🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500, 2500, 3500

Year:

2006

Platform:

DR/DH/D1 Platform (Third Generation Ram)

Chassis Codes:

DR (1500), DH (2500 2WD), D1 (2500 4WD), DC (3500 2WD), DD (3500 4WD)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, known for its capability, towing, and hauling prowess.

Competitors 2006:

Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250, F-350), Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust chassis, powerful engine options, strong towing capacity, available HEMI V8, versatile configurations (cab styles, bed lengths, drivetrain).

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and technicians with the detailed knowledge to perform professional-level maintenance and repairs, saving time and money compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF, though print is common for this era)

Page Count:

Estimated 2000-3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive OEM-level service manuals)

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, and Troubleshooting

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (42RLE, 48RE, 545RFE), manual transmission (NV3500, NV5600), transfer case operation and repair, driveline components (propeller shafts, U-joints, axle shafts, differentials).

Chassis Suspension:

Front suspension (independent torsion bar for 4x4, coil springs for 4x2), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system (power steering pump, gearbox/rack and pinion, steering column), wheel bearings, hub assemblies.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes standard), parking brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, horn, wiper/washer system, instrument cluster, warning indicators, fuse and relay identification and testing, basic wiring diagrams.

Body Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, latches, interior trim panels, seats, dashboard assembly, climate control system (HVAC), body hardware, bumpers, grille, mirrors.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, fluid checks and changes (engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), lubrication points, tire rotation and pressure checks.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine component removal and installation (e.g., cylinder heads, oil pan, water pump), transmission overhaul procedures, differential rebuild, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, ball joints, tie rods), starter and alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit testing, component testing procedures, pinpoint tests for common issues.

Special Procedures:

Airbag system service precautions and procedures, diagnostic scan tool usage, torque specifications for critical fasteners, alignment procedures.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive Factory-Level Detail

Detail Elements:

Step-by-step repair instructions, exploded views, diagrams, wiring schematics, diagnostic flowcharts, torque specifications, special tool requirements, component identification.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with indexed chapters for quick navigation. Includes vector graphics for clarity.

Print Readability:

Clear, crisp text and sharp image reproduction for easy interpretation of diagrams and procedures. Designed for workshop environments.

Binding Durability:

Perfect bound or spiral bound for durability and lay-flat usability in a garage or workshop setting.

Paper Quality:

Heavy-duty, glossy or semi-gloss paper stock resistant to oil and grease smudges, ensuring longevity in a work environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1500 Base:

3.7L Magnum V6 (215 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)

Engine 1500 Optional 1:

4.7L Magnum V8 (235 hp @ 4800 rpm, 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm - later models 310 hp)

Engine 1500 Optional 2:

5.7L HEMI V8 (345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)

Engine 2500 3500:

5.7L HEMI V8 (345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)

Engine 2500 3500 Diesel:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (275 hp @ 2800 rpm, 525 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm - manual trans; 305 hp @ 2800 rpm, 555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm - auto trans)

Bore Stroke 5.7L Hemi:

99.5 mm x 90.9 mm

Compression Ratio 5.7L Hemi:

9.6:1

Bore Stroke 5.9L Cummins:

98.9 mm x 120 mm

Compression Ratio 5.9L Cummins:

19.3:1

Fuel Delivery Gasoline:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Delivery Diesel:

High-pressure common rail direct injection

Recommended Fuel Gasoline:

87 Octane (Minimum)

Recommended Fuel Diesel:

ULSD (Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1500 Base:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500)

Transmission 1500 Auto:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)

Transmission 1500 Optional Auto:

4-Speed Automatic (48RE - with 4.7L/5.7L)

Transmission 2500 Auto:

4-Speed Automatic (48RE)

Transmission 2500 Diesel:

6-Speed Manual (NV5600)

Transmission 2500 3500 Auto:

4-Speed Automatic (48RE - with 5.7L HEMI) / 4-Speed Automatic (48RE - with 5.9L Cummins)

Transmission 3500 Auto:

4-Speed Automatic (48RE)

Transfer Case Options:

Electronic Shift-on-the-Fly (ESOF) or part-time manual transfer case (NP241DHD for HD models).

