RAM 3500 Chassis Cab (2019 year). Manual — part 29

460 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Tire Types

All Season Tires — If Equipped

All Season tires provide traction for all seasons (Spring,

Summer, Fall, and Winter). Traction levels may vary

between different all season tires. All season tires can be

identified by the M+S, M&S, M/S or MS designation on the

tire sidewall. Use all season tires only in sets of four; failure

to do so may adversely affect the safety and handling of your

vehicle.

Summer Or Three Season Tires — If Equipped

Summer tires provide traction in both wet and dry condi-

tions, and are not intended to be driven in snow or on ice. If

your vehicle is equipped with Summer tires, be aware these

tires are not designed for Winter or cold driving conditions.

Install Winter tires on your vehicle when ambient tempera-

tures are less than 40°F (5°C) or if roads are covered with ice

or snow. For more information, contact an authorized dealer.
Summer tires do not contain the all season designation or

mountain/snowflake symbol on the tire sidewall. Use

Summer tires only in sets of four; failure to do so may

adversely affect the safety and handling of your vehicle.

• Never use a tire with a smaller load index or capacity,

other than what was originally equipped on your

vehicle. Using a tire with a smaller load index could

result in tire overloading and failure. You could lose

control and have a collision.

• Failure to equip your vehicle with tires having

adequate speed capability can result in sudden tire

failure and loss of vehicle control.

CAUTION!

Replacing original tires with tires of a different size may

result in false speedometer and odometer readings.

WARNING! (Continued)

WARNING!

Do not use Summer tires in snow/ice conditions. You

could lose vehicle control, resulting in severe injury or

death. Driving too fast for conditions also creates the

possibility of loss of vehicle control.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

461

Snow Tires

Some areas of the country require the use of snow tires

during the Winter. Snow tires can be identified by a “moun-

tain/snowflake” symbol on the tire sidewall.

If you need snow tires, select tires equivalent in size

and type to the original equipment tires. Use snow

tires only in sets of four; failure to do so may

adversely affect the safety and handling of your vehicle.
Snow tires generally have lower speed ratings than what was

originally equipped with your vehicle and should not be

operated at sustained speeds over 75 mph (120 km/h). For

speeds above 75 mph (120 km/h) refer to original equipment

or an authorized tire dealer for recommended safe operating

speeds, loading and cold tire inflation pressures.
While studded tires improve performance on ice, skid and

traction capability on wet or dry surfaces may be poorer than

that of non-studded tires. Some states prohibit studded tires;

therefore, local laws should be checked before using these

tire types.

Spare Tires — If Equipped

NOTE:

For vehicles equipped with Tire Service Kit instead of a spare

tire, please refer to “Tire Service Kit” in “In Case Of Emer-

gency” for further information.

Refer to the “Towing Requirements - Tires” in “Starting And

Operating” for restrictions when towing with a spare tire

designated for temporary emergency use.
Spare Tire Matching Original Equipped Tire And Wheel
— If Equipped

Your vehicle may be equipped with a spare tire and wheel

equivalent in look and function to the original equipment

tire and wheel found on the front or rear axle of your vehicle.

This spare tire may be used in the tire rotation for your

vehicle. If your vehicle has this option, refer to an authorized

tire dealer for the recommended tire rotation pattern.

CAUTION!

Because of the reduced ground clearance, do not take

your vehicle through an automatic car wash with a

compact or limited use temporary spare installed.

Damage to the vehicle may result.

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462 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Compact Spare Tire — If Equipped

The compact spare is for temporary emergency use only.

You can identify if your vehicle is equipped with a compact

spare by looking at the spare tire description on the Tire and

Loading Information Placard located on the driver’s side

door opening or on the sidewall of the tire. Compact spare

tire descriptions begin with the letter “T” or “S” preceding

the size designation. Example: T145/80D18 103M.
T, S = Temporary Spare Tire
Since this tire has limited tread life, the original equipment

tire should be repaired (or replaced) and reinstalled on your

vehicle at the first opportunity.
Do not install a wheel cover or attempt to mount a conven-

tional tire on the compact spare wheel, since the wheel is

designed specifically for the compact spare tire. Do not

install more than one compact spare tire and wheel on the

vehicle at any given time.

