Hi group.

I'm borrowing my in-laws 96 B2500 for a family trip. I'm new to these beasts. Please let me know if I need to keep my eyes open for anything in particular... or should do any particular maintenance.

This has the 'little" 6 cylinder engine. I'll be towing a pop-up camper and I've installed the trailer brake controller.

Here's a brief status:
I changed the oil and air filter. I used Rotella 10w-30.
I'd love to change the rest of the fluids, but the van has gone very few miles in the last few years.

I did inspect the front suspension components and cooling hoses.

One particular question I have... the cigarette lighter isn't working and I don't have the owners manual. Could it be anything else besides a fuse? I found a msg that indicated fuse #9 (20 amps) is what I should check. Is that right?

Thanks! Go Rams!

 

The V6 is wimpy pulling anything over 3,000lbs for a camper. The pop-up should be alright. If you run into big hills, you may find that turning off the AC helps a good deal going up. I speak from experience on this topic towing a travel trailer with a 2000 Ram Van with the V6.

Other than an oil change, I would change out the read differential fluid to the Chrysler TSB mentioned rear fluid of synthetic 75W90 with friction modifier. This will keep the rear from groaning upon starts from a dead stop or going up big hills requiring more torque.

1996 had the towing package as optional equipment. So, the changing the rear fluid will help some. While towing, keep an eye on the engine temp and oil pressure.

Does the tranny fluid look good, not burnt, and has good aroma? If so, then it's fine. If not, drop the pan, drain and refill with ONLY ATF+4. Change out the screen and filter too. Then your towing trip should be non-eventful for any break-downs.

Hope this helps some.