RAM 2015 1500, Operating Information Manual, Page: 374 / 998

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.
The transmission controls include a drive strat-
egy to avoid frequent shifting when towing.
However, if frequent shifting does occur while in
DRIVE, select TOW/HAUL mode or select a
lower gear range (using the Electronic Range
Select (ERS) shift control).
NOTE:
Using TOW/HAUL mode or selecting a lower
gear range (using the ERS shift control)
while operating the vehicle under heavy
loading conditions will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by re-
ducing excessive shifting and heat build up.
This action will also provide better engine
braking.
When towing a loaded trailer up steep grades at
low speeds (20 mph [32 km/h] or below), hold-
ing your vehicle in first gear (using the ERS shift
control) can help to avoid transmission over-
heating.
If you regularly tow a trailer for more than 45
minutes of continuous operation, then change
the automatic transmission fluid and filter(s) as
specified for
" police, taxi, fleet, or frequent
trailer towing. " Refer to the “Maintenance
Schedule” for the proper maintenance intervals.
NOTE:
Check the automatic transmission fluid level
before towing (6-speed automatic only).
Tow/Haul Mode
To reduce potential for automatic transmission
overheating, activate TOW/HAUL mode when
driving in hilly areas, or select a lower gear
range (using the Electronic Range Select (ERS)
shift control) 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 experi-
ence 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.
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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