Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Commercial users, fleet operators, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Tundra, GMC Sierra 1500.
Vehicle Identity:
The 2009 Dodge RAM 1500 is known for its distinctive coil-spring rear suspension, offering a more refined ride compared to competitors.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual provides the most comprehensive and accurate repair information directly from the manufacturer, crucial for maintaining and repairing the 2009 RAM 1500 effectively.
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage including engine overhaul, fuel system, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, and drive belts.
Drivetrain:
Detailed information on automatic and manual transmissions, transfer cases (if applicable), driveshafts, differentials, and axles.
Chassis:
Extensive coverage of front and rear suspension, steering systems, braking systems (including ABS), and wheel/tire assemblies.
Electrical:
In-depth analysis of the 12V electrical system, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, and all vehicle modules.
Body:
Coverage of exterior and interior body panels, doors, windows, seating systems, and related trim components.
HVAC:
Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.
Safety Systems:
Information on airbags, seatbelts, and associated control modules.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug service, and belt inspections.
Component Removal Installation:
Step-by-step guides for removing and reinstalling major and minor components.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing malfunctions using symptom-based guides and fault codes.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for transmission disassembly, component inspection, and rebuilding.
Brake Service:
Procedures for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding brake systems, and ABS diagnostics.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for electrical circuits, component testing, and wiring repair.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Guidance on replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, shocks, struts, and steering components.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type:
42RLE Automatic (for 4.7L V8)
Transmission Type Optional:
6.0L 6-speed Manual (NV3500 for some configurations)
Transmission Type Optional 2:
5-speed Automatic (545RFE for 5.7L HEMI)
Overdrive:
Yes (all automatic transmissions)
Transfer Case:
Available 4WD with Command-Trac NV244 transfer case.
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab configuration (e.g., 140.5 in. for Quad Cab)
Length:
Varies by configuration
Width:
Varies by configuration
Height:
Varies by configuration
Bed Length Options:
6'4" and 8'0" bed lengths available.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,800 - 5,500 lbs (varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 6,400 - 7,200 lbs (varies by configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
4/5 stars (driver/passenger) depending on configuration.
NHTSA Side Crash:
4/5 stars (front/rear passenger) depending on configuration.
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (results vary slightly by test date)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front seat pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (severe duty may require shorter intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
4.7L V8: 100,000 miles (Spark plugs: Champion Copper Plus or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace fluid and filter as recommended, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, especially for heavy use.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20, API SN (or equivalent) - Capacity: 6 quarts (4.7L V8), 7 quarts (5.7L HEMI)
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) 50/50 mix
Typical Wear Items:
Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), brake wear, exhaust system corrosion.
Engine Specific:
Early 4.7L V8 models could experience camshaft/lifter noise; HEMI engines could have lifter issues.
Transmission Specific:
Some 42RLE automatic transmissions may exhibit delayed shifting or torque converter shudder under certain conditions.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, with the RAM nameplate dating back to 1981.
Fourth Generation:
The 2009 model year represents the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram, which debuted in 2009, featuring a completely new exterior design and chassis.
Key Changes 2009:
Major redesign including a distinctive grille, updated interior, and the introduction of the coil-spring rear suspension.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.