2008 DODGE RAM 3500 GAS automatic transmission

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (OBD II)
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated onboard
diagnostic system called OBDII. 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 (MIL). It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist your service technician in making repairs. Al-
though your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see your authorized dealer for service as
soon as possible.CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause further damage to the
emission control system. It could also affect fuel
economy and drivability. The vehicle must be ser-
viced before any emissions tests can be performed.
If the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is flashing,
severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message
If the vehicle's diagnostic system determines that the fuel
filler cap in loose, improperly installed, or damaged, a
GASCAP message will be displayed in the instrument
cluster. Tighten the gas cap until a ªclickingº sound is
heard. This is an indication that the gas cap is properly
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Manual Transmission
Lubricant Selection G238 (6-Speed Manual
Transmission Ð 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.
Lubricant Selection G56 (6-Speed Manual
Transmission Ð If Equipped)
Follow the Maintenance Schedule for recommended
transmission fluid change intervals. If it is necessary to
add or change fluid in this transmission refer to ªFluids,
Lubricants and Genuine Partsº for correct fluid type. This
is the only lubricant recommended for use in the G56
transmission.
Fluid Level Check ± All Manual Transmissions
This fluid level can be checked by removing the fill plug.
If the level of the lubricant is more than 1/4 in(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.
Automatic Transmission
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the
transmission to assure optimum transmission perfor-
mance. Use only manufacturer 's recommended transmis-
sion fluid; refer to ªFluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Partsº in this section for correct fluid type. It is important
that the transmission fluid be maintained at the pre-
scribed level using the recommended fluid.
476 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turer's recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer's recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
ªFluids, Lubricants and Genuine Partsº in this sec-
tion for correct fluid type.
Fluid Level Check
If equipped with a dipstick, use the following procedure.
If your vehicle has a capped dipstick tube, it is sealed and
should not be tampered with. Your authorized dealer has
the proper tools to ensure that the fluid level is set
properly. The fluid level should be checked when theengine is fully warmed up and the fluid in the transmis-
sion is at normal operating temperature. Operation of the
transmission 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 ± 545RFE/42RLE
Check the fluid level while the transmission is at normal
operating temperature 82ÉC (180ÉF). This occurs after at
least 15 mi (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.
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7. Check for leaks. Release parking brake.
To prevent dirt and water from entering the transmission
after checking or replenishing fluid, make certain that the
dipstick cap is properly reseated. It is normal for the
dipstick cap to spring back slightly from its fully seated
position, as long as its seal remains engaged in the
dipstick tube.
Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Change
Follow the Maintenance Schedule for recommended
transmission fluid and filter change intervals.
NOTE:If the transmission is disassembled for any
reason, the fluid and filter(s) should be changed.
It is important that proper lubricant is used in the
transmission. For the correct Fluid type, refer to ªFluids,
Lubricants and Genuine Partsº in this Section.
Special Additives
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid addi-
tives to the transmission. The only exception to this
policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid
leaks. In addition, avoid using transmission sealers as
they may adversely affect seals.
Front and Rear Wheel Bearings
Front Wheel Bearings
Front wheel bearings for all vehicles are sealed-for-life.
They do not require greasing or seal replacement. In
some instances, these bearings will ªpurgeº excess grease
and the bearing will look slightly wet. This is normal.
Periodic inspection for excess play is recommended.
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Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts
Engine Oil Filter (4.7L & 5.7L En-
gine)MopartEngine Oil Filter, P/N 4884899AB or equivalent.
Spark Plugs (5.7L Engine) REC14MCC4 (Gap 0.043 in [1.09 mm])
Spark Plugs (4.7L Engine) Upper Bank Ð FR8TE2 (Gap 0.039 in [.99 mm]) Lower Bank Ð FR8T1332
(Gap 0.051 in [1.30 mm])
Spark Plugs (3.7L Engine) ZFR6F-11G (Gap 0.043 in [1.09 mm])
Fuel Selection (3.7L/4.7L Engine) 87 Octane
Fuel Selection (5.7L Engine) 87 Octane Acceptable - 89 Octane Recommended
Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.
Automatic Transmission MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Transfer Case MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
NVG 246 Automatic Transfer Case
OnlyMopartPN 05179014AA, NVG 246 Automatic Transmission Fluid or
equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid (G238) MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Manual Transmission Fluid (G-56) MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
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Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.
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 MopartSynthetic Gear Lubricant SAE 75W-140 (MS-8985). Limited-Slip
Rear Axles on 1500 Models Require the addition of 118 ml (4 oz.) Mopart
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 AxlesLimited slip additive is not required.
Brake Master Cylinder MopartDOT 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 MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
512 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Perform Maintenance Every(Where time and mileage
are listed, follow the interval that occurs first.)
Maintenance Items Miles Kilometers or Months
Inspect Exhaust System. Perform the first inspection at
12,000 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months.24,000 40 000 24
Inspect the front suspension, tie rod ends and boot
seals, replace if necessary.24,000 40 000 24
Replace the engine air cleaner filter. 30,000 50 000 30
Inspect the transfer case fluid. 30,000 50 000 30
Replace the top row of spark plugs on 4.7L engines. **30,000 50 000 30
Replace the spark plugs on 3.7L and 5.7L engines.30,000 50 000 30
Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter if
using your vehicle for any of the following: police,
taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing.60,000 100 000 60
Change the transfer case fluid if using your vehicle for
any of the following: police, taxi, fleet, off-road or fre-
quent trailer towing.60,000 100 000 60
518 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Perform Maintenance Every(Where time and mileage
are listed, follow the interval that occurs first.)
Maintenance Items Miles Kilometers or Months
Change the manual transmission fluid if using your
vehicle for any of the following: trailer towing, snow
plowing, heavy loading, taxi, police, delivery service
(commercial service), off-road, desert operation or
more then 50% of your driving is at sustained high
speeds during hot weather, above 90FÉ (32CÉ).60,000 100 000 60
Inspect and replace PCV valve if necessary. ²90,000 150 000 90
Flush and replace the engine coolant. 102,000 170 000 60
Replace the ignition cables on 4.7L engines.102,000 170 000 102
Replace the side row of spark plugs on 4.7L engines. **102,000 170 000 102
Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter. 120,000 200 000 120
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s). 120,000 200 000 120
² This maintenance is recommended by the manufacturer
to the owner, but is not required to maintain emissions
warranty.
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