🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500

Year:

2009

Generation:

DS/HFE (Fourth Generation)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Dodge Ram owners seeking detailed repair information.

Alternative Sources:

Directly competes with expensive OEM factory shop manual CD-ROMs, offering a more accessible and cost-effective solution.

Completeness:

Claims to be a 'COMPLETE Workshop Service / Repair Manual' with all information found in factory CD-ROMs.

Accessibility:

PDF format works on all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac, with email delivery eliminating shipping delays.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair

Scope:

All technical repair information for rebuilding and maintaining the vehicle

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (similar to factory shop manual, typically over 2000 pages)

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Delivery Format:

PDF (Electronic Delivery)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Engine systems, including specifications, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all available engine variants

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, drivelines, axles, and differentials

Chassis And Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, steering systems, wheel alignment specifications, and chassis components

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake systems, ABS, ESC, brake component replacement, and bleeding procedures

Electrical:

Complete electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, component locations, troubleshooting, charging system, starting system, lighting, and accessories

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics, repair, and refrigerant handling

Fuel And Exhaust:

Fuel delivery system, fuel tank, lines, injectors, fuel pump, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and mufflers

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, and coolant specifications

Body And Trim:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, and exterior trim components

Emission Control:

Emission control systems, including EGR, EVAP, and O2 sensors

Routine Maintenance:

Lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, and scheduled inspections

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting trees

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing all major and minor vehicle components

Rebuilding And Overhaul:

Complete procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding, including torque specifications and clearances

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Printability:

Printable: Allows users to print all, any, or selected pages as needed.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, enabling quick location of specific information

Multimedia:

Includes numerous pictures and diagrams to aid in repair and understanding

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2009:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8

3.7L V6 Specs:

Approx. 215 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm

4.7L V8 Specs:

Approx. 310 hp @ 5650 rpm, 330 lb-ft torque @ 3950 rpm

5.7L Hemi V8 Specs:

Approx. 380 hp @ 5600 rpm, 404 lb-ft torque @ 3950 rpm (with MDS)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Regular Unleaded Gasoline (E10 compatible for all engines)

Emission Features:

California-emissions-legal models may have different component configurations.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (NV3500/4500 depending on application, primarily with 3.7L V6)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed automatic transmission (45RFE/545RFE used across engine variants)

4Wd System:

Available 4WD systems with various transfer case options (e.g., NV244, NV273)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) is common for 545RFE.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil requirements.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Standard Wheelbase: 140.5 inches; Long Wheelbase (Mega Cab): 160.5 inches (Note: Mega Cab typically not offered in 2009 for 1500 models, focus on standard configurations)

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., ~230-259 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs depending on configuration

Max Payload:

Up to ~1,900 lbs depending on configuration

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to ~9,100 lbs depending on configuration (e.g., 5.7L HEMI with towing package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

Refer to specific NHTSA reports for 2009 Dodge Ram 1500. Typically performs well in frontal and side impacts.

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard on many trims; includes traction control.

Anti-Lock Brakes:

Standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger; optional side-curtain airbags available on some trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Available with basic AM/FM radio, CD player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional premium audio systems. Uconnect hands-free communication system available on higher trims.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear park assist system available.

Uconnect Availability:

Uconnect integrated voice command and Bluetooth for hands-free calling available on certain trims.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, and available power adjustable pedals.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Refer to the specific manual for exact recommendation.

Tire Rotation:

Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter change recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles, or per manual's severe duty schedule.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (depending on engine and climate). Check manual for specific API certification (e.g., API SN or SP).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) engine coolant, typically a pink or orange color.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, and wheel bearings are common wear items on heavy-duty trucks. Some early 4.7L engines had minor piston slap issues. Hesitation or rough shifting on early 5-speed automatics sometimes reported.

Electrical Gremlins:

Wiring harness chafing and minor electrical component failures can occur, especially with aftermarket accessories.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for producing robust and capable pickup trucks since the 1930s.

Fourth Generation Ram:

The 2009 model represents the first year of the significantly redesigned fourth-generation Ram (DS platform), introduced for the 2009 model year. It featured a new exterior design, improved interior, and updated powertrains. Note: Some sources might classify the 2009 models as a late introduction to the 3rd gen or a transitionary year, but the major redesign is associated with the 2009 launch.

Manufacturing Plants:

St. Louis Assembly (Fenton, Missouri) and Warren Truck Assembly (Warren, Michigan) were primary assembly plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2009 model might vary, the Ram brand and its predecessors have historically received numerous accolades in the truck segment from publications like MotorTrend and others.