2019 Ram 3500 Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2019 Ram 3500 coolant capacity varies by engine, but typically holds between 16 to 24 quarts (15.1 to 22.7 liters) of coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity:
  • 6.4L HEMI V8: Approximately 16.5 quarts (15.6 liters)
  • 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Approximately 24 quarts (22.7 liters)
• OEM Coolant Specification: Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) antifreeze/coolant, meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-12106. This is typically purple or pink in color.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 pre-mixed coolant, or 50% OAT concentrate with 50% distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

Flush Interval

For the 2019 Ram 3500, the recommended coolant flush interval depends on driving conditions:

• Normal Duty: Typically every 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in extreme temperatures, or operate the vehicle in dusty/off-road conditions, it's advisable to inspect your coolant more frequently and consider flushing every 5 years or 100,000 miles.

Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date maintenance schedule.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding the cooling system after a drain or component replacement is crucial to prevent air pockets, which can lead to overheating. Here's a general procedure for your 2019 Ram 3500:

1. Preparation: Ensure the engine is cool. Place a drain pan under the radiator draincock or lower radiator hose.
2. Drain: Open the radiator draincock (if equipped) or disconnect the lower radiator hose to drain the old coolant. If performing a full flush, you'll need to flush with distilled water until clear. Dispose of old coolant responsibly.
3. Close System: Reconnect any hoses and close the draincock.
4. Fill: Slowly fill the cooling system with the correct Mopar OAT 50/50 coolant through the radiator filler neck or coolant reservoir, depending on your setup. Filling slowly helps prevent air from being trapped.
5. Bleed Air - 6.4L HEMI V8: After filling, leave the radiator cap off. Start the engine and let it run with the heater on high (this opens the heater core, allowing air to escape). Monitor the coolant level and add more as needed. You may need to gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge air bubbles. Some 6.4L engines may have a dedicated bleeder screw on a thermostat housing or coolant pipe; open it until a steady stream of coolant emerges, then close.
6. Bleed Air - 6.7L Cummins Diesel: The Cummins engine usually has a self-bleeding design, but it's still important to monitor the coolant level. Fill the system, leave the cap off (or loosely on), and run the engine with the heater on high until it reaches operating temperature. As air purges, the coolant level will drop; top it off as necessary. A special vacuum fill tool is highly recommended for these systems to ensure all air is removed effectively and safely, especially after a complete drain.
7. Check for Leaks: While the engine is running, inspect all hoses, clamps, and connections for any signs of leaks.
8. Final Check: Once the engine is cool again, check the coolant level in the reservoir and top off to the "FULL COLD" mark if needed.

Common Cooling System Issues for This Generation

The 2019 Ram 3500, like many heavy-duty trucks, can experience certain cooling system issues, especially with age or heavy use:

• Thermostat Failure: Stuck open (engine runs cool, poor heat) or stuck closed (engine overheats). This is a common wear item.
• Water Pump Leaks/Failure: The water pump circulates coolant. Leaks often appear as coolant puddles under the front of the vehicle, or as a grinding noise from a failing bearing.
• Radiator Leaks: Over time, vibrations, road debris, or corrosion can cause leaks in the radiator fins or tanks. Keep an eye out for pink/purple stains.
• Hose Leaks/Failures: Coolant hoses can degrade, crack, or soften, leading to leaks or ruptures. Inspect them regularly for swelling or stiffness.
• Coolant Expansion Tank Leaks: The plastic reservoir can develop cracks, especially around seams or connections, leading to coolant loss.
• Electric Cooling Fan Issues (6.4L HEMI): While the 6.7L Cummins primarily uses a viscous clutch fan, the 6.4L HEMI may rely on electric cooling fans for auxiliary cooling or when the AC is on. Fan motor failure or wiring issues can lead to overheating at low speeds or while idling.
• EGR Cooler Issues (6.7L Cummins): In diesel engines, the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler can sometimes develop internal leaks, allowing coolant to enter the exhaust system. This can be complex to diagnose and can lead to coolant loss without external leaks.

Regular maintenance and using the correct Mopar OAT coolant are essential for preventing these issues and ensuring the longevity of your Ram 3500's cooling system.

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