2022 RAM CHASSIS CAB engine coolant

STARTING AND OPERATING121
(Continued)
(Continued)
NOTE:For optimum braking power it is recommended to
use the exhaust brake while in TOW/HAUL mode.

The exhaust brake feature can also be used to
reduce the engine warm-up time. To use the exhaust
brake as a warm-up device, the vehicle must be
stopped or moving less than 5 mph (8 km/h), the
Exhaust Brake Indicator must be on, and the coolant
temperature must be below 180°F (82°C) and
ambient temperature below 60°F (16°C).

Automatic “Smart” Exhaust Brake
Automatic “Smart” Exhaust Brake technology
delivers smoother, less aggressive exhaust
braking characteristics during downhill descents.
Although it can apply full exhaust braking force if
needed, Automatic “Smart” Exhaust Brake may
not apply obvious braking if the vehicle speed is
not increasing. Automatic “Smart” Exhaust Brake
is intended to maintain vehicle speed, while Full
Exhaust Brake is intended to reduce vehicle speed.
Automatic “Smart” Exhaust Brake can be enabled
by pushing the exhaust brake button (on the center
stack) again anytime after the normal Full Exhaust
Brake has been turned on. The “Exhaust Brake Indicator” in the instrument cluster display will
change from Yellow to Green when Automatic
“Smart” Exhaust Brake is enabled. Pushing the
exhaust brake button again will toggle the exhaust
brake mode to off.AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
You must press and hold the brake pedal while
shifting out of PARK.
CAUTION!
Use of aftermarket exhaust brakes is not recom
-
mended and could lead to engine damage.
WARNING!
It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or
NEUTRAL if the engine speed is higher than
idle speed. If your foot is not firmly pressing
the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate
quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose
control of the vehicle and hit someone or
something. Only shift into gear when the
engine is idling normally and your foot is firmly
pressing the brake pedal.
The transmission may not engage PARK if the
vehicle is moving. Always bring the vehicle to a
complete stop before shifting to PARK, and
verify that the transmission gear position indi -
cator solidly indicates PARK (P) without
blinking. Ensure that the vehicle is completely
stopped, and the PARK position is properly
indicated, before exiting the vehicle.
Unintended movement of a vehicle could
injure those in or near the vehicle. As with all
vehicles, you should never exit a vehicle while
the engine is running. Before exiting a vehicle,
always come to a complete stop, then apply
the parking brake, shift the transmission into
PARK, turn the engine OFF, and remove the
key fob. When the ignition is in the LOCK/OFF
(key removal) position, (or, with Keyless Enter
‘n Go™, when the ignition is in the OFF posi -
tion) the transmission is locked in PARK,
securing the vehicle against unwanted move -
ment.
When leaving the vehicle, always make sure
the ignition is in the OFF position, remove the
key fob from the vehicle, and lock the vehicle.
Never use the PARK position as a substitute
for the parking brake. Always apply the
parking brake fully when exiting the vehicle to
guard against vehicle movement and possible
injury or damage.
Your vehicle could move and injure you and
others if it is not in PARK. Check by trying to
move the gear selector out of PARK with the
brake pedal released. Make sure the trans -
mission is in PARK before exiting the vehicle.
WARNING!
4

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130STARTING AND OPERATING
Electronic Range Select (ERS) Operation
The ERS shift control allows the driver to limit the
highest available gear when the transmission is in
DRIVE. For example, if you set the transmission
gear limit to FOURTH gear, the transmission will
not shift above FOURTH gear, but will shift through
the lower gears normally.
You can switch between DRIVE and ERS mode at
any vehicle speed. When the gear selector is in the
DRIVE position, the transmission will operate
automatically, shifting between all available gears.
Tapping the ERS “-” switch will activate ERS mode,
display the current gear in the instrument cluster,
and set that gear as the top available gear. Once in
ERS mode, tapping “-” or “+” will change the top
available gear.
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 acceler -
ator.
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.

22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 130

STARTING AND OPERATING131
When To Use TOW/HAUL Mode
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying
a heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission
shifting occurs, push the TOW/HAUL switch to
activate TOW/HAUL mode. This will improve
performance and reduce the potential for
transmission overheating or failure due to
excessive shifting. When operating in TOW/HAUL
mode, transmission upshifts are delayed, and the
transmission will automatically downshift (for
engine braking) when the throttle is closed and/or
during steady braking maneuvers.

TOW/HAUL Switch

The TOW/HAUL Indicator Light will illuminate in the
instrument cluster to indicate that TOW/HAUL
mode has been activated. Pushing the switch a
second time restores normal operation. Normal operation is always the default at engine start-up.
If TOW/HAUL mode is desired, the switch must be
pushed each time the engine is started.
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 transmission 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.
If the vehicle has not been driven for several
days, the first few seconds of operation after
shifting the transmission into gear may seem
sluggish. This is due to the fluid partially
draining from the torque converter into the
transmission. This condition is normal and will
not cause damage to the transmission. The
torque converter will refill within five seconds
after starting the engine.
AUXILIARY SWITCHES — IF EQUIPPED
There can be up to six auxiliary switches located in
the lower switch bank of the instrument panel
which can be used to power various electronic
devices and Power Take Off (PTO). If equipped, it
will take the place of the sixth auxiliary switch.
Connections to the switches are found under the
hood in the connectors attached to the auxiliary
Power Distribution Center.
You have the ability to configure the functionality of
the auxiliary switches via the instrument cluster
display. All switches can now be configured for
setting the switch type operation to latching or
WARNING!
Do not use the TOW/HAUL feature when driving
in icy or slippery conditions. The increased
engine braking can cause the rear wheels to
slide, and the vehicle to swing around with the
possible loss of vehicle control, which may
cause an accident possibly resulting in personal
injury or death.
4

