Contents Section: Procedures All sections

Maintenance Information Dodge Ram Van II

Procedures 4 illustrations ~1738 words

MODEL IDENTIFICATION

Note. For scheduled maintenance intervals and the related fluid capacities, fluid specifications and labor times for major service intervals, see SCHEDULED SERVICES article below

  1. SCHEDULED SERVICES - LIGHT DUTY (1983-87)
  2. SCHEDULED SERVICES - HEAVY DUTY (FEDERAL) (1983-88)
  3. SCHEDULED SERVICES - HEAVY DUTY (CALIFORNIA)

Warranty information and specifications for fluid capacities, lubrication specifications, wheel and tire size, and battery type are covered in this article.

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 2

Scheme 2: VIN Code ID Explanation

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Normal Service and Severe Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Severe Service

  1. Frequent Short Trips (Less than 5 Miles)
  2. Frequent driving in Freezing Temperatures; Below 32°F (0°C)
  3. Towing Or Heavily Loaded
  4. Frequent driving in Dusty Conditions
  5. Hot Weather Driving; Above 90°F (30°C)
  6. Frequent Stop-And-Go Driving
  7. Snow Plowing
  8. Frequent Starting and Stopping
  9. Commercial Service
  10. Off road driving
  11. Desert Operation
  12. Sustained High Speed Operation
  13. Extensive Idling Conditions (Taxi Or Delivery Type Service)

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. NO Severe Service Operating Conditions

LIGHT & HEAVY DUTY SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Maintenance service is recommended at different mileage intervals based on Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

  1. Light Duty Vehicles with GVWR of 8500 lbs. or less.
  2. Heavy Duty Vehicles with GVWR of 8501 lbs. or more.

OXYGEN (O2) SENSOR

The O2 sensor is a required emissions maintenance item and must be replaced at 82,500 miles. The Emissions Maintenance light will come on at approximately 82,500 miles as a reminder of the O2 sensor scheduled replacement.

TRANSMISSION SERVICE

Note. If transmission is disassembled for any reason, replace fluid and filter, and adjust bands.

Normal Service (Light Duty)

On A/T Ram Van, drain and refill transmission, and adjust bands every 37,500 miles. This service is not required on A/T Ram Wagon. On M/T models, drain and refill transmission every 37,500 miles.

Normal Service (Heavy Duty)

On A/T Ram Van, drain and refill transmission, and adjust bands every 24,000 miles. This service is not required on A/T Ram Wagon. On M/T models, drain and refill transmission every 36,000 miles.

Severe Service (Light & Heavy Duty A/T Models)

If vehicle is operated under any of the following conditions, drain and refill transmission, and adjust bands every 12,000 miles.

  1. Frequent Short Trips (Less Than 15 Miles)
  2. Frequent Driving In Dusty Conditions
  3. Extensive Idling
  4. Sustained High-Speed Operation
  5. Stop-And-Go Driving
  6. Desert And Cold Climate Operations
  7. Commercial Service

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS

Note. For more information regarding vehicle lift points refer to the JACKING & HOISTING article in the WHEEL ALIGNMENT section.

Scheme 4

Scheme 4

TIRE INFLATION

Tire inflation pressures are listed on the safety certification label attached to driver's door lock pillar. Inflation pressures can also be found on the inflation pressures chart in the operator's manual package. Check tire pressures every month and adjust if necessary.

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

Stud SizeFt. Lbs. (N.m)
Cone Nut
1/2 x 20 with 60 Cone85-110 (115-149)
1/2 x 20 with 90 Cone85-110 (115-149)
5/8 x 18 with 90 Cone175-225 (217-305)
Flanged Nut
5/8 x 18300-350 (407-475)

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should be installed by qualified professionals.

On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions

  1. DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
  2. DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
  3. Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BATTERY WARNING

WARNINGWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.

BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER

CAUTIONPetroleum-based fluids should never be used in the brake master cylinder, as seal damage could result.

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

CAUTIONIndicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

CAUTIONTo prevent catalytic converter overheating, DO NOT allow engine to idle for more than 20 minutes.

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

CAUTIONTo avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C)
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

ENGINE OIL

CAUTIONNever use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component.

HALOGEN BULBS

WARNINGHalogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

POWER STEERING PUMP

CAUTIONDO NOT use gear oil, ATF or hydro-boost power steering fluid in the power steering pump reservoir.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

REAR AXLE FLUID

CAUTIONRear axle lubricant should be changed whenever the axle has been submerged in water. Water can enter through the axle vent hole and contaminate the lubricant.

STEP BUMPER (IF EQUIPPED)

CAUTIONVehicles equipped with step bumper should not be lifted or towed from the rear by the sling method.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONDue to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options.

BASIC NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY

Everything is covered for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Warranty covers repairs to any parts that have proven defective in material and workmanship under normal vehicle operation (tires excluded). Warranty repairs (parts and labor) will be made by the dealer at no charge using new or rebuilt parts.

POWERTRAIN LIMITED WARRANTY

Powertrain Warranty takes effect upon expiration of the 12-month/12,000-mile Basic New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Warranty is for 5 years or 50,000 miles on 1987 models. This warranty is subject to a $100.00 deductible for each repair visit. The following assemblies and components are covered.

