Positioning:
The 2009 Dodge Ram 4500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for commercial use, towing, and hauling. It represents a robust and capable option in the medium-duty segment.
Competitors:
Competes with models like the Ford F-450 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD, and GMC TopKick/4500HD.
Features:
Built on a heavy-duty chassis, designed for commercial applications, higher towing and payload capacities compared to light-duty trucks, availability of robust powertrains.
Primary Coverage:
Operation, maintenance, safety, and basic troubleshooting for the 2009 Dodge Ram 4500.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 350-450 pages (typical for heavy-duty truck owner's manuals of this era).
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Delivery Method:
Instant download after payment, providing immediate access to the information.
Manual Completeness:
This is a complete owner's manual for the 2009 Dodge Ram 4500, covering all essential aspects of ownership and basic maintenance.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission operation, and drive axle.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels, and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, and common electrical features.
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior features, and exterior features.
Instrumentation And Controls:
Detailed explanation of dashboard indicators, gauges, warning lights, and all interior controls for heating, cooling, lighting, and other functions.
Emissions System:
Basic information regarding the function of emissions control systems like the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) if applicable to specific 2009 configurations, along with related warning lights.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacement recommendations, tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement.
Basic Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic diagnostic procedures for common issues, driver-accessible checks.
Safety Information:
Seat belt usage, airbag system operation, safe driving practices, towing safety, emergency procedures.
Tire Information:
Proper tire inflation pressures for various loads, tire rotation recommendations, understanding tire sidewall markings.
Towing And Loading:
Guidance on weight distribution, trailer towing capacities, safe trailer hookup procedures, and operating with a load.
Depth:
Covers owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not provide in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in service manuals.
Diagnostic Depth:
Limited diagnostic information for owners, focusing on identifying issues via dashboard lights and basic checks rather than in-depth repair diagnostics.
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Text Searchability:
PDF format allows for text searching of keywords, making it easy to find specific information quickly.
Engine Option 1:
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6
Horsepower 6.7L Cummins:
Approx. 350 hp @ 3000 rpm (specific rating may vary by configuration)
Torque 6.7L Cummins:
Approx. 610-650 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (specific rating may vary by configuration)
Induction:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Engine Code Diesel:
Typically 'C' for the 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine.
Wheelbase Options:
Multiple wheelbase options available (e.g., 140.5", 168.5", 194.5", 204.5" - specific to chassis cab configuration).
Gvwr:
Typically around 16,500 lbs (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating).
Gcvwr:
Typically around 26,000 lbs (Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating) or higher, depending on configuration.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly based on configuration (cab type, wheelbase, drivetrain), but typically ranges from 6,000 to 8,000+ lbs.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not typically rated by NHTSA or IIHS in the same manner as light-duty vehicles due to commercial classification. Focus is on engineered safety features for intended use.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), integrated trailer brake controller (often optional).
Passive Safety:
Seat belts, heavy-duty frame construction, potential for airbags (check specific configuration).
Infotainment Features:
Base audio systems with AM/FM radio, CD player, and auxiliary input. Higher trims may offer premium audio or basic navigation.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on mechanical systems like ABS. Backup cameras or advanced aids were not standard.
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary audio input. Uconnect hands-free communication was available on some higher trims or as an option.
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Typically every 7,500 to 15,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Consult manual for exact interval.
Engine Oil Specification:
API CJ-4 or CK-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 recommended for most conditions (refer to manual for exact viscosity and spec).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or OAT (Organic Additive Technology) compliant coolant (e.g., Mopar OAT or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) for the AS68RC transmission.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Manual transmission fluid meeting specific GL-3 or GL-4 specifications (refer to manual for exact type).
Common Diesel Issues:
While the Cummins is robust, potential issues can include injector problems, EGR system issues (especially with emissions equipment), and turbocharger wear over time. Proper maintenance is key.
Common Transmission Issues:
Manual transmissions are generally reliable, but clutch wear is expected. Automatic transmissions (AS68RC) can require fluid changes and maintenance to ensure longevity.
Maintenance Schedule Summary
Maintenance Schedule:
Covers regular checks like tire inflation, fluid levels, brake inspection, filter replacements (air, fuel, oil), and lubrication points. Detailed intervals for major components are outlined.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 12 quarts (11.4 liters) with filter for the 6.7L Cummins (verify with manual).
Dodge Truck Heritage:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, known for durability and capability, especially with the Ram line.
Ram Evolution 2009:
The 2009 model year falls within the fourth generation of the Ram trucks (DS platform), which saw significant redesigns in styling, interior, and capability compared to previous generations.
Manufacturing Plant:
Typically manufactured at Chrysler's Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico.
