Fuel - Requirements

NUMBER: 14-05-00

GROUP: Fuel

DATE: JUNE 9, 2000

MODELS:
2000 (DN) Durango

SUBJECT:
Premium Fuel (91 Octane) Use Requirement With Durango R/T 5.9L Engine.

NOTE:
THIS BULLETIN APPLIES TO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE R/T 5.9L ENGINE.

DISCUSSION:
The 5.9L engine in the Durango R/T has been calibrated to operate with fuel that is rated at 91 octane or higher (premium fuel). Use of fuel with a lower octane may impact engine performance and durability.

NOTE:
USE OF FUELS WITH A RATING OF LESS THAN 91 OCTANE WILL CAUSE A SPARK KNOCK CONDITION AND MAY RESULT IN ENGINE DAMAGE.

The use of premium or 91 octane fuel is identified on the vehicle in several ways:

1. A yellow and red Premium Fuel Only label is permanently affixed on the inside of the fuel fill door.

2. As a reminder to the dealer, a large temporary label with the words "Attention: Upon Delivery Of This Vehicle To Dealer, Fill Tank With Premium Fuel Only !!!" is affixed to the driver side rear quarter window.

3. In each vehicle, an owner Tips Card will be attached to the inside rear view mirror. It instructs the vehicle operator that 91 octane fuel is required.

4. The Durango R/T Owner Manual instructs the vehicle operator that the 5.9L engine in the R/T model is calibrated for premium grade gasoline.

NOTE:
PREMIUM FUEL SHOULD BE USED AT ALL TIMES BEGINNING WITH THE A COMPLETE FUEL TANK FILL BY THE DEALER UPON VEHICLE RECEIPT.

It is the dealership's responsibility to verify:

1. The Durango R/T 5.9L fuel tank is filled with premium fuel as soon as possible after the receipt of the vehicle from the vehicle shipper.

2. The dealership sales staff is aware of the need for premium fuel use, especially if the vehicle is not prepped immediately after it is received from the vehicle shipper. To assure top performance, the Durango R/T 5.9L vehicle should not be demonstrated until the fuel tank has been filled completely with a good premium grade fuel.

3. The importance of using premium fuel is reviewed with the new vehicle owner at the time of vehicle purchase/delivery.