RAM 2500 Diesel (2007 year). Instruction — part 29

WARNING!

Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in
spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the
brake fluid catching fire.

Use only brake fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container to avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture.

CAUTION!

Do not allow a petroleum-base fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid. Seal damage and loss of brake
performance may result.

Brake Hoses
Inspection should be performed whenever the brake
system is serviced or at intervals specified. Inspect hy-
draulic brake hoses for surface cracking, scuffing or worn
spots. If there is any evidence of cracking, scuffing, or
worn spots, the hose should be replaced immediately!
Eventual deterioration of the hose can take place with
possible burst failure.

Clutch Linkage
If the clutch pedal linkage begins to squeak or grunt, the
clutch pedal pivot bushings should be lubricated. Refer
to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct
lubricant type. Multipurpose Grease, NLGI Grade 2 E.P.

Clutch Hydraulic System
The clutch hydraulic system is a sealed maintenance-free
system. In the event of leakage or other malfunction, the
system must be replaced.

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Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle Fluid Level
For Model 9.25 Front Axles and 10.5”/11.5” Rear Axles
refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the
correct lubricant type. For normal service, periodic fluid
level checks are not required. When the vehicle is ser-
viced for other reasons, the exterior surfaces of the axle
assembly should be inspected.

When checking the fluid level, the vehicle should be in a
level position. The fluid level should be 1/4” ± 1/4” (6.4
mm ± 6.4 mm) below the fill hole on the 9.25” Front Axle.
The fluid level should be 3/4” ± 1/4” (19 mm ± 6.4 mm)
below the fill hole on all 10.5” and 1/4” ± 1/4” (6.4 mm
± 6.4 mm) on 11.5” Rear Axles.

Drain And Refill
Vehicles operated in normal service do not have regularly
scheduled oil changes. If fluid has become contaminated

with water or subjected to severe service, follow the
recommended change intervals in Maintenance Schedule
“B” in Section 8 of this instruction.

Lubricant Selection
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the
correct lubricant type.

NOTE:

The presence of water in the gear lubricant will

result in corrosion and possible failure of differential
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

in vehicles equipped with

10.5”/11.5” Axles DO NOT REQUIRE any limited slip
oil additive (friction modifiers).

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Transfer Case — If Equipped

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.

Lubricant Selection
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the
correct lubricant type.

Instruction Transmission — If Equipped

Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the filler
plug. If the level of the lubricant is more than 1/4” below
the bottom of the filler hole while the vehicle is on level
ground, enough lubricant should be added to bring the
level to the bottom of the filler hole.

Lubricant Selection for 6-Speed Instruction
Transmission — If Equipped
If it becomes necessary to add fluid or change the fluid,
be sure to use the same lubricant or equivalent. Refer to
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the correct
lubricant type.

Automatic Transmission

Fluid Level Check
The fluid level should be checked when the engine is
fully warmed up and the fluid in the transmission is at
normal operating temperature. Operation of the trans-
mission with an improper fluid level will greatly reduce
the life of the transmission and of the fluid. Check the
fluid level whenever the vehicle is serviced.

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7

Procedure For Checking Fluid Level
To properly check the automatic transmission fluid level,
the following procedure must be used:

1. The vehicle must be on level ground.

2. The engine should be running at curb idle speed for a
minimum of 60 seconds.

3. Fully apply parking brake.

4. Place the gear selector briefly in each gear position
ending with the lever in N (Neutral).

5. Remove the dipstick and determine if the fluid is hot
or warm. Hot fluid is approximately 180°F (82°C) which
is the normal operating temperature after the vehicle has
been driven at least 15 miles. The fluid can not be
comfortably held between the finger tips. Warm is when
fluid is between 85° - 125°F (29° - 52°C).

6. Wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert until seated.
Remove dipstick and note reading.

a. If the fluid is hot, the reading should be in the
crosshatched area marked “OK”.

b. If the fluid is warm, the reading should be between
the two holes. If the fluid level indicates low, add
sufficient fluid to bring to the proper level.

