2006 DODGE RAM SRT-10 overheating

FLUID AND FILTER
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating which has two primary causes.
1. A result of restricted fluid flow through the main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usually the result of a
faulty or improperly installed drainback valve, a damaged oil cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines
caused by debris or kinked lines.
2. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing or similar high
load operation will overheat the transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly equipped. Such vehicles should
have an auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling system,and the engine/axle ratio combination
needed to handle heavy loads.
EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
Alowfluidlevelallowsthepumptotakeinairalongwiththefluid.Airinthe fluid will cause fluid pressures to be
low and develop slower than normal. If the transmission is overfilled, thegears churn the fluid into foam. This aer-
ates the fluid and causing the same conditions occurring with a low level. In either case, air bubbles cause fluid
overheating, oxidation, and varnish buildup which interferes with valveand clutch operation. Foaming also causes
fluid expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can easily be
mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.
FLUID CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a result of:
adding incorrect fluid
failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when checking level
engine coolant entering the fluid
internal failure that generates debris
overheat that generates sludge (fluid breakdown)
failure to replace contaminated converter after repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in transmission failure. Theusual results are erratic shifts, slippage,
abnormal wear and eventual failure due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid this condition by using rec-
ommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and other foreign mate-
rial on the cap and tube could fall into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the time to wipe the cap and tube
clean before withdrawing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is generally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy is to replace
the radiator as the cooler in the radiator is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated through the transmission,
an overhaul is necessary.
The torque converter should also be replaced whenever a failure generatessludge and debris. This is necessary
because normal converter flushing procedures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
The transmission sump has a dipstick to check oil similar to most automatictransmissions. It is located on the left
side of the engine. Be sure to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
The torque converter fills in both the PARK and NEUTRAL positions. Place the selector lever in PARK to be sure
that the fluid level check is accurate.The engine should be running at idle speed for at least one minute, with
the vehicle on level ground.At normal operating temperature (approximately 82° C or 180° F), the fluidlevel is
correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on the oil level indicator. The fluid level should be in COLD
region at 21° C (70° F) fluid temperature. Adjust fluid level as necessary.Use only Mopar
ATF+4, Automatic Trans-
mission Fluid.

P0218-HIGH TEMPERATURE OPERATION ACTIVATED
For a complete wiring diagramRefer to Section 8W.
Theory of Operation
The DTC is intended as an informational DTC to aid the technician in determining the root cause of a customer
dirveability issue. The DTC is also intended to alert the technician to determine if a cooling system malfunction has
occurred or if an additional transmission air to oil cooler is needed to support the customers driving behavior.
When Monitored:
Whenever the engine is running.
Set Condition:
Immediately after a Overheat shift schedule is activated when the Transmission temperature exceeds 127° C
or 260° F.
Possible Causes
H I G H T E M P E R AT U R E O P E R AT I O N A C T I VAT E D
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH SLIPPING / NOT ACTIVATING
EXCESSIVE TIME IDLING IN GEAR
Always perform the Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting procedure before proceeding. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 45RFE/545RFE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
Diagnostic Test
1.HIGH TEMPERATURE OPERATION
This DTC is an informational DTC designed to aid the Technician in diagnosing shift quality complaints.
This DTC indicates that the transmission has been operating in the
Overheatshift schedule which may generate
a customer complaint.
The customer driving patterns may indicate the need for an additional transmission oil cooler.
Verify proper Engine cooling system operation which would affect proper transmission operation.
Verify proper torque converter clutch operation.
With the scan tool, check the DTC EVENT DATA to help identify the conditionsin which the DTC was set.
If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.
Repair
Repair the cause of transmission overheating. Refer to the Service Information for the proper repair
procedure. Make sure to check for any Service Bulletins pertaining to thisproblem.
Perform 45RFE/545RFE TRANSMISSION VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1. (Refer to 21- TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 45RFE/545RFE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)

FLUID AND FILTER
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
Alowfluidlevelallowsthepumptotakeinairalongwiththefluid.Airinthe fluid will cause fluid pressures to be
low and develop slower than normal. If the transmission is overfilled, thegears churn the fluid into foam. This aer-
ates the fluid and causing the same conditions occurring with a low level. In either case, air bubbles cause fluid
overheating, oxidation, and varnish buildup which interferes with valveand clutch operation. Foaming also causes
fluid expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can easily be
mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.
CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating which has three primarycauses.
1. Internal clutch slippage, usually caused by low line pressure, inadequate clutch apply pressure, or clutch seal
failure.
2. A result of restricted fluid flow through the main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usually the result of a
faulty or improperly installed drainback valve, a damaged oil cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines
caused by debris or kinked lines.
3. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing or similar high
load operation will overheat the transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly equipped. Such vehicles should
have an auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling system,and the engine/axle ratio combination
needed to handle heavy loads.
FLUID CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a result of:
adding incorrect fluid
failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when checking level
engine coolant entering the fluid
internal failure that generates debris
overheat that generates sludge (fluid breakdown)
failure to replace contaminated converter after repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in transmission failure. Theusual results are erratic shifts, slippage,
abnormal wear and eventual failure due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid this condition by using rec-
ommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and other foreign mate-
rial on the cap and tube could fall into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the time to wipe the cap and tube
clean before withdrawing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is generally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy is to replace
the radiator as the cooler in the radiator is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated through the transmission,
an overhaul is necessary.
The torque converter should also be replaced whenever a failure generatessludge and debris. This is necessary
because normal converter flushing procedures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions because it allows the pumpto take in air along with the fluid. As
in any hydraulic system, air bubbles make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too high. When the transmssion has too much fluid, the geartrain
churns up foam and cause the same conditions which occur with a low fluid level.

