Segment:
Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Owners of the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 requiring operational, maintenance, and feature-related guidance.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.
Manual Purpose:
To provide essential information for safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and understanding of the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500's features and systems.
Digital Benefit:
Instant download and ability to print only necessary pages offer convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Engine And Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, and transmission basics.
Chassis And Suspension:
Braking system, steering system, suspension components, and tire information.
Electrical And Electronics:
Lighting system, instrument cluster, driver information display, power accessories, and basic fuse identification.
Interior And Comfort:
Climate control, seating adjustments, interior features, and cargo management.
Safety And Security:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems, vehicle security system, and emergency procedures.
Operation:
Starting the engine, driving procedures, shifting gears, parking, and operating vehicle features.
Maintenance:
Fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), tire pressure checks, windshield wiper blade replacement, and basic cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, and basic steps to address common issues.
Depth:
Designed for the owner, focusing on operation, routine maintenance, and understanding vehicle systems. Does not include detailed diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.
Engine Options:
Available with several robust powertrain options, typically including a 5.7L HEMI V8 and a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel.
5.7L Hemi V8:
Displacement: 5.7 Liters (345 cu. in.), Configuration: V8, Fuel Type: Gasoline, Technologies: Multi-Displacement System (MDS).
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel:
Displacement: 6.7 Liters (408 cu. in.), Configuration: Inline-6 (I6), Fuel Type: Diesel, Technologies: Turbocharging, Common Rail Fuel Injection.
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 383 hp @ 5600 rpm (may vary slightly by configuration).
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approx. 400 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (may vary slightly by configuration).
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel Horsepower:
Approx. 350 hp @ 3000 rpm (may vary slightly by configuration).
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel Torque:
Approx. 650 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (may vary slightly by configuration).
Gasoline Engine:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Diesel Engine:
Common Rail Diesel Injection (CRDI) with high-pressure fuel pump.
Transmission Options:
Typically offered with a 6-speed manual transmission (for diesel) or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Automatic Transmission:
68RFE 6-speed automatic (for diesel), W5A580 5-speed automatic (for gasoline, though 6-speed was becoming more common).
Diesel Manual:
Heavy-duty manual gearbox designed for high torque applications.
Automatic Towing Modes:
May include specific Tow/Haul modes to optimize transmission shift points for towing.
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 140.5" for Crew Cab Short Bed, 160.5" for Crew Cab Long Bed).
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration.
Curb Weight:
Typically ranges from approximately 6,000 to 7,500 lbs depending on configuration and powertrain.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically 10,000 lbs to 11,500 lbs for Ram 3500 models.
Max Towing Capacity:
Can exceed 15,000 lbs, depending on axle ratio, engine, cab, and configuration.
NHTSA Ratings:
As a heavy-duty truck, specific crash test ratings may vary, but generally designed for robust occupant protection in its class.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) are standard.
Traction Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control systems are typically available or standard.
Airbags:
Front advanced multi-stage airbags for driver and front passenger.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for all occupants.
Child Restraints:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for child seat installation in rear seats.
Audio System:
Available with AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 compatibility, and optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some trims.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors on some models.
Bluetooth:
Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or 12 months for synthetic diesel oil, but heavily dependent on usage and oil analysis.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 7,500-10,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Refer to manual, often around 30,000-60,000 miles, or sooner if used for heavy towing.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Refer to manual, typically longer intervals than automatics.
Engine Oil Gasoline:
SAE 5W-20 or SAE 5W-30, meeting API SN/SM or Chrysler MS-6395 specifications (verify with manual).
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CJ-4 or CK-4 specification synthetic diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (verify with manual).
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify with manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) or equivalent.
Common Diesel Issues 2009:
Potential for EGR cooler leaks, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on earlier 6.7L), and fuel injector issues. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration can be sensitive to short-trip driving.
Common Gasoline Issues 2009:
Less prone to major issues; focus on routine maintenance. Potential for exhaust manifold leaks on HEMI V8s.
General Truck Issues:
Can include suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods) due to heavy-duty nature, and potential for rust on body panels in certain climates.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for producing durable and capable trucks since the 1930s.
Fourth Generation Ram:
The 2009 model year belongs to the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram (introduced for the 2009 model year), representing a significant redesign with a bolder appearance and enhanced capabilities.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in North America, with key assembly plants in Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo, Mexico.
