Get STARTING AND OPERATING -> Trailer Towing Guide for Ram Pickup 1500 Light Truck 2023

STARTING AND OPERATING 171

4. When the fuel nozzle “clicks” or shuts off, the fuel

tank is full.

REFUELING THE VEHICLE

The capless fuel filler is located on the left side of the

vehicle.

5. Keep the nozzle in the filler for five seconds after

nozzle clicks to allow fuel to drain from the nozzle.

The capless system is sealed by two flapper doors.

6. Remove the fuel filler nozzle.

7. To close the fuel filler door, push the center-rear edge

(3 o’clock position) of the fuel filler door and then

release. The fuel filler door will latch closed.

WARNING!

 Never have any smoking materials lit in or near the

vehicle when the fuel door is open or the tank is

being filled.

NOTE:

In certain cold conditions, ice may prevent the fuel filler

door from opening. If this occurs, lightly push on the fuel

filler door around the perimeter to break the ice build up.

Fuel Filler Door

 Never add fuel when the engine is running. This is in

violation of most state and federal fire regulations

and may cause the MIL to turn on.

4

3. Insert the fuel nozzle fully into the filler pipe, the

nozzle opens and holds both flapper doors while

refueling.

WARNING!

 A fire may result if gasoline is pumped into a portable

container that is inside of a vehicle. You could be

burned. Always place gas containers on the ground

while filling.

 Always place container on the ground before filling.

 Keep the pump nozzle in contact with the container

when you are filling it.

 Use only approved containers for flammable liquid.

 Do not leave container unattended while filling.

CAUTION!

To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not “top off” the

fuel tank after filling.

 A static electric charge could cause a spark and

fire hazard.

1. Put the vehicle in PARK and switch the ignition off.

2. Push the center-rear edge of the fuel filler door

(3 o'clock position) and release to open.

Fuel Filler

172 STARTING AND OPERATING

The entirevehicleshould firstbeweighed on a commercial

scale to ensure that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

(GVWR) has not been exceeded. The weight on the front

and rear of the vehicle should then be determined

separately to be sure that the load is properly distributed

over the front and rear axle. Weighing the vehicle may

show that the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of either

the front or rear axles has been exceeded but the total

load is within the specified GVWR. If so, weight must be

shifted from front to rear or rear to front as appropriate

until the specified weight limitations are met. Store the

heavier items down low and be sure that the weight is

distributed equally. Stow all loose items securely before

driving.

TIRE SIZE

VEHICLE LOADING

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING

(GVWR)

The GVWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle

including driver, passengers, vehicle, options and cargo.

The label also specifies maximum capacities of front and

rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Total load must be

limited so GVWR and front and rear GAWR are not

exceeded.

The tire size on the Vehicle Certification Label represents

the actual tire size on your vehicle. Replacement tires

must be equal to the load capacity of this tire size.

RIM SIZE

This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire size

listed.

INFLATION PRESSURE

This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle for

all loading conditions up to full Gross Axle Weight Rating

(GAWR).

PAYLOAD

The payload of a vehicle is defined as the allowable load

weight a truck can carry, including the weight of the driver,

all passengers, options and cargo.

Improper weight distributions can have an adverse effect

on the way your vehicle steers and handles and the way

the brakes operate.

CURB WEIGHT

The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total weight

of the vehicle with all fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full

capacity conditions, and with no occupants or cargo

loaded into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight

values are determined by weighing your vehicle on a

commercial scale before any occupants or cargo are

added.

GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING (GAWR)

The GAWR is the maximum permissible load on the front

and rear axles. The load must be distributed in the cargo

area so that the GAWR of each axle is not exceeded.

WARNING!

Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or

the maximum front and rear GAWR. If you do, parts on

your vehicle can break, or it can change the way your

vehicle handles. This could cause you to lose control.

Overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.

Each axle GAWR is determined by the components in the

system with the lowest load carrying capacity (axle,

springs, tires or wheels). Heavier axles, or suspension

components sometimes specified by purchasers for

increased durability, do not necessarily increase the

vehicle's GVWR.

