electrical
Battery
for 2014 Ram 2500 6.7L I6 Cummins Diesel · 4WD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
7
Steps
9
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the battery on a 2014 Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, including proper disconnection sequence and torque specifications.
Warnings
⚠️Always disconnect the negative terminal first and reconnect it last to prevent short circuits and electrical system damage.
⚠Diesel engines have high battery loads and multiple electrical control modules. Using a battery memory saver is recommended to preserve radio presets and ECM adaptive memory.
⚠The battery is heavy (approximately 50-60 lbs). Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.
ℹ️Do not overtighten battery terminal bolts as this can damage the battery posts and cause poor electrical contact.
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
13mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrench (0-25 Nm range)Essential
Battery terminal puller
Wire brush or battery terminal cleaner
Dielectric grease
Battery memory saver (optional)
Parts
- Group 94R AGM Battery × 1 — Use OEM specification or equivalent 850+ CCA
Preparation
- Ensure the ignition is off and all accessories are turned off
- If using a battery memory saver, connect it to the 12V power outlet before disconnecting battery
- Have the replacement battery ready and verify it matches the original specifications (Group 94R)
- Open the hood and secure it in the open position
Procedure
- 1Disconnect negative battery cableUsing a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt (marked with '-' symbol). Twist the cable terminal gently while pulling upward to remove it from the battery post. If stuck, use a battery terminal puller. Move the cable away from the battery and ensure it cannot contact the terminal.
- 2Disconnect positive battery cableUsing a 10mm socket, loosen the positive battery terminal bolt (marked with '+' symbol and red cover). Remove the red protective cover if present. Twist and pull the cable terminal to remove it from the battery post. Move the cable away from the battery.
- 3Remove battery hold-down bracketLocate the battery hold-down bracket at the base of the battery. Using a 13mm socket, remove the battery hold-down bolt that secures the bracket across the top of the battery. Remove the hold-down bracket and set aside.
- 4Remove old batteryCarefully lift the battery straight up and out of the battery tray. The battery weighs approximately 50-60 lbs, so use proper lifting technique with your legs. Avoid tilting the battery excessively as it may contain acid.
- 5Clean battery tray and terminalsInspect the battery tray for corrosion, dirt, or acid residue. Clean the tray with a wire brush and baking soda solution if necessary. Clean both battery cable terminals with a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to remove any corrosion. Ensure terminals are bright and clean for good electrical contact.
- 6Install new batteryPlace the new battery into the battery tray, ensuring the positive and negative terminals are oriented correctly (positive terminal toward the front of the vehicle). The battery should sit flat and secure in the tray.
- 7Install battery hold-down bracketPosition the hold-down bracket across the top of the battery and thread the hold-down bolt into the tray. Tighten the battery hold-down bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the battery is firmly secured and cannot move.Torque specBattery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 8Connect positive battery cablePlace the positive cable terminal onto the positive battery post. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the post. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease if available. Tighten the positive battery terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery post.Torque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
- 9Connect negative battery cablePlace the negative cable terminal onto the negative battery post. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the post. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease if available. Tighten the negative battery terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery post.⚠Expect a small spark when making final negative connection. This is normal as the vehicle's electrical system energizes.Torque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Verify both battery terminals are tight and cannot be twisted by hand
- Apply dielectric grease or anti-corrosion spray to terminals if not already done
- Install any protective terminal covers that were removed
Verification
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start) and verify all dashboard lights illuminate normally
- Start the engine and verify it cranks strongly and starts normally
- Check that all electrical accessories function properly (lights, radio, power windows, etc.)
- If a battery memory saver was not used, reset clock and radio presets as needed
- Verify no warning lights remain illuminated on the dashboard after starting