Ram Cares, I really hope you read this and can inform your dealers what the service interval is and update the service manual.
Tired of getting conflicting information from dealers, I contacted ZF directly. I asked about the pan, filter, fluid combo mentioned earlier in this thread and asked for a clarification of what exactly the service interval is for the ZFHP75 transmission. The following is the initial response;
"ZF recommends a fluid change every 100k miles or 8 years. If your RAM is under OEM warranty, make sure you follow their guidelines or you could void your warranty. I do not suggest using anything but ZF or RAM parts regarding the pan/filter and fluid. This will definitely void your warranty. The transmission requires ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8 or the RAM equivalent. I would suggest purchasing the pan/filter directly from RAM. The amount you save by buying non ZF/RAM parts in the aftermarket isn't worth the risk of voiding the warranty.."
I really appreciated ZF responding by the way. I then asked as the truck is an HD model and I use it as such (heavy towing) would the transmission need more frequent service;
"If you tow quite often, you could adjust the schedule to 50k miles. Just make sure you check with your OE dealer to make sure you won't void your warranty."
Again, thank you ZF, however, Ram, you're really dropping the ball here as no where in the entire service manual does it mention this. Only the following;
"Routine fluid and filter changes are not required. However, change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for any reason."
Also, after learning this I called a local Ram parts department, not service, and parts said about $320 for the transmission pan/filter. Plus approximately $30/quart for the fluid which I'll research actual part numbers for both when I get a chance.
Sorry for the long post, I'm going to do my first service on it at 50k miles, which I guess will keep my warranty in effect?