🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Variant:

1500, 2500, 3500, 4000, SRT-10, Diesel

Model Year:

2006

Generation:

Third Generation (2002-2008)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Dodge Ram represented a significant player in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its robust construction, towing capability, and diverse engine options, including the potent SRT-10 and efficient diesel variants. This manual targets owners and technicians seeking in-depth information for maintaining and repairing this capable vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against heavyweights like the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado. Its appeal spanned from work trucks to performance-oriented models (SRT-10), requiring a service manual that could address this broad spectrum of applications and powertrains.

Key Features:

Comprehensive coverage of all 2006 Ram models, detailed illustrations, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, and step-by-step repair instructions. The inclusion of SRT-10 and Diesel specific information enhances its value.

Manual Purpose:

To equip owners and technicians with the necessary knowledge and procedures to perform all maintenance, repair, and diagnostic tasks on the 2006 Dodge Ram, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Dodge Ram Pickup and Cab Chassis models for 2006, including Light Duty (1500), Heavy Duty (2500, 3500), 4000 DX Family, SRT-10, and Diesel variants.

Page Count:

Estimated ~3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Complete Official Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Printable:

Yes, all pages are printable without restriction.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition control, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication, automatic transmission, clutch, differential & driveline, brakes, suspension, steering, wheels & tires, body, frame & bumpers, heating & air conditioning, emissions control, audio, chimes/buzzers, electronic control modules, lamps, message systems, power systems, restraints, speed control, vehicle theft security, wipers/washers, wiring diagrams.

Systems Covered Extended:

Detailed coverage of the 8.3L V10 SRT-10 engine and its specific performance modifications, including cooling, fuel delivery, and ignition systems. Also covers the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel High Output engine with specific maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for its fuel injection system, turbocharger, and exhaust aftertreatment (if applicable).

Procedures Included:

Diagnostic procedures, repair procedures, maintenance schedules, rebuilding procedures, refurbishment, restoration, component replacement, system adjustments, troubleshooting guides, wiring schematic interpretation.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine overhauls, transmission diagnostics, advanced electrical troubleshooting, and body repair. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Includes step-by-step diagnostics for common and intermittent faults, often utilizing OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) trouble codes (DTCs) and guided diagnostic flowcharts.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive, high-quality wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including engine controls, lighting, power accessories, HVAC, ABS, airbags, and more. These are crucial for electrical troubleshooting.

Component Index:

Includes a comprehensive component and system index for quick navigation to specific topics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and schematics.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (printable pages)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital format)

Searchable:

PDF format allows for text searching of specific terms, greatly aiding in quickly finding relevant information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.7L Magnum V6 MPI Gasoline

Performance:

Includes specifications for 3.7L V6 (approx. 215 hp, 235 lb-ft torque), 4.7L V8 Magnum (approx. 235 hp, 295 lb-ft torque), 4.7L V8 Flex Fuel, 5.7L HEMI V8 SMPI (approx. 345 hp, 375 lb-ft torque), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel HO (approx. 325 hp, 555 lb-ft torque), and 8.3L V10 SRT-10 (approx. 500 hp, 525 lb-ft torque).

Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for V6 and most V8s, Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI) for HEMI, Electronic Diesel Control (EDC) for Cummins Diesel, Fuel Injection for V10.

Engine Codes:

While specific engine codes might not be explicitly listed as a primary attribute, the manual would reference them in relation to engine identification and specific repair procedures (e.g., for different versions of the 4.7L or 5.9L Diesel).

Engine Displacements:

3.7L (226 cu in), 4.7L (285 cu in), 5.7L (345 cu in), 5.9L (359 cu in), 8.3L (502 cu in).

Engine Cylinder Count:

V6, V8, V10

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

Manual transmissions (NV3500, NV4500, G56) were optional on some models, but automatics were prevalent.

Optional:

4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) for V6/V8 gasoline engines, 48RE 4-speed automatic for V8 gasoline and Diesel, NV5600 6-speed manual for Diesel, and manual transmissions for SRT-10.

Features:

Includes diagnostic and repair procedures for automatic transmission valve bodies, torque converters, electronic controls, and manual transmission synchronizers and gear sets.

