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Ram Chassis Cab · Model year 2018

2018 Ram Chassis Cab specs, maintenance & manuals

Shopping for a used 2018 Ram Chassis Cab or keeping one on the road? Here are the factory spec sheet, the maintenance schedule, fluid capacities and 16 manufacturer publications, straight from the factory sources.

Horsepower
320–410 hp
Recalls
9
Schedule covers
150k miles
Publications
16
Chassis Cab towing capacity by yearTow ratings for every year we have charts for; the 2018 spec sheet's towing figures are in Specs & features below.See the towing chart

What changed for the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab

The 2018 Chassis Cab versus 2017: what's different, from the factory charts and spec sheets.

All the differences we found

Listed for the first time on the equipment chart

  • ParkSense rear park assist system — optional: Tradesman, SLT, Laramie
  • 19.5- x 6-in. polished aluminum — standard: Laramie — optional: Tradesman, SLT
  • 19.5- x 6-in. steel — standard: Tradesman, SLT
  • Floor Mats: Passenger-side visor with mirror — standard: Tradesman, SLT
  • Headlamps: Halogen — bi-functional projector — standard: Laramie
  • Mirrors: Passenger-side visor with mirror — standard: Tradesman, SLT
  • SiriusXM Guardian included with 8.4-in. radios — optional: SLT, Laramie
  • SiriusXM Travel Link and Traffic Plus - included with 8.4-in. radios — optional: SLT, Laramie

No longer on the equipment chart

  • Mirrors: Day/night rearview with Uconnect
  • Remote start system — requires automatic transmission
  • Tires — 4500/5500: Spare, full-size
  • Cigar lighter — included with Smoker’s Group
  • Engine five-minute shutdown timer
  • Headlamps: Halogen, bifunctional projector
  • Visors: Front-passenger, with mirror
  • Wheels — 4500/5500: 19.5- x 6-in. polished aluminum
  • Wheels — 4500/5500: 19.5- x 6-in. steel

Compared automatically from the manufacturer's trim feature charts, specification sheets, towing guides and the EPA's fuel-economy data for 2017 and 2018. Equipment varies by trim and market; confirm details on a specific vehicle.

2018 Ram Chassis Cab specs & features

Engines, gear ratios, suspension, brakes, dimensions and capacities as published in the manufacturer's 2018 specification sheets.

