2006 DODGE RAM 1500 GAS differential

▫Manually Shifted Transfer Case Operating
Information/Precautions ................308
▫ Shifting Procedure - Manually Shifted
Transfer Case ........................311
▫ Transfer Case Reminder Light ............312
▫ Electronically Shifted Transfer Case Operating
Information/Precautions (5 Position Switch)—
If Equipped .........................312
▫ Shifting Procedure - Electronically Shifted
Transfer Case ........................318
▫ Electronically Shifted Transfer Case Operating
Information/Precautions (4 Position Switch)—
If Equipped .........................320
▫ Shifting Procedure - Electronically Shifted
Transfer Case ........................325

Limited-Slip Differential — If Equipped .......327

Parking Brake .........................328

Brake System ..........................330
▫ 3500 Dual Rear Wheel Models Only ........330
▫ Brake Noise .........................330
▫ Rear Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System —
RWAL .............................331
▫ Four-Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System —
If Equipped .........................331

Power Steering ........................333

Multi Displacement System (MDS) -
5.7L Engine Only .......................334

Tire Safety Information ...................335
▫ Tire Markings ........................335
▫ Tire Identification Number (TIN) ..........338
290 STARTING AND OPERATING

4. After the desired position indicator light is ON (not
flashing), shift transmission back into gear (release clutch
on manual transmissions).
NOTE: If steps 1 or 2 of either the Preferred or Alternate
Procedure are not satisfied prior to attempting the shift
then the desired position indicator light will flash con-
tinuously while the original position indicator light is
ON, until all requirements have been met.
NOTE: The ignition key must be ON for a shift to take
place and for the position indicator lights to be operable.
If the key is not ON then the shift will not take place and
no position indicator lights will be on or flashing.
NOTE: If your are leaving your vehicle stored for longer
than 21 days, refer to the section on “Vehicle Storage.”LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED
The limited-slip differential provides additional traction
on snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel, particularly when
there is a difference between the traction characteristics
of the surface under the right and left rear wheels. During
normal driving and cornering, the limited-slip unit per-
forms similarly to a conventional differential. On slip-
pery surfaces, however, the differential delivers more of
the driving effort to the rear wheel having the better
traction.
The limited-slip differential is especially helpful during
slippery driving conditions. With both rear wheels on a
slippery surface, a slight application of the accelerator
will supply maximum traction. When starting with only
one rear wheel on an excessively slippery surface, slight
momentary application of the parking brake may be
necessary to gain maximum traction.
STARTING AND OPERATING 327
5

HOISTING
A conventional floor jack may be used at the jacking
locations, refer to the graphics that show jacking loca-
tions. However, a floor jack or frame hoist must never be
used on any other parts or the underbody.
CAUTION!
Never use a floor jack directly under the differential
housing of a loaded truck or damage to your vehicle
may result.
JUMP-STARTING
You should not try to start your vehicle by pushing or
towing. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmis-
sion cannot be started this way and pushing or towing a
vehicle equipped with a manual transmission may over-
heat and damage the catalytic converter. Also, there is a
greater risk of an accident when a vehicle is being pushed
or towed. If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster
cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster
battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type of start
can be dangerous if done improperly, so follow this
procedure carefully.
416 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

Clutch Linkage
If the clutch pedal linkage begins to squeak or grunt, the
clutch pedal pivot bushings should be lubricated. Refer
to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct
lubricant type.
Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle Fluid Level
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the
correct Fluid type. For normal service, periodic fluid level
checks are not required. When the vehicle is serviced for
other reasons the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly
should be inspected. If gear oil leakage is suspected
inspect the fluid level.
This inspection should be made with the vehicle in a level
position. The fluid level should be even with the bottom
of the fill hole for the Manufacturer’s C205F HD Front
Axles. The fluid level should be 5/8” (16 mm) below on
9 1/4” Manufacturer’s Rear Axles. For all 2500/3500 Model axles, the fluid level should be
1/4” ± 1/4” (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm) below the fill hole on the
9.25” Front and 3/4”± 1/4” (19 mm ± 6.4 mm) on 10.5”
Rear axles. The 11.5” Rear Axle level should be 1/4” ±
1/4” (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm) below the fill hole.
Drain and Refill
Vehicles operated in normal service do not have regularly
scheduled oil changes. If fluid has become contaminated
with water or to provide the correct viscosity grade, drain
and refill.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.
NOTE:
The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differential
components. Operation of the vehicle in water, as may be
encountered in some off-highway types of service, will
require draining and refilling the axle to avoid damage.
452 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Limited-Slip Differentialsin 1500 Model vehicles re-
quire that 4 oz. (118 ml) Mopar limited slip additive be
added to the gear lubricant. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants
and Genuine Parts for correct fluid type. The Mopar 
limited slip additive should be added to the gear lubri-
cant whenever a fluid change is made.
Ram 2500/3500 Model Axles DO NOT REQUIREany
limited slip oil additive (friction modifiers).
Transfer Case
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler
plug. The fluid level should be to the bottom edge of the
filler plug hole with the vehicle in a level position.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.
Manual Transmission
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the fill plug.
If the level of the lubricant is more than 1/4” (6.4 mm)
below the bottom of the filler hole while the vehicle is on
level ground, enough lubricant should be added to bring
the level to the bottom of the filler hole.
Lubricant Selection G238 (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 Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type. This is the only lubricant
recommended for use in the Getrag 238 transmission.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 453
7

