🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Pickup 3500

Year:

2006

Drivetrain:

4X4

Chassis Code:

DR/DH

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 4x4 was a cornerstone in the heavy-duty pickup segment, known for its towing and hauling capabilities, robust diesel engine option, and traditional American truck styling. It competed against models like the Ford Super Duty F-250/F-350 and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD/3500HD.

Competitive Analysis:

This manual addresses a highly capable heavy-duty truck, where reliability, performance under load, and ease of maintenance are paramount. Competitors focused on similar strengths, making detailed service information critical for owners and technicians maintaining these workhorses.

Key Features:

Availability of the legendary Cummins turbodiesel engine, robust frame and suspension design, strong towing and payload capacities, and a range of cab and bed configurations.

Diesel Engine Dominance:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbodiesel (though the 6.7L Cummins arrived in 2007.5, the 5.9L was prevalent in earlier 2006 models, and the manual would cover the applicable engines for the MY) was renowned for its inline-6 configuration, robust cast-iron block, and mechanical fuel injection (older versions) or common rail (later versions), making it a favorite for heavy-duty applications.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full Service, Maintenance, Repair

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Edition Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM), likely originating from Mopar or a licensed publisher. This is not an aftermarket 'Chilton' or 'Haynes' style manual, but the official factory documentation.

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a physical bound manual or a comprehensive digital PDF (Product description suggests detailed format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical ( Cummins ISB 5.9L & HEMI 5.7L), Engine electrical, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Starting system, Charging system, Ignition system, Powertrain control module (PCM), Transmission (NV5600 manual, 48RE automatic), Transfer case, Drivetrain (axles, driveshafts, U-joints), Suspension (front & rear), Steering system, Brakes (ABS, hydraulic), Body & chassis, HVAC system, Electrical systems (lighting, power accessories, wiring diagrams), Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Emissions control, Special tools & procedures.

Electrical Schematics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, lighting, accessories, HVAC, and safety systems. Crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.

Body And Trim:

Includes procedures for interior and exterior trim removal and installation, body panel repair, and alignment of doors, hood, and tailgate.

Emissions Control:

Detailed information on the evaporative emissions system, positive crankcase ventilation (PCV), and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) for both gasoline and diesel engines, including testing and repair procedures.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Troubleshooting guides, Component removal & installation (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering), Electrical diagnostics, Wiring harness repair, Body panel repair, HVAC system servicing, Torque specifications, Alignment procedures, Emission system testing & repair, Rebuild procedures for major components.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying common problems, including symptom analysis, component testing (resistance, voltage, continuity), and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Detailed instructions for replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, springs, shock absorbers, steering gear, and power steering pump.

Wheel Alignment Procedures:

Specifications for front and rear wheel alignment (camber, caster, toe), along with procedures for adjustment.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and complete overhaul procedures. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded views, schematics, and technical specifications necessary for professional-level repairs.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive listing of torque specifications for all fasteners, from critical engine and transmission bolts to suspension and brake components, ensuring proper assembly and safety.

Special Tools:

Lists and describes specific tools required for various procedures, often including special pullers, presses, and diagnostic equipment unique to Dodge/Chrysler vehicles.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Assuming physical, but if digital, would specify searchable PDF)

Searchable Text:

If digital, the PDF is expected to have searchable text, allowing quick access to specific information via keywords.

Print Quality:

High-quality paper, clear illustrations and text (typical for OEM manuals)

Binding Type:

Sturdy bound (common for large service manuals)

Paper Type:

Durable, heavy-stock paper suitable for shop environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Diesel:

6.7L Cummins I-6 Turbodiesel (ISB)

Primary Engine Gas:

5.7L HEMI V8 (also available)

Horsepower Diesel:

325 hp @ 2800 rpm (approx.)

Torque Diesel:

610 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower Gas:

345 hp @ 5400 rpm (approx.)

Torque Gas:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System Diesel:

High-pressure Common Rail (HPCR) direct injection

Fuel System Gas:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Codes Diesel:

CPL 8747 (for 325hp/610lb-ft)

Engine Codes Gas:

MDS (Multi-Displacement System) is a feature of the 5.7L HEMI

Engine Id Tags:

Manual will detail how to identify engine by VIN or engine block stamping.