  1. Engine Cylinder block and all internal parts; cylinder head assemblies; core plugs; valve covers; oil pan; timing gear drive belts and/or chains and cover; oil pump; intake and exhaust manifolds; water pump and housing; turbocharger housings, internal parts and turbocharger wastegate actuator; gaskets and seals for all listed parts.
  2. Transmission Case and all internal parts; seals and gaskets; oil pan; converter with starter ring gear and flexplate; bellhousing; flywheel; gaskets and seals for all listed parts.
  3. Drive Shaft & Drive Axle Drive shaft assembly, front and rear universal joints and yokes; drive shaft center bearings; axle housing and all internal parts; disconnect housing assembly; axle shafts and axle shaft bearings; gaskets and seals for listed parts.

CORROSION COVERAGE

This warranty starts on the date in which vehicle is delivered or put in use, whichever occurs first, and lasts for 36 months regardless of mileage. Warranty covers perforation (rusted through) in body sheet metal due to corrosion. Outer panel perforation coverage is extended to 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first, beginning on warranty start date.

EMISSION SYSTEM "DEFECT" & "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTIES (FEDERAL)

Under the "Defect" Warranty, Chrysler warrants that the vehicle is free from defects in material and workmanship, which would cause it to fail to meet Federal standards for emission control system set at the time the vehicle was built. The "Performance" Warranty covers the costs of repairing or adjusting any components or parts necessary for vehicle to pass a Federally approved state or local emissions test.

The following is a list of some of the primary components that affect the emissions of the vehicle. These components are covered by both Defect and Performance Warranties. Other emission control parts related to these components are covered by the Performance Warranty, where applicable. If another part fails due to the failure of one of these components, both parts are covered; however, after 2 years or 24,000 miles, coverage is limited to primary emission components only (listed below). Warranties begin on warranty start date and last for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Note. Some of these parts require scheduled replacement as described in owner's manual. These parts are only warranted until the time they are first scheduled to be replaced.

  1. Carburetor Feedback Control System
  2. Electronic Fuel Injection System
  3. Air Cleaner Vapor Containment Door System
  4. Electronic Spark Control Module
  5. Vapor Storage Canister And Controls
  6. Deceleration Throttle Control
  7. Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve And Control System
  8. Air Pump, Belt And Pulley
  9. Air Injection Controls
  10. Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve
  11. Catalytic Converter
  12. Vacuum Hoses, Clamps, Fittings And Tubing Used In These Components And Systems
  13. Vacuum, Temperature, Altitude, Speed- And Time-Sensitive Valves, And Switches Used In These Components And Systems

EMISSION "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If vehicle fails a smog check, manufacturer will perform all necessary repairs and adjustments to ensure vehicle passes inspection. Warranty begins on warranty start date and lasts for 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

EMISSION "DEFECTS" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If any emission-related part on vehicle is defective, manufacturer will repair or replace part. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

The following emission-related parts are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first. If any of these parts is found to be defective in material or workmanship, manufacturer will repair or replace part as necessary: ECU module, turbocharger, catalytic converter, intake manifold and air pump (only lower pump on dual pump system).

FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION

Note. Fuse box is located underneath glove compartment door.

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION

Fuse Identification

  1. 1 - 5 Amp - Cluster Illumination, A/C-Heater Indicator Light, Switch Illumination, Radio & Clock Display Dimming, Radio Illumination, Rear Defroster, Auxiliary A/C
  2. 2 - 20 Amp - Back-Up Lights, Turn Signals, A/C Clutch, Speed Control
  3. 3 - 20 Amp - A/C-Heater Blower Motor, Horn, Horn Relay
  4. 4 - 5 Amp - Radio, Clock
  5. 5 - 20 Amp - Voltage Limiter, Gauges, Warning Lights, Heated Rear Window Switch, Seat Belt Light & Buzzer, Maintenance Reminder Light, Clock Display, Heated Rear Window Relay
  6. 6 - 20 Amp - Taillights, Park Lights, License & Side Marker Lights, Radio & Clock Display Dimming, Cavity 1
  7. 7 - 25 Amp - Stoplights, Dome & Reading Lights, Courtesy Lights, Glove Box Lights, Cigarette Lighter, Ignition Switch Light & Relay, Electronic Clock
  8. 8 - 20 Amp - Hazard Flasher
  9. 9 - 30 Amp - A/C-Heater Blower Motor
  10. 10 - 25 Amp - Heated Rear Window, Idle-Up Solenoid
  11. 1 - 3 Amp - Illumination Lights, Radio & Clock Display, A/C-Heater System, Headlight Switch, Cigarette Lighter, Auxiliary A/C, Rear Defroster
  12. 2 - 10 Amp - Radio, Clock
  13. 3 - 20 Amp - Turn Signals
  14. 4 - 20 Amp - Back-Up Lights, Auxiliary A/C-Heater System, A/C Clutch
  15. 5 - 5 Amp - Gauges, Warning Lights, Speed Control, Seat Belt Reminder, Fuel Pacer
  16. 6 - 20 Amp - Taillights, Park Lights, License & Side Marker Lights, Radio & Clock Display Dimming, Horns, Cigarette Lighter, Key & Headlight Buzzers, Radio & Clock Memory
  17. 7 - 20 Amp - Stoplights, Courtesy Lights, Reading & Glove Box Lights, Ignition Light Time-Delay Relay, Power Door Lock Relay
  18. 8 - 20 Amp - Horn, Cigarette Lighter, Rear Defroster, Radio & Clock Memory, Key & Headlight Buzzer
  19. 9 - 30 Amp - A/C-Heater Blower Motor
  20. 10 - 20 Amp (1986-87) - Hazard Flashers