22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 131

SAFETY309
PERIODIC SAFETY CHECKS YOU SHOULD
M
AKE OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE
Tires
Examine tires for excessive tread wear and uneven
wear patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or
other objects lodged in the tread or sidewall.
Inspect the tread for cuts and cracks. Inspect
sidewalls for cuts, cracks, and bulges. Check the
lug nuts/bolt torque for tightness. Check the tires
(including spare) for proper cold inflation pressure.
Lights
Have someone observe the operation of brake
lights and exterior lights while you work the
controls. Check turn signal and high beam
indicator lights on the instrument panel.
Door Latches
Check for proper closing, latching, and locking.
Fluid Leaks
Check area under the vehicle after overnight
parking for fuel, coolant, oil, or other fluid leaks.
Also, if gasoline fumes are detected or if fuel or
brake fluid leaks are suspected, the cause should
be located and corrected immediately.
EXHAUST GAS The best protection against carbon monoxide entry
into the vehicle body is a properly maintained
engine exhaust system.
Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the
exhaust system, when exhaust fumes can be
detected inside the vehicle, or when the underside
or rear of the vehicle is damaged, have an
authorized dealer inspect the complete exhaust
system and adjacent body areas for broken,
damaged, deteriorated, or mispositioned parts.
Open seams or loose connections could permit
exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger
compartment. In addition, inspect the exhaust
system each time the vehicle is raised for
lubrication or oil change. Replace as required.
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain
carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and
odorless. Breathing it can make you
unconscious and can eventually poison you. To
avoid breathing (CO), follow these safety tips:
Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in
confined areas any longer than needed to
move your vehicle in or out of the area.
If you are required to drive with the trunk/lift -
gate/rear doors open, make sure that all
windows are closed and the climate control
BLOWER switch is set at high speed. DO NOT
use the recirculation mode.
If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with
the engine running, adjust your heating or
cooling controls to force outside air into the
vehicle. Set the blower at high speed.
6

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322IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
In any of the following situations, you can reduce
the potential for overheating by taking the
appropriate action.
On the highways — slow down.
In city traffic — while stopped, place the trans -
mission in NEUTRAL, but do not increase the
engine idle speed while preventing vehicle
motion with the brakes.
NOTE:There are steps that you can take to slow down an
impending overheat condition:
If your Air Conditioner (A/C) is on, turn it off. The
A/C system adds heat to the engine cooling
system and turning the A/C off can help remove
this heat.
You can also turn the temperature control to
maximum heat, the mode control to floor and
the blower control to high. This allows the heater
core to act as a supplement to the radiator and
aids in removing heat from the engine cooling
system.
GEAR SELECTOR OVERRIDE
6–SPEED TRANSMISSION
In order to move the vehicle in cases where the
transmission will not shift out of PARK (P) (such as
a depleted battery), a Manual Park Release is
available.

1. Turn the engine OFF.

2. Firmly apply the parking brake.
3. Tilt the steering wheel to the full up position.
4. Press and maintain firm pressure on the brake pedal.
5. Insert a screwdriver or similar tool into the access port (ringed circle) on the bottom of the
steering column, and push and hold the
override release lever up.

Gear Selector Override Access Port Location

WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot engine
coolant (antifreeze) or steam from your radiator.
If you see or hear steam coming from under the
hood, do not open the hood until the radiator
has had time to cool. Never try to open a cooling
system pressure cap when the radiator or cool -
ant bottle is hot.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads
HOT (H), pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle the
vehicle with the air conditioner turned off until
the pointer drops back into the normal range. If
the pointer remains on HOT (H), and you hear
continuous chimes, turn the engine off immedi -
ately and call for service.

22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 322

328
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING — GASOLINE
ENGINE
Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic oil
change indicator system. The oil change indicator
system will remind you that it is time to take your
vehicle in for scheduled maintenance.
Based on engine operation conditions, the oil
change indicator message will illuminate. This
means that service is required for your vehicle.
Operating conditions such as frequent short-trips,
trailer tow, extremely hot or cold ambient
temperatures will influence when the “Oil Change
Required” message is displayed. Have your vehicle
serviced as soon as possible, within the next
500 miles (805 km).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.
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 8,000 miles (13,000 km),
12 months or 350 hours of engine run time,
whichever comes first. The 350 hours of engine
run or idle time is generally only a concern for fleet
customers. Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:
Check engine oil level.
Check windshield washer fluid level.
Check the tire inflation pressures and look for
unusual wear or damage. Rotate at the first sign
of irregular wear.
Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir,
brake master cylinder, power steering and auto
-
matic transmission (6-speed only), and fill as
needed.
Check function of all interior and exterior lights.

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330SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Mileage or time passed (whichever comes first)
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
100,000
110,000
120,000
130,000
140,000
150,000
Or Years: 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Or Kilometers:
32,000
48,000
64,000
80,000
96,000
112,000
128,000
144,000
160,000
176,000
192,000
208,000
224,000
240,000
Additional Inspections
Inspect the CV/Universal joints. X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary. X X X X X X X
Inspect the front and rear axle surfaces. If gear oil leakage is
suspected, check the fluid level. If using your vehicle for police,
taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing, change axle fluid. X X X X X X X
Inspect the brake linings, parking brake function. X X X X X X X
Additional Maintenance
Replace the cabin air filter. To be replaced every 12,000 mi (19,000 km).
Replace the engine air cleaner filter. XXXXX
Replace spark plugs.
1X
Flush and replace the engine coolant at 10 years or
150,000 miles (240,000 km) whichever comes first. X
X
Change the automatic transmission fluid (AS66RC Transmission
Only). X
XX
Change the automatic transmission fluid and sump filter
(AS66RC Transmission Only). X
X

22_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 330

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.

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