Spec sheet
General information3 specs
Vehicle Type
Chassis Cab: Regular Cab and Crew Cab
Assembly Plant
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Coahuila, Mexico
EPA Vehicle Class
Large Pickup
Engines45 specs
6.4-liter HEMI V-8
AvailabilityStandard
Type and Description90-degree V-type, liquid-cooled, variable-valve timing (VVT)
Displacement392 cu. in. (6,417 cu. cm)
Bore x Stroke4.09 x 3.72 (103.9 x 94.6)
Valve SystemPushrod-operated overhead valves, 16 valves, eight de-activating and eight hydraulic lifters with roller followers
Fuel InjectionSequential, multiport, electronic, returnless
ConstructionDeep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps, 356 aluminum cylinder heads with hemispherical combustion chambers
Compression Ratio10:1
Power410 hp (302 kW) @ 5,600 rpm; Up to 370 hp (267kW) @ 4,600 rpm (over 10k rating)
Torque429 lb.-ft. (582 N•m) at 4,000 rpm
Maximum Engine Speed5,800 rpm limited; 4,800 rpm with Aisin transmission
Fuel RequirementUnleaded regular, 87 octane (R+M)/2
Oil Capacity7 quarts (6.6 liters)
Coolant Capacity16.6 quarts (15.8 liters)
Emission ControlThree-way catalytic converters, heated oxygen sensors, cooled electronic EGR and individual cylinder fuel control
6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel I-6
AvailabilityManual six-speed transmission
Type and DescriptionInline, liquid-cooled, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement408 cu. in. (6,690 cu. cm)
Bore x Stroke4.21 x 4.88 (107 x 124)
Valve SystemPushrod-operated overhead valves, 24 valves, solid lifters
Fuel InjectionElectronic high-pressure common rail
ConstructionCast-iron block and head
Compression Ratio17.3:1
Power320 bhp (239 kW) @ 2,800 rpm
Torque650 lb.-ft. (881 N•m) @ 1,400 rpm
Maximum Engine Speed3,200 rpm
Fuel RequirementUltra-low sulfur diesel
Oil Capacity12.0 quarts (11.3 liters) with filter
Coolant Capacity23.8 quarts (22.5 liters)
Emission ControlsSelective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
6.7-liter high output Cummins turbo diesel I-6
AvailabilityOptional (Aisin six-speed automatic)
Type and DescriptionInline, liquid-cooled, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement408 cu. in. (6,690 cu. cm)
Bore x Stroke4.21 x 4.88 (107 x 124)
Valve SystemPushrod-operated overhead valves, 24 valves, solid lifters
Fuel InjectionElectronic high-pressure common rail
ConstructionCast-iron block and head
Compression Ratio17.3:1
Power325 bhp (242 kW) @ 2,400 rpm
Torque750 lb.-ft. (1,017 N•m) @ 1,500 rpm
Maximum Engine Speed3,200 rpm
Fuel RequirementUltra-low sulfur diesel
Oil Capacity12.0 quarts (11.3 liters) with filter
Coolant Capacity23.8 quarts (22.5 liters)
Emission ControlsSelective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
Transmissions43 specs
G56 — manual six-speed overdrive
Availability6.7-liter diesel
DescriptionSynchronized in all gears
Axle ratios3.42, 3.73, 4.10
PTOLeft- or right-side with split-shaft capability
66RFE — automatic six-speed
Availability6.4-liter HEMI V-8
DescriptionThree planetary gear sets, one overrunning clutch, full electronic control, electronically controlled converter clutch
Axle ratios5.7-liter: 4.10; 6.4-liter: 4.10
AS66RC — automatic six-speed
Availability6.4-liter HEMI V-8
DescriptionThree planetary gear sets, one overrunning clutch, full electronic control, electronically controlled converter clutch
Axle ratios4.44
PTOLeft- or right-side capability
AS69RC — automatic six-speed
Availability6.7-liter diesel
DescriptionThree planetary gear sets, one overrunning clutch, full electronic control, electronically controlled converter clutch
Axle ratios3.42, 3.73, 4.10
PTOLeft- or right-side with split shaft capability
Gear ratiosG56 — manual six-speed overdrive66RFE — automatic six-speedAS66RC — automatic six-speedAS69RC — automatic six-speed
1st5.943.233.753.75
2nd3.281.842.02.0
3rd1.981.411.341.34
4th1.311.001.01.0
5th1.00.820.770.77
6th0.740.630.630.63
Reverse5.424.443.543.54
Transfer casesBW 44-46, BW 44-47Transfer cases: BW 44-46, BW 44-475 specs
Availability
Optional on 6.7-liter diesel and 6.4-liter HEMI V-8
Type
Part-time – BW 44-47 manual shift and BW 44-46 electric shift
Operating Modes
2WD; 4WD High; Neutral; 4WD Low
Low-range Ratio
2.64
Center Differential
None
Suspension2 specs
Front
Three-link with track bar, coil springs, stabilizer bar, twin-tube shock absorbers, solid axle
Rear
Hotchkiss leaf spring suspension, solid axle
Brakes3 specs
Front
14.2 x 1.5 (360 x 39) vented disc with twin 2.4 (60) piston caliper
Rear
14.1 x 1.3 (358 x 34) vented disc with twin 1.8 (45) piston caliper for SRW, 2.0 (51) for DRW
Power-assist
Hydroboost
Air bags2 specs
Regular Cab
2
Crew Cab
2
Steering1 spec
Power-assist
Hydraulic assist
Dimensions and capacities48 specs
4x24x4
Regular Cab 143.5-in. WB, 60-in. CA SRW
Wheelbase143.5 (3,644.9)143.5 (3,644.9)
Turning diameter – ft. (m)(a)45.0 (13.7)55.5 (16.9)
Track Width – Front76.0 (1,930.4)76.0 (1,930.4)
Track Width – Rear73.6 (1,869.4)73.6 (1,869.4)
Overall Length234.3 (5,952.1)234.3 (5,952.1)
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.9 (2,004.1)78.9 (2,004.1)
Overall Height80.1 (2,034.5)80.1 (2,034.5)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.3 (261.6)8.7 (221.0)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.4 (213.4)8.4 (213.4)
Approach Angle (degrees)28.328.3
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)23.723.7
Departure Angle (degrees)31.131.1
Regular Cab 143.5-in. WB, 60-in. CA DRW
Wheelbase143.5 (3,644.9)143.5 (3,644.9)
Turning diameter – ft. (m)(a)45.0 (13.7)55.5 (16.9)
Track Width – Front76.0 (1,930.4)76.0 (1,930.4)
Track Width – Rear73.6 (1,869.4)73.6 (1,869.4)
Overall Length234.3 (5,952.1)234.3 (5,952.1)
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.9 (2,004.1)78.9 (2,004.1)
Overall Height80.1 (2,034.5)80.1 (2,034.5)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.3 (261.6)8.7 (221.0)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.4 (213.4)8.4 (213.4)
Approach Angle (degrees)28.328.3
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)23.723.7
Departure Angle (degrees)31.131.1
Regular Cab 167.5-in. WB, 84-in. CA DRW
Wheelbase167.5 (4,254.5)167.5 (4,254.5)
Turning diameter – ft. (m)(a)51.8 (15.8)51.8 (15.8)
Track Width – Front76.0 (1,930.4)76.0 (1,930.4)
Track Width – Rear73.6 (1,869.4)73.6 (1,869.4)
Overall Length258.3 (6,560.8)258.3 (6,560.8)
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.9 (2,004.1)78.9 (2,004.1)
Overall Height80.0 (2,032)80.0 (2,032)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.3 (261.6)8.7 (221.0)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.4 (213.4)8.4 (213.4)
Approach Angle (degrees)28.428.4
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)20.820.8
Departure Angle (degrees)31.031.0
Crew Cab 172.4-in. WB, 60-in. CA DRW
Wheelbase172.4 (4,379)172.4 (4,379)
Turning diameter – ft. (m)(a)53.2 (16.2)53.2 (16.2)
Track Width – Front76.0 (1,930.4)76.0 (1,930.4)
Track Width – Rear73.6 (1,869.4)73.6 (1,869.4)
Overall Length282.3 (7,170.4)282.3 (7,170.4)
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.9 (2,004.1)78.9 (2,004.1)
Overall Height79.9 (2,029.5)79.9 (2,029.5)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.3 (261.6)8.8 (223.5)
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.4 (213.4)8.4 (213.4)
Approach Angle (degrees)28.528.5
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)18.218.2
Departure Angle (degrees)30.930.9