Fluid is added through the dipstick tube.

NOTE:

To prevent dirt and water from entering the

transmission after checking or replenishing fluid, make
certain that the dipstick cap is properly seated.

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Selection Of Lubricant
Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for the
correct lubricant type. It is important that the transmis-
sion fluid be maintained at the prescribed level using the
recommended fluid.

CAUTION!

Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turers recommended fluid may cause deterioration in
transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturers recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.

Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Change
To obtain best performance and long life for automatic
transmissions, the manufacturer recommends that they
be given regular maintenance service by an Authorized
Dodge Dealer or Service Center. It is important that the
transmission be adjusted periodically, the fluid main-
tained at the correct level, and that it be drained and
refilled as specified.

It is important that proper lubricant is used in the
transmission. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for the correct lubricant type. A band adjustment
and filter change should be made at the time of the oil
change.

The fluid and filter(s) should be changed and the bands
adjusted (if equipped) as specified in the Maintenance
Schedule (Section 8). Vehicles with a 5.9L Diesel Engine,
having severe usage should follow Maintenance Sched-
ule “B” of the Maintenance Schedule (Section 8).

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Severe usage consists of:

• Off-the-highway operation;
• Trailer towing;
• Snow plow operation;
• Prolonged operation with heavy loading, especially in

hot weather.

NOTE:

If the transmission is disassembled for any

reason, the fluid and filter should be changed, and the
bands adjusted (if equipped).

Special Additives
The manufacturer recommends against the addition of
any additives to the transmission. Exception to this
policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid
leaks. The use of transmission sealers should be avoided,
since they may adversely affect seals.

Front Wheel Bearings
Front wheel bearings for all Dodge Ram Trucks are
sealed-for-life. They do not require greasing or seal
replacement. In some instances, these bearings will
“purge” excess grease and the bearing housing will look
slightly wet. This is normal.

• Periodic inspection for excess play is recommended.
• If a bearing assembly is accidentally separated when

servicing the brake rotors, it should be replaced.

Rear Wheel Bearings
Clean and repack when brake linings are replaced or
rotors resurfaced.

Noise Control System Required Maintenance &
Warranty
For 3500 Two-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive mod-
els over 10,000 lbs. (4 535 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating.

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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 6 months or 6,000 miles (9 600 km), whichever
comes first, to assure 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 compo-
nents, 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 instruction.

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7

Air Cleaner Assembly
Inspect air cleaner housing for proper assembly and fit.
Make certain that the air cleaner is properly positioned
and that the cover is tight. Check all hoses leading to the
air cleaner for tightness. The air filter element must also
be clean and serviced according to the instructions out-
lined in the Maintenance Schedule Section of this
instruction.

Tampering With Noise Control System Prohibited
Federal law prohibits the following acts or the causing
thereof: (1) the removal or rendering inoperative by any
person, other than for purposes of maintenance, repair, or
replacement, of any device or element of design incorpo-
rated into any new vehicle for the purpose of noise
control prior to its sale or delivery to the ultimate
purchaser or while it is in use, or (2) the use of the vehicle
after such device or element of design has been removed
or rendered inoperative by any person.

Among those acts presumed to constitute tampering are
the acts listed below.

• AIR CLEANER

− Removal of the air cleaner.

− Removal of the air cleaner filter element from the air

cleaner housing.

− Removal of the air ducting.

• EXHAUST SYSTEM

− Removal or rendering inoperative exhaust system

components including the muffler or tailpipe.

• ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM

− Removal or rendering inoperative the fan clutch.

− Removal of the fan shroud.

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Noise Emission Warranty
The manufacturer warrants that this vehicle as manufac-
tured by the manufacturer, was designed, built and
equipped to conform at the time it left the manufacturer’s
control with all applicable U.S. EPA Noise Control Regu-
lations.

