RAM 1500 2021 - Engine Block Heater - if Equipped; Engine Break-In Recommendations; Gasoline Engine

STARTING AND OPERATING 137
Do Not Operate The Engine With Failed
Parts
All engine failures give some warning before the
parts fail. Some important observations are:
 Engine misfiring or vibrating severely
 Sudden loss of power
 Unusual engine noises
 Fuel, oil or coolant leaks
 Sudden change, outside the normal operating
range, in the engine operating temperature
 Excessive smoke
 Oil pressure drop
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED
Engine Block Heater Cord Location
The engine block heater warms engine coolant and
perm
its quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the
heater cord to a ground-fault interrupter protected
110–115 Volt AC electrical outlet with a grounded,
three-wire extension cord.
For diesel engines, its use is recommended for
envi
ronments that routinely fall below -10°F
(-23°C). It should be used when the vehicle has not
been running for long periods of time and should
be plugged in two hours prior to start. Its use is
required for cold starts with temperatures under
-20°F (-28°C).
To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures,
use
of an externally powered electric engine block
heater (available from an authorized dealer) is
recommended.
The engine block heater cord is routed under the
hood on
the passenger side of the vehicle next to
the engine coolant reservoir.
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS —
GASOLINE ENGINE
A long break-in period is not required for the engine
and drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your
vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles
(500
km). After the initial 60 miles (100 km),
s
p
e
e
ds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are
desi
rable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within
the
limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good
break-in. Wide-open throttle acceleration in low
gear can be detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory
is a
high-quality energy conserving type lubricant.
Oil changes should be consistent with anticipated
climate conditions under which vehicle operations
will occur. For the recommended viscosity and
quality grades
Ú page 438.
NOTE:
A new engine may consume some oil during its first
few
thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This
should be considered a normal part of the break-in
WARNING!
Remember to disconnect the engine block
heater cord before driving. Damage to the
110-115 Volt electrical cord could cause
electrocution.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral
Oil in the engine or damage may result.
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