2006 DODGE RAM 1500 GAS power steering fluid

When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels toward the
curb on a downhill grade and away from the curb on an
uphill grade.
The parking brake should always be applied whenever
the driver is not in the vehicle.
BRAKE SYSTEM
If power assist is lost for any reason (for example,
repeated brake applications with the engine off), the
brakes will still function. However, you will experience a
substantial increase in braking effort to stop the vehicle.
If either the front or rear hydraulic systems lose normal
capability, the remaining system will still function with
some loss of overall braking effectiveness. This will be
evident by increased pedal travel during application,
greater pedal force required to slow or stop, and activa-
tion of the BRAKE warning lamp and the ABS lamp (if
equipped) during brake use.
3500 Dual Rear Wheel Models Only
The brake system power assist is provided by a hydro-
boost unit which shares fluid with the power steering
system. You may experience some clicking or hissing
noises from the hydro-boost system during hard braking
conditions.
NOTE: Under cold temperatures, pedal effort will be
higher than normal until the power steering oil reaches
operating temperature.
Brake Noise
During normal operation of the brake system certain
noises may be present from time to time. Occasional
 groan or squeal noises may occur during normal
operation of the brake system which may not be indica-
tive of a problem. These noises may be heard at any time
the brakes are applied but may be more noticeable during
the first few brake applications in the morning. Moisture,
hot or cold temperature, dust, and or other debris may
330 STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING!
•Anti-lock system (ABS) cannot prevent the natu-
ral laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase braking or steering efficiency be-
yond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle
brakes and tires or the traction afforded.
•The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns,
following another vehicle too closely, or hydro-
planing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver
can prevent accidents.
•The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety
or the safety of others.
POWER STEERING
The standard power steering system will give you good
vehicle response and increased ease of maneuverability
in tight spaces. The system will provide mechanical
steering capability if power assist is lost.
If for some reason, the power assist is interrupted, it will
still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under these condi-
tions you will observe a substantial increase in steering
effort, especially at very low vehicle speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
NOTE: Increased noise levels at the end of the steering
wheel travel are considered normal and does not indicate
that there is a problem with the power steering system.
Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the power steering
pump may make noise for a short period of time. This is
due to the cold, thick fluid in the steering system. This
noise should be considered normal, and does not in any
way damage the steering system.
STARTING AND OPERATING 333
5

WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced power steering
assist could pose a safety risk to yourself and others.
Service should be obtained as soon as possible.
CAUTION!
Prolong operation of the steering system at the end
of the steering wheel travel will increase the steering
fluid temperature and should be avoided when
possible. Damage to the power steering pump may
occur.
MULTI DISPLACEMENT SYSTEM (MDS) - 5.7L
Engine Only
This feature offers improved fuel economy by shutting
off four of the engine’s eight cylinders during light load
and cruise conditions. The system is automatic with no
driver inputs or additional driving skills required.
NOTE: The MDS system may take some time to return
to full functionality after a battery disconnect.
334 STARTING AND OPERATING

▫Air Conditioner Maintenance .............440
▫ Power Steering — Fluid Check ............441
▫ Front Suspension Ball Joints ..............441
▫ Steering Linkage — Inspection ............442
▫ Half-Shaft Constant Velocity Joints .........442
▫ Front Prop Shaft Lubrication — 2500/3500
(4X4) Models ........................443
▫ Body Lubrication .....................443
▫ Windshield Wiper Blades ................444
▫ Windshield Washers ...................444
▫ Exhaust System ......................445
▫ Cooling System .......................446
▫ Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses .......449 ▫
Brake System ........................450
▫ Clutch Hydraulic System ................451
▫ Clutch Linkage .......................452
▫ Rear Axle And 4X4 Front Driving Axle Fluid
Level ..............................452
▫ Transfer Case ........................453
▫ Manual Transmission ..................453
▫ Automatic Transmission ................454
▫ Front Wheel Bearings ..................457
▫ Selection Of Lubricating Grease ...........457
▫ Noise Control System Required Maintenance &
Warranty For 3500 2-Wheel Drive And 4-Wheel
Drive Models Over 10,000 Lbs. (4 535 Kg) Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating. ..................458
424 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling
R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluorocar-
bon (HFC) that is endorsed by the Environmental Pro-
tection Agency and is an ozone-saving product. How-
ever, the manufacturer recommends that air conditioning
service be performed by dealers or other service facilities
using recovery and recycling equipment.
NOTE: Use only manufacturer approved A/C System
Sealers, Stop Leak Products, Seal Conditioners, Compres-
sor Oil, or Refrigerants.
Power Steering — Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined
service interval is not required. The fluid should only be
checked if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are
apparent, and/or the system is not functioning as antici-
pated. Coordinate inspection efforts through a certified
DaimlerChrysler Dealership. 
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and
with the engine off to prevent injury from moving
parts and to insure accurate fluid level reading. Do
not overfill. Use only manufacturers recommended
power steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all
surfaces. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts
for correct fluid type.
Front Suspension Ball Joints
4 x 2 Models
The ball joints and seals should be inspected whenever
the vehicle is serviced for other reasons.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 441
7

Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.
Automatic Transmission Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Transfer Case Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
NVG 246 Automatic Transfer Case Only Mopar PN 05179014AA, NVG 246 Automatic Transmission Fluid or
equivalent.
Manaul Transmission Fluid (G238) Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Manual Transmission Fluid (G-56) Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Clutch Linkage Multipurpose Grease, NLGI Grade 2 E.P. or equivalent.
1500 Model Front Axle (4X4) GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (MS-9763) or equivalent.
1500 Model Rear Axle Mopar Synthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-140 (MS-8985). Limited-Slip
Rear Axles on 1500 Models Require the addition of 118 ml (4 oz.) Mo-
par  limited slip additive or equivalent.
2500/3500 Model Front and Rear Axle Synthetic, GL-5 SAE, 75W-90 or equivalent. Limited-Slip 10.5/11.5 inch Rear Axles DO NOT REQUIRE a limited slip additive.
Brake Master Cylinder Mopar DOT 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 Mopar ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
486 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Belts, Drive............................ 435
Belts, Seat ............................ 31,68
Body Mechanism Lubrication ............... 443
B-Pillar Location ........................ 339
Brake Fluid ............................ 486
Brake System ........................ 330,450
Anti-Lock (ABS) ....................... 331
Disc Brakes .......................... 450
Hoses .............................. 451
Master Cylinder ....................... 450
Parking ............................. 328
Warning Light ........................ 224
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle ....... 106
Bulb Replacement ....................... 470
Bulbs, Light ............................ 470
Cab Top Clearance Lights .................. 477
Calibration, Compass ..................... 180
Camper ............................... 209 Capacities, Fluid
........................ 483
Caps, Filler Oil (Engine) .......................... 434
Power Steering ........................ 441
Car Washes ............................ 462
Carbon Monoxide Warning ...........108,211,360
Cargo Light ............................ 165
Cassette Tape and Player Maintenance ......... 272
Catalytic Converter .................... 365,437
CD (Compact Disc) Player ............228,236,250
Cellular Phone .......................... 121
Center High Mounted Stop Light ............ 476
Center Lap Belts ....................... 40,77
Center Seat Storage Compartment .........199,200
Certification Label ....................... 367
Chart, Tire Sizing ........................ 336
Check Engine Light
(Malfunction Indicator Light) ............... 223
Child Restraint ...................... 56,93,94
INDEX 519
10

Oil Selection....................... 433,483
Oil Synthetic ......................... 434
Temperature Gauge ..................... 221
Equipment Identification Plate .............. 395
Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze ................. 448
Event Data Recorder .................... 54,91
Exhaust Gas Caution .............108,211,360,445
Exhaust System ...................... 108,445
Exterior Lighting ........................ 164
Filters Air Cleaner ........................ 436,459
Engine Fuel .......................... 436
Engine Oil ........................ 435,485
Engine Oil Disposal .................... 435
Flashers Turn Signal .......................... 166
Flat Tire Stowage ..................... 404,415 Flexible Fuel Vehicles
Cruising Range ........................ 365
Engine Oil ........................... 364
Fuel Requirements ..................... 363
Maintenance .......................... 365
Replacement Parts ..................... 365
Starting ............................. 364
Flooded Engine Starting ................... 297
Fluid, Brake ........................... 486
Fluid Capacities ......................... 483
Fluid Level Checks Automatic Transmission ................. 454
Power Steering ........................ 441
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts .......... 485
Fog Lights ....................... 165,225,482
Fold Flat Load Floor ..................... 204
Four Wheel Drive ....................... 308
Four-Way Hazard Flasher .................. 398
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle ................... 419
522 INDEX