Target Audience:
Owners of 2008-2009 Dodge RAM trucks seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or diagnostics. Also valuable for automotive repair shops and technicians.
Value Proposition:
Offers a factory-level of detail and accuracy at a fraction of the cost of dealership service or expensive proprietary software. Provides extensive coverage for both gasoline and the highly sought-after Cummins diesel variants.
Key Benefits:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to maintain their vehicles, save money on repairs, and ensure optimal performance and longevity. Covers all engine options, providing a comprehensive resource.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, torque converter, clutch, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveline components (propeller shafts, axles, differentials).
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels and tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories, infotainment system, body control modules (BCM), engine control modules (ECM), transmission control modules (TCM), wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, fuse and relay information.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with explanations and repair procedures, wiring diagram interpretation, component testing procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems. Includes engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component service, electrical connector repair, etc.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections and replacements, brake pad replacement, tire rotation and balancing.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic flowcharts, and specialized tool requirements. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
PDF Features:
Searchable text, bookmark navigation, printable pages, zoom functionality. Compatible with all major PDF readers on Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documents, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and illustrations.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Engine Option 1 (Gasoline):
4.7L Magnum V8 (P/N 53021703AA, 53021704AA, etc.) - Power: approx. 310 hp @ 5650 rpm, Torque: approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm.
Engine Option 2 (Gasoline):
5.7L HEMI V8 (P/N 5033174AA, 5033175AA, etc.) - Power: approx. 345 hp @ 5400 rpm, Torque: approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Option 3 (Diesel):
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (P/N 68004032AA, 68004033AA, etc.) - Power: approx. 350 hp @ 3000 rpm, Torque: approx. 610-650 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (depending on configuration).
Compression Ratio (5.7L Hemi):
9.6:1
Compression Ratio (6.7L Cummins):
17.2:1
Fuel Delivery (Gasoline):
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Delivery (Diesel):
High-pressure Common Rail (HPCR) fuel injection
Standard Transmission (Varies By Trim/Engine):
6-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., NV5600 for Cummins, G56 for HEMI with manual option)
Optional Transmission (Gasoline):
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 545RFE)
Optional Transmission (Diesel):
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 68RFE)
Transmission Fluid (545Rfe):
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid (68Rfe):
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Transfer Case:
Electronic Shift-On-The-Fly (ESOF) or manual transfer case options.
Wheelbase (Standard Cab, Long Bed):
140.5 inches
Wheelbase (Crew Cab, Short Bed):
140.5 inches
Wheelbase (Mega Cab):
159.5 inches
Overall Length (Crew Cab, Short Bed):
229.1 inches
Overall Width:
79.1 inches
Overall Height:
75.5 inches
Bed Length Options:
6'4" (Short Bed), 8' (Long Bed)
Curb Weight (Varies By Configuration):
Approx. 5,500 - 7,500 lbs
Gvwr (Gasoline):
Up to 8,500 lbs
Gvwr (Diesel):
Up to 9,900 lbs
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Rating:
5 Stars (for models tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Rating:
5 Stars (for models tested)
Brake System:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with power assist. Front: vented discs, Rear: vented discs (may vary with duty rating).
Traction Control System (TCS):
Available on select models.
Electronic Stability Control (Esc):
Available on select models (often referred to as Electronic Roll Mitigation or ERM).
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, available side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Infotainment System:
Uconnect infotainment system available, featuring AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 capability, auxiliary audio input, and optional navigation, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkSense® rear parking assist system available, trailer brake controller integrated into dashboard on some models.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack, USB port (on some higher trims/options), SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Oil Change Interval (Gasoline):
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, or based on the oil change indicator system.
Oil Change Interval (Cummins Diesel):
Typically every 15,000 miles or 12 months with appropriate diesel-rated synthetic oil, or based on the oil change indicator system.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Diesel engines may require more frequent checks/replacement under dusty conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement (Cummins Diesel):
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles, depending on fuel quality and operating conditions.
Engine Oil Specification (5.7L Hemi):
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 (e.g., Mopar SAE 5W-20 Synthetic)
Engine Oil Specification (6.7L Cummins):
SAE 15W-40, CJ-4 or CK-4 rated diesel engine oil (e.g., Mopar 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil)
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) based, Pentofrost 111 or equivalent (typically purple or red).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (meeting Chrysler MS-45744)
Common Issues (Gasoline):
Lifter noise (Hemi Tick), EGR valve issues, catalytic converter failures, interior trim rattles.
Common Issues (Cummins Diesel):
Turbocharger issues (wastegate sticking), injector problems, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration issues, coolant leaks from the EGR cooler, potential for cracked exhaust manifolds.
Common Issues (General):
Rust on the body and frame (especially in rust-belt areas), HVAC blend door actuator failures, power window motor failures, suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate evolving significantly over decades, known for its capability and durability.
Third Generation Ram (Ds/Dj):
Introduced for the 2002 model year, this generation saw significant updates for 2006 and continued with minor revisions through 2009. Characterized by its distinctive crosshair grille and bold styling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Saltillo Truck Assembly (Mexico) and Warren Truck Assembly (Michigan, USA).
Motortrend 'Truck Of The Year':
The Dodge Ram platform (various generations) has been recognized by MotorTrend for its capability and design over the years, contributing to its strong market presence.
Customer Satisfaction Ratings:
Generally positive for its ruggedness and towing capacity, though sometimes tempered by reports of interior component reliability or specific powertrain issues. The Cummins diesel variant consistently receives high marks for durability.