2021 RAM CHASSIS CAB ESP

STARTING AND OPERATING149
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has
come to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing
for prolonged periods with the engine running.
The engine may be started in this range. Apply
the parking brake and shift the transmission
into PARK if you must exit the vehicle. DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and
highway driving. It provides the smoothest
upshifts and downshifts, and the best fuel
economy. The transmission automatically
upshifts through all forward gears.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain,
traveling into strong head winds, or while towing
a heavy trailer), select TOW/HAUL mode or use
the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control
to select a lower gear range
Úpage 150. Under
these conditions, using a lower gear range will
improve performance and extend transmission
life by reducing excessive shifting and heat
buildup.

If the transmission temperature exceeds normal
operating limits, the powertrain controller will
modify the transmission shift schedule and
expand the range of torque converter clutch
engagement. This is done to prevent
transmission damage due to overheating.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot or is
in danger of overheating, the “Transmission
Temperature Warning Light” may illuminate and
the transmission may operate differently until
the transmission cools down.
NOTE:
Use caution when operating a heavily loaded
vehicle at low speeds (such as towing a trailer
up a steep grade, or in stop-and-go traffic)
during hot weather. In these conditions, torque
converter slip can impose a significant addi
-
tional heat load on the cooling system. Down -
shifting the transmission to the lowest possible
gear (when climbing a grade), or shifting to
NEUTRAL (when stopped in heavy traffic) can
help to reduce this excess heat generation.
During cold temperatures, transmission
operation may be modified depending on
engine and transmission temperature as well
as vehicle speed. This feature improves
warm-up time of the engine and transmission to
achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of
the torque converter clutch is inhibited until the
transmission fluid is warm Ú page 151.
WARNING!

Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the
ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe
practices that limit your response to changing
traffic or road conditions. You might lose
control of the vehicle and have a collision.

CAUTION!

Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any
other reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL
can cause severe transmission damage.

For Towing A Disabled Vehicle Ú page 350.
For Recreational Towing Ú page 215.
4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 149

STARTING AND OPERATING151

Electronic Range Select

To exit ERS mode, simply push and hold the ERS
(+) switch until the gear limit display disappears
from the instrument cluster. NOTE:
To select the proper gear position for maximum
deceleration (engine braking), simply push and
hold the ERS (-) switch. The transmission will
shift to the range from which the vehicle can
best be slowed down.
Overdrive Operation

The automatic transmission includes an
electronically controlled Overdrive (FIFTH and SIXTH
gears). The transmission will automatically shift into
Overdrive if the following conditions are present:

The gear selector is in the DRIVE position.
The transmission fluid has reached an
adequate temperature.
The engine coolant has reached an adequate
temperature.
Vehicle speed is sufficiently high.

The TOW/HAUL switch has not been activated.

The driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator.

Torque Converter Clutch

A feature designed to improve fuel economy has
been included in the automatic transmission on
your vehicle. A clutch within the torque converter
engages automatically at calibrated speeds.
This may result in a slightly different feeling or
response during normal operation in the upper
gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during
some accelerations, the clutch automatically
disengages.

NOTE:
The torque converter clutch will not engage,
until the transmission fluid and engine
coolant are warm (usually after 1 to 3 miles
(2 to 5 km) of driving). Because engine speed
is higher when the torque converter clutch is
not engaged, it may seem as if the transmis
-
sion is not shifting properly when cold; This is
normal. Using the Electronic Range Select
(ERS) shift control, when the transmission is
sufficiently warm, will demonstrate that the
transmission is able to shift into and out of
Overdrive.
1 — GEAR + Switch
2 — GEAR – Switch
WARNING!

Do not downshift for additional engine braking
on a slippery surface. The drive wheels could
lose their grip and the vehicle could skid,
causing a collision or personal injury.