LOADING

The actual total weight and the weightof the front and rear

of your vehicle at the ground can best be determined by

weighing it when it is loaded and ready for operation.

STARTING AND OPERATING 173

Tongue Weight (TW)

The TW is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by

the trailer. You must consider this as part of the load on

your vehicle.

TRAILER TOWING

WARNING!

In this section you will find safety tips and information on

limits to the type of towing you can reasonablydo with your

vehicle. Before towing a trailer, carefully review this

information to tow your load as efficiently and safely as

possible.

If the gross trailer weight is 5,000 lb (2,267 kg) or

more, it is recommended to use a weight-distributing

hitch to ensure stable handling of your vehicle. If you

use a standard weight-carrying hitch, you could lose

control of your vehicle and cause a collision.

Trailer Frontal Area

The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the

maximum width of the front of a trailer.

To maintain the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage,

follow the requirements and recommendations in this

manual concerning vehicles used for trailer towing.

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)

Trailer Sway Control (TSC)

The GCWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle and

trailer when weighed in combination.

The TSC can be a mechanical telescoping link that can be

installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue

that typically provides adjustable friction associated with

the telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer

swaying motions while traveling.

COMMON TOWING DEFINITIONS

The following trailer towing related definitions will assist

you in understanding the following information:

4

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear

axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles

evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or

rear GAWR Ú page 172.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The electronic TSC (If equipped) recognizes a swaying

trailer and automatically applies individual wheel brakes

and/or reduces engine power to attempt to eliminate the

trailer sway.

The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle.

This includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongue

weight. The total load must be limited so that you do not

exceed the GVWR Ú page 172.

WARNING!

Weight-Carrying Hitch

It is important that you do not exceed the maximum

front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can

result if either rating is exceeded. You could lose control

of the vehicle and have a collision.

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)

A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight,

just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some

other connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of

hitches are commonly used to tow small and medium

sized trailers.

The GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all

cargo, consumables and equipment (permanent or

temporary) loaded in or on the trailer in its “loaded and

ready for operation” condition.

The recommended way to measure GTW is to put your fully

loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the

trailer must be supported by the scale.

174 STARTING AND OPERATING

Weight-Distributing Hitch

WARNING!

A weight-distributing system works by applying leverage

through spring (load) bars. They are typically used for

heavier loads to distribute trailer tongue weight to the tow

vehicle's front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in

accordance with the manufacturer's directions, it provides

for a morelevel ride, offering more consistentsteering and

brake control, thereby enhancing towing safety. The

addition of a friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens

sway caused by traffic and crosswinds and contributes

positively to tow vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer Sway

Control and a weight-distributing (load equalizing) hitch

are recommended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW) and

may be required depending on vehicle and trailer

 An improperly adjusted weight-distributing hitch

system may reduce handling, stability and braking

performance and could result in a collision.

 Weight-distributing systems may not be compatible

with surge brake couplers. Consult with your hitch

and trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational

Vehicle dealer for additional information.

With Weight-Distributing Hitch (Correct)

configuration/loading to comply with GAWR requirements.

Without Weight-Distributing Hitch (Incorrect)

Improper Adjustment Of Weight-Distributing Hitch (Incorrect)

STARTING AND OPERATING 175

8. Use the instrument cluster or touchscreen radio

settings and switch off tire jack mode. Make sure the

truck returns to normal ride height. Perform a visual

inspection of the trailer and weight-distributing hitch

to confirm the manufacturer’s recommendations

have been met.

RECOMMENDED DISTRIBUTION HITCH

ADJUSTMENT

Towing With Air Suspension — If Equipped

1. Verify that the vehicle is at the normal ride height.

NOTE:

9. The truck can now be driven.

The vehicle must remain in the engine run position with all

doors closed while attaching a trailer for proper leveling of

the air suspension system.

Measurement Example

Example Height (mm)

H1

H2

925

946

21

2. Position the truck to be ready to connect to the trailer

(do not connect the trailer).

