🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 3500

Year:

2009

Platform Code:

DJ (Third Generation RAM)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Market Segment:

Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck

Vehicle Key Selling Points:

Towing capacity, payload capacity, diesel engine torque, heavy-duty construction, work truck capability

Primary Competitors:

Ford Super Duty F-250/F-350, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD/3500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides professional-level repair and maintenance guidance, enabling DIY mechanics and professional technicians to effectively service and repair the 2009 Dodge RAM 3500, saving time and money.

Manual Format Advantage:

Digital software format offers easy searching, cross-referencing, and the ability to zoom in on diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Options Covered:

5.7L HEMI V8 (2009-2010), 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Transmission Options Covered:

6-Speed Manual (NV5600 - early production/limited), 6-Speed Manual (G56), 6-Speed Automatic (271, 273, 48RE - diesel)

Drivetrain Options Covered:

2WD, 4WD

Estimated Page Count:

2000+

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis

Transmission Systems:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, repair, and diagnosis, transfer case operation and service

Drivetrain Systems:

Front and rear axle service, driveshaft maintenance, universal joints, limited-slip differentials (if equipped)

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications

Brakes And Wheels:

Hydraulic brake system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), parking brake, brake rotor and pad replacement, wheel bearing service, tire specifications

Electrical And Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), wiring diagrams, fuse locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling procedures

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim, frame straightening and repair procedures

Chassis Components:

Frame, body mounts, fuel tank and lines, exhaust system routing and mounting

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, lubrication points, belt and hose inspection/replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, wiring harness testing

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, and electrical component replacement

Special Tools And Equipment:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Likely a searchable PDF or a proprietary digital format with interactive diagrams and cross-referencing. Optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Print Quality Expectation:

High-resolution graphics and clear, legible text suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gas:

2009 model year primarily featured the 5.7L HEMI V8

Displacement Gas:

5.7 Liters (345 cubic inches)

Configuration Gas:

V8

Horsepower Gas:

Approximately 360-380 hp (varies slightly by application)

Torque Gas:

Approximately 395-400 lb-ft

Engine Code Diesel:

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

Displacement Diesel:

6.7 Liters (408 cubic inches)

Configuration Diesel:

Inline-6 (I6)

Horsepower Diesel:

350 hp @ 3,000 RPM

Torque Diesel:

650 lb-ft @ 1,500 RPM

Engine Management System:

Engine Control Module (ECM) with sophisticated fuel delivery and emissions control

Fuel Type Gas:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel System Diesel:

High-pressure Common Rail (HPCR) direct injection system

Fuel Filter Diesel Part Number Example:

Mopar 68048553AA (This is a common replacement, refer to manual for exact fitment)

Exhaust System Diesel Features:

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) for emissions compliance (may vary by specific market/configuration)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type Gas:

6-Speed Manual G56 (common)

Standard Transmission Type Diesel:

6-Speed Manual G56 or 6-Speed Automatic (271, 273, 48RE - historically the 48RE was more common in earlier generations of the Cummins, but the 68RFE became prevalent. The 2009 MY could have a mix depending on build date and options.)

Optional Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic (271, 273, 48RE and potentially the 68RFE)

Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:

ATF+4 (MS-9602) - Verify with manual for specific transmission

Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic Approx:

12-14 quarts (dry fill), 7-9 quarts (drain and fill)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., NV5600, G56 might use specific manual transmission fluids or ATF)

Transfer Case Models:

NV271D (manual shift), NV273D (electronic shift)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

140.5 in, 160.5 in, 170.5 in, 189.5 in (depending on cab and bed configuration)

Overall Length Approx:

237.3 - 266.7 inches

Overall Width Approx:

79.4 inches

Overall Height Approx:

77.5 - 80.0 inches

Bed Length Options:

6'4" (short bed), 8'0" (long bed)

Curb Weight Approx Gas:

6,000 - 6,500 lbs

Curb Weight Approx Diesel:

6,800 - 7,500 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

10,500 lbs - 11,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

Max Towing Capacity Approx:

Up to 16,000 lbs (properly equipped)

Max Payload Capacity Approx:

Up to 4,500 lbs (properly equipped)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

Good (for 2009 models, check NHTSA for specific configurations)

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Acceptable or Good depending on specific test (check IIHS.org for details)

Active Safety Features Common:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - standard on 2009 MY)

Passive Safety Features Common:

Front airbags, available side curtain airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Base:

AM/FM stereo with CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims offered optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect hands-free communication with Bluetooth, and navigation systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkSense parking assist system (rear parking sensors) available on higher trims. Cruise control. Trailer brake controller (integrated or aftermarket).

Connectivity Features:

Uconnect system (if equipped) provided Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls. USB ports not standard on base models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gas Typical:

3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions)

Oil Change Interval Diesel Typical:

7,500 - 15,000 miles (depending on oil type, driving conditions, and emissions system)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (heavier use may require more frequent replacement)

Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:

15,000 - 30,000 miles (critical for diesel longevity)

Engine Oil Spec Gas Typical:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API certified meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification)

Engine Oil Spec Diesel Typical:

SAE 15W-40 (API CJ-4 or CK-4 for newer specifications, check manual for 2009 specific spec)

Coolant Spec:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler MS-9769 or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Common Diesel Issues 2009 Ram 3500:

Injectors (Cummins), EGR system clogging (due to emissions), turbocharger issues, potential for fuel system contamination if filters are neglected. Some early 6.7L Cummins had issues with piston cooling jets and cylinder head cracking, though improvements were made.

Common Gas Issues 2009 Ram 3500:

Lifter tick (HEMI engines), manifold crack (HEMI), spark plug issues (early HEMI models, though less common by 2009), transmission solenoid pack issues (automatic)

Common General Issues 2009 Ram 3500:

Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods due to heavy use), exhaust manifold leaks, power steering pump issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, rust on body panels and frame (depending on climate)

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the Dodge Power Wagon. The RAM nameplate has been a staple in the heavy-duty segment for decades.

Third Generation Ram Platform:

The 2009 RAM 3500 is part of the third generation of Dodge RAM trucks (2002-2008), which underwent significant updates for the 2006 model year. This generation is known for its distinctive crosshair grille and a more refined interior compared to its predecessors.

Manufacturing Location:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA

Model Year Notes:

The 2009 model year saw further refinements and updates to the platform, including potential introduction of new features and emissions controls, particularly for the Cummins diesel engine.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards Ram 3500 Period:

While specific awards for the 2009 model year might be limited, the Dodge/RAM Heavy Duty trucks have historically been recognized for their towing prowess, engine performance (especially the Cummins diesel), and overall ruggedness by publications like MotorTrend and PickupTrucks.com. The Cummins engine itself is highly regarded.

Consumer Satisfaction Trends:

Consumer satisfaction for the 2009 RAM 3500 often depended heavily on the powertrain choice. The Cummins diesel variants generally received higher marks for durability and performance compared to the gasoline V8. Overall reliability ratings varied, with some common wear-and-tear items noted as typical for heavy-duty trucks of this era.