Collapsible Spare Tire — If Equipped

The collapsible spare is for temporary emergency use only.

You can identify if your vehicle is equipped with a collaps-

ible spare by looking at the spare tire description on the Tire

and Loading Information Placard located on the driver’s side

door opening or on the sidewall of the tire.
Collapsible spare tire description example: 165/80-17 101P.
Since this tire has limited tread life, the original equipment

tire should be repaired (or replaced) and reinstalled on your

vehicle at the first opportunity.
Inflate collapsible tire only after the wheel is properly

installed to the vehicle. Inflate the collapsible tire using the

electric air pump before lowering the vehicle.

WARNING!

Compact and collapsible spares are for temporary

emergency use only. With these spares, do not drive

more than 50 mph (80 km/h). Temporary use spares have

limited tread life. When the tread is worn to the tread

wear indicators, the temporary use spare tire needs to be

replaced. Be sure to follow the warnings, which apply to

your spare. Failure to do so could result in spare tire

failure and loss of vehicle control.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

463

Do not install a wheel cover or attempt to mount a conven-

tional tire on the collapsible spare wheel, since the wheel is

designed specifically for the collapsible spare tire.

Full Size Spare — If Equipped

The full size spare is for temporary emergency use only. This

tire may look like the originally equipped tire on the front or

rear axle of your vehicle, but it is not. This spare tire may

have limited tread life. When the tread is worn to the tread

wear indicators, the temporary use full size spare tire needs

to be replaced. Since it is not the same as your original equip-

ment tire, replace (or repair) the original equipment tire and

reinstall on the vehicle at the first opportunity.

Limited Use Spare — If Equipped

The limited use spare tire is for temporary emergency use

only. This tire is identified by a label located on the limited

use spare wheel. This label contains the driving limitations

for this spare. This tire may look like the original equipped

tire on the front or rear axle of your vehicle, but it is not.

Installation of this limited use spare tire affects vehicle

handling. Since it is not the same as your original equipment

tire, replace (or repair) the original equipment tire and rein-

stall on the vehicle at the first opportunity.

WARNING!

Compact and Collapsible spares are for temporary

emergency use only. With these spares, do not drive

more than 50 mph (80 km/h). Temporary use spares have

limited tread life. When the tread is worn to the tread

wear indicators, the temporary use spare tire needs to be

replaced. Be sure to follow the warnings, which apply to

your spare. Failure to do so could result in spare tire

failure and loss of vehicle control.

WARNING!

Limited use spares are for emergency use only.

Installation of this limited use spare tire affects vehicle

handling. With this tire, do not drive more than the

speed listed on the limited use spare wheel. Keep

inflated to the cold tire inflation pressures listed on your

Tire and Loading Information Placard located on the

driver’s side B-Pillar or the rear edge of the driver’s side

door. Replace (or repair) the original equipment tire at

the first opportunity and reinstall it on your vehicle.

Failure to do so could result in loss of vehicle control.

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464 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Wheel And Wheel Trim Care

All wheels and wheel trim, especially aluminum and chrome

plated wheels, should be cleaned regularly using mild

(neutral Ph) soap and water to maintain their luster and to

prevent corrosion. Wash wheels with the same soap solution

recommended for the body of the vehicle and remember to

always wash when the surfaces are not hot to the touch.
Your wheels are susceptible to deterioration caused by salt,

sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, etc.,

and other road chemicals used to melt ice or control dust on

dirt roads. Use a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap to wipe

away promptly. Do not use harsh chemicals or a stiff brush.

They can damage the wheel’s protective coating that helps

keep them from corroding and tarnishing.

