🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500, 2500, 3500

Model Years Covered:

2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

Platform Code:

DS/DJ (for 1500), HB/HC (for 2500/3500)

Generation Designation:

Fourth Generation Ram Truck (2009-2018)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size pickup truck.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust build, powerful engine options, towing and hauling capability, customizable trims, comfortable ride for a truck.

Manual Value Proposition:

Enables owners and technicians to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, and diagnostics for Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks.

Total Pages:

17,570

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Printable, Copyable to Hard Drive)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, component replacement, timing, cooling system, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, PCV system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, pipes, mufflers, catalytic converters, mounting hardware.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission disassembly, repair, clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission repair, valve body, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM).

Transfer Case:

Transfer case operation, disassembly, repair, 4WD system components.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, U-joints, axle shafts, differentials, hub assemblies.

Suspension Front:

Independent front suspension, control arms, ball joints, coil springs, shocks, steering knuckles.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link solid rear axle, leaf springs, shocks, control arms.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, alignment procedures.

Brakes Front:

Front brake rotor, caliper, pad replacement, brake bleeding, ABS components.

Brakes Rear:

Rear brake rotor, caliper, pad replacement (or drum brake for some models/trims), ABS components.

Brake Control System:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), Brake assist, Trailer Brake Controller integration.

Wheels And Tires:

Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), wheel alignment, tire rotation, wheel bearing replacement.

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, corrosion protection, frame straightening, door, hood, tailgate service.

Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, HVAC controls, interior trim, airbags.

Exterior:

Exterior trim, mirrors, bumpers, lighting systems, sunroof.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, heater core.

Electrical System General:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting circuits, fuses, relays.

Instrument Panel:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, driver information center.

Infotainment Audio:

Radio, speakers, Uconnect system, navigation, auxiliary inputs.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system operation, SRS module, seat belts, airbag deployment procedures.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control module, switches, operation.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage.

Preventive Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.

Basic Repairs:

Component replacement (e.g., spark plugs, belts, hoses, brake pads).

Advanced Repairs:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component overhaul, complex electrical system repairs.

Troubleshooting Guides:

System-specific diagnostic trees and fault isolation procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Engine, transmission, brake, suspension, and steering system specifications and acceptable wear tolerances.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Extremely comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete vehicle overhauls and advanced diagnostics.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic information for all electronic control modules (ECMs), sensors, and actuators.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for viewing, searching, and printing.

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Loaded with illustrations, instructions, photos, and diagrams for clear understanding.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format - printable on various paper types)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.7L V6, 4.7L V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (2500/3500)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 215 hp (3.7L) to 390 hp (5.7L HEMI) and 350 hp (6.7L Cummins)

Torque Range:

Approx. 235 lb-ft (3.7L) to 410 lb-ft (5.7L HEMI) and 650 lb-ft (6.7L Cummins)

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; High-pressure common rail (HPCR) for diesel.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options Standard:

4-speed automatic (early models/lower trims), 5-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic (later models/higher trims), 6-speed manual (available on select models).

Transmission Options Optional:

Refer to specific engine and trim level for transmission availability. Heavy-duty trucks primarily featured automatic or manual transmissions suited for towing.

Transmission Features:

Tow/Haul mode, manual shift capability on some automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab.

Bed Lengths:

5'7" (Short Bed), 6'4" (Standard Bed), 8' (Long Bed).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies significantly by model (e.g., 1500: 6,500-7,400 lbs; 2500: 8,500-9,900 lbs; 3500: 9,900-14,000+ lbs)

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically ranging from 4,800 lbs to over 7,000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Ratings vary by specific model year and configuration, but generally good for the era. Refer to NHTSA database for specifics.

Active Safety Features:

ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Trailer Sway Control.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side curtain airbags (available/standard on some trims), advanced seat belt systems.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Uconnect infotainment system offering touchscreens, navigation, Bluetooth, voice control, satellite radio, and media inputs.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkView rear backup camera, ParkSense front/rear park assist (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB ports, auxiliary input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specific engine).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Around 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (heavy-duty use may require more frequent changes). Manual transmission fluid varies.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 30,000-100,000 miles or 5 years, depending on coolant type (e.g., HOAT).

Engine Oil Recommendation:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines; SAE 15W-40 for 6.7L Cummins diesel. Consult manual for exact specifications and API classifications (e.g., API SP, CK-4).

Transmission Fluid Recommendation:

ATF+4 for most automatic transmissions; Manual transmission fluid specific to the transmission type (e.g., gear oil).

Coolant Recommendation:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust components, front end bushings, brake wear items, catalytic converters (on some gasoline models).

Powertrain Common Concerns:

Lifter issues in some HEMI engines, occasional transmission issues (particularly with heavy towing if maintenance is neglected), EGR cooler failures on diesel models.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for producing durable and capable trucks, evolving from the Power Wagon to the modern Ram trucks.

Fourth Gen Ram Introduction:

The fourth generation, launched for 2009, introduced a significant redesign with a more imposing grille, updated interior, and new powertrains, including the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins for heavy-duty models and the HEMI V8 as a potent option.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in North America (e.g., Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2009-2012 model years vary, the Ram truck line has consistently received accolades from automotive publications for its capability, design, and powertrain options.