Transmission Types:

Manual: NV3500, NV4500, G56, T56 (for SRT-10). Automatic: 45RFE, 545RFE, 48RE.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for all manual and automatic transmissions are provided, essential for performance tuning and diagnostics.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type +4) is the primary fluid specified for most automatic transmissions and transfer cases.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

Varies significantly by cab configuration (Regular, Quad Cab, Mega Cab) and bed length (short, standard, long). Specific dimensions for wheelbase, length, width, and height are detailed within the manual.

Weights:

Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) range from approximately 8,500 lbs for light-duty to over 11,500 lbs for heavy-duty models. Curb weights and payload capacities are model-specific.

Wheelbase:

Multiple wheelbase options available, typically ranging from 131.3 inches for standard beds to 160.3 inches for long beds and Mega Cabs. Specific values for 1500, 2500, and 3500 models are detailed.

Cargo Capacity:

Information on bed lengths (e.g., 6.3 ft, 8 ft) and payload capacities, which vary significantly based on the truck's configuration and GVWR.

Tire Sizes:

Multiple tire sizes are covered, including common sizes like P265/70R17, P275/60R20 for 1500 models, and LT245/75R17, LT265/70R17 for heavy-duty models. SRT-10 specific tire sizes (e.g., P275/40R20 front, P305/40R20 rear) are also detailed.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

IIHS ratings varied by year and configuration. Generally, modern trucks of this era focused on occupant protection with features like advanced airbags and high-strength steel frames. Specific crash test data and structural integrity details would be in the manual.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), optional Traction Control, Trailer Brake Controller (factory option).

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-curtain airbags (availability varied by model and trim), crumple zones, safety-designed cab structure.

Recall Information:

While not a recall database, the manual provides procedures to address potential safety-related defects or recalls if they were issued for specific components or systems, aiding in their diagnosis and repair.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Covers audio system components, speaker replacement, head unit diagnostics, and troubleshooting for optional navigation or entertainment systems available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance:

Details on the operation and repair of systems like cruise control and potentially early forms of stability or traction control systems.

Connectivity:

Wiring diagrams would cover power distribution, communication buses (if applicable), and connections for various electronic modules, including those for the instrument cluster and central body controller.

Electronic Modules:

Detailed information on the function, location, and diagnostic procedures for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), and Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module.

Instrument Cluster:

Diagnostic and repair procedures for the instrument cluster, including gauge operation, warning lights, and illumination.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

The manual provides detailed schedules for oil changes (e.g., every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions), filter replacements, tire rotations, brake inspections, coolant flushes, transmission fluid changes, and drivetrain service. Diesel specific intervals for fuel filters, oil changes, and emissions systems are also covered.

Fluid Specifications:

Covers specifications for engine oils (e.g., SAE 5W-20, 5W-30 for gasoline; SAE 15W-40 for diesel), transmission fluids (e.g., ATF+4 for automatics), transfer case fluid (e.g., ATF+4 or Mopar NV244 fluid), axle fluid (e.g., SAE 75W-90 synthetic), power steering fluid, brake fluid (DOT 3), and coolant (Mopar OAT or HOAT type).

Known Issues:

The manual would implicitly address common issues through troubleshooting guides and repair procedures, which may include topics like ABS sensor failures, HVAC blower motor failures, exhaust manifold leaks on HEMI engines, transmission solenoid issues, and potential diesel injector problems if applicable to the 5.9L.

Filter Part Numbers:

The manual would contain specific Mopar or equivalent part numbers for oil filters, air filters, fuel filters (gasoline and diesel), and cabin air filters, essential for accurate maintenance.

Coolant Capacity:

Specific coolant capacities for each engine variant are provided, typically around 16-20 quarts depending on engine and radiator size.

Oil Capacity:

Engine oil capacities range from approximately 5 quarts for the 3.7L V6 to 7 quarts for the 5.7L HEMI and 8.3L V10. Diesel capacity is typically around 11-12 quarts.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid is specified for all models.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long-standing heritage in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate evolving from its beginnings in 1981 to become a formidable contender known for durability and capability.

Model Evolution:

The 2006 model year falls within the third generation (2002-2008), which introduced a significant redesign with a bolder exterior, improved interior, and the introduction of the HEMI engine. The SRT-10 variant, introduced in 2004, brought supercar-level performance to the pickup segment.

Production:

Produced at various Chrysler assembly plants in North America, with specific plant information sometimes detailed in official service documentation.

Model Changes:

The 2006 model year saw minor refinements to the third-generation Ram, with emphasis on powertrain updates and available features. The SRT-10 continued as a niche performance variant.