In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating and/or fluid oxidation,and varnishing. This can interfere with nor-
mal valve, clutch, and accumulator operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from the transmission vent
where it may be mistaken for a leak.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick fully to seal out water and dirt.
The transmission has a dipstick to check oil level. It is located on the right side of the engine. Be sure to wipe all
dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
The torque converter fills in both the P(PARK) and N (NEUTRAL) positions. Place the selector lever in P (PARK)
to be sure that the fluid level check is accurate.The engine should be running at idle speed for at least one
minute, with the vehicle on level ground.At normal operating temperature (approximately 82° C. or 180° F), the
fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on theoil level indicator. The fluid level will be
approximately at the upper COLD hole of the dipstick at 21° C (70° F) fluid temperature.
NOTE: Engine and Transmission should be at normal operating temperature before performing this proce-
dure.
1. Start engine and apply parking brake.
2. Shift the transmission into DRIVE for approximately 2 seconds.
3. Shift the transmission into REVERSE for approximately 2 seconds.
4. Shift the transmission into PARK.
5. Hook up scan tool andselect transmission.
6. Select sensors.
7. Read the transmission temperature value.
8. Compare the fluid temperature value with the chart.
9. Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the dipstick according to the Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart.
NOTE: After adding any fluid to the transmission, wait a minimum of 2 minutes for the oil to fully drain from
the fill tube into the transmission before rechecking the fluid level.
10. Check transmission for leaks.

FLUID AND FILTER
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
Alowfluidlevelallowsthepumptotakeinairalongwiththefluid.Airinthe fluid will cause fluid pressures to be
low and develop slower than normal. If the transmission is overfilled, thegears churn the fluid into foam. This aer-
ates the fluid and causing the same conditions occurring with a low level. In either case, air bubbles cause fluid
overheating, oxidation, and varnish buildup which interferes with valveand clutch operation. Foaming also causes
fluid expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can easily be
mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.
CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating which has two primary causes.
1. A result of restricted fluid flow through the main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usually the result of a
faulty or improperly installed drainback valve, a damaged oil cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines
caused by debris or kinked lines.
2. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing or similar high
load operation will overheat the transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly equipped. Such vehicles should
have an auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling system,and the engine/axle ratio combination
needed to handle heavy loads.
FLUID CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a result of:
adding incorrect fluid
failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when checking level
engine coolant entering the fluid
internal failure that generates debris
overheat that generates sludge (fluid breakdown)
failure to replace contaminated converter after repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in transmission failure. Theusual results are erratic shifts, slippage,
abnormal wear and eventual failure due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid this condition by using rec-
ommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and other foreign mate-
rial on the cap and tube could fall into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the time to wipe the cap and tube
clean before withdrawing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is generally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy is to replace
the radiator as the cooler in the radiator is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated through the transmission,
an overhaul is necessary.
The torque converter should also be replaced whenever a failure generatessludge and debris. This is necessary
because normal converter flushing procedures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions because it allows the pumpto take in air along with the fluid. As
in any hydraulic system, air bubbles make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too high. When the transmssion has too much fluid, the geartrain
churns up foam and cause the same conditions which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating and/or fluid oxidation,and varnishing. This can interfere with nor-
mal valve, clutch, and accumulator operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from the transmission vent
where it may be mistaken for a leak.