This warranty covers this vehicle as designed, built and
equipped by the manufacturer, and is not limited to any

particular part, component or system of the vehicle
manufactured by the manufacturer. Defects in design,
assembly or in any part, component or system of the
vehicle as manufactured by the manufacturer, which, at
the time it left the manufacturer’s control, caused noise
emissions to exceed Federal standards, are covered by
this warranty for the life of the vehicle.

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Maintenance Log and Service Chart (Diesel Engines)

Noise Systems Maintenance Chart and Service Log — Insert Month, Day, Year under column mileage closest to

the mileage at which service was performed.
MILES

7,500

15,000

22,500

30,000

37,500

45,000

52,500

60,000

KILOMETERS

12 000

24 000

36 000

48 000

60 000

72 000

84 000

96 000

Exhaust system-inspect
Air cleaner assembly-inspect
ODOMETER READING
PERFORMED BY
PERFORMED AT

MILES

67,500

75,000

82,500

90,000

97,500

84,000

105,00

112,500

KILOMETERS

108 000

120 000

132 000

144 000

126 000

156 000

168 000

181 000

Exhaust system-inspect
Air cleaner assembly-inspect
ODOMETER READING
PERFORMED BY
PERFORMED AT

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Appearance Care and Protection from Corrosion

Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion
Vehicle body care requirements vary according to geo-
graphic locations and usage. Chemicals that make roads
passable in snow and ice, and those that are sprayed on
trees and road surfaces during other seasons, are highly
corrosive to the metal in your vehicle. Outside parking,
which exposes your vehicle to airborne contaminants,
road surfaces on which the vehicle is operated, extreme
hot or cold weather and other extreme conditions will
have an adverse effect on paint, metal trim, and under-
body protection.

The following maintenance recommendations will enable
you to obtain maximum benefit from the corrosion
resistance built into your vehicle.

What Causes Corrosion?
Corrosion is the result of deterioration or removal of
paint and protective coatings from your vehicle.

The most common causes are:

• Road salt, dirt and moisture accumulation.
• Stone and gravel impact.
• Insects, tree sap and tar.
• Salt in the air near seacoast localities.
• Atmospheric fallout/industrial pollutants.

Washing

• Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your ve-

hicle in the shade using Mopar Car Wash or a mild car
wash soap, and rinse the panels completely with clear
water.

• If insects, tar or other similar deposits have accumu-

lated on your vehicle, use Mopar Super Kleen Bug and
Tar Remover to remove.

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• Use Mopar Cleaner Wax to remove road film, stains

and to protect your paint finish. Take care never to
scratch the paint.

• Avoid using abrasive compounds and power buffing

that may diminish the gloss or thin out the paint
finish.

CAUTION!

Do not use abrasive or strong cleaning materials such
as steel wool or scouring powder, which will scratch
metal and painted surfaces.

Special Care

• If you drive on salted or dusty roads or if you drive

near the ocean, hose off the undercarriage at least once
a month.

• It is important that the drain holes in the lower edges

of the doors, rocker panels and trunk be kept clear and
open.

• If you detect any stone chips or scratches in the paint,

touch them up immediately. The cost of such repairs is
considered the responsibility of the owner.

• If your vehicle is damaged due to an accident or

similar cause which destroys the paint and protective
coating, have your vehicle repaired as soon as pos-
sible. The cost of such repairs is considered the respon-
sibility of the owner.

• If you carry special cargo such as chemicals, fertilizers,

de-icer salt, etc., be sure that such materials are well
packaged and sealed.

• If a lot of driving is done on gravel roads, consider

mud or stone shields behind each wheel.

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• Use Mopar touch up paint on scratches as soon as

possible. Your dealer has touch up paint to match the
color of your vehicle.

