 54,000 57,000 60,000
(Kilometers) (77 000) (82 000) (86 000) (91 000) (96 000)
Inspect engine air cleaner filter, replace if neces-
sary.X
Replace spark plugs.X
Replace ignition cables.X
Inspect PCV valve, replace as necessary. **X
Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid and
change main sump filter*.X
416 SCHEDULE “B”
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Miles 105,000 108,000 111,000 114,000 117,000 120,000
(Kilometers) (168 000) (173 000) (178 000) (182 000) (187 000) (192 000)
Replace spark plugs.X
Replace ignition cables.X
Inspect PCV valve, replace as necessary. **X
Inspect auto tension drive belt and replace if
required (3.7L/4.7L/5.7L).XX
Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid
and change main sump and spin-on cooler
return filter (if equipped)*.X
Flush and replace engine coolant at 120
months if not replaced at 102,000 miles (192
000 km).X
*
This applies only if the vehicle is used for frequent trailer
towing, snowplowing, fleet vehicle or commercial service.
** This maintenance is recommended by the manufac-
turer to the owner, but not required to maintain the
emissions warranty.Inspection and service should also be performed anytime
a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all re-
ceipts.
SCHEDULE “B” 421
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Adding Fuel........................285,321
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . 358,382
Air Conditioner Maintenance............... 362
Air Conditioning Refrigerant.............362,363
Air Conditioning System................ 211,362
Air Conditioning System, Zone Control........ 215
Air Pressure, Tires....................269,277
Airbag..............................45,51
Airbag Light.........................71,166
Airbag On/Off Switch..................... 51
Airbag, Side............................ 54
Alarm..............................29,169
Alignment and Balance................... 277
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle............. 7
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)..............370,403
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).............. 256
Anti-Lock Warning Light...............170,258
Anti-Theft System.....................29,169
Appearance Care........................ 385Ashtray............................... 148
Automatic Transmission
Adding Fluid......................... 378
Fluid and Filter Changes................. 379
Fluid Level Check...................... 377
Fluid Type........................379,406
Shift Indicator........................ 169
Shifting............................. 232
Special Additives...................... 379
Axle Fluid.......................298,374,406
Axle Lubrication.....................298,374
Ball Joints............................. 364
Battery............................... 361
Emergency Starting..................... 337
Bearings.............................. 380
Belts, Drive............................ 357
Belts, Seat.............................. 34
Body Mechanism Lubrication............... 366
436 INDEX