2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab & Chassis Owner Manual - Page 281

STARTING AND OPERATING 281 WARNING! It is dangerous to shift the selector lever out of "P" or "N" if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal. "R" Reverse Use this range only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. "N" Neutral Shift to Neutral when the vehicle is standing for prolonged periods with the engine running. The engine may be started in this range. Set the parking brake if you must leave the vehicle. "D" Drive This position provides all forward gears, including 4th gear direct and 5th or 6th (if equipped) gear overdrive (see Overdrive Operation). Use this range for most city and highway driving. "3" Third Use this position for driving in slight heavy city traffic or on mountain roads where more precise speed control is desirable. Use it also when climbing long grades, and for engine braking when descending moderately steep grades. To prevent excessive engine speed do not exceed 40 mph (64 km/h) in this range. 5