CAUTION!
When using ERS for engine braking while
descending steep grades, be careful not to
overspeed the engine. Apply the brakes as
needed to prevent engine overspeed.4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 151

162STARTING AND OPERATING
NOTE:
Pausing in transfer case N (Neutral) in vehi -
cles equipped with an automatic transmis -
sion may require shutting the engine OFF to
avoid gear clash while completing the shift. If
difficulty occurs, shift the transmission into
Neutral, hold your foot on the brake, and turn
the engine OFF. Complete the range shift to
the desired mode.

Shifting into or out of 4L is possible with the
vehicle completely stopped, however difficulty
may occur due to the mating clutch teeth not
being properly aligned. Several attempts may
be required for clutch teeth alignment and
shift completion to occur. The preferred
method is with the vehicle rolling 2 to 3 mph
(3 to 5 km/h). Avoid attempting to engage or
disengage 4L with the vehicle moving faster
than 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h).

Do not attempt to shift into or out of 4L while
the transmission is in gear.
Transfer Case Position Indicator Light
The “Transfer Case Position Indicator Light” in
the instrument cluster is used to alert the driver
that the front axle is fully engaged and all four
wheels are driving.
LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL
The limited-slip differential provides additional
traction on snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel,
particularly when there is a difference between
the traction characteristics of the surface under
the right and left rear wheels. During normal
driving and cornering, the limited-slip unit
performs similarly to a conventional differential.
On slippery surfaces, however, the differential
delivers more of the driving effort to the rear
wheel having the better traction.

The limited-slip differential is especially helpful
during slippery driving conditions. With both rear
wheels on a slippery surface, a slight application
of the accelerator will supply maximum traction.
When starting with only one rear wheel on an
excessively slippery surface, slight momentary
application of the parking brake may be
necessary to gain maximum traction.
Care should be taken to avoid sudden
accelerations when both rear wheels are on a
slippery surface. This could cause both rear
wheels to spin, and allow the vehicle to slide
sideways on the crowned surface of a road or in
a turn.
WARNING!
On vehicles equipped with a limited-slip
differential never run the engine with one rear
wheel off the ground since the vehicle may
drive through the rear wheel remaining on the
ground. You could lose control of the vehicle.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 162

STARTING AND OPERATING163
POWER TAKE OFF (PTO) OPERATION — IF
EQUIPPED

This vehicle when equipped with PTO Prep and
the AS66RC/AS69RC automatic six-speed, will
allow for an aftermarket upfit with a transmission
driven PTO (power take off). The customer will
have the ability to operate the PTO in either
a “stationary”, “mobile” or “remote” mode.
The vehicles will be factory set to the “stationary”
mode. To select a different mode, or to change
any other PTO setting, you will need to enter the
commercial vehicle menu on the instrument
cluster screen. Details of the PTO selection
modes and further PTO information is available
at the Ram Truck Bodybuilders web site:
https://
www.ramtrucks.com/ram-commercial/
body-builders-guide.html
POWER STEERING
HYDRAULIC 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 conditions, 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 do 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 amount of time. This is due to the cold,
thick fluid in the steering system. This noise
should be considered normal, and it does not
in any way damage the steering system.
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 anticipated. Check
fluid level when the engine is cold and off.
Coordinate inspection efforts through an
authorized dealer.
CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system
at the end of the steering wheel travel will
increase the steering fluid temperature and it
should be avoided when possible. Damage to
the power steering pump may occur.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level
surface and with the engine off to prevent
injury from moving parts and to ensure
accurate fluid level reading. Do not overfill.
Use only manufacturer's recommended
power steering fluid.
4

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166STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
The following conditions will also deactivate the
Cruise Control without erasing the set speed
from memory:
Vehicle parking brake is applied
Stability event occurs
Gear selector is moved out of DRIVE
Engine overspeed occurs
Pushing the on/off button, or placing the
ignition in the OFF position, erases the set
speed from memory.
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) — IF
E
QUIPPED

