2020 Ram 1500 cooling

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 507
Engine Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every
12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where
applicable). If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty
in appearance, the system should be drained, flushed and
refilled with fresh coolant. Check the front of the A/C
condenser (if equipped) or radiator for any accumulation of
bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently spraying water
from a garden hose vertically down the face of the A/C
condenser (if equipped) or the back of the radiator core.
Check the engine cooling system hoses for brittle rubber,
cracking, tears, cuts and tightness of the connection at the
coolant recovery bottle and radiator. Inspect the entire
system for leaks.
DO NOT REMOVE THE COOLANT PRESSURE CAP
WHEN THE COOLING SYSTEM IS HOT. Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE:
Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant properly.
Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to severe
internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to be added
to the system please contact an authorized dealer.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or contains visible
sediment, have an authorized dealer clean and flush with
OAT coolant (antifreeze) (conforming to MS.90032).
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Selection Of Coolant
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica
-
tions” for further information.
NOTE:
• Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than specified Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant (anti -
freeze), may result in engine damage and may decrease
corrosion protection. Organic Additive Technology (OAT)
engine coolant is different and should not be mixed with
Hybrid Organic Additive Technology (HOAT) engine
coolant (antifreeze) or any “globally compatible” coolant
• When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon
-
nect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition to the OFF
mode. The fan is temperature controlled and can start at
any time the ignition is in the ON mode.
WARNING! (Continued)
7
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 507

508 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(antifreeze). If a non-OAT engine coolant (antifreeze) is
introduced into the cooling system in an emergency, the
cooling system will need to be drained, flushed, and
refilled with fresh OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032),
by an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
• Do not use water alone or alcohol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) products. Do not use additional rust inhibitors
or antirust products, as they may not be compatible with
the radiator engine coolant and may plug the radiator.
• This vehicle has not been designed for use with propylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze). Use of propylene
glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) is not recom -
mended.
• Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant prop -
erly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to
severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to
be added to the system please contact an authorized
dealer.
Adding Coolant
Your vehicle has been built with an improved engine coolant
(OAT coolant conforming to MS.90032) that allows extended
maintenance intervals. This engine coolant (antifreeze) can
be used up to 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) before
replacement. To prevent reducing this extended mainte -nance period, it is important that you use the same engine
coolant (OAT coolant conforming to MS.90032) throughout
the life of your vehicle.
Please review these recommendations for using Organic
Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant (antifreeze) that
meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032.
When adding engine coolant (antifreeze):

• We recommend using Mopar® Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/
150,000 Mile (240,000 km) Formula OAT (Organic Additive
Technology) that meets the requirements of FCA Material
Standard MS.90032.

• Mix a minimum solution of 50% OAT engine coolant that meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard
MS.90032 and distilled water. Use higher concentrations
(not to exceed 70%) if temperatures below −34°F (−37°C)
are anticipated. Please contact an authorized dealer for
assistance.
• Use only high purity water such as distilled or deionized water when mixing the water/engine coolant (antifreeze)
solution. The use of lower quality water will reduce the
amount of corrosion protection in the engine cooling
system.
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 508

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 509
NOTE:
• It is the owner's responsibility to maintain the proper levelof protection against freezing according to the tempera -
tures occurring in the area where the vehicle is operated.
• Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant prop -
erly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to
severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to
be added to the system, please contact a local authorized
dealer.
• Mixing engine coolant (antifreeze) types is not recom -
mended and can result in cooling system damage. If
HOAT and OAT coolant are mixed in an emergency, have
a authorized dealer drain, flush, and refill with OAT
coolant (conforming to MS.90032) as soon as possible.
Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of engine
coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that engine coolant (anti -
freeze) will return to the radiator from the coolant expansion
bottle/recovery tank if so equipped.
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any accu-
mulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces. Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is a regu-
lated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your
local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your
community. To prevent ingestion by animals or children, do
not store ethylene glycol-based coolant in open containers or
allow it to remain in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a
child or pet, seek emergency assistance immediately. Clean
up any ground spills immediately.WARNING!
• Do not open hot engine cooling system. Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when the engine is over -
heated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to cool an over -
heated engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in the
cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury, do not
remove the pressure cap while the system is hot or
under pressure.
• Do not use a pressure cap other than the one specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine damage may
result.
7
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 509

512 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions arerequired, the cooling system should be pressure tested for
leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032)
and distilled water for proper corrosion protection of your
engine which contains aluminum components.
• Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter oper -
ation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the
correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsat -
isfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance, poor
gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically. Refer
to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper
maintenance intervals. Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under the hood service or immediately if
the brake system warning lamp indicates system failure.
If necessary, add fluid to bring level within the designated
marks on the side of the reservoir of the brake master
cylinder. Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area
before removing cap.
With disc brakes the fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in fluid
level may be caused by a leak and a system check should be
conducted.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica
-
tions” for further information.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly
a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding on
the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake
damage. You would not have your full braking capacity
in an emergency.
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 512

