2020 Ram 3500 fluids and lubricants

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE423
Fluid Level Check — Six-Speed
Transmission
It is best to check the fluid level when the
transmission is at normal operating
temperature (158-176°F / 70-80°C). This
normally occurs after at least 15 miles (25 km)
of driving. At normal operating temperature the
fluid cannot be held comfortably between the
fingertips. You can read the transmission sump
temperature in the instrument cluster screen
refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting
To Know Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.
Use the following procedure to check the
transmission fluid level properly:

1. Monitor the transmission temperature using the instrument cluster display, and
operate the vehicle as required to reach
the normal operating temperature. If the transmission is not functioning properly, or
the vehicle cannot be driven, see the NOTE
and CAUTION below about checking the
fluid level at colder temperatures.

2. Park the vehicle on level ground.
3. Run the engine at normal idle speed for at least 60 seconds, and leave the engine
running for the rest of this procedure.
4. Fully apply the parking brake, and press the brake pedal.
5. Place the gear selector momentarily into each gear position (allowing time for the
transmission to fully engage in each
position), ending with the transmission in
PARK.
6. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it until seated.
7. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on both sides. The fluid level
reading is only valid if there is a solid
coating of oil on both sides of the dipstick.
Note that the holes in the dipstick will be full
of fluid if the actual level is at or above the
hole. The fluid level should be between the
“HOT” (upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operating temperature. If
the fluid level is low, add fluid through the
dipstick tube to bring it to the proper level.
Do not overfill.
Use ONLY the specified fluid
refer to "Fluids And Lubricants" in
“Technical Specifications” for fluid specifi -
cations. After adding any quantity of oil
through the dipstick tube, wait a minimum
of two minutes for the oil to fully drain into
the transmission before rechecking the
fluid level.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two “COLD” (lower)
holes on the dipstick with the fluid at 60-70°F /
16-21°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An
authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
7

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 423

424SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
8. Reinsert the dipstick. Check for leaks.
Release the parking brake.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two COLD (lower) holes
on the dipstick with the fluid at 68-86°F /
20-30°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed
Transmission
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not
required. However, change the fluid and filter if
the fluid becomes contaminated (with water,
etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for
any reason.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Six Speed
Transmission
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filters if the
fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.),
or if the transmission is disassembled for any
reason.
REAR AXLE AND 4X4 FRONT DRIVING
A
XLE FLUID LEVEL
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. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information. This
inspection should be made with the vehicle in a
level position.
For all 2500/3500 Model axles, the fluid level
should be 1/4 in ± 1/4 in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm)
below the fill hole on the 9.25 in front, 11.5 in
rear axle, and 12.0 in rear axle.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information.
NOTE:
The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differ -
ential 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.
Limited-Slip Differentials DO REQUIRE limited
slip oil additive (friction modifiers).
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 424

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE425
NOTE:
Slight noise and mild shuddering may be
evident while turning a vehicle with limited slip
differential on concrete or dry pavement. These
conditions should be considered normal opera -
tion of the limited slip differential.
TRANSFER CASE
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer's recommended
fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in
“Technical Specifications” for further
information.
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.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section
for the proper maintenance intervals.
NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM REQUIRED
M
AINTENANCE & WARRANTY
All vehicles built over 10,000 lbs. (4,535 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and manufactured
for sale and use in the United States are
required to comply with the Federal
Government's Exterior Noise Regulations.
These vehicles can be identified by the Noise
Emission Control Label located in the operator's
compartment.
Required Maintenance For Noise Control
Systems

The following maintenance services must be
performed every six months or 7,500 miles
(12,000 km) whichever comes first, to ensure
proper operation of the noise control systems.
In addition, inspection and service should be
performed anytime a malfunction is observed
or suspected. Proper maintenance of the
entire vehicle will help the effectiveness of the
noise control systems.

Exhaust System
Inspect the entire exhaust system for leaks and
damaged parts. Devices such as hangers,
clamps, and U-bolts should be tight and in good
condition. Damaged components, burned or
blown out mufflers, burned or rusted out
exhaust pipes should be replaced according to
the procedures and specifications outlined in
the appropriate service manual.
7

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 425

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS461
FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS — GAS ENGINE
ENGINE
Component Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Engine Coolant We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000
Mile (240,000 km) Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology).
Engine Oil – 6.4L For best performance and maximum protection under all types of
operating conditions, the manufacturer only recommends full synthetic
engine oils that meet the American Petroleum Institute (API) categories of
SN. The manufacturer recommends the use of Pennzoil Ultra 0W-40 or
equivalent Mopar engine oil meeting the requirements of FCA Material
Standard MS-12633 for use in all operating temperatures.
Engine Oil Filter We recommend you use Mopar brand Engine Oil Filters.
Spark Plugs We recommend you use Mopar Spark Plugs.
Fuel Selection – 6.4L Engines 89 Octane Recommended - 87 Octane Acceptable (R+M)/2, 0-15%
Ethanol (Do not use E-85).
8

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 461

464TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS — DIESEL ENGINE
ENGINE
Component Fluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Engine CoolantWe recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile (240,000 km) Formula OAT (Organic
Additive Technology).
Engine Oil In ambient temperatures above 0°F (-18°C), we recommend you use 10W-30 engine oil such as Mopar, Shell Rotella
and Shell Rimula that meets FCA Material Standard MS-10902 and the API CK-4 engine oil category is required.
Products meeting Cummins CES 20081 may also be used. The identification of these engine oils is typically located on
the back of the oil container.
In ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C), we recommend you use 5W-40
synthetic engine oil such as Mopar, Shell
Rotella and Shell Rimula that meets FCA Material Standard MS-10902 and the API CK-4 engine oil category is
required.
Engine Oil Filter We recommend you use Mopar Engine Oil Filters.
Fuel Filters We recommend you use Mopar Fuel Filter. Must meet 3 micron rating (engine mounted filter). Must meet 5 micron
rating (chassis mounted filter).
Using a fuel filter that does not meet the manufacturers filtration and water separating
requirements can severely impact fuel system life and reliability.
Crankcase Ventilation Filter We recommend you use Mopar CCV Filter.

