116STARTING AND OPERATING
1. With the transmission in PARK, the parking brake applied, and the engine running, turn
on the Cruise Control, then push the SET (-)
button.
2. The engine RPM will go up to 1,100 RPM. To increase the RPM, push and hold the RES (+)
button and the idle speed will increase to
approximately 1,500 RPM. To decrease the
RPM, push and hold the SET (-) button and the
idle speed will decrease to approximately
1,100 RPM.
3. To cancel the Idle–Up feature, either push the CANCEL button, push the ON/OFF button, or
press the brake pedal.
NOISE
Diesel engines can create noises that may seem
as a concern. The nature of a diesel engine is
compression ignition where compressed air and
fuel are mixed and ignited. Weather, barometric
pressure, altitude and temperature will affect how
fuel is ignited in the engine. Engines will sound
different from day to day or previous model years.
Clicking, ticking, or light knocking is normal and will
change from day to day, as the engine breaks in,
and can vary with changes in ambient
temperature; this is normal. Diesel equipped
vehicles also have an exhaust after treatment
system to reduce emissions utilizing a Diesel
Particulate Filter (DPF) and a Selective Reduction
Catalyst (SCR). The SCR reduces Nox using the
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system. DEF is injected directly into the SCR through an dosing module.
This process will create a clicking sound and at
times, will make noise even with the vehicle shut
off. This is normal as the DEF dosing module is
purging DEF. If at any time the check engine light is
on, please visit an authorized dealer.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
Idle the engine a few minutes before routine
shutdown. After full load operation, idle the engine
three to five minutes before shutting it down. This
idle period will allow the lubricating oil and coolant
to carry excess heat away from the combustion
chamber, bearings, internal components, and
turbocharger. This is especially important for
turbocharged, charge air-cooled engines. Refer to
the following chart for proper engine shutdown:
Driving Condition
Load Turbocharger Temperature Idle Time (min.) Before Engine
Shutdown
Stop and Go EmptyCoolLess than One
Stop and Go Medium -One
Highway Speeds MediumWarmTwo
City Traffic Maximum GCWR -Three
Highway Speeds Maximum GCWR -Four
Uphill Grade Maximum GCWR HotFive
22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 116
118STARTING AND OPERATING
Do Not Operate The Engine With Failed
Parts
All engine failures give some warning before the
parts fail. Be on the alert for changes in
performance, sounds, and visual evidence that the
engine requires service. Some important clues are:
Engine misfiring or vibrating severely.
Sudden loss of power.
Unusual engine noises.
Fuel, oil or coolant leaks.
Sudden change, outside the normal operating
range, in the engine operating temperature.
Excessive smoke.
Oil pressure drop.
DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER (DPF)
M
ANUAL REGENERATION — IF EQUIPPED
On equipped Chassis Cabs, a manual regeneration
can be enable through the instrument cluster. The
manual regeneration will allow the DPF to
complete a regeneration, lowering the soot level
without having to drive the vehicle. The vehicle
must be in PARK to access this feature, and the
fuel level must be over 12.5% full. A message
displaying the time left on the regeneration will
appear on the instrument cluster, and the
instrument cluster will display the soot level
Ú page 81.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED
The engine block heater warms the engine, and
permits quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the
cord to a standard 110-115 Volt AC electrical
outlet with a grounded, three-wire extension cord.
The engine block heater cord is routed behind the
front bumper and accessible through the right hole
of the air dam.
The engine block heater must be plugged in at
least one hour to have an adequate warming effect
on the engine.
It includes a removable cap that is secured by a
tethered strap. It also has a c-clip that is used for
storage when not in use for the Winter months.
During Winter months, remove the heater cord
wiring assembly from itself on the c-clip.
NOTE:The block heater will require 110 Volt AC and
6.5 Amps to activate the heater element.
Block Heater Usage
For ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C),
engine block heater usage is recommended.
For ambient temperatures below –20°F (-29°C),
engine block heater usage is required.
