Dodge Ram 1500 (2011 year). Manual — part 29

lever is activated while the brake is also applied, the
greater of the two inputs determines the power sent to
the trailer brakes.

The trailer and the vehicle’s brake lamps will come on
when either vehicle braking or manual trailer brakes are
applied.

Trailer Brake Status Indicator Light
This light indicates the trailer electrical connection status.

If no electrical connection is detected after the ignition is
turned on, pressing the GAIN adjustment button or
sliding the manual brake control lever will display the
GAIN setting for 10 seconds and the “Trailer Brake Status
Indicator Light” will not be displayed.

If a fault is detected in the trailer wiring or the Integrated
Trailer Brake Module (ITBM), the “Trailer Brake Status
Indicator Light” will flash.

GAIN Adjustment Buttons (+/-)
Pressing these buttons will adjust the brake control
power output to the trailer brakes in 0.5 increments. The
GAIN setting can be increased to a maximum of 10 or
decreased to a minimum of 0 (no trailer braking).

GAIN
The GAIN setting is used to set the trailer brake control
for the specific towing condition and should be changed
as towing conditions change. Changes to towing condi-
tions include trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions
and weather.

Adjusting GAIN

NOTE:

This should only be performed in a traffic free

environment at speeds of approximately 20–25 mph
(30–40 km/h).

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1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working
condition, functioning normally, and properly adjusted.
See your trailer dealer if necessary.

2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical connec-
tions according to the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.

3. When a trailer with electric brakes is plugged in, the
GAIN setting will illuminate.

4. Use the GAIN adjustment (+/-) buttons to increase or
decrease the GAIN setting to the desired starting point. A
GAIN setting of 6 is a good starting point for heavier
loads.

5. In a traffic-free environment, tow the trailer on a dry,
level surface at a speed of 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h) and
squeeze the manual brake control lever completely.

6. If the trailer wheels lockup (indicated by squealing
tires), reduce the GAIN setting; if the trailer wheels turn
freely, increase the GAIN setting.

Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until the GAIN setting is at a point
just below trailer wheel lockup. If towing a heavier
trailer, trailer wheel lockup may not be attainable even
with the maximum GAIN setting of 10.

EVIC Display Messages
The trailer brake control interacts with the Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC). Display messages,
along with a single chime, will be displayed when a
malfunction is determined in the trailer connection,
trailer brake control, or on the trailer. Refer to “Electronic
Vehicle Information Center” in “Understanding Your
Instrument Panel” for further information.

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CAUTION!

The ITBM module has been designed and verified
for electric trailer brakes. Connecting a trailer that is
not compatible with the ITBM system may result in
reduced or complete loss of trailer braking. There
may be a increase in stopping distance or trailer
instability which could result in damage to your
vehicle, trailer, or other property.

WARNING!

The ITBM module has been designed and verified
for electric trailer brakes. Connecting a trailer that is
not compatible with the ITBM system may result in
reduced or complete loss of trailer braking. There
may be a increase in stopping distance or trailer
instability which could result in personal injury.

NOTE:

• An aftermarket controller may be available for use

with trailers with air or electric-over-hydraulic trailer
brake systems. To determine the type of brakes on
your trailer and the availability of controllers, check
with your trailer manufacturer or dealer.

• Removal of the ITBM will cause errors and it may

cause damage to the electrical system and electronic
modules of the vehicle. See your authorized dealer if
an aftermarket module is to be installed.

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Towing Requirements – Trailer Lights and Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.

The Trailer Tow Package will include a four and seven-
pin wiring harness. Use a factory approved trailer har-
ness and connector.

NOTE:

Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s

wiring harness.

The electrical connections are all complete to the vehicle
but you must mate the harness to a trailer connector.
Refer to the following illustrations.

Four-Pin Connector

1 — Female Pins

4 — Park

2 — Male Pin

5 — Left Stop/Turn

3 — Ground

6 — Right Stop/Turn

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463

WARNING!

Any work done to the vehicle’s electrical system or
wiring should be performed by a qualified automo-
tive technician. If done improperly it may cause
damage to the electrical system wiring and could
result in serious or fatal injury.

Towing Tips
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping
and backing the trailer up in an area away from heavy
traffic.

Automatic Transmission
The “DRIVE” range can be selected when towing. How-
ever, if frequent shifting occurs while in this range, select
“TOW/HAUL” mode (if equipped) or select a lower gear
using the Electronic Range Select (ERS) feature.

Seven-Pin Connector

1 — Battery

5 — Ground

2 — Backup Lamps

6 — Left Stop/Turn

3 — Right Stop/Turn

7 — Running Lamps

4 — Electric Brakes

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NOTE:

Using “TOW/HAUL” mode or a lower gear

range while operating the vehicle under heavy operating
conditions will improve performance and extend trans-
mission life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build
up. This action will also provide better engine braking.

The automatic transmission fluid and filter should be
changed if you regularly tow a trailer for more than
45 minutes of continuous operation. Refer to “Mainte-
nance Schedule” for the proper maintenance intervals.

