2008 Dodge Ram 2500 Pickup Owner Manual Diesel - Page 444

442 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE • Make sure that the radiator and coolant recovery bottle overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed. • Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the condenser clean also. • Do not change the thermostat for summer or winter operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsatisfactory coolant performance, poor gas mileage, and increased emissions. Fan Inspection Check the fan for cracks and bent or broken blades. If any of these conditions exist, you must replace the fan. Make sure it is securely mounted. NOTE: This service procedure must be performed by a trained service technician. Make arrangements with your authorized dealer for this inspection. Charge Air Cooler (Inter-Cooler) The charge air cooler is positioned between the radiator and the air conditioner condenser. Air enters the engine through the air cleaner and passes through the turbocharger where it is pressurized. This pressurized air rapidly reaches high temperature. The air is then directed through a hose to the charge air cooler and through another hose to the intake manifold of the engine. The air entering the engine has been cooled by about 50 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This cooling process enables more efficient burning of fuel resulting in fewer emissions.