Wheel and Wheel Trim Care
All wheels and wheel trim, especially aluminum and
chrome plated wheels should be cleaned regularly with a
mild soap and water to prevent corrosion. To remove
heavy soil, use Mopar Wheel Cleaner or select a nonabra-
sive, non-acidic cleaner. Do not use scouring pads, steel
wool, a bristle brush or metal polishes. Only Mopar
cleaners are recommended. Do not use oven cleaner.
Avoid automatic car washes that use acidic solutions or
harsh brushes that may damage the wheels’ protective
finish.

YES Essentials

威 Fabric Cleaning Procedure – If

equipped
YES Essentials

威 seats may be cleaned in the following

manner:

• Remove as much of the stain as possible by blotting

with a clean, dry towel.

• Blot any remaining stain with a clean, damp towel.
• For tough stains, apply Mopar Total Clean or a mild

soap solution to a clean, damp cloth and remove stain.
Use a fresh, damp towel to remove soap residue.

• For grease stains, apply Mopar Multi-purpose cleaner

to a clean, damp cloth and remove stain. Use a fresh,
damp towel to remove soap residue.

• Do not use any solvents or protectants on Yes Essen-

tials products.

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Interior Care
Use Mopar Total Clean to clean fabric upholstery and
carpeting.

Use Mopar Total Clean to clean vinyl upholstery.

Mopar Total Clean is specifically recommended for
leather upholstery.

Your leather upholstery can be best preserved by regular
cleaning with a damp soft cloth. Small particles of dirt
can act as an abrasive and damage the leather upholstery
and should be removed promptly with a damp cloth.
Stubborn soils can be removed easily with a soft cloth
and Mopar Total Clean. Care should be taken to avoid
soaking your leather upholstery with any liquid. Please
do not use polishes, oils, cleaning fluids, solvents, deter-
gents, or ammonia based cleaners to clean your leather
upholstery. Application of a leather conditioner is not
required to maintain the original condition.

WARNING!

Do not use volatile solvents for cleaning purposes.
Many are potentially flammable, and if used in
closed areas they may cause respiratory harm.

Glass Surfaces
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis
with Mopar Glass Cleaner or any commercial household-
type glass cleaner. Never use an abrasive type cleaner.
Use caution when cleaning the inside rear window
equipped with electric defrosters or the right rear quarter
window equipped with the radio antenna. Do not use
scrapers or other sharp instruments which may scratch
the elements. When cleaning the rear view mirror, spray
cleaner on the towel or rag that you are using. Do not
spray cleaner directly on the mirror.

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Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in this vehicle are
molded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, care
must be taken to avoid scratching the plastic.

1. Clean with a wet soft rag. A mild soap solution may be
used, but do not use high alcohol content or abrasive
cleaners. If soap is used, wipe clean with a clean damp
rag.

2. Dry with a soft tissue.

Seat Belt Maintenance
Do not bleach, dye or clean the belts with chemical
solvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the fabric.
Sun damage can also weaken the fabric.

If the belts need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or
lukewarm water. Do not remove the belts from the car to
wash them.

Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the
buckles do not work properly.

Dry with a soft tissue.

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FUSES (INTEGRATED POWER MODULE)
An integrated Power Module is located in the engine
compartment near the battery. This center contains car-
tridge fuses and mini fuses. A description of each fuse
and component may be stamped on the inside cover
otherwise the cavity number of each fuse is stamped on
the inside cover that corresponds to the following chart.

Cavity Cartridge

Fuse

Mini

Fuse

Description

1

20 Amp
Yellow

Power Outlet Console

2

20 Amp
Yellow

Cabin Compartment
Node (CCN) Door
Locks

3

20 Amp
Yellow

Spare

4

15 Amp
Blue

Aisin Transmission
Controls — If
Equipped (Diesel Only)

5

20 Amp
Yellow

Power Sunroof

6

10 Amp
Red

Vistronic Fan/
Wastegate Solenoid

7

15 Amp
Blue

Reverse Lockout Sole-
noid Battery (SRT-10
Only)

Integrated Power Module Location

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