When cleaning extremely dirty wheels including excessive

brake dust, care must be taken in the selection of tire and

wheel cleaning chemicals and equipment to prevent damage

to the wheels. Mopar Wheel Treatment or Mopar Chrome

Cleaner or their equivalent is recommended or select a

non-abrasive, non-acidic cleaner for aluminum or chrome

wheels.

NOTE:

If you intend parking or storing your vehicle for an extended

period after cleaning the wheels with wheel cleaner, drive

your vehicle and apply the brakes to remove the water drop-

lets from the brake components. This activity will remove the

red rust on the brake rotors and prevent vehicle vibration

when braking.

CAUTION!

Avoid products or automatic car washes that use acidic

solutions or strong alkaline additives or harsh brushes.

Many aftermarket wheel cleaners and automatic car

washes may damage the wheel's protective finish. Such

damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited

Warranty. Only car wash soap, Mopar Wheel Cleaner or

equivalent is recommended.

CAUTION!

Do not use scouring pads, steel wool, a bristle brush,

metal polishes or oven cleaner. These products may

damage the wheel's protective finish. Such damage is not

covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Only car

wash soap, Mopar Wheel Cleaner or equivalent is

recommended.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

465

Dark Vapor Chrome, Black Satin Chrome, or Low Gloss

Clear Coat Wheels

Tire Chains (Traction Devices)

Use of traction devices require sufficient tire-to-body clear-

ance. Follow these recommendations to guard against

damage.
• Traction device must be of proper size for the tire, as

recommended by the traction device manufacturer.

Please follow the table below for proper tire size, chain type,

and axle recommendations:

CAUTION!

If your vehicle is equipped with these specialty wheels,

DO NOT USE wheel cleaners, abrasives, or polishing

compounds. They will permanently damage this finish

and such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle

Limited Warranty. HAND WASH ONLY USING MILD

SOAP AND WATER WITH A SOFT CLOTH. Used on a

regular basis; this is all that is required to maintain this

finish.

Vehicle

Axle Recommendations

Tire Sizes

Chain Class

Chassis Cab 3500 (Single Rear

Wheel) Models

Rear Only

LT275/70R18E

U Class

Chassis Cab 3500 (Dual Rear

Wheel) 4X2 Models

Rear Only

LT235/80R17E

U Class

Chassis Cab 3500 (Dual Rear

Wheel) 4X4 Models

Front/Rear

LT235/80R17E

U Class

Chassis Cab 4500/5500 Models

Rear Only

225/70R19.5G

U Class

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466 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

(Continued)

Tire Rotation Recommendations

Tires on the front and rear axles of vehicles operate at

different loads and perform different steering, driving, and

braking functions. For these reasons, they wear at unequal

rates.
These effects can be reduced by timely rotation of tires. The

benefits of rotation are especially worthwhile with aggres-

sive tread designs such as those on On/Off Road type tires.

Rotation will increase tread life, help to maintain mud, snow,

and wet traction levels, and contribute to a smooth, quiet

ride.

WARNING!

Using tires of different size and type (M+S, Snow)

between front and rear axles can cause unpredictable

handling. You could lose control and have a collision.

CAUTION!

To avoid damage to your vehicle or tires, observe the

following precautions:
• Because of restricted traction device clearance between

tires and other suspension components, it is important

that only traction devices in good condition are used.

Broken devices can cause serious damage. Stop the

vehicle immediately if noise occurs that could indicate

device breakage. Remove the damaged parts of the

device before further use.

• Install device as tightly as possible and then retighten

after driving about ½ mile (0.8 km).

• Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
• Drive cautiously and avoid severe turns and large

bumps, especially with a loaded vehicle.

• Do not drive for a prolonged period on dry pavement.

• Observe the traction device manufacturer’s instruc-

tions on the method of installation, operating speed,

and conditions for use. Always use the suggested oper-

ating speed of the device manufacturer’s if it is less

than 30 mph (48 km/h).

• Do not use traction devices on a compact spare tire.

