RAM 2500 Truck 4WD V10-8.0L VIN W (1997)
Console: Description and Operation
INTRODUCTION
An overhead console featuring an electronic compass and an outside ambient temperature thermometer is an available factory-installed option on
this model.
Following are general descriptions of the major components used in the overhead console.
SYSTEM OPERATION
Compass
The compass will display the direction in which the vehicle is pointed using the eight major compass headings (Examples: north is N, northeast is
NE). It does not display the headings in actual degrees.
The self-calibrating compass unit requires no adjusting in normal use. The only calibration that may prove necessary is to drive the vehicle in three
complete circles, on level ground, in not less than 48 seconds. This will reorient the compass unit to its vehicle.
The compass unit also will compensate for magnetism the body of the vehicle may acquire during normal use. However, avoid placing anything
magnetic directly on the roof of the vehicle. Magnetic mounts for an antenna, a repair order hat, or a funeral procession flag can exceed the
compensating ability of the compass unit if placed on the roof panel.
Magnetic bit drivers used on the fasteners that hold the overhead console assembly to the roof header can also affect compass operation. If the
vehicle roof should become magnetized, the demagnetizing and calibration procedures found may be required to restore proper compass operation.
The compass, thermometer, and display module cannot be repaired, and are only available for service as a unit. If faulty or damaged, the complete
compass and display module assembly must be replaced.
Thermometer
The thermometer displays the outside ambient temperature. The temperature display can be changed from Fahrenheit to Celsius using the U.S./
Metric button, located to the right of the display module. The displayed temperature is not an instant reading of conditions, but an average
temperature. It may take the thermometer display several minutes to respond to a major temperature change, such as driving out of a heated garage
into winter temperatures.
When the ignition switch is turned to the Off position, the last displayed temperature reading stays in the thermometer unit memory. When the
ignition switch is turned to the On position again, the thermometer will display the memory temperature for one minute; then update the display to
the current average temperature reading within five minutes.
The thermometer function is supported by an ambient temperature sensor. The sensor is mounted outside the passenger compartment near the front
and center of the vehicle. The ambient temperature sensor is available as a separate service item.
The compass, thermometer, and display module cannot be repaired, and are only available for service as a unit. If faulty or damaged, the complete
thermometer and display module assembly must be replaced.
Reading And Courtesy Lamp
All reading and courtesy lamps located in the overhead console are activated by the door jamb switches. When the doors are closed, the lamps can
be individually activated by depressing the corresponding lens.
When a door is open, depressing the lamp lens switches will not turn the lamps off.
CIRCUIT OPERATION
When the ignition switch is in the RUN or START position, circuit F12 from fuse 11, a 10 amp, in the fuse block supplies power to the overhead
console.
When the headlamps or parking lamps are ON, circuits L7 and E2 provide voltage to the overhead console. Circuit E2 from fuse 13, a 5 amp, in
the fuse block powers the illumination lamps in the overhead console. Circuit E1 from the headlamp switch feeds fuse 13 and circuit E2.
Circuit Z11 provides ground for tile compass.
