2023 RAM Chassis Cab Owner’s Manual

The 2023 RAM Chassis Cab lineup is a dynamic answer to business and industrial needs, combining power and adaptability in the right way. The 2023 Chassis Cab models have a bold, modern look and are made with cutting-edge technology. They come with a variety of powerful engines that have great torque and pulling capabilities. Inside, the focus is still on both comfort and functionality, with high-tech features that make it easy to link and help the driver. The 2023 RAM Chassis Cab series sets a new standard for heavy-duty performance and flexibility, meeting a wide range of business needs. They can be used for specialized upgrades or as stand-alone workhorses.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

 

SCHEDULED SERVICING
CAUTION: Failure to perform the required maintenance items may result in damage to the vehicle.

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 the instrument cluster display.
For Gasoline Engines, 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.
For Diesel Engines, under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first or sooner if prompted by the oil change indicator system.
NOTE

• 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.

For Diesel Engines, 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 — Diesel 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.

Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:

• Check engine oil level.
• Rotate tires at the first sign of irregular wear, even if it occurs before the oil indicator system turns on.
• Check the windshield washer fluid level.
• Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, and power steering and fill as needed.
• Check the function of all interior and exterior lights.

At Each Oil Change 

1. Change the engine oil and filter.
2. Inspect the exhaust system.
3. Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or damage. Rotate tires at the first sign of irregular wear, even if it occurs before the oil indicator system turns on.
4. Inspect the batteries, and clean and tighten the terminals as required.
5. Inspect the CV/Universal joints.
6. Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, hoses, and parking brakes.
7. Inspect engine cooling system protection and hoses.
8. Inspect front end, and lubricate — If equipped with serviceable fittings.
9. Inspect engine air cleaner filter if used in dusty or off-road conditions. If required, replace the engine air cleaner filter.
10. Inspect and replace the Evaporative System Fresh Air Filter as necessary, replacement may be more frequent if the vehicle is operated in extremely 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.

CHECKING OIL LEVEL
To ensure proper engine lubrication, the engine oil must be maintained at the correct level. Check the oil level at regular intervals, such as at every fuel stop. The best time to check the engine oil level is about five minutes after a fully warmed-up engine is shut off.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level readings.
There are four possible dipstick types:

• Crosshatched zone.
• Crosshatched zone marked SAFE.
• Crosshatched zone marked with MIN at the low end of the range and MAX at the high end of the range.
• Crosshatched zone marked with dimples at the MIN and the MAX ends of the range.

NOTE: Always maintain the oil level within the crosshatch markings on the dipstick.
Adding 1 qt (1 L) of oil when the reading is at the low end of the dipstick range will raise the oil level to the high end of the range marking.
CAUTION: Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will cause oil aeration or loss of oil pressure. This could damage your engine.

ADDING WASHER FLUID
The fluid reservoir is located under the hood and the fluid level should be checked at regular intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield washer solvent only (not radiator antifreeze). When refilling the washer fluid reservoir, take some washer fluid apply it to a cloth or towel, and wipe the wiper blades clean. This will help blade performance.
To prevent freeze-up of your windshield washer system in cold weather, select a solution or mixture that meets or exceeds the temperature range of your climate. This rating information can be found on most washer fluid containers.
WARNING: Commercially available windshield washer solvents are flammable. They could ignite and burn you. Care must be exercised when filling or working around the washer solution.

After the engine has warmed up, operate the defroster for a few minutes to reduce the possibility of smearing or freezing the fluid on the cold windshield. Windshield washer solution used with water as directed on the container aids cleaning action, reduces the freezing point to avoid line clogging, and is not harmful to paint or trim.

MAINTENANCE-FREE BATTERY
Your vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-free battery. You will never have to add water, and periodic maintenance is not required.
NOTE: Replacement batteries should both be of equal capacity to prevent damage to the vehicle’s charging system.
WARNING

• Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and can burn or even blind you. Do not allow battery fluid to contact your eyes, skin, or clothing. Do not lean over a battery when attaching clamps. If acid splashes in the eyes or on the skin, flush the area immediately with large amounts of water Ú page 334.
• Battery gas is flammable and explosive. Keep flame or sparks away from the battery. Do not use a booster battery or any other booster source with an output greater than 12 Volts. Do not allow cable clamps to touch each other.
• Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.
• It is essential when replacing the cables on the battery that the positive cable is attached to the positive post and the negative cable is attached to the negative post. Battery posts are marked positive (+) and negative (-) and are identified on the battery case. Cable clamps should be tight on the terminal posts and free of corrosion.
• If a “fast charger” is used while the battery is in the vehicle, disconnect both vehicle battery cables before connecting the charger to the battery. Do not use a “fast charger” to provide a starting voltage.

PRESSURE WASHING
Cleaning the engine compartment with a high-pressure washer is not recommended.
CAUTION: Precautions have been taken to safeguard all parts and connections however, the pressures generated by these machines are such that complete protection against water ingress cannot be guaranteed.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
An authorized dealer has the qualified service personnel, special tools, and equipment to perform all service operations in an expert manner. Service Manuals are available which include detailed service information for your vehicle. Refer to these Service Manuals before attempting any procedure yourself.
NOTE: Intentional tampering with emissions control systems may void your warranty and could result in civil penalties being assessed against you.
WARNING: You can be badly injured working on or around a motor vehicle. Only do service work for which you have the knowledge and the proper equipment. If you have any doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take your vehicle to a competent mechanic.

FAQ’s