VALVE-TORQUE CONVERTER DRAINBACK
DESCRIPTION
GAS ENGINES
The drainback valve is located in the transmission cooler outlet (pressure) line.
DIESEL ENGINE
The converter drainback check valve is located in the in the TOC pressure - supply line, between the engine
mounted TOC and the air to oil TOC.
OPERATION
GAS ENGINES
The valve prevents fluid from draining from the converter into the cooler and lines when the vehicle is shut down for
lengthy periods. Production valves have a hose nipple at one end, while theopposite end is threaded for a flare
fitting. All valves have an arrow (or similar mark) to indicate direction of flow through the valve.
DIESEL ENGINE
The valve prevents fluid from draining from the converter into the cooler and lines when the vehicle is shut down for
lengthy periods. Production valves have pipe thread on one end, while the opposite end is threaded for a flare
fitting, and are threaded into the oil cooler mounted on the side of the engine. All valves have an arrow (or similar
mark) to indicate direction of flow through the valve.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
GAS ENGINES
The converter drainback check valve is located in the cooler outlet (pressure) line near the radiator tank. The valve
prevents fluid drainback when the vehicle is parked for lengthy periods. The valve check ball is spring loaded and
has an opening pressure of approximately 2 psi.
The valve is serviced as an assembly; it is not repairable. Do not clean the valve if restricted, or contaminated by
sludge, or debris. If the valve fails, or if a transmission malfunction occurs that generates significant amounts of
sludge and/or clutch particles and metal shavings, the valve must be replaced.
If the valve is restricted, installed backwards, or in the wrong line, it will cause an transmission overheating condition
and possible transmission failure.
CAUTION: The drainback valve is a one-way flow device. It must be properly orientedintermsofflowdirec-
tion for the cooler to function properly. The valve must be installed in thepressure line. Otherwise flow will
be blocked and would cause an transmission overheating condition and eventual transmission failure.
DIESEL ENGINE
The converter drainback check valve is located in the in the TOC pressure - supply line, between the engine
mounted transmission oil cooler and the air to oil transmission oil cooler. The valve prevents fluid drainback when
the vehicle is parked for lengthy periods. The valve check ball is spring loaded and has an opening pressure of
approximately 2 psi.
The valve is serviced as an assembly; it is not repairable. Do not clean the valve if restricted, or contaminated by
sludge, or debris. If the valve fails, or if a transmission malfunction occurs that generates significant amounts of
sludge and/or clutch particles and metal shavings, the valve must be replaced.
If the valve is restricted, installed backwards, or in the wrong line, it will cause an transmission overheating condition
and possible transmission failure.

CAUTION: The drainback valve is a one-way flow device. It must be properly orientedintermsofflowdirec-
tion for the cooler to function properly. The valve must be installed in thepressure line. Otherwise flow will
be blocked and would cause an transmissionn overheating condition and eventual transmission failure.

Condition Possible Causes Correction
5. Engine overheating.5. Refer to Cooling for more information. Test the
cooling system and repair, if required.
The low side pressure is too
high, and the high side
pressure is too low.1. Accessory drive belt
slipping.1. Refer to Cooling for more information. Inspect
the accessory drive belt condition and tension.
Tighten or replace the accessory drive belt, if
required.
2. Fixed orifice tube not
installed.2. See A/C Orifice Tube in this group. Replace the
liquid line, if required.
3. Faulty A/C compressor.3. See A/C Compressor in this group. Replace the
compressor, if required.
The low side pressure is too
low, and the high side
pressure is too high.1. Restricted refrigerant flow
through the refrigerant lines.1. See Liquid, Suction, and Discharge Line in this
group. Inspect the refrigerant lines for kinks, tight
bends or improper routing. Correct the routing or
replace the refrigerant line, if required.
2. Restricted refrigerant flow
through the fixed orifice
tube.2. See A/C Orifice Tube in this group. Replace the
liquid line, if required.
3. Restricted refrigerant flow
through the condenser.3. See A/C Condenser in this group. Replace the
restricted condenser, if required.
HEATER PERFORMANCE
Before performing the following tests, refer to Group 7 - Cooling for the procedures to check the engine coolant
level and flow, engine coolant reserve/recovery system operation, accessory drive belt condition and tension, radi-
ator air flow and the fan drive operation. Perform the HVAC System Test (refer to 24 - HVAC Electrical Diagnostics).
If any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are found in the A/C-heater control, powertrain control module (PCM) or
engine control module (ECM) (depending on engine application), gateway module or totally integrated power module
(TIPM), repair as necessary.
MAXIMUM HEATER OUTPUT: TEST AND ACTION
Engine coolant is provided to the heater system through two heater hoses. With the engine idling at normal oper-
ating temperature, set the temperature control to maximum heat position,the mode control to the floor position, and
the blower motor control to the highest speed position. Using a test thermometer, check the temperature of the air
being discharged from the floor outlets. Compare the test thermometer reading to the Heater Temperature Refer-
ence chart.
HEATER TEMPERATURE REFERENCE
Ambient Air Temperature16° C
(60° F)21° C
(70° F)26° C
(80° F)32° C
(90° F)
Minimum Air Temperature at
Floor Outlet62° C
(144° F)64° C
(147° F)65° C
(150° F)67° C
(153° F)
If the heater outlet air temperature is below the minimum specification, refer to Group 7 - Cooling. Both of the heater
hoses should be hot to the touch. The coolant return heater hose should be slightly cooler than the coolant supply
heater hose. If the return hose is much cooler than the supply hose, locate and repair the engine coolant flow
obstruction in the cooling system. RefertoGroup7-Coolingformoreinformation.
OBSTRUCTED COOLANT FLOW
Possible locations or causes of obstructed coolant flow are as follows:
Faulty water pump.
Faulty thermostat.
Pinched or kinked heater hoses.