Measuring Height (H)

4

3. Enable tire jack mode through the instrument cluster

or touchscreen radio settings. Tire jack mode will be

canceled and the procedure must be restarted if the

vehicle is driven at speeds above 5 mph (8 km/h).

H2-H1

5. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the

weight-distributing bars connected.

(H2-H1)/3

(H2-H1)/3 + H1

7

6. Measure the height from the top of the front wheel

opening on the fender to the ground; this is height H2.

932

4. Measure the height from the top of the front wheel

opening on the fender to ground; this is height H1.

7. Install and adjust the tension in the

weight-distributing bars per the manufacturer’s

recommendations so that the height of the front

fender is approximately (H2-H1)/3+H1

(about 1/3 the difference between H2 and H1 above

normal ride height [H1]).

NOTE:

For all towing conditions, we recommend towing with

Tow/Haul mode engaged.

176 STARTING AND OPERATING

TRAILER HITCH TYPE AND MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT

The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight a given factory equipped trailer hitch type can tow and should be used to assist you in selecting the correct trailer hitch for your

intended towing condition.

Trailer Hitch Type and Maximum Trailer Weight

Hitch Type

Max. Trailer Weight / Max. Tongue Weight

5,000 lb (2,267 kg) / 500 lb (226 kg)

12,750 lb (5,783 kg) / 1,275 lb (578 kg)

Class III Bumper Hitch - 1500 Model

Class IV - 1500 Model

Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given drivetrain.

All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on

your vehicle.

TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS

(MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)

TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT

Class III Bumper Hitch Access

NOTE:

Remove the cap with a trim stick or screwdriver to access

the Class III hitch attachment.

For trailer towing information (maximum trailer weight

ratings) refer to the following website addresses:

NOTE:

 ramtrucks.com/towing/towing-guide

 ramtruck.ca (Canada)

Be careful not to scratch the bumper step pad.

 rambodybuilder.com

Weight Distribution

Class III Bumper Hitch Access

STARTING AND OPERATING 177

Consider the following items when computing the weight

on the rear axle of the vehicle:

The driver controls the accelerator and the brake while

steering with the use of the Trailer Reverse Steering

Control knob. The trailer is steered according to the

direction the knob is turned.

 The tongue weight of the trailer.

 The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put

in or on your vehicle.

This feature will also allow the driver to back up a vehicle

and trailer in a straight line when the knob is rested in its

center position.

 The weight of the driver and all passengers.

NOTE:

Minimal setup is required to use this feature.

Set Up:

Remember that everything put into or on the trailer adds

to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional

factory-installed options or dealer-installed options must

be considered as part of the total load on your vehicle.

Refer to the Tire And Loading Information Placard for the

maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo for

your vehicle.

To use the system, hitch your trailer to the truck and

ensure all electrical wiring is connected Ú page 182.

Trailer Reverse Steering Control Calibration

4

The system will automatically calibrate an attached trailer

during normal forward driving with no additional action

needed from the driver. If the vehicle has not had enough

time to automatically calibrate after connecting a trailer,

you will see a “Calibrate Trailer” message in the

instrument cluster when pressing the TRSC button to

activate the system. If this is the case, perform the

following maneuver to calibrate the trailer:

1 — Straight 100 ft (30 m)

2 — Intersection turn with radius 50-65 ft (15-20 m) in

either direction

TRAILER REVERSE STEERING

CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED

Feature Overview

3 — Straight 100 ft (30 m)

4 — Intersection turn with radius 50-65 ft (15-20 m) in

either direction

5 — Straight 100 ft (30 m)

Trailer Reverse Steering Control (TRSC) is a feature that

will assist the driver when backing up a trailer. By turning

the knob located on the center stack, you can more

accurately control the direction the trailer will go.

6 — Straight 100 ft (30 m), making sure to align

vehicle/trailer to path center line

Drive forward at least 100 ft (30 m), perform a 90 degree

turn and return to a straight position for at least another

100 ft (30 m). Perform another 90 degree turn, followed

by another straight drive of at least 100 ft (30 m). Check

that the system has calibrated by pushing the TRSC

button.