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) increases the
driving convenience provided by Cruise Control
while traveling on highways and major roadways.
However, it is not a safety system and not
designed to prevent collisions. The Cruise Control
function performs differently if your vehicle is not
equipped with ACC
Ú
page 164.
ACC will allow you to keep Cruise Control
engaged in light to moderate traffic conditions
without the constant need to reset your speed.
ACC utilizes a radar sensor and a forward facing
camera designed to detect a vehicle directly
ahead of you to maintain a set speed.
NOTE:
If the ACC sensor detects a vehicle ahead,
ACC will apply limited braking or acceleration
(not to exceed the original set speed) auto
-
matically to maintain a preset following
distance, while matching the speed of the
vehicle ahead.
Any chassis/suspension or tire size modifica -
tions to the vehicle will affect the perfor -
mance of the Adaptive Cruise Control and
Forward Collision Warning system.
Fixed Speed Cruise Control alone (an ACC
distance not set) will not detect vehicles
directly ahead of you. Always be aware of the
mode selected.
WARNING!

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is a conve -
nience system. It is not a substitute for active
driver involvement. It is always the driver’s
responsibility to be attentive of road, traffic,
and weather conditions, vehicle speed,
distance to the vehicle ahead; and, most
importantly, brake operation to ensure safe
operation of the vehicle under all road condi -
tions. Your complete attention is always
required while driving to maintain safe
control of your vehicle. Failure to follow these
warnings can result in a collision and death
or serious personal injury.

The ACC system:
Does not react to pedestrians,
oncoming vehicles, and stationary
objects (e.g., a stopped vehicle in a
traffic jam or a disabled vehicle).
Cannot take street, traffic, and weather
conditions into account, and may be
limited upon adverse sight distance
conditions.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 166

STARTING AND OPERATING183
LANESENSE — IF EQUIPPED
LANESENSE OPERATION
The LaneSense system is operational at speeds
above 37 mph (60 km/h) and below 112 mph
(180 km/h). It uses a forward looking camera to
detect lane markings and measure vehicle
position within the lane boundaries.
When both lane markings are detected and the
driver drifts out of the lane (no turn signal has
been applied) OR the driver departs the lane on
the opposite side of the applied turn signal (if the left turn signal is applied and the vehicle
departs to the right), the LaneSense system
provides a haptic warning in the form of torque
applied to the steering wheel, as well as a visual
warning in the instrument cluster display to
prompt the driver to remain within the lane
boundaries.
The driver may manually override the haptic
warning by applying torque into the steering
wheel at any time.
When only a single lane marking is detected
and the driver drifts across that lane marking
(no turn signal applied), the LaneSense system
provides a visual warning through the
instrument cluster display to prompt the driver
to remain within the lane.
When only a single lane marking is detected, a
haptic (torque) warning will not be provided.
NOTE:
When operating conditions have been met, the
LaneSense system will monitor if the driver’s
hands are on the steering wheel and provide
an audible and visual warning to the driver if
removed. The system will cancel if the driver
does not return their hands to the wheel.
WARNING!

Drivers must be careful when backing up
even when using ParkSense. Always check
carefully behind your vehicle, look behind
you, and be sure to check for pedestrians,
animals, other vehicles, obstructions, and
blind spots before backing up. You are
responsible for safety and must continue to
pay attention to your surroundings. Failure to
do so can result in serious injury or death.

Before using ParkSense, it is strongly
recommended that the ball mount and
hitch ball assembly be disconnected from
the vehicle when the vehicle is not used for
towing. Failure to do so can result in injury
or damage to vehicles or obstacles
because the hitch ball will be much closer
to the obstacle than the rear fascia when
the vehicle sounds the continuous tone.
Also, the sensors could detect the ball
mount and hitch ball assembly, depending
on its size and shape, giving a false indica
-
tion that an obstacle is behind the vehicle.
CAUTION!

ParkSense is only a parking aid and it is
unable to recognize every obstacle, including
small obstacles. Parking curbs might be
temporarily detected or not detected at all.
Obstacles located above or below the
sensors will not be detected when they are in
close proximity.