Child Restraint Tether Anchors........60,63,97,101
Child Seat ....................... 56,62,94,100
Cigar Lighter ........................... 194
Climate Control ......................... 274
Clock ..................... 227,230,238,252,265
Clutch ............................... 451
Clutch Linkage Maintenance ................ 452
Compact Disc (CD) Maintenance ............. 273
Compact Spare Tire ...................... 347
Compass .............................. 180
Compass Calibration ..................... 180
Compass Variance ....................... 182
Computer, Trip/Travel .................... 176
Console, Overhead ....................... 175
Contract, Service ........................ 512
Converter, Catalytic ...................... 365
Cooling System ......................... 446
Coolant Capacity ...................... 483
Coolant Level ......................... 446 Disposal of Used Coolant
................ 449
Drain, Flush, and Refill .................. 447
Inspection ........................... 446
Radiator Cap ...................... 446,449
Selection of Coolant (Antifreeze) ......448,483,485
Temperature Gauge ..................... 221
Cruise Control (Speed Control) .............. 172
Cup Holder ............................ 195
Customer Assistance ..................... 510
Data Recorder, Event .................... 54,91
Daytime Running Lights ................... 164
Dealer Service .......................... 430
Defroster, Rear Window .............. 119,280,283
Defroster, Windshield .................. 275,278
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers ................. 168
Differential, Limited-Slip .................. 327
Dipsticks Automatic Transmission ................. 454
520 INDEX

Front Axle (Differential)................... 452
Front Wheel Bearings ..................... 457
Fuel ................................. 356
Filter ............................... 436
Gauge .............................. 226
Octane Rating ...................... 356,485
Requirements ...................... 356,483
Tank Capacity ........................ 483
Fuel, Flexible ............. See Flexible Fuel Vehicles
Fuses ................................ 466
Garage Door Opener (HomeLink ) ........... 183
Gas Cap (Fuel Filler Cap) .................. 361
Gasoline (Fuel) ......................... 356
Gasoline, Reformulated ................... 357
Gauges ............................... 219
Coolant Temperature .................... 221
Fuel ................................ 226
Oil Pressure .......................... 220 Speedometer
......................... 220
Tachometer .......................... 219
Voltmeter ............................ 219
Gear Ranges ........................ 299,305
Glass Cleaning .......................... 465
Grocery Bag Retainer ..................... 204
Gross Axle Weight Rating .................. 371
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ................ 370
GVWR ............................... 367
Hands-Free Phone (UConnect™) ............. 121
Hazard Warning Flasher ................... 398
Head Restraints ......................... 147
Headlights ............................ 470
High Beam ........................... 167
High Beam/Low Beam Select Switch ........ 167
Lights On Reminder .................... 165
Passing ............................. 166
Switch .............................. 164
INDEX 523
10

Limited-Slip Differential................327,453
Loading Vehicle ......................... 367
Tires ............................... 339
Locks ................................. 17
Child Protection ........................ 21
Door ................................ 17
Ignition .............................. 14
Keys ................................ 12
Power Door ........................... 18
Steering Wheel ......................... 14
Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren
(LATCH) ............................ 60,97
Lubricants ............................. 457
Lubrication, Body ....................... 443
Lug Nuts ............................. 410
Lumbar Support ........................ 148
Maintenance ........................... 430
Maintenance Free Battery .................. 439 Maintenance Procedures
................... 431
Maintenance Schedule .................... 488
Schedule “A” ......................... 503
Schedule “B” ......................... 491
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) ..... 429
Manual, Service ......................... 514
Manual Transmission ...............304,306,453
Fluid Level Check ...................... 453
Lubricant Selection ...............453,454,486
Shift Speeds .......................... 305
Mirrors ............................... 116
Automatic Dimming .................... 117
Electric Powered ....................... 118
Outside ............................. 117
Rearview ............................ 116
Trailer Towing ...................... 1 19,381
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle ............. 7
Mopar Parts ......................... 431,513
Multi-Displacement Engine System ........... 334
526 INDEX