NOTE:

Check the automatic transmission fluid level

before towing.

Tow/Haul
To reduce potential for automatic transmission overheat-
ing, turn the “TOW/HAUL” feature ON when driving in
hilly areas, or select a lower gear range (using the
Electronic Range Select (ERS) feature) on more severe
grades.

Electronic Speed Control – If Equipped

− Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.

− When using the speed control, if you experience speed

drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed.

− Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to

maximize fuel efficiency.

Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission over-
heating, take the following actions:

− City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, shift the trans-
mission into NEUTRAL and increase engine idle speed.

− Highway Driving
Reduce speed.

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465

− Air Conditioning
Turn off temporarily.

SNOWPLOW

1500 Models Only

NOTE:

Do not use this model vehicle for snowplow

applications.

WARNING!

Snowplows and other aftermarket equipment should
not be added to the front end of your vehicle. The
airbag crash sensors may be affected by the change in
the front end structure. The airbags could deploy
unexpectedly or could fail to deploy during a colli-
sion resulting in serious injury or death.

CAUTION!

Using this vehicle for snowplow applications can
cause damage to the vehicle.

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 de-
scribed earlier in this manual

2500/3500 Models Only
Snowplow Prep Packages are available as a factory
installed option. These packages include components
necessary to equip your vehicle with a snowplow.

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NOTE:

Before installation of a snowplow it is highly

recommended that the owner/installer obtain and follow
the recommendations contained within the current
Dodge Body Builders Guide. See your authorized dealer,
installer or snowplow manufacturer for this information.
There are unique electrical systems that must be con-
nected to properly assure operator safety and prevent
overloading vehicle systems.

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 de-
scribed earlier in this manual

CAUTION!

The “Lamp Out” indicator could illuminate if exte-
rior lamps are not properly installed.

Before Plowing

• Check the hydraulic system for leaks and proper fluid

level.

• Check the mounting bolts and nuts for proper tight-

ness.

• Check the runners and cutting edge for excessive wear.

The cutting edge should be 1/4 to 1/2 in (6 cm to
1.2 cm) above ground in snow plowing position.

• Check that snowplow lighting is connected and func-

tioning properly.

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467

Snowplow Prep Package Model Availability
For Information about snowplow applications visit
www.dodge.com or refer to the current Dodge Body
Builders 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.

The loaded vehicle weight, including the snowplow
system, all aftermarket accessories, driver, passengers,
options, and cargo, must not exceed either the Gross
Vehicle Weight (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight (GAWR)
ratings. These weights are specified on the Safety Com-
pliance Certification Label on the driver’s side door
opening.

NOTE:

Detach the snowplow when transporting pas-

sengers.

Vehicle front end wheel alignment was set to specifica-
tions at the factory without consideration for the weight
of the plow. Front end toe-in should be checked and reset
if necessary at the beginning and end of the snowplow
season. This will help prevent uneven tire wear.

The blade should be lowered whenever the vehicle is
parked.

Maintain and operate your vehicle and snowplow equip-
ment following the recommendations provided by the
specific snowplow manufacturer.

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Over the Road Operation With Snowplow
Attached
The blade restricts air flow to the radiator and causes the
engine to operate at higher than normal temperatures.
Therefore, when transporting the plow, angle the blade
completely and position it as low as road or surface
conditions permit. Do not exceed 40 mph (64 km/h). The
operator should always maintain a safe stopping distance
and allow adequate passing clearance.

Operating Tips
Under ideal snow plowing conditions, 20 mph (32 km/h)
should be maximum operating speed. The operator
should be familiar with the area and surface to be
cleaned. Reduce speed and use extreme caution when
plowing unfamiliar areas or under poor visibility.

NOTE:

During snowplow usage on vehicles equipped

with outside temperature display, the display may show
higher temperatures than the outside ambient tempera-
ture. The higher displayed temperature is due to blocked
or reduced airflow to the underhood ambient tempera-
ture sensor caused by the snowplow. In addition, on
vehicles equipped with Automatic Temperature Control
(ATC), it is suggested that the interior cabin temperature
be manually controlled should the system not perform as
desired while in automatic mode. Both the outside tem-
perature display and ATC operation will return to nor-
mal when the snowplow is removed.

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469

General Maintenance
Snowplows should be maintained in accordance with the
plow manufacturer’s instructions.

Keep all snowplow electrical connections and battery
terminals clean and free of corrosion.

When plowing snow, to avoid transmission and drive-
train damage, the following precautions should be ob-
served.

• Operate with transfer case in 4L when plowing small

or congested areas where speeds are not likely to
exceed 15 mph (24 km/h). At higher speeds operate in
4H.

• Vehicles with automatic transmissions should use 4L

range when plowing deep or heavy snow for extended
periods of time to avoid transmission overheating.

• Do not shift the transmission unless the engine has

returned to idle and wheels have stopped. Make a
practice of stepping on the brake pedal before shifting
the transmission.