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 464

550CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
WARRANTY INFORMATION
See the Warranty Information for the terms and
provisions of FCA US LLC warranties applicable
to this vehicle and market.
MOPAR PARTS
Mopar fluids, lubricants, parts, and accessories
are available from an authorized dealer. They
are recommended for your vehicle in order to
help keep the vehicle operating at its best.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND
W
ASHINGTON, D.C.
If you believe that your vehicle has a
defect that could cause a crash or cause
injury or death, you should immediately
inform the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) in
addition to notifying FCA US LLC.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it
may open an investigation, and if it finds
that a safety defect exists in a group of
vehicles, it may order a recall and
remedy campaign. However, NHTSA
cannot become involved in individual
problems between you, an authorized
dealer or FCA US LLC. To contact NHTSA, you may call the
Vehicle Safety Hotline toll free at
1-888-327-4236 (TTY:
1-800-424-9153); or go to
http://
www.safercar.gov
; or write to:
Administrator, NHTSA, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue, SE., West Building, Washington,
D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other
information about motor vehicle safety
from
http://www.safercar.gov.
IN CANADA
If you believe that your vehicle has a
safety defect, you should contact the
Customer Service Department
immediately. Canadian customers who
wish to report a safety defect to the
Canadian government should contact
Transport Canada, Motor Vehicle Defect
Investigations and Recalls at
1-800-333-0510 or go to
wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/PCDB-BDPP.
WARNING!
Engine exhaust (internal combustion engines
only), some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain, or emit,
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids
contained in vehicles and certain products of
component wear contain, or emit, chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 550

554 Diesel Fuel System, Re-Priming
..................... 412Differential, Limited Slip................................ 270Disabled Vehicle Towing................................ 381Disposal Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)....................... 420Do Not Disturb............................................... 545Door Ajar........................................................ 133Door Ajar Light............................................... 133Door LocksAutomatic.................................................... 30Doors............................................................... 26Draining Fuel/Water Separator Filter............ 409Driver’s Seat Back Tilt..................................... 33DrivingOff-Pavement............................................ 261Off-Road.................................................... 261Through Flowing, Rising, Or Shallow Standing Water..................................... 343Dual Rear Wheels................................ 445, 452
E
Electric Brake Control System....................... 145Anti-Lock Brake System............................. 144Electronic Roll Mitigation................. 149, 153Electrical Power Outlets................................... 86Electronic Range Select (ERS)............. 238, 243Electronic Stability Control (ESC)...................146Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light...... 132Electronically Shifted Transfer Case.... 246, 250Emergency Braking........................................ 231
Emergency, In Case OfFreeing Vehicle When Stuck..................... 380Hazard Warning Flasher........................... 346Jump Starting........................................... 375Emission Control System Maintenance........ 143Engine......................................... 396, 397, 398Air Cleaner................................................ 403Block Heater.................................... 220, 229Break-In Recommendations..................... 230Compartment.................................. 397, 398Compartment Identification...................... 396Coolant (Antifreeze)......................... 461, 464Exhaust Gas Caution....................... 209, 456Fails To Start............................................ 216Flooded, Starting...................................... 216Fuel Requirements.......................... 454, 459Identifcation.................................... 397, 398Idling........................................................ 226Jump Starting........................................... 375Oil..................................401, 459, 461, 464Oil Filler Cap.................................... 396, 402Oil Filter.................................................... 403Oil Reset................................................... 115Oil Selection.................................... 401, 459Oil Synthetic............................................. 403Overheating.............................................. 379Runaway................................................... 319Starting..................................................... 214Engine Oil Viscosity....................................... 402
Enhanced Accident Response Feature...189, 384

Entry System, Illuminated................................54Ethanol.......................................................... 454Exhaust Brake............................................... 232Exhaust Gas Cautions.......................... 209, 456Exhaust System..........................209, 416, 425Exterior Lighting...............................................48Exterior Lights........................................ 48, 212
F
FiltersAir Cleaner
................................................ 403Air Conditioning................................. 69, 406Engine Fuel............................................... 409Engine Oil............................... 403, 461, 464Engine Oil Disposal................................... 403FlashersTurn Signals.............................. 51, 141, 212Flash-To-Pass...................................................50Flat Tire Stowage.......................................... 372Fluid Capacities................................... 459, 460Fluid Leaks.................................................... 212Fluid Level ChecksBrake........................................................ 421Fluid, Brake................................................... 463Fluids And Lubricants........................... 461, 464Fog Lights.............................................. 51, 355Fold Flat Load Floor.........................................84Fold-Flat Seats.................................................33Forward Collision Warning............................ 160Four Wheel Drive........................................... 246

20_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 554