🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2006

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2006 Dodge Ram Truck was a significant player in the full-size pickup market, known for its robust capabilities, distinct styling, and powerful engine options, particularly the HEMI V8. This service manual caters to owners and independent repair shops seeking professional-level repair and maintenance information for this generation of the Ram.

Competitors:

Competed directly with the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and Toyota Tundra.

Vehicle Highlights:

Distinct 'crosshair' grille, coil-spring rear suspension on some models (an industry first for a full-size pickup), powerful engine choices, and towing/hauling capabilities.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

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

Transmission Coverage:

42RLE (4-speed automatic), NV3500 (5-speed manual), NV4500 (5-speed manual), NV5600 (6-speed manual)

Chassis Coverage:

Frame, suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (ABS & non-ABS), wheels, tires

Body Coverage:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, glass

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, charging system, starting system, ECUs

Approximate Pages:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control

Drivetrain:

Automatic and manual transmissions, transfer case, drivelines, axles, differentials

Suspension Steering:

Independent front suspension (IFS), solid rear axle, steering system components, power steering

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging, starting, lighting, instruments, body control modules (BCM), engine control modules (ECM), transmission control modules (TCM), infotainment, comfort & convenience

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair

Comfort Convenience:

Power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, heated seats, adjustable pedals (on some models).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, spark plug replacement

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, differential service, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, circuit testing, component testing

Special Procedures:

Torque specifications, alignment procedures, wiring harness repair, sensor calibration

Wheel Alignment:

Detailed specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.

Diagnostics Emission Control:

Troubleshooting of emission control systems, catalytic converter function, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Air Conditioning System:

Refrigerant handling, component testing (compressor, condenser, evaporator), leak detection, evacuation and recharging.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic trees and wiring diagrams.

Wiring Diagrams:

Extremely detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including chassis, body, and powertrain.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Searchable PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution scans for clear text and diagrams

Quality:

Printable on standard home or office printers

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

3.7L Magnum V6:

Displacement: 3.7L (226 cu in), Configuration: SOHC V6, Power: Approx. 215 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

4.7L Magnum V8:

Displacement: 4.7L (285 cu in), Configuration: SOHC V8, Power: Approx. 235 hp @ 4500 rpm, Torque: Approx. 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (later models saw increased output)

5.7L Hemi V8:

Displacement: 5.7L (345 cu in), Configuration: OHV V8 with HEMI design, Power: Approx. 345 hp @ 5000 rpm, Torque: Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, Features: Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for improved fuel economy

Engine Control:

Distributorless ignition system (DIS), sequential fuel injection (SFI), engine control modules (ECM)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port fuel injection (MPFI) for all engines

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Light Duty:

NV3500 5-speed manual (typically with 3.7L V6)

Standard Transmission Heavy Duty:

NV4500 5-speed manual or NV5600 6-speed manual (typically with V8 engines and heavier duty applications)

Optional Transmission:

42RLE 4-speed automatic overdrive (standard with 4.7L V8 in many configurations, optional with 5.7L HEMI in some trims)

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (for 42RLE automatic), Manual Transmission Lubricant (GL-4 or GL-5, specific viscosity varies by transmission model)

Transfer Case Options:

Part-time 4WD system, full-time 4WD system (Quadra-Trac I or II depending on model/options)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by cab style and bed length: 120.5" (regular cab, short bed), 134.5" (regular cab, long bed / quad cab, short bed), 154.5" (quad cab, long bed)

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 208.2" to 249.4")

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.1" (excluding mirrors)

Overall Height:

Approx. 73.7" to 77.2" (depending on configuration and 2WD/4WD)

Bed Lengths:

6' 3" (short bed), 8' 0" (long bed)

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration, generally 4,500 - 5,500 lbs

Max Gvw:

Varies by model and configuration, up to 7,200 lbs (for 1500 models)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:

5 Stars (2006 model year specific ratings)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:

5 Stars (2006 model year specific ratings)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models

Airbags:

Standard front airbags; optional front seat-mounted side airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base AM/FM/CD player; optional premium audio systems with subwoofer, SiriusXM satellite radio capability.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors available on some models.

Phone Integration:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity from the factory; aftermarket solutions were common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic (42RLE): Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Inspect at 30,000 miles, change as needed or every 60,000-100,000 miles.

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 2 years/30,000 miles thereafter with appropriate coolant.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API certified, ILSAC GF-3 or GF-4 compatible). 5.7L HEMI requires specific oil formulation for MDS operation.

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent HOAT coolant, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid

Death Wobble:

A common issue in some Dodge Rams of this era, characterized by severe steering wheel shaking at certain speeds. Often related to worn steering and suspension components (e.g., track bar bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends).

Transmission Issues:

Some 42RLE automatic transmissions can experience solenoid issues or torque converter problems. Manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is expected.

Hemi Misfires:

Certain 5.7L HEMI engines might experience misfires due to ignition coil or spark plug issues, especially if not maintained with the correct components.

Rust:

Body rust can occur, particularly on the rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel arches in regions with road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Ram nameplate was introduced in 1981 and has since become synonymous with Dodge's full-size pickup offerings.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2006 model is part of the third generation (2002-2008) of the Dodge Ram pickup. This generation saw significant redesigns in chassis, powertrain, and interior, introducing features like the coil-spring rear suspension (on some 1500 models) and the HEMI V8 engine.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

Dodge Ram was awarded MotorTrend's 'Truck of the Year' in 2003 for the third-generation redesign, underscoring its strong market presence and innovation at launch.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports ratings for this era of Dodge Ram were mixed, often citing powertrain reliability but highlighting specific issues like the 'death wobble'.