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RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.)
Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle

Towing Condition

Wheels OFF the

Ground

Two-Wheel Drive

Models

Four-Wheel Drive Models

Flat Tow

NONE

NOT ALLOWED

See Instructions

• Automatic transmission in PARK
• Manual transmission in gear

(NOT in NEUTRAL (N)

• Transfer case in NEUTRAL (N)
• Tow in forward direction

Dolly Tow

Front

NOT ALLOWED

NOT ALLOWED

Rear

OK

NOT ALLOWED

On Trailer

ALL

OK

OK

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Recreational Towing – Two-Wheel Drive Models
DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the drivetrain
will result.

Recreational towing (for two-wheel drive models) is
allowed ONLY if the rear wheels are OFF the ground.
This may be accomplished using a tow dolly or vehicle
trailer. If using a tow dolly, follow this procedure:

1. Properly secure the dolly to the tow vehicle, following
the dolly manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Drive the rear wheels onto the tow dolly.

3. Firmly set the parking brake. Place automatic trans-
mission in PARK, manual transmission in gear (not in
Neutral).

4. Properly secure the rear wheels to the dolly, following
the dolly manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Remove the key fob from the ignition switch.

6. Install a suitable clamping device, designed for tow-
ing, to secure the front wheels in the straight position.

CAUTION!

• Towing with the rear wheels on the ground will

cause severe transmission damage. Damage from
improper towing is not covered under the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.

• Do not disconnect the driveshaft because fluid

will leak from the transmission, causing damage
to internal parts.

Recreational Towing – Four-Wheel Drive Models

NOTE:

Both the manual shift and electronic shift trans-

fer cases must be shifted into NEUTRAL for recreational
towing. Automatic transmissions must be shifted into
PARK for recreational towing. Manual transmissions

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must be placed in gear (NOT in NEUTRAL) for recre-
ational towing. Refer to the following for the proper
transfer case NEUTRAL shifting procedure for your
vehicle.

CAUTION!

• Front or rear wheel lifts should not be used.

Internal damage to the transmission or transfer
case will occur if a front or rear wheel lift is used
when recreational towing.

• Tow only in the forward direction. Towing this

vehicle backwards can cause severe damage to the
transfer case.

• Automatic transmissions must be placed in the

PARK position for recreational towing.

• Manual transmissions must be placed in gear (not

in Neutral) for recreational towing.

(Continued)

CAUTION! (Continued)

• Before recreational towing, perform the procedure

outlined under “Shifting Into NEUTRAL” to be
certain that the transfer case is fully in NEUTRAL.
Otherwise, internal damage will result.

• Towing this vehicle in violation of the above

requirements can cause severe transmission and/or
transfer case damage. Damage from improper tow-
ing is not covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.

• Do not disconnect the rear driveshaft because

fluid will leak from the transfer case, causing
damage to internal parts.

• Do not use a bumper-mounted clamp-on tow bar

on your vehicle. The bumper face bar will be
damaged.

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Shifting Into Neutral (N) – Manual Shift Transfer
Case (If Equipped)
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for
recreational towing.

WARNING!

You or others could be injured if you leave the
vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the
Neutral (N) position without first fully engaging the
parking brake. The transfer case Neutral (N) position
disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from
the powertrain and will allow the vehicle to move,
even if the transmission is in PARK. The parking
brake should always be applied when the driver is
not in the vehicle.

CAUTION!

It is necessary to follow these steps to be certain that
the transfer case is fully in Neutral (N) before recre-
ational towing to prevent damage to internal parts.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

2. Turn OFF the engine.

3. Press and hold the brake pedal.

4. Shift the automatic transmission into NEUTRAL or
depress the clutch pedal on a manual transmission.

5. Shift the transfer case lever into Neutral (N).

6. Start the engine.

7. Shift the transmission into REVERSE.

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8. Release the brake pedal (and clutch pedal on manual
transmissions) for five seconds and ensure that there is
no vehicle movement.

9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 with automatic transmission in
DRIVE or manual transmission in first gear.

10. Turn OFF the engine.

11. Firmly apply the parking brake.

12. Shift the transmission into PARK or place manual
transmission in gear (not in Neutral).

CAUTION!

Damage to the transmission may occur if the trans-
mission is shifted into PARK with the transfer case in
Neutral (N) and the engine running. With the trans-
fer case in Neutral (N) ensure that the engine is OFF
prior to shifting the transmission into PARK.

13. Remove the key fob from the ignition switch.

14. Attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle using a suitable
tow bar.

15. Release the parking brake.

Shifting Out of Neutral (N) – Manual Shift
Transfer Case (If Equipped)
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for
normal usage.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, leaving it con-
nected to the tow vehicle.

2. Firmly apply the parking brake.

3. Insert the key fob into the ignition switch and turn it to
the ON/RUN position, but do not start the engine.

4. Press and hold the brake pedal.

5. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.

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