(a) Turning diameter is measured at the outside of the tires at curb height; it and steering wheel turns lock-to-lock may differ with optional tires and wheels.

Accommodations13 specs
Regular CabCrew Cab
Seating Capacity, F/R3/0 or 2/03/3 or 2/3
Front – Headroom39.9 (1,013.5)41 (1,040.5)
Front – Legroom41 (1,041.4)41 (1,041.4)
Front – Shoulder Room66 (1,676.4)66 (1,676.4)
Front – Hip Room62.9 (1,598.7)63.2 (1,605.3)
Front – Seat Travel9 (230.0)9 (230.0)
Front – Recliner Range (degrees)85 (38 RWD, 47 FWD)56 (38 RWD, 18 FWD)
Rear – Headroom—39.9 (1,013.5)
Rear – Legroom—40.3 (1,023.3)
Rear – Shoulder Room—65.7 (1,668.8)
Rear – Hip Room—63.2 (1,605.3)
Interior Volume – Front – cu. ft. (cu. m)62.5 (1.8)64.2 (1.8)
Interior Volume – Rear – cu. ft. (cu. m)—61.1 (1.7)

— not listed or not applicable

Source: 2018 Ram Commercial 3500 Chassis Cab Specifications (Stellantis media site).

No EPA fuel-economy rating. Heavy-duty pickups, chassis cabs and full-size vans above 8,500 lb gross vehicle weight are exempt from EPA labeling, so there is no official MPG figure for the Chassis Cab.

2018 Ram Chassis Cab wheels & tires

The spec sheet doesn't list tire sizes for this model year; here is what the owner's manual says.