The vehicle must be driven slowly when
using ParkSense in order to be able to stop
in time when an obstacle is detected. It is
recommended that the driver looks over
his/her shoulder when using ParkSense.4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 183

STARTING AND OPERATING187
Cargo Camera Icons — If Equipped
Backup Camera Touchscreen Button
Cargo Camera Touchscreen Button
AUX Camera Touchscreen Button
If equipped with a Cargo Camera, a touchscreen
button is made available to indicate the current
active Camera image being displayed whenever
the Rear View Camera image is displayed.
If equipped with a Cargo Camera, a touchscreen
button to switch the display to Cargo Camera
image is made available whenever the Rear
View Camera image is displayed.
A touchscreen button "X" to disable display of
the camera image is made available when the
vehicle is not in REVERSE gear. When enabled, active guidelines are overlaid on
the backup camera image to illustrate the width
of the vehicle and its projected backup path
based on the steering wheel position. The active
guidelines will show separate zones that will
help indicate the distance to the rear of the
vehicle. These settings can be adjusted within
Uconnect Settings Ú
page 228.

A dashed center line overlay indicates the center
of the vehicle to assist with parking or aligning to
a hitch/receiver. The following table shows the
approximate distances for each zone:

Zones Distance To The Rear Of The
Vehicle
Red 0 - 1 ft (0 - 30 cm)
Yellow 1 ft - 6.5 ft (30 cm - 2m)
Green 6.5 ft or greater
(2 m or greater)
WARNING!

Drivers must be careful when backing up even
when using the ParkView Rear Back Up Camera.
Always check carefully behind your vehicle, and
be sure to check for pedestrians, animals, other
vehicles, obstructions, or blind spots before
backing up. You are responsible for the safety of
your surroundings and must continue to pay
attention while backing up. Failure to do so can
result in serious injury or death.

CAUTION!
To avoid vehicle damage, ParkView should
only be used as a parking aid. The ParkView
camera is unable to view every obstacle or
object in your drive path.
To avoid vehicle damage, the vehicle must
be driven slowly when using ParkView to be
able to stop in time when an obstacle is
seen. It is recommended that the driver
look frequently over his/her shoulder when
using ParkView.
4

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190STARTING AND OPERATING
The arcs will change color from yellow to red
corresponding the distance zones to the
oncoming object.

The fifth button of the ParkSense Camera View
screen will change based on the features present
in the vehicle. If not equipped with a Cargo
Camera or Trailer Reverse Guidance, the Backup
Camera soft button will be displayed. If equipped
with a Cargo Camera but no Trailer Reverse
Guidance, the Cargo Camera soft button will be
displayed. If equipped with both a Cargo Camera
and Trailer Reverse Guidance, the Cargo/Trailer
Reverse Guidance soft button will be displayed.
ParkSense Camera View
NOTE:
Front tires will display on the image when the
tires are turned.
Due to wide angle cameras in mirrors, the
image will appear distorted.
Top View will show which doors are open.
Open front doors will cancel the outside
image.
Rear View This is the default view of the system
in REVERSE and is always paired with
the Top View of the vehicle with
optional active guidelines for the
projected path when enabled.
Rear Cross Path View
Pressing the Rear Cross Path soft key
will give the driver a wider angle view
of the Rear View. The Top View will be
disabled when this is selected. Front View
The Front View will show you what is
immediately in front of the vehicle
and is always paired with the Top View
of the vehicle.
Front Cross Path View Pressing the Front Cross Path soft key
will give the driver a wider angle view
of the Front View. The Top View will be
disabled when this is selected.
Rear View Camera Pressing the Backup Camera soft key
will provide a full screen rear view with
Zoom View.
NOTE:
If the Rear View Camera view was selected
through the Surround View Camera menu,
exiting out of the Rear View screen will return to
the Surround View menu. If the Back Up Camera
was manually activated through the Controls
menu of the Uconnect system, exiting out of the
display screen will return to the Controls menu.

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