Transmission Fluid 1500 42Rle:

ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA)

Transmission Fluid 48Re:

ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA)

Transmission Fluid Nv5600:

Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) - check manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 75W-90 GL-3/GL-4)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 1500 Short Bed:

139.0 inches (3530 mm)

Wheelbase 1500 Long Bed:

154.7 inches (3930 mm)

Wheelbase 2500 3500 Std Cab:

130.2 inches (3307 mm)

Wheelbase 2500 3500 Long Bed:

140.5 inches (3569 mm) / 154.7 inches (3930 mm) / 167.7 inches (4259 mm)

Bed Lengths:

6.3 ft (Standard), 8.0 ft (Long)

Curb Weight 1500 Base:

Approx. 4,800 - 5,500 lbs (2177 - 2495 kg)

Curb Weight 2500 Diesel:

Approx. 6,000 - 6,800 lbs (2722 - 3084 kg)

Gvwr 1500:

6,050 - 7,200 lbs (2744 - 3266 kg)

Gvwr 2500:

8,510 - 9,500 lbs (3860 - 4309 kg)

Gvwr 3500:

9,500 - 13,500 lbs (4309 - 6123 kg)

Towing Capacity Max 1500 Hemi:

Up to 9,000 lbs (4082 kg)

Towing Capacity Max 2500 Cummin:

Up to 12,750 lbs (5783 kg)

Towing Capacity Max 3500 Cummin:

Up to 16,500 lbs (7484 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

4 Stars (for 2006 models)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2006 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5 Stars (for 2006 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

4 Stars (for 2006 models)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for 2006 models)

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS on most models.

Traction Control:

Available Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Traction Control (TCS).

Airbags:

Front airbags, optional side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Options:

Factory AM/FM/CD audio systems, optional Infinity premium audio, available Sirius satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most models.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear park assist sensors on some models.

Trailer Brake Controller:

Optional integrated trailer brake controller for easier trailer management.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (7,500 miles recommended for synthetic oil and normal driving conditions).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) for conventional oil, potentially longer for synthetic oil as specified by the manual.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years (depending on coolant type).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for heavy-duty use, 60,000-100,000 miles for normal use.

Engine Oil Gasoline Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20 (for 4.7L V8 and 5.7L HEMI), SAE 5W-30 (for 3.7L V6 and older 4.7L specs).

Engine Oil Diesel Viscosity:

API CI-4 or CJ-4 rated 15W-40 diesel engine oil.

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent.

Common Issues Hemi Tick:

Loud ticking noise from the 5.7L HEMI, often related to lifter/camshaft wear or exhaust manifold leaks. Covered in detail with diagnostic steps.

Common Issues Transmission:

Torque converter shudder in 48RE, solenoid pack issues in 42RLE. Manuals provide diagnostic and repair procedures.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, steering stabilizer issues. Manual provides replacement procedures and alignment specs.

Common Issues Diesel:

Injection pump issues, fuel injector problems, EGR valve issues on later models (though 2006 Cummins may not have EGR).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history in the pickup truck market, with the Ram line dating back to the early 1980s, evolving into a formidable competitor against Ford and Chevrolet.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2006 model is part of the third generation (2002-2008), which introduced a significant redesign with a more powerful chassis, improved styling, and the introduction of the HEMI engine and Mega Cab configuration.

Manufacturing Locations:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While the 2006 model itself might not have won a specific 'Truck of the Year' award, the third-generation Ram platform (introduced in 2002) was highly regarded for its design and capability, often placing well in comparison tests.

Diesel Engine Recognition:

The 5.9L Cummins turbo-diesel engine consistently received accolades for its durability, power, and towing capabilities, making it a benchmark in the heavy-duty segment.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings for the 2006 Ram vary by engine and specific components. The manual helps diagnose and address common wear items to maintain reliability.