Displacement Diesel:

5.9 Liter (359 cubic inches) for the prevalent engine, potentially updated to 6.7L for late 2006 or early 2007 models depending on production date. Manual covers applicable engine(s).

Displacement Gas:

5.7 Liter (345 cubic inches)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-Speed Manual (NV5600 Heavy Duty) for Cummins Diesel models

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (48RE) for Cummins Diesel and 5-Speed Automatic (545RFE) for HEMI V8 models

Transmission Features:

Heavy-duty components, overdrive gears, torque converter lock-up (automatic), PTO provision on manual transmission (specific models).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

140.5 inches (Regular Cab), 160.5 inches (Club Cab/Mega Cab) - typical configurations

Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 235.7 inches for 8' bed Crew Cab)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 6,500 - 7,500 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)

Gvwr:

11,500 lbs (typical for 3500 4x4)

Gcwr:

Up to 23,000 lbs (with appropriate trailer and configuration)

Bed Length Options:

6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)

Height:

Approx. 77.8 inches (varies slightly with trim/configuration)

Width:

Approx. 79.4 inches (excluding mirrors)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-star (driver), 5-star (passenger) - typical for this generation

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

4-star (front and rear seats) - typical for this generation

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some models/configurations)

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, Supplemental side curtain airbags (optional on some models), Seatbelt pretensioners, Crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured a simple AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trims offered an upgraded Infinity sound system with an in-dash 6-disc CD changer, and optional navigation systems (though less common and rudimentary by today's standards).

Driver Assistance Features:

Very limited by modern standards. Primarily ABS and available traction control. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Features:

Basic. May include auxiliary input for audio devices on higher trims. Uconnect hands-free communication system was introduced later in the generation, but unlikely to be standard or widely available on 2006 models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended, especially for heavy use). Check manual for specific severe duty recommendations.

Fuel Filter Interval Diesel:

Diesel fuel filter replacement typically every 15,000 miles or annually. Check manual for specific Cummins recommendations and potential freeze protection requirements.

Oil Change Interval Gas:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on usage (check manual for specifics).

Spark Plug Interval Gas:

Refer to manual, but typically around 100,000 miles for premium spark plugs used in HEMI engines.

Engine Oil Spec Diesel:

Cummins CES 20081 or API CJ-4 (or equivalent) SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (depending on climate, check manual for exact specs and viscosity grades).

Engine Oil Spec Gas:

API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-6 SAE 5W-20 (for HEMI with MDS) or SAE 5W-30. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically orange or red in color. Mopar Part Number 05103533AA or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602). Mopar Part Number 05013457AA or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

NV5600 requires specific synthetic gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5. Consult manual for exact specification (e.g., Red Line MT-90 or similar).

Transfer Case Fluid:

New Process NP271/NP273 transfer cases typically use ATF+4 or a suitable synthetic equivalent. Mopar Part Number 05013457AA or equivalent.

Axle Lube Spec:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 synthetic gear lubricant. For limited-slip differentials (if equipped), a friction modifier may be required. Check manual for specific type and additive requirements.

Known Issues:

Common issues for this era Ram include: HE351VE VGT turbocharger issues (sticking vanes on diesel), EGR valve clogging (diesel), injector issues (diesel), water pump leaks, alternator failures, front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), and potential for rust on frame and body panels in certain climates. The 48RE automatic transmission can be sensitive to overheating.

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Chrysler power steering fluid or equivalent. Refer to manual for specific Mopar part number.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 heavy-duty brake fluid.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust trucks, with the Ram line tracing its roots back to the 1980s. The 'Ram' name itself became a distinct brand for Chrysler's trucks in 2009.

Model Evolution:

The 2006 model year falls within the third generation of Dodge Ram trucks (2002-2008), which saw significant updates in styling, interior amenities, and powertrain options, particularly the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins diesel for 2007.5. The 3500 model represented the peak of capability for this generation's consumer offerings.

Production Location:

Saltillo Truck Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2006 Ram 3500 are not prominently documented, the Cummins diesel engine consistently received accolades for its power, durability, and towing capabilities. The Ram truck line as a whole was frequently recognized for its styling and capability.