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS —
GASOLINE ENGINE
A long break-in period is not required for the engine
and drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your
vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles
(500 km). After the initial 60 miles (100 km),
speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are
desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within
the limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good
break-in. Wide-open throttle acceleration in low
gear can be detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory
is a high-quality energy conserving type lubricant.
Oil changes should be consistent with anticipated
climate conditions under which vehicle operations
will occur. For the recommended viscosity and
quality grades Ú page 404.
NOTE:A new engine may consume some oil during its first
few thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This
should be considered a normal part of the break-in
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral
Oil in the engine or damage may result.
22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 118
STARTING AND OPERATING183
If you regularly tow a trailer for more than
45 minutes of continuous operation, then change
the automatic transmission fluid and filter(s) as
specified for "police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer
towing." Ú page 329.
NOTE:Check the automatic transmission fluid level
before towing (6-speed automatic only).
Tow/Haul Mode
To reduce potential for automatic transmission
overheating, activate TOW/HAUL mode when
driving in hilly areas, or select a lower gear range
(using the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift
control) on more severe grades.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
When using the Cruise Control, if you experience
speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h),
disengage until you can get back to cruising
speed.
Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with light
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
SNOWPLOW — IF EQUIPPED
Snowplow Prep Packages are available as a factory
installed option. These packages include
components necessary to equip your vehicle with a
snowplow.
NOTE:Before installation of a snowplow it is highly recom -
mended that the owner/installer obtain and follow
the recommendations contained within the current
Body Builder’s Guide. See an authorized dealer,
installer or snowplow manufacturer for this infor -
mation. There are unique electrical systems that
must be connected to properly ensure operator
safety and prevent overloading vehicle systems.
BEFORE PLOWING
Check the hydraulic system for leaks and proper
fluid level.
Check the mounting bolts and nuts for proper
tightness.
Check the runners and cutting edge for exces -
sive wear. The cutting edge should be ¼ to
½ inches (6 cm to 1.2 cm) above ground in
snow plowing position.
Check that snowplow lighting is connected and
functioning properly.
SNOWPLOW PREP PACKAGE MODEL
A
VAILABILITY
For Information about snowplow applications visit
www.ramtrucks.com or refer to the current Body
Builder’s Guide.
1. The maximum number of occupants in the
truck should not exceed two.
2. The total GVWR or the Front GAWR or the Rear GAWR should never be exceeded.
3. Cargo capacity will be reduced by the addition of options or passengers, etc.WARNING!
Attaching a snowplow to this vehicle could
adversely affect performance of the airbag
system in a collision. Do not expect that the
airbag will perform as described earlier in this
manual.
CAUTION!
The “Lamp Out” indicator could illuminate if
exterior lamps are not properly installed.
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22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 183
290SAFETY
NOTE:
Air bag covers may not be obvious in the interior
trim, but they will open during air bag deploy -
ment.
After any collision, the vehicle should be taken
to an authorized dealer immediately.
Enhanced Accident Response System
In the event of an impact, if the communication
network remains intact, and the power remains
intact, depending on the nature of the event, the
ORC will determine whether to have the Enhanced
Accident Response System perform the following
functions:
Cut off fuel to the engine (if equipped).
Cut off battery power to the electric motor (if
equipped).
Flash hazard lights as long as the battery has
power.
Turn on the interior lights, which remain on as
long as the battery has power or for 15 minutes
from the intervention of the Enhanced Accident
Response System.
Unlock the power door locks.
Your vehicle may also be designed to perform any
of these other functions in response to the
Enhanced Accident Response System:
Turn off the Fuel Filter Heater, Turn off the HVAC
Blower Motor, Close the HVAC Circulation Door
Cut off battery power to the:
Engine
Electric Motor (if equipped)
Electric power steering
Brake booster
Electric park brake
Automatic transmission gear selector
Horn
Front wiper
Headlamp washer pump (if equipped)
NOTE:After an accident, remember to place the ignition
to the STOP (OFF/LOCK) position and remove the
key from the ignition switch to avoid draining the
battery. Carefully check the vehicle for fuel leaks in
the engine compartment and on the ground near
the engine compartment and fuel tank before
resetting the system and starting the engine. If
there are no fuel leaks or damage to the vehicle
electrical devices (e.g. headlights) after an
accident, reset the system by following the
procedure described below. If you have any doubt,
contact an authorized dealer.