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 553
FLUID CAPACITIES
USMetric
Fuel (Approximate)
1500 Regular Cab Shortbed/Crew Quad Cab Models 23 Gallons87 Liters
1500 Regular Cab Shortbed/Crew Quad Cab Models 26 Gallons98 Liters
1500 Regular Cab Longbed/Crew Quad Cab Models (Optional) 33 Gallons121 Liters
Engine Oil With Filter
3.6L Engine (We recommend you use SAE 0W-20, API Certified) 5 Quarts4.7 Liters
5.7L Engines (We recommend you use SAE 5W-20, API Certified) 7 Quarts6.6 Liters
Cooling System
3.6L Engine (We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/
150,000 Mile Formula that meets the requirements of FCA Material
Standard MS.90032.) 13.7 Quarts
13 Liters
3.6L Motor Generator Unit (We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/
Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula that meets the requirements of
FCA Material Standard MS.90032.) 1.8 Quarts
1.7 Liters
5.7L Engine – 1500 Models (We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/
Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula that meets the requirements of
FCA Material Standard MS.90032.) 18.3 Quarts
17.3 Liters
8
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 553

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 555
(Continued)
CAUTION!
• Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than speci -
fied Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine
coolant (antifreeze), may result in engine damage and
may decrease corrosion protection. Organic Additive
Technology (OAT) engine coolant is different and
should not be mixed with Hybrid Organic Additive
Technology (HOAT) engine coolant (antifreeze) or any
“globally compatible” coolant (antifreeze). If a
non-OAT engine coolant (antifreeze) is introduced into
the cooling system in an emergency, the cooling system
will need to be drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh
OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032), by an autho -
rized dealer as soon as possible.
• Do not use water alone or alcohol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) products. Do not use additional rust inhib -
itors or antirust products, as they may not be compat -
ible with the radiator engine coolant and may plug the
radiator.
• This vehicle has not been designed for use with propylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze).
Use of propylene glycol-based engine coolant (anti -
freeze) is not recommended. CAUTION!
(Continued)
8
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 555

659
Cargo Light ................................................................................ 72
Cellular Phone ......................................................................... 626
Center High Mounted Stop Light......................................... 443
Center Seat Storage Compartment ....................................... 118
Chart, Tire Sizing .................................................................... 517
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light) ........... 196
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety ........................................ 285
Checks, Safety .......................................................................... 285
Child Restraint ........................................................................ 265
Child Restraints Booster Seats ........................................................................ 269
Child Seat Installation ................................................ 278, 280
How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt ......................... 276Infant And Child Restraints .............................................. 266Locating The LATCH Anchorages ................................... 274
Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children ..................... 270Older Children And Child Restraints .............................. 268
Seating Positions ................................................................. 270
Clean Air Gasoline .................................................................. 549
Cleaning Wheels................................................................................... 535
Climate Control ......................................................................... 78 Automatic ............................................................................... 82
Manual .................................................................................... 78
Cold Weather Operation........................................................ 296
Compact Spare Tire ................................................................ 533 Contract, Service......................................................................654
Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) ..................................509
Cooling System ........................................................................506
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze) .............................................508
Coolant Level ...............................................................507, 510Cooling Capacity .................................................................553
Disposal Of Used Coolant..................................................509Drain, Flush, And Refill .....................................................507
Inspection ............................................................................. 510
Points To Remember ........................................................... 511Pressure Cap ........................................................................509Radiator Cap ........................................................................509Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze) .....................507, 553, 554
Corrosion Protection ...............................................................539
Cruise Control (Speed Control) ............................................340
Cruise Light .....................................................................193, 194
Cupholders...............................................................................126
Customer Assistance ..............................................................652
Cybersecurity ...........................................................................558 D
Daytime Running Lights ..........................................................67
Dealer Service ..........................................................................492
Defroster, Rear Window ..........................................................78
Defroster, Windshield ......................................................78, 287
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers ....................................................76
Diagnostic System, Onboard .................................................195
11
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 659

669
Inflation Pressure ................................................................ 526
Life Of Tires ......................................................................... 529
Load Capacity .............................................................. 521, 522
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ....................... 185, 227
Quality Grading .................................................................. 538
Radial .................................................................................... 527Replacement......................................................................... 530
Rotation ................................................................................ 537
Safety............................................................................. 516, 525
Sizes....................................................................................... 517Snow Tires ............................................................................ 532
Spare Tires ............................................................ 532, 533, 534
Spinning................................................................................ 528
Trailer Towing ..................................................................... 415
Tread Wear Indicators ........................................................ 529
Wheel Nut Torque .............................................................. 546
To Open Hood ......................................................................... 105
Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight ............................................ 413
Tonneau Cover ................................................................ 150, 540
Tonneau Cover Cleaning ....................................................... 540
Towing.............................................................................. 407, 478 Disabled Vehicle.................................................................. 478
Guide..................................................................................... 413
Recreational.......................................................................... 422
Weight................................................................................... 413
Towing Behind A Motorhome .............................................. 422 Traction .....................................................................................427
Traction Control ......................................................................210
Traction Control Switch .........................................................210
Trailer Sway Control (TSC) ................................................... 210
Trailer Towing .........................................................................407 Cooling System Tips ........................................................... 421Hitches ..................................................................................411
Minimum Requirements ....................................................413
Mirrors ....................................................................................64
Tips ........................................................................................420Trailer And Tongue Weight...............................................413
Wiring ...................................................................................419
Trailer Towing Guide .............................................................413
Trailer Weight ..........................................................................413
Transfer Case ...........................................................................515 Electronically Shifted ..................................................311, 314
Fluid ...................................................................................... 556
Transmission ............................................................................304 Automatic .....................................................................304, 513
Fluid ...................................................................................... 556
Maintenance .........................................................................513
Shifting ..................................................................................302
Transporting Pets .................................................................... 285
Tread Wear Indicators ............................................................ 529
Turn Signals ....................................................... 71, 193, 438, 441
11
2020_DT_1500_OM_US.book Page 669