Cold tire pressure
Not a single number: the owner's manual refers to the tire and loading placard (driver's side door opening), which lists the pressures for your exact tire size and load.
Spare
Manual covers compact spare, full-size spare (matching or not) and tire service kit by equipment; a non-matching spare has no pressure sensor.
Lug nut torque
130 ft-lb (176 N·m) (Cone type), M14 x 1.50 thread, 22 mm socket
Pressure monitor
A tire pressure monitoring system warns when a tire is low.

Sizes and pressures vary by trim, wheel package and load: check the placard on your vehicle and the tire sidewall. Sizes from the manufacturer's specification sheet (2018 Ram Commercial 3500 Chassis Cab Specifications, 2018 Ram Commercial 4500/5500 Chassis Cab Specifications). Pressure and spare notes from the owner's manual.

2018 Ram Chassis Cab maintenance schedule

The factory schedule for normal driving. Oil changes follow the oil-change indicator on most models; severe use (towing, dusty roads, lots of idling) shortens some intervals.

A dot means the service is due at that mileage.

Additional Inspections

  • Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary
  • Inspect the front and rear axle surfacesIf gear oil leakage is suspected, check the fluid level. If using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing, change axle fluid.
  • Inspect the brake linings, parking brake function
Service20k30k40k50k60k70k80k90k100k110k120k130k140k150k
Additional Inspections
Inspect the CV/Universal joints
Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary
Inspect the front and rear axle surfacesIf gear oil leakage is suspected, check the fluid level. If using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing, change axle fluid.
Inspect the brake linings, parking brake function
Additional Maintenance
Replace engine air filter
Replace spark plugs
Flush and replace the engine coolant at 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) whichever comes first
Change the automatic transmission fluid (AS66RC Transmission Only)
Change the automatic transmission fluid and sump filter (AS66RC Transmission Only)
Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter(s) (66RFE Transmission Only), if using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing
Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter(s) (66RFE transmission)
Inspect the transfer case fluid, change for any of the following: police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing
Change the transfer case fluid
Inspect and replace PCV valve if necessary

At every oil change

  • Change oil and filter
  • Rotate the tires. Rotate at the first sign of irregular wear, even if it occurs before the oil indicator system turns on
  • Inspect engine cooling system protection and hoses
  • Inspect exhaust system
  • Inspect engine air cleaner if using in dusty or off-road conditions
  • Inspect battery and clean and tighten terminals as required
  • Inspect automatic transmission fluid if equipped with dipstick
  • Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, hoses and park brake
  • Inspect front end, and lubricate – If equipped with serviceable fittings
  • Lube the front drive shaft fitting (4X4 models only)
Compare with another year

2018 Ram Chassis Cab fluids & capacities

Oil, coolant, transmission and axle fluids with their capacities and specifications, wheel torque and fuel requirements, from the owner's manual.

Fluid capacities

SystemApplies toCapacity
All engines
Fuel tank (approximate)Standard rear tank52 gal197 L
Optional midship tank22 gal83 L
Diesel exhaust fluid tank (approximate)Chassis Cab9 gal34 L
6.4L engine
Engine oil with filter7 qt6.6 L
Cooling system16.6 qt15.7 L
6.7L diesel engine
Engine oil with filterCummins turbo diesel12 qt11.4 L
Cooling systemCummins turbo diesel5.7 gal21.4 L