7 — Feature is active, turn knob left or right to back the

trailer up

NOTE:

The 90 degree turns could be in either the left or right

direction.

178 STARTING AND OPERATING

Using TRSC

Continue to control the accelerator and brake while

backing the trailer up.

 “Trailer Steering Active” will display after the driver

shifts to REVERSE and indicates the feature is active.

CAUTION!

 “Trailer Steering Unavailable” will display if there is a

fault in the system preventing activation, the driver’s

door is open, the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled, or the

tailgate is open.

NOTE:

Whileactive, TRSC will automaticallydisable the Rear Park

Assist system if it was previously enabled.

Always observe the position of the trailer and

surroundings using the camera and mirrors to avoid

damage to the truck or trailer.

The system will limit the top speed your vehicle can travel

in REVERSE while using the feature. If needed, you can

shift to DRIVE or NEUTRAL to pull forward to get more

room or straighten out the trailer, and shift back to

REVERSE without the need to reactivate the feature.

Other reasons the feature may cancel:

 The driver overrides steering by placing hands on the

steering wheel.

 Trailer tracking is lost.

The feature will cancel after 30 seconds in DRIVE or when

the vehicle speed reaches 8 mph (12 km/h).

 If the trailer angle becomes excessive,thebrakes apply

bringing the vehicle to a stop and then applying the

parking brake.

To cancel out of the feature, come to a stop and shift to

PARK, or push the TRSC activation button.

 Trailer steering button is pushed while active.

 Vehicle speed goes over 8 mph (12 km/h).

 Driver door is open and seat belt is unbuckled.

 Transmission shifted to PARK.

Instrument Cluster Messages:

 “Calibrate Trailer

calibrated and the vehicle is at a standstill while the

button is pushed.

” will display when a trailer is not

Trailer Reverse Steering Control Knob

Trailer Memory

 “Calibrating Trailer” will display when the trailer is not

calibrated and the vehicle is moving while the button is

pushed.

Touse the system, place thegear selector in PARK and put

your foot on the brake. Push the activation button located

above the TRSC knob in the center stack. The LED on the

button will glow solid and the instrument cluster display

will direct you to shift to REVERSE. Once in REVERSE the

system is active. Remove hands from the steering wheel

and slowly back up while turning the TRSC knob in the

direction you want the trailer to go. Turning the knob

clockwise will cause the trailer to turn right. Turning the

knob counterclockwise will cause the trailer to turn left.

If you release the knob, it will return to its center position,

and the trailer will back up in a straight line.

The trailer steering system will automatically retain the

calibration of the previous five trailers connected, so

recalibration will not be necessary when hooking up.

The next time the vehicle is started, place the vehicle in

DRIVE and drive a short distance. The TRSC system can

then be activated.

 “To Activate Trailer Steering Shift To P” will display

when the trailer is calibrated successfully, the TRSC

activation button is pushed and the vehicle is not in

PARK.

NOTE:

 “Trailer Steering Ready, Shift To Reverse” will display

when the button is pushed, trailer is calibrated and the

vehicle is in PARK.

Trailers may look different during day and night condi-

tions. In such cases, the trailer may need to recalibrate.

STARTING AND OPERATING 179

WARNING!

Some trailers (such as boat trailers) will need to

recalibrate while loaded and unloaded.

Perform the maintenance listed in the Scheduled

Servicing section for the proper maintenance intervals

Ú page 333. When towing a trailer, never exceed the

GAWR or GCWR ratings.

 Total weight must be distributed between the tow

vehicle and the trailer such that the following four

ratings are not exceeded:

NOTE:

 The system may not detect a trailer in low light condi-

tions. In sunny conditions, the performance may be

degraded as shadows pass over the trailer.

WARNING!

 GVWR

 Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer

and will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo

that is not fully secured, dynamic load shifts can

occur that may be difficult for the driver to control.

You could lose control of your vehicle and have a

collision.

 The driver is always responsible for safe operation of

truck and trailer.

 GTW

 GAWR

 The driver is always in control of the truck as well as the

trailer and is responsible for controlling thethrottle and

brakes.

 Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch utilized

4

 The system may not function when the camera lens is

blocked, blurred (covered with water, snow, ice, dirt,

etc) and will not work unless the tailgate is upright and

fully latched.

Towing Requirements — Tires

 Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact

spare tire.

 When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not over-

load your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a

loss of control, poor performance or damage to

brakes, axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspen-

sion, chassis structure or tires.

 Donotdrive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when towing

while using a full size spare tire.

TOWING REQUIREMENTS

To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain

components, the following guidelines are recommended.

 Safety chains must always be used between your

vehicle and trailer. Always connect the chains to the

hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains

under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for

turning corners.

 Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe

and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.

 Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures

before trailer usage.

CAUTION!

 Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles

(805 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle

or other parts could be damaged.

 Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage

before towing a trailer.

 Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a

grade. When parking, apply the parking brake on the

tow vehicle. Put the tow vehicle transmission in

PARK. For four-wheel drive vehicles, make sure the

transfer case is not in NEUTRAL. Always, block or

"chock" the trailer wheels.

 Replacing tires with a higher load carrying capacity will

not increase the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.

 Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that a

trailer is towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h)

and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the

engine and other parts of the vehicle wear in at the

heavier loads.

 For further information Ú page 370.

 GCWR must not be exceeded.

(Continued)

180 STARTING AND OPERATING

The user interface consists of the following:

GAIN Adjustment Buttons (+/-)

Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes

 Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system or

vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer.

Integrated Trailer Brake Module (ITBM) —

If Equipped

Your vehicle may have an ITBM for electric and Electric

Over Hydraulic (EOH) trailer brakes.

Pushing 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).

 An electronically actuated trailer brake controller is

required when towing a trailer with electronically actu-

ated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with a

hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic

brake controller is not required.

NOTE:

This module has been designed and verified with electric

trailer brakes and new EOH systems. Some previous EOH

systems may not be compatible with ITBM.

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 conditions

include trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions and

weather.

 Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over

1,000 lb (453 kg) and required for trailers in excess of

2,000 lb (907 kg).

WARNING!

Manual Brake Control Lever

 Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's

hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your brake

system and cause it to fail. You might not have

brakes when you need them and could have an acci-

dent.

Slide the manual brake control lever to the left to activate

power to the trailer's electric brakes independent of the

tow vehicle's brakes. If the manual brake control lever is

activated while the brake is also applied, the greater of the

two inputs determines the power sent to the trailer brakes.

 Towing any trailer will increase your stopping

distance. When towing, you should allow for addi-

tional space between your vehicle and the vehicle in

front of you. Failure to do so could result in an

accident.

The trailer and the vehicle’s stop lamps will come on when

braking normally with the vehicle brake pedal. Only the

trailer stop lamps will come on when the manual brake

control lever is applied.

Integrated Trailer Brake Module (ITBM)

1 — GAIN (-) Adjustment Button

2 — GAIN (+) Adjustment Button

3 — Manual Brake Control Lever

CAUTION!

If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lb (453 kg)

loaded, it should have its own brakes and they should

be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this could lead to

accelerated brake lining wear, higher brake pedal

effort, and longer stopping distances.

STARTING AND OPERATING 181

Trailer Brake Status Indicator Light

1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working

condition, functioning normally and properly

adjusted. See your trailer dealer if necessary.

6. Push the UP or DOWN buttons until the Trailer Brake

Type appears on the screen.

This light indicates the trailer electrical connection status.

7. Push the RIGHT arrow and then push the UP or DOWN

buttons until the proper Trailer Brake Type appears

on the screen.

If no electrical connection is detected after the ignition is

turned on, pushing 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.

2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical

connections according to the trailer manufacturer's

instructions.

8. 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.

3. When a trailer is plugged in with electric or EOH

brakes, the trailer connected message should appear

in the instrument cluster display (if the connection is

not recognized by the ITBM, braking functions will not

be available), the GAIN setting will illuminate and the

correct type of trailer must be selected from the

instrument cluster display options.

If a fault is detected in the trailer wiring or the Integrated

Trailer Brake Module (ITBM), the Trailer Brake Status

Indicator Light will flash.