CAUTION! (Continued)

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

467

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper maintenance

intervals. More frequent rotation is permissible if desired.

The reasons for any rapid or unusual wear should be

corrected prior to rotation being performed.

Tire Rotation

NOTE:

On Canadian vehicles only, if your vehicle is equipped with

All-Season type tires on the front and On/Off Road type tires

mounted on the rear, do not use a front to back rotation

pattern. Instead, rotate your tires side to side at the recom-

mended intervals.

Dual Rear Wheels

Tire Rotation

The tires used on dual wheel assemblies should be matched

for wear to prevent overloading one tire in a set. To check if

tires are even, lay a straight edge across all four tires. The

straight edge should touch all the tires.

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468 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

(Continued)

NOTE:

If your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Information

System (TPIS):
• The Tire Pressure Information System (TPIS) uses unique

sensors in the inner rear wheels to help identify them from

the outer rear wheels, because of this, the inner and outer

wheel locations can’t be switched.

• After a tire rotation is completed, as shown below, the

system can auto learn the locations of each sensor ID. Auto

learning/localization occurs when the vehicle ignition

status is changed from Off to On and speeds of greater

than 5 mph (8km/h) are obtained and remain over 5mph

(8km/h) for at about a 15 minute period. You may need to

drive for 20 minutes to account slower speeds and stops.

• If the tires are rotated incorrectly, the Auto localization of

the TPIS sensors will fail to locate correctly resulting in

incorrect locations for the pressure values displayed in the

Instrument Cluster.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM
TIRE QUALITY GRADES

The following tire grading categories were established by

the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The

specific grade rating assigned by the tire's manufacturer

in each category is shown on the sidewall of the tires on

your vehicle.
All passenger vehicle tires must conform to Federal safety

requirements in addition to these grades.

CAUTION!

• 4500/5500 Dual Rear Tires may only have one approved

direction of rotation. This is to accommodate the asym-

metrical design (tread pattern) of the On/Off road tire.

• When replacing a flat, the spare tire may have to be

remounted on the rim or installed at a different location

to maintain the correct placement of the tire on the

wheel relative to the tire/wheel position on the vehicle.

For example, if the spare is used to replace an outer rear

tire it will have to be remounted on the rim so that the

wheel is dished inward. That way the tread design of

asymmetrical tires will maintain proper position.

CAUTION! (Continued)

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

469

Treadwear

The Treadwear grade is a comparative rating, based on

the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled

conditions on a specified government test course. For

example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half

times as well on the government course as a tire graded

100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the

actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart

significantly from the norm due to variations in driving

habits, service practices, and differences in road charac-

teristics and climate.
Traction Grades

The Traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B,

and C. These grades represent the tire's ability to stop on

wet pavement, as measured under controlled conditions

on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and

concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction perfor-

mance.

Temperature Grades

The Temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C,

representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat

and its ability to dissipate heat, when tested under

controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test

wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the

tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive

temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C

corresponds to a level of performance, which all

passenger vehicle tires must meet under the Federal

Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A

represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory

test wheel, than the minimum required by law.

WARNING!

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on

straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not

include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak

traction characteristics.

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470 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

STORING THE VEHICLE

If you are storing your vehicle for more than 21 days, we

recommend that you take the following steps to minimize

the drain on your vehicle's battery:
• Disconnect the negative cable from battery.
• Any time you store your vehicle or keep it out of service

(i.e., vacation) for two weeks or more, run the air condi-

tioning system at idle for about five minutes in the fresh air

and high blower setting. This will ensure adequate system

lubrication to minimize the possibility of compressor

damage when the system is started again.

BODYWORK

Protection From Atmospheric Agents

Vehicle body care requirements vary according to

geographic 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 underbody protection.
The following maintenance recommendations will enable

you to obtain maximum benefit from the corrosion resistance

built into your vehicle.

WARNING!

The temperature grade for this tire is established for a

tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded.

