🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 1500

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

DS/D1

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, a highly competitive segment in the North American automotive market.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.

Truck Capabilities:

Known for its robust build, towing and payload capacity, and range of powertrain options catering to various work and lifestyle needs.

Towing Payload Capacity:

Configurable to tow substantial loads and carry significant payload, making it suitable for work and recreational purposes. Specific ratings depend heavily on configuration.

Target Audience:

Professional automotive technicians, dealership service departments, fleet maintenance personnel, and advanced DIY enthusiasts seeking in-depth repair and diagnostic information.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, diagnostic, and wiring information for the 2009 Dodge RAM 1500 truck.

Estimated Pages:

Likely over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service and wiring manuals).

Manual Classification:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Diagnostic and Wiring Information

Language Primary:

English

Delivery Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RLE, 545RFE, 68RFE), manual transmissions (e.g., NV3500), transfer case, driveline, axles, differentials.

Chassis Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension systems (independent front suspension on some models), steering system, power steering, chassis components, frame.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake assist, parking brake.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power distribution, fuse and relay information.

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors).

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, component testing, symptom-based diagnostics.

Powertrain Control:

Engine Control Module (ECM) and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics, sensor inputs/outputs, actuators, and emission control systems.

Body Control Module:

Body Control Module (BCM) functions, including interior and exterior lighting, power accessories, keyless entry, and remote start systems.

Safety Systems:

ABS module, airbag control module (Occupant Restraint Controller - ORC), and related sensor diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections), lubrication, fluid checks and changes.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems and components, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, with diagnostic flowcharts and symptom analysis.

Wiring:

Extensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component locations, wire colors, connector pinouts, and circuit descriptions.

Component Replacement Procedures:

Detailed instructions for replacing major components such as engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, fuel pumps, AC compressors, radiators, suspension arms, brake calipers, and more.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive torque specifications for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle, ensuring proper assembly and preventing damage.

Special Tools Required:

Identification and usage instructions for any specialized tools required for specific diagnostic or repair procedures.

Depth Level:

Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

While basic repairs can be done with common tools, advanced diagnostics often require a factory-level diagnostic scan tool (e.g., WiTech, DRB III or compatible aftermarket tool) capable of communicating with various vehicle modules.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Likely a PDF file with searchable text, allowing for easy navigation and keyword searches. High-resolution images and diagrams.

Searchability:

Searchable text allows users to quickly find information on specific components, symptoms, or procedures, significantly reducing diagnostic time.

Image Quality:

High-quality diagrams, schematics, and illustrations that are clear and easy to interpret for accurate understanding of mechanical and electrical systems.

Print Readability:

Designed for clarity; diagrams and text are typically sharp and easy to read when printed.

Binding Method:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality Recommendation:

N/A (Digital Download) - If printing, standard copy paper is sufficient.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2009:

3.7L V6 (PowerTech), 4.7L V8 (Magnum), 5.7L V8 HEMI (ணர்வு). Specific engine availability varied by trim level and region.

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approximately 215 hp @ 5200 rpm (subject to specific calibration).

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approximately 310 hp @ 5100 rpm (subject to specific calibration).

5.7L Hemi Horsepower:

Approximately 390 hp @ 5600 rpm (subject to specific calibration).

5.7L Hemi Torque:

Approximately 407 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm (subject to specific calibration).

5.7L Hemi Engine Code:

EJM (common designation).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).

ECM Type:

Commonly used DaimlerChrysler (now Stellantis) ECM/PCM modules, with specific part numbers detailed in the manual.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

Availability varied; common automatic transmissions included the 42RLE (4-speed) and 545RFE (5-speed). A 68RFE (6-speed) was also available for heavier duty applications.

42Rle Transmission Details:

4-speed automatic, typically paired with the 3.7L V6 engine.

545Rfe Transmission Details:

5-speed automatic, commonly used with the 4.7L V8 and sometimes the 3.7L V6.

68Rfe Transmission Details:

6-speed automatic, primarily used with diesel engines (though less common for the 1500 in this generation without the heavy-duty package, often found in 2500/3500). Manual indicates its existence for the platform.

Optional Transmission Type:

Manual transmissions like the NV3500 (5-speed) were also offered on certain configurations.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Typically ATF+4 (MS-9602) for automatic transmissions, with specific recommendations in the manual. Manual transmissions use gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Multiple wheelbase options were available (e.g., 140.5 inches, 159.5 inches) depending on cab and bed configurations.

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration, ranging from approximately 229 to 258 inches.

Cab Configurations:

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

Bed Length Options:

Short Bed (approx. 5.7 feet), Long Bed (approx. 6.3 feet), Extra Long Bed (approx. 8.0 feet).

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 4,800 to 5,500 lbs, depending on engine, drivetrain, and configuration.

Gvw Rating:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) typically ranged from 6,500 lbs to 7,200 lbs for 1500 models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test:

Refer to NHTSA data for specific ratings for the 2009 model year. Generally, trucks of this era performed reasonably well in frontal and side impacts.

Braking Assist:

Available with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Brake Assist for enhanced stopping power and control.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control system to prevent wheel spin under acceleration.

Airbag Systems:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side curtain airbags and front seat side airbags depending on trim level.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Various audio system options, including AM/FM radios, CD players, SiriusXM satellite radio, and optional navigation systems. Uconnect infotainment system available on higher trims.

Navigation System:

Optional factory navigation system with touch-screen interface available on higher trim levels.

Electronic Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Trailer Sway Control were available features to enhance stability during driving and towing.

Bluetooth Hands Free:

Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling was available on some models and trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil, or 5,000-7,500 miles for synthetic oil, based on driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations found in the manual.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Recommended service at 30,000-100,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on load and usage. Manual transmission fluid service is typically less frequent.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by engine; typically 30,000-100,000 miles. The 5.7L HEMI often uses unique spark plugs that require specific replacement procedures.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 is common, with specific viscosity and API service classification detailed in the manual.

Coolant Type:

Typically HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, often Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, as specified in the manual.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, brake components (rotors, pads), exhaust systems, and certain interior electronics can be prone to wear or failure over time.

Engine Specific Considerations:

5.7L HEMI can experience issues like lifter noise (Hemi Tick) and spark plug issues (if not properly maintained). 4.7L V8 can have cylinder head issues if overheated.

Transfer Case Issues:

Certain transfer case models may experience wear in electronic shift components or seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, with the Ram line being a significant contributor to its identity.

Fourth Generation Ram:

The 2009 model year represents the introduction of the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram pickup (DS platform), which brought significant styling and engineering updates.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in North America, with key assembly plants including Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2009 model may vary, the Ram lineup consistently received accolades for its design, capability, and value in the full-size truck segment.