2017 Ram 3500 Fluid Type & Capacity Specifications

Quick Reference: 2017 Ram 3500 Fluid Specs

Fluid	Type/Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil (5.7L HEMI V8)	SAE 5W-20, API SN, Chrysler MS-6395	7.0 quarts (6.6L)
Engine Oil (6.4L HEMI V8)	SAE 0W-40, API SN, Chrysler MS-12633	7.0 quarts (6.6L)
Engine Oil (6.7L Cummins)	SAE 10W-30 / 5W-40 (CK-4), Chrysler MS-10902	12.0 quarts (11.4L)
Engine Coolant	OAT, Mopar MS-12106 (Purple)	16.6 - 17.9 quarts (15.7 - 16.9L)
Automatic Transmission (66RFE)	Mopar ATF+4	6.5 - 7.0 quarts (initial)
Automatic Transmission (68RFE)	Mopar ATF+4	6.5 - 7.0 quarts (initial)
Automatic Transmission (Aisin AS69RC)	Mopar ASRC ATF	7.2 quarts (initial)
Manual Transmission (G56)	Mopar ATF+4	5.0 quarts (4.7L)
Transfer Case (BW44-46/47)	Mopar ATF+4	~1.6 quarts (1.5L)
Front Differential (9.25" AA)	SAE 75W-90 Synthetic, GL-5	2.3 quarts (2.16L)
Rear Differential (11.5" AA)	SAE 75W-90 Synthetic, GL-5	4.4 quarts (4.2L)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	Mopar Electric Steering Pump Fluid or ATF+4	As needed
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	API Certified, ISO 22241	5.5 gallons (20.8L)
Windshield Washer Fluid	-	As needed

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Engine Oil

Choosing the correct engine oil is critical for the longevity and performance of your Ram's engine. The 2017 Ram 3500 was available with three different engines, each with a specific oil requirement.

• 5.7L HEMI V8: This engine requires SAE 5W-20 viscosity grade motor oil that meets API Service Category SN and Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Using a quality synthetic blend or full synthetic oil will provide the best protection.
• 6.4L HEMI V8: The larger gas V8 demands a high-performance SAE 0W-40 full synthetic motor oil. Look for oils that are certified to meet API SN and Chrysler MS-12633. Using other viscosities can lead to improper lubrication and potential engine damage.
• 6.7L Cummins Turbodiesel: For the workhorse Cummins, use a heavy-duty diesel engine oil that meets API Service Category CK-4. The preferred viscosity for normal operation is SAE 10W-30. For severe duty or colder climates, SAE 5W-40 synthetic is recommended. Always ensure the oil meets the Chrysler MS-10902 specification.

Note: Always check the dipstick after filling. Do not overfill the engine.

Engine Coolant

Ram trucks of this era use a specific Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. For the 2017 Ram 3500, you must use a coolant that meets Mopar MS-12106. This is typically a purple-colored, 10-year/150,000-mile formula.

Crucial Pitfall: Do NOT mix with other coolant types. Never add green, yellow, or orange (HOAT) coolants to the system. Mixing OAT coolant with other types can cause it to gel, leading to blockages in the radiator, heater core, and cooling passages, resulting in catastrophic engine overheating.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is not a one-size-fits-all product. Using the incorrect fluid can destroy a transmission.

• 66RFE & 68RFE Automatics: These 6-speed automatic transmissions, typically found behind the HEMI and Cummins engines respectively, are exclusively designed to use Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Do not use Dexron, Mercon, or any generic "multi-vehicle" ATF.
• Aisin AS69RC Automatic: If your truck is equipped with the heavy-duty Aisin transmission, it requires a specific Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid. ATF+4 is NOT compatible.
• G56 Manual Transmission: Surprisingly, the 6-speed manual transmission does not use gear oil. It is specified to use Mopar ATF+4.

Capacity listings are for a drain and fill; a complete overhaul will require more fluid. Always verify the fluid level using the dipstick (for automatics) with the engine running and the transmission at operating temperature.

Transfer Case & Differential Gear Oil

• Transfer Case: Both the BorgWarner BW44-46 (manual shift) and BW44-47 (electric shift) transfer cases require Mopar ATF+4.
• Front Differential (9.25" AAM): The front axle requires SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant meeting API GL-5 specifications.
• Rear Differential (11.5" AAM): The rear axle uses SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (GL-5). If your truck is equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD), it is critical to add a limited-slip additive if the gear oil chosen does not already contain it. Failure to do so will cause chattering or binding from the clutch packs during turns.

Brake & Power Steering Fluid

• Brake Fluid: The hydraulic brake system requires DOT 3 brake fluid. For improved performance under heavy towing, you can use a compatible DOT 4 fluid, but the system must be flushed completely. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) fluid.
• Power Steering Fluid: Models with hydraulic power steering may require a specific fluid like Mopar Electric Steering Pump Fluid, but many systems of this era are specified to use Mopar ATF+4. It is critical to verify which fluid your specific system requires, as mixing them can damage the pump. Check your owner's manual or the cap of the reservoir.

Other Fluids

• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) (6.7L Cummins only): The selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system requires DEF that is API certified and meets ISO 22241 standards. This is crucial for emissions compliance and to prevent damage to the expensive SCR system. The DEF tank holds approximately 5.5 gallons.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Use any commercially available windshield washer solvent. In colder climates, use a fluid with an appropriate antifreeze rating.

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