Excessive speed, under-inflation, or excessive loading,

either separately or in combination, can cause heat

buildup and possible tire failure.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

471

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.

Body And Underbody Maintenance

Cleaning Headlights

Your vehicle is equipped with plastic headlights and fog

lights that are lighter and less susceptible to stone breakage

than glass headlights.
Plastic is not as scratch resistant as glass and therefore

different lens cleaning procedures must be followed.
To minimize the possibility of scratching the lenses and

reducing light output, avoid wiping with a dry cloth. To

remove road dirt, wash with a mild soap solution followed

by rinsing.

Do not use abrasive cleaning components, solvents, steel

wool or other aggressive material to clean the lenses.

Preserving The Bodywork

Washing
• Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your vehicle 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 accumulated

on your vehicle, use Mopar Super Kleen Bug and Tar

Remover to remove.

• Use a high quality cleaner wax, such as 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 that will scratch metal

and painted surfaces.

• Use of power washers exceeding 1,200 psi (8,274 kPa)

can result in damage or removal of paint and decals.

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472 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

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 a collision or similar

cause that destroys the paint and protective coating, have

your vehicle repaired as soon as possible. The cost of such

repairs is considered the responsibility of the owner.

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

de-icer salt, etc., be sure that such materials are well pack-

aged and sealed.

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

stone shields behind each wheel.

• Use Mopar Touch Up Paint on scratches as soon as

possible. An authorized dealer has touch up paint to

match the color of your vehicle.

INTERIORS

Seats And Fabric Parts

Use Mopar Total Clean to clean fabric upholstery and carpeting.

Stain Repel Fabric Cleaning Procedure — If Equipped

Stain Repel 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 harsh solvents or any other form of

protectants on Stain Repel products.

WARNING!

Do not use volatile solvents for cleaning purposes. Many

are potentially flammable, and if used in closed areas

they may cause respiratory harm.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

473

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 luke-

warm water. Do not remove the belts from the vehicle to

wash them. Dry with a soft cloth.
Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the

buckles do not work properly.
NOTE:

If the belts retract slowly, inspect the upper turning loop for

soiling. If soiling is present, clean with a wet soft cloth until

all residue is removed.

Plastic And Coated Parts

Use Mopar Total Clean to clean vinyl upholstery.

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 cloth. 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

cloth.

2. Dry with a soft cloth.

WARNING!

A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision and

leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt system

periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose parts.

Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not

disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt assemblies

must be replaced after a collision if they have been

damaged (i.e., bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.).

CAUTION!

• Direct contact of air fresheners, insect repellents,

suntan lotions, or hand sanitizers to the plastic,

painted, or decorated surfaces of the interior may cause

permanent damage. Wipe away immediately.

• Damage caused by these type of products may not be

covered by your New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

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474 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Leather Parts

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, detergents, or ammonia-based

cleaners to clean your leather upholstery. Application of a

leather conditioner is not required to maintain the original

condition.
NOTE:

If equipped with light colored leather, it tends to show any

foreign material, dirt, and fabric dye transfer more so than

darker colors. The leather is designed for easy cleaning, and

FCA recommends Mopar total care leather cleaner applied

on a cloth to clean the leather seats as needed.

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 windows equipped with radio

antennas. Do not use scrapers or other sharp instruments

that may scratch the elements.
When cleaning the rear view mirror, spray cleaner on the

towel or cloth that you are using. Do not spray cleaner

directly on the mirror.

CAUTION!

Do not use Alcohol and Alcohol-based and/or Ketone

based cleaning products to clean leather upholstery, as

damage to the upholstery may result.

475

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

IDENTIFICATION DATA

Vehicle Identification Number

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is found on the left

front corner of the instrument panel, visible through the

windshield. This number also appears on the vehicle frame

etched on right hand center rail, as well as the Automobile

Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on your

vehicle, the vehicle registration and title.

Vehicle Identification Number

NOTE:

It is illegal to remove or alter the VIN.

8