Engine fluids

ComponentFluid / gradeMopar product
All engines
Engine coolant
Organic Additive Technology (OAT) 10-year/150,000-mile coolantMS.90032
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula OAT
6.4L engine
Engine oil
SAE 0W-40 full synthetic, API SN certifiedMS-12633
Pennzoil Ultra 0W-40 or equivalent Mopar engine oil
Engine oil filter
—
Mopar Engine Oil Filters
Spark plugs
—
Mopar Spark Plugs
Fuel selection
89 octane recommended, 87 octane acceptable, 0-15% ethanol
—
6.7L diesel engine
Engine coolantCummins turbo diesel
Organic Additive Technology (OAT) 10-year/150,000-mile coolant
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula OAT
Engine oilCummins turbo diesel, above 0°F (-18°C)
SAE 15W-40, API CJ-4 required (Cummins CES 20081 also acceptable)MS-10902
Mopar, Shell Rotella or Shell Rimula 15W-40
Engine oilCummins turbo diesel, below 0°F (-18°C)
SAE 5W-40 synthetic, API CJ-4 requiredMS-10902
Mopar, Shell Rotella or Shell Rimula 5W-40 synthetic
Engine oil filterCummins turbo diesel
—
Mopar Engine Oil Filters
Fuel filtersCummins turbo diesel
3 micron rating required
Mopar Fuel Filter
Crankcase ventilation filterCummins turbo diesel
—
Mopar CCV Filter
Fuel selectionCummins turbo diesel
Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (15 ppm sulfur max), No. 2 diesel ASTM D975 Grade S15; biodiesel up to 5% (ASTM D975), up to 20% (ASTM D7467) only on models configured for B20
—
Diesel exhaust fluidCummins turbo diesel
API-certified DEF meeting ISO 22241
Mopar Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Chassis fluids & lubricants

ComponentFluid / gradeMopar product
Automatic transmission6.4L engine with 66RFE transmission
ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid
Mopar ATF+4
Automatic transmission6.4L engine with AS66RC transmission
Mopar ASRC automatic transmission fluid or equivalent
Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid
Transfer case
BW44-44 transfer case fluid
Mopar BW44-44 Transfer Case Fluid
Front and rear axle fluid4500/5500
GL-5 SAE 75W-90 syntheticMS-9763
—
Brake master cylinder
DOT 3 and SAE J1703 (DOT 4 acceptable if DOT 3 unavailable)
Mopar DOT 3
Power steering reservoir
Power steering fluid +4 or ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid
Mopar Power Steering Fluid +4, Mopar ATF+4
Automatic transmission6.7L Cummins turbo diesel with AS69RC transmission (all Chassis Cab models)
Mopar ASRC automatic transmission fluid or equivalent
Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid

Fuel

EngineMinimumEthanol / biodiesel
6.4L engine
87 octane Regular unleaded (89 for optimum performance and fuel economy)
Up to 15% (E15)
6.7L Cummins turbo diesel
Ultra-low-sulfur diesel
Up to B5 (ASTM D975); up to B20 (ASTM D7467) only if configured with B20 option

Wheel lug nut torque

WheelsTorque
Cone typeThread M14 x 1.5022 mm socket130 ft‑lb (176 N·m)
Flanged typeThread M14 x 1.5022 mm socket129 ft‑lb (175 N·m)
  • Axle fluid row is listed for 4500/5500 models.
  • Dual wheels are flat mounted and center piloted; lug nuts are a two-piece assembly.
  • Retorque lug nuts after 25 miles (40 km).
  • Diesel supplement lists 2500/3500 pickup fuel tanks and axle fluid too; only Chassis Cab rows were added.

Source: Owner's manual (PDF). Always confirm with the manual for your exact vehicle.

2018 Ram Chassis Cab recalls & safety

What the U.S. government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has on file for the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab: 9 recall campaigns and 51 owner complaints. Fetched November 8, 2026.

NHTSA hasn't published 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab.

Recalls (9)

Newest first. A campaign covers certain vehicles of this model year, not necessarily every one. To see which apply to a specific vehicle, and whether the fix has been done, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ask a dealer; repairs are free of charge.

Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip: control unit/moduleNovember 27, 2024 · Campaign 24V896000

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The hydraulic control unit (HCU) may fail, which can cause the anti-lock brake (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control systems to fail.

Risk: A loss of anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, or traction control can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the brake HCU, or replace the HCU motor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning January 9, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is C4B.

Campaign 24V896000 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels: lugs/nuts/bolts/studsMay 27, 2021 · Campaign 21V398000

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.

Risk: Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.

Fix: Dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021.

Campaign 21V398000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting: brake lightsMay 13, 2019 · Campaign 19V359000

Unruh Fire, Inc. (Unruh Fire) is recalling one 2018 Dodge 5500-based fire truck equipped with Whelen brake lights. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed.

Risk: If the brake lights incorrectly illuminate, it can confuse other drivers, possibly increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Unruh Fire has notified the owner and will provide replacement brake lights, free of charge. The recall began May 20, 2019. Owners may contact Unruh Fire customer service at 1-800-856-7080.