Enhanced Accident Response System
Reset Procedure
In order to reset the Enhanced Accident Response
System functions after an event, the ignition switch
must be changed from ignition START or ON/RUN
to ignition OFF. Carefully check the vehicle for fuel
leaks in the engine compartment and on the
ground near the engine compartment and fuel
tank before resetting the system and starting the
engine.
After an accident, if the vehicle will not start after
performing the reset procedure, the vehicle must
be towed to an authorized dealer to be inspected
and to have the Enhanced Accident Response
System reset.
WARNING!
Deployed air bags and seat belt pretensioners
cannot protect you in another collision. Have the
air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and the seat
belt retractor assemblies replaced by an
authorized dealer immediately. Also, have the
Occupant Restraint Controller System serviced
as well.
22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 290
332SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING — DIESEL ENGINE
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the maintenance plan on the following
pages for the required maintenance intervals.
More frequent maintenance may be needed in
severe conditions, such as dusty areas and very
short trip driving. In some extreme conditions,
additional maintenance not specified in the
maintenance schedule may be required.
At Each Stop For Fuel
Check the engine oil level at least 30 minutes after
a fully warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil
level while the vehicle is on level ground will
improve the accuracy of the oil level reading. Add
oil only when the level is at or below the ADD or
MIN mark.
Once A Month
Inspect the batteries, and clean and tighten the
terminals as required.
Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir,
brake master cylinder, and automatic transmis -
sion, and add as needed. At Each Oil Change
Change the engine oil filter.
Inspect the exhaust system.
Check the tire inflation pressures and look for
unusual wear or damage. Rotate at the first sign
of irregular wear.
Inspect engine air cleaner filter. Replace the
engine air cleaner filter, if necessary.
Inspect the CV/Universal joints.
Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
Inspect front end, and lubricate — If equipped
with serviceable fittings.
Inspect and replace the Evaporative System
Fresh Air Filter as necessary, replacement may
be more frequent if vehicle is operated in
extreme dusty conditions.
Inspection and service should also be performed
anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected.
Retain all receipts.
NOTE:Using white lithium grease, lubricate the door
hinge pivot joints twice a year to prevent
premature wear.
OIL CHANGE INDICATOR SYSTEM —
D
IESEL ENGINE
Your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil change
indicator system. This system will alert you when it
is time to change your engine oil by displaying the
words “Oil Change Due” in your instrument cluster
display. The engine oil change indicator system is
duty cycle based, which means the engine oil
change interval may fluctuate depending on your
personal driving style. Failure to change the engine
oil per the maintenance schedule can result in
internal engine damage.
An authorized dealer will reset the oil change
indicator message after completing the scheduled
oil change. If a scheduled oil change is performed
by someone other than an authorized dealer, the
message can be reset by referring to the steps
described under Instrument Cluster Display
Ú page 81.
Replace the engine oil and oil filter every
15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or
sooner if prompted by the oil change indicator
system. Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance
items may result in damage to the vehicle.
22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 332
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE333
NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change inter -
vals exceed 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or
12 months or 500 hours, whichever comes first.
It is recommended that every 3,000 miles
(4,800 km), check the engine oil level at least
30 minutes after a fully warmed engine is shut
off. Checking the oil level while the vehicle is on
level ground will improve the accuracy of the oil
level reading. Add oil only when the level is at or
below the ADD or MIN mark.
Severe service (high ambient temperature,
short trips, heavy loading, trailer towing,
off-road, or law enforcement use) may reduce
oil change intervals. If models configured with optional B20 capability
are operated with greater than 5% levels of
biodiesel, the oil change interval must not exceed
12,500 miles (20,000 km) or 400 hours,
whichever comes first under any circumstances.