9. If the trailer wheels lockup (indicated by squealing

tires), reduce the GAIN setting; if the trailer wheels

turn freely, increase the GAIN setting.

Adjusting GAIN

4

NOTE:

Repeat steps 8 and 9 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.

This should only be performed in a traffic freeenvironment

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

4. Push the UP or DOWN button on the steering wheel

until “TRAILER TOW” appears on the screen.

5. Push the RIGHT arrow on the steering wheel to enter

“TRAILER TOW”.

Light Electric

Electric Trailer Brakes

*Under 10,000 lb

Heavy Electric

Light EOH

Heavy EOH

Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer

Brakes

Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer

Brakes

Type of Trailer Brakes

Load

Electric Trailer Brakes

*Above 10,000 lb

*Under 10,000 lb

*Above 10,000 lb

*The suggested selection may change depending on the

customer preferences for braking performance. Condition

of the trailer brakes, driving and road state may also affect

the selection.

182 STARTING AND OPERATING

Display Messages

The electrical connections are all complete to the vehicle

but you must connect the harness to a trailer connector.

Refer to the following illustrations.

NOTE:

The trailer brake control interacts with the instrument

cluster display. 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 Ú page 98.

 An aftermarket controller may be available for use with

trailers with air or EOH trailer brake systems. To deter-

mine the type of brakes on your trailer and the avail-

ability of controllers, check with your trailer

manufacturer or dealer.

NOTE:

 Disconnectthe trailer wiring connector from the vehicle

(or any other device plugged into vehicle’s electrical

connectors) before launching a boat into water.

 Removal of the ITBM will cause errors and it may cause

damage to the electrical system and electronic

modules of the vehicle. See an authorized dealer if an

aftermarket module is to be installed.

WARNING!

 Be sure to reconnect once clear from water area.

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.

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.

CAUTION!

The Trailer Tow Package may include a four-pin and

seven-pin wiring harness. Use a factory approved trailer

harness and connector.

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.

NOTE:

Four-Pin Connector

Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring

harness.

1 — Ground

2 — Park

3 — Left Stop/Turn

4 — Right Stop/Turn

STARTING AND OPERATING 183

When activated the feature will enable all of the exterior

lights sequentially for up to five minutes for time to walk

around and verify functionality. The following exterior

lights will remain on for the entirety of the sequence:

The sequence will only activate if the following conditions

are met:

 Vehicle is equipped with the Trailer Tow Package

 Vehicle is in PARK

 Park/Running Lamps

 Side Marker Lamps (if equipped)

 License Lamp

 Vehicle is not in motion

 Ignition is in ACC or ON/RUN

 Remote start is inactive

 Signature Lamp (if equipped)

 Low Beams

 Brakes are not applied

 Left turn signal is not applied

 Right turn signal is not applied

 Hazard switch is not applied

 Fog Lamps (if equipped)

 Daytime Running Lamps

Seven-Pin Connector

1 — Backup Lamps

4

During this time the following lights will sequence, each

activating for three seconds:

2 — Running Lamps

3 — Left Stop/Turn

4 — Ground

The sequence will cancel if any of the following conditions

occur:

1. Brake and CHMSL (third brake light)

2. Left turn signal

 Brakes are applied

5 — Battery

 Vehicle is shifted from PARK

3. Right turn signal

6 — Right Stop/Turn

7 — Electric Brakes

 Vehicle is no longer stationary

 Left turn signal activated from stalk

 Right turn signal is activated from stalk

 Hazard switch is activated

4. Reverse Lamps

5. High Beam

Trailer Light Check

This light check sequence will continue for a total of five

minutes.

This feature will run the trailer lights through a sequence

to check the trailer light function. It is available in the

Instrument Cluster under the Trailer Tow menu

Ú page 103.

 Any button on the key fob is pushed

 Ignition button is pushed

 High Beam stalk position is changed

 Sequence is canceled in the instrument cluster

STARTING AND OPERATING -> Trailer Towing for Your Ram Pickup 1500 Light Truck 2023

Popular Manuals