Campaign 19V359000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting: brake lightsMarch 28, 2019 · Campaign 19V255000

Blanchat Mfg., Inc. (Blanchat) is recalling one 2018 B-27 Minuteman vehicle built on a RAM 5500 chassis and equipped with Whelen brake lights recalled under 18E-063. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed.

Risk: If the brake lights incorrectly illuminate, it can confuse other drivers, possibly increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Blanchat has notified the owner, and will replace the brake lights, free of charge. The recall began March 27, 2019. Owners may contact Blanchat customer service at 1-620-896-7145.

Campaign 19V255000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting: brake lightsMarch 26, 2019 · Campaign 19V236000

Excellance, Inc. (Excellance) is recalling certain 2018 Ambulances and Emergency Vehicles built on Ford E-350, E-450, F-650, F-550 4x4, Chevrolet G4500, G4500 Diesel, C3500, G3500, Freightliner M2, International 4300, and Dodge 4500 chassis and equipped with Whelen brake lights. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed.

Risk: If the brake lights incorrectly illuminate, it can confuse other drivers, possibly increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Excellance has notified owners, instructing them to contact Whelen to have the brake lights replaced, free of charge. The recall began on March 21, 2019. Owners may contact Whelen customer service at 1-860-718-2331 or Execellance at 1-256-772-9321.

Campaign 19V236000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system: wiringMay 17, 2018 · Campaign 18V332000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles.

Risk: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.

Campaign 18V332000 on NHTSA.gov
Show 3 older recalls
Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsMay 1, 2018 · Campaign 18V277000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 RAM 4500 and 5500 cab chassis trucks. The primary and secondary brake hoses located between the brake master cylinder and the hydraulic control unit may have been manufactured without anti-corrosion plating on the ferrules, which can allow the ferrules to corrode.

Risk: If the ferrules corrode, the brake fluid may leak and cause a loss of braking, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake hoses and replace them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 19, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U41.

Campaign 18V277000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train: automatic transmissionFebruary 8, 2018 · Campaign 18V100000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 RAM 1500, 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.

Risk: Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will update the Body Control Module software. Dealers will also test the BTSI operation, replacing the solenoid as necessary. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U11.

Campaign 18V100000 on NHTSA.gov
EquipmentDecember 21, 2017 · Campaign 17V824000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher.

Risk: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on…

Campaign 17V824000 on NHTSA.gov

Owner complaints by component

Complaints
51
Crashes
2
Fires
0
Injuries
0
  • Service brakes35
  • Hydraulic19
  • Wheels6
  • Power train5
  • Vehicle speed control5
  • Electrical system4
  • Steering3
  • Unknown or other3

Complaints are reports owners filed with NHTSA; they are not verified and a complaint can name more than one component. A high count reflects how many were sold as much as how often something fails.

Source: NHTSA public data (recalls, complaints and the New Car Assessment Program), covering Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500, Ram 5500. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest.

2018 Ram Chassis Cab owner's manuals & publications

The manufacturer's owner's manual, quick guides, radio manuals, supplements and warranty booklets for the 2018 model year.

Great Lakes owner notes

The 2018 Ram Chassis Cab against salt, snow and steep grades

Lake-effect squalls, roads soaked in brine, potholes that open with every thaw and long Appalachian grades: driving in the Great Lakes states asks a lot of tires, batteries and undersides. These notes take the 2018 Chassis Cab figures above and flag the ones that carry the most weight in Ohio.

The oil grade on a January morning

The 2018 Ram Chassis Cab fluids table lists SAE 0W-40 (6.4L) and SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 by temperature (6.7L Cummins turbo diesel), with 7 qt (6.4L) and 12 qt (6.7L Cummins turbo diesel) per change. Lake-effect winters are full of short, cold trips: to work, to school, to the store and home again before the engine reaches temperature. That pattern is tough on oil, so let the oil-change indicator set the interval and never stretch it.

Battery checks before the cold

The schedule includes a battery inspection at each oil change, with the terminals cleaned and tightened as required. Do it before the first cold snap: corrosion at the terminals adds resistance exactly when a frozen engine needs the most current from the battery. A load test each fall is worth adding once the battery is a few winters old.

