so my new 03 hemi is pretty much the ****. The only thing I think I may have a problem with is the fan clutch. It seems to be engaged most of the time.... you all know the "roar" of the mechanical fan being engaged while your driving. I asked the dealership about this, and the mechanic said it was "normal". I told him my dakota did the same thing and I ended up just taking off the whole mechanical fan. (you can get away with that on dakotas because they have a backup e-fan that engages at like 200 degrees). He told me its normal for this one because its more heavy duty for "towing". is he full of **** or am I right? I have a feeling since its under the 30 day warranty... they're just saying that to shut me up.

also.. random question.. what weight oil does an 03 hemi use? The cap says 5w20.. but i downloaded the service manual and it says 5w30 or 10w30.

 

Your '03 wants 5w-30 for all but extremely hot weather. Sounds like someone just found a cap and put it on.

As for the fan, here's a test: With the temperature cool (and motor off), see if you can turn the fan. If yes, it's likely OK. If not, the clutch is bad.

 

ok man, thanks. I'll give that a shot later tonight.

 

They are usually loud at start-up and then as it requires more cooling such as towing or hot temps.
It won't hurt a thing to run the 5w20 oil. It's what Dodge recommends now.
If it is loud all of the time, you may be in need of a new clutch.