See the Fuel Requirements section for more
information regarding operation with biodiesel
blend (B6-B20) fuel meeting ASTM specification
D-7467.
PERFORM SERVICE INDICATOR —
D
IESEL ENGINE
Your vehicle will require emissions maintenance at
a set interval. To help remind you when this
maintenance is due, the instrument cluster will
display “Perform Service”. When the “Perform
Service” message is displayed on the instrument
cluster it is necessary to have the emissions
maintenance performed. Emissions maintenance
may include replacing the Closed Crankcase
Ventilation (CCV) filter element. The procedure for
clearing and resetting the “Perform Service”
indicator message is located in the appropriate
Service Information.
8
22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 333
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE335
Inspect the front suspension, tie rod
ends and boot seals for cracks or leaks
and all parts for damage, wear,
improper looseness or end play;
replace if necessary. X X X X X X X X X
X
Inspect the brake linings. XXXXX X
Inspect and adjust parking brake. XXXXX X
Inspect drive belt; replace as
necessary. X
XXXX X
Inspect wheel bearings. XXXX X
Additional Maintenance
Replace the cabin air filter. To be replaced every 12,000 mi (19,000 km).
Replace the engine fuel filter. X X X X X X X X X X
Replace the chassis mounted fuel
filter. X X X X X X X X X
X
Mileage or time passed (whichever
comes first):
7,500
15,000
22,500
30,000
37,500
45,000
52,500
60,000
67,500
75,000
82,500
90,000
97,500
105,000
112,500
120,000
127,500
135,000
142,500
150,000
Or Months: 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72 78 84 90 96 102 108 114 120
Or Kilometers:
12,000
24,000
36,000
48,000
60,000
72,000
84,000
96,000
108,000
120,000
132,000
144,000
156,000
168,000
180,000
192,000
204,000
216,000
228,000
240,000
8
22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 335
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE347
along a rib (not across) are not normal. Any belt
with cracks running along a rib must be replaced.
Also have the belt replaced if it has excessive wear,
frayed cords or severe glazing.
Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)
Conditions that would require replacement:
Rib chunking (one or more ribs has separated
from belt body)
Rib or belt wear
Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between two
ribs)
Belt slips
“Groove jumping" (belt does not maintain
correct position on pulley)
Belt broken (note: identify and correct problem
before new belt is installed)
Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or rumble
is heard or felt while drive belt is in operation)
Some conditions can be caused by a faulty
component such as a belt pulley. Belt pulleys
should be carefully inspected for damage and
proper alignment.
Belt replacement on some models requires the
use of special tools, we recommend having your
vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.
DRAINING FUEL/WATER SEPARATOR
F
ILTER
There are two fuel filter assemblies. One is located
on the driver's side of the engine. The best access
to this water drain valve is from under the hood.
The second one is on the under body, located in
front of the rear axle above the drive shaft on
pick-up models. The second filter location is on the
frame behind the front axle. The best access to this
water drain valve is from under the vehicle. If water is detected in the water separator while the
engine is running, or while the ignition switch is in
the ON position, the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light”
will illuminate and an audible chime will be heard
five times. At this point you should stop the engine
and drain the water from both of the filters.
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” comes on and
a single chime is heard while you are driving, or
with the ignition switch in the ON position, there
may be a problem with your water separator wiring
or sensor. See an authorized dealer for service.
Upon proper draining of the water from both fuel
filters, the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” will
remain illuminated for approximately 10 seconds.
If the water was drained while the engine was
running, the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” may
remain on for approximately three minutes.
NOTE:Care should be taken in disposing of used fluids
from your vehicle. Used fluids, indiscriminately
discarded, can present a problem to the envi
-
ronment. Contact an authorized dealer, service
CAUTION!
Do not drain the fuel/water separator filter
when the engine is running.
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appropriate
container.
CAUTION!
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” remains on,
DO NOT START the engine before you drain water
from the fuel filters to avoid engine damage.
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