Drive systems for lake-effect snow

The 2018 lineup includes four-wheel drive. Power at both axles pays off when a band off Lake Erie buries the Snowbelt east of Cleveland, or on a steep, unplowed road out of a hollow in eastern Kentucky. It gets you moving; stopping on ice is still up to the tires.

Trailer duty in the schedule

The schedule lists axle fluid, automatic transmission fluid and transfer case fluid service for frequent trailer towing, starting at 20,000 miles. Whether it is a fishing boat headed for the Ohio River or a pop-up camper bound for the Smokies, the extra heat of towing ages these fluids faster, most of all on long July climbs.

Coolant through freeze and climb

Fluids table: OAT coolant (10-year/150,000-mile formula), 16.6 qt (6.4L) and 22.8 qt (6.7L Cummins turbo diesel). Scheduled replacement comes at 10 years or 150,000 miles. Stick to that chemistry, since mixing coolant types can shorten their protective life. On a used Chassis Cab from Ohio, ask whether the coolant was changed on time, and check the level in the overflow tank with the engine cold before you drive it.

Filters for dust and pollen

The schedule asks for more frequent air-filter attention in dusty conditions, beyond the normal replacement every 30,000 miles. Gravel roads up Appalachian hollows and coal-haul routes in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky qualify, so inspect the filter at each oil change if they are part of your week.

Each spec in these notes is pulled from the tables above. The commentary on salt, snow, potholes and grades is general guidance for the Great Lakes states; the owner's manual remains the authority.

2018 Ram Chassis Cab questions

How much oil does the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab take?

With a filter change: 6.4L engine, 7 qt / 6.6 L and 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, 12 qt / 11.4 L. Capacities are from the owner's manual; check the dipstick or oil-life display after filling.

What kind of oil does the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab use?

6.4L engine: SAE 0W-40 full synthetic, API SN certified (MS-12633); 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, above 0°F (-18°C): SAE 15W-40, API CJ-4 required (Cummins CES 20081 also acceptable) (MS-10902); and 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, below 0°F (-18°C): SAE 5W-40 synthetic, API CJ-4 required (MS-10902).

When is the first scheduled maintenance on the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab?

At 20,000 miles: inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary; inspect the front and rear axle surfaces. if gear oil leakage is suspected, check the fluid level. if using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing, change axle fluid; inspect the brake linings, parking brake function. Oil changes in between follow the oil-change indicator.

Where can I find the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab owner's manual?

The manufacturer publishes it free on Mopar.com as a PDF (linked in the manuals section above), along with quick guides, radio manuals and the warranty booklet.

What MPG does the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab get?

The EPA doesn't publish a fuel-economy rating for the Chassis Cab: heavy-duty pickups, chassis cabs and full-size vans above 8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight are exempt from fuel-economy labeling, so there is no official MPG figure to quote.

What changed on the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab?

Powertrain: Alternate left side requires AISIN joins the lineup; Powertrain no longer listed: Alternate left side requires Aisin automatic; Package no longer offered: Smoker’s Group; Paint: dropped Black, Black/Diesel Gray and Canyon Brown/Light Frost Beige.

Does the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab have recalls?

NHTSA lists 9 safety recall campaigns for the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab. The most recent: Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip (November 2024), Wheels: lugs/nuts/bolts/studs (May 2021), and Exterior lighting: brake lights (May 2019). NHTSA's data was last fetched November 8, 2026. Recalls are listed by model year, so a given vehicle may or may not be covered: enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ask a dealer to see which are open.

What are the most common safety complaints about the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab?

Owners have filed 51 complaints about the 2018 Ram Chassis Cab with NHTSA. The components named most often are service brakes (35), hydraulic (19), and wheels (6). 2 complaints involved a crash and 0 complaints a fire. Complaints are reports from owners that NHTSA does not verify, so treat them as a signal to look into, not a finding.

Specifications come from the manufacturer's spec comparison and its media-site specification sheets; maintenance schedules, fluids and publications come from Mopar's owner site and owner's manuals. Equipment and ratings vary by configuration; check the owner's manual or a dealer for a specific vehicle.