Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, a dominant segment for Dodge. Known for its robust construction and towing/hauling capabilities.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series (F-150, Super Duty), Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned for powerful engine options, heavy-duty chassis, spacious cabins (especially crew cabs), and strong towing capacities. Third-generation Ram introduced significant styling and capability enhancements.
Primary Coverage:
North American market Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 series trucks.
Secondary Coverage:
Includes information relevant to chassis cab variants.
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era).
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially available in print.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECU/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic and manual transmissions (e.g., 48RE, NV4500), transfer case, drive shafts, differentials (front and rear), axles, CV joints.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion/steering box), wheels, tires, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power windows/locks, mirrors, horn, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay identification and testing, Body Control Module (BCM).
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser), heating system (heater core, blower motor), climate control modules.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, body hardware, rust prevention and undercoating.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance items, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, belt tensioning, tire rotation.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, component testing procedures, wiring diagram interpretation.
Repair Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for repairing or replacing virtually all vehicle components, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications for fasteners, critical clearances, alignment data, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostic and repair procedures.
Engine Options:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (for 2500/3500).
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 345-355 hp depending on application.
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approximately 375-395 lb-ft depending on application.
5.9L Cummins Horsepower:
Approximately 305-325 hp.
5.9L Cummins Torque:
Approximately 555-610 lb-ft.
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Direct Injection (DI) for Cummins Turbo Diesel.
Wheelbase Options:
Multiple wheelbases available, common lengths include 130.5", 140.5", 154.5", 166.5" (depending on cab and bed configuration).
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Varies significantly by model (1500, 2500, 3500) and configuration, typically from 6,000 lbs to 11,500+ lbs.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (IIHS) for some configurations, but specific year/model ratings should be verified.
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (IIHS) for some configurations, but specific year/model ratings should be verified.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags on some trims/configurations.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to owner's manual for specific guidance).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, especially under heavy use or towing. ATF+4 for automatic transmissions.
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles. Use Chrysler/Mopar OAT coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines (check specific engine requirements), 15W-40 for 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler/Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid specifications vary by transmission model.
Common Complaints Powertrain:
4.7L V8 cylinder head issues (valve seat recession, spark plug blowouts on earlier models), potential for automatic transmission wear (especially 48RE under heavy use), exhaust manifold leaks on HEMI engines.
Common Complaints Chassis:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), steering box play, U-joint wear on drive shafts, potential for rear axle seal leaks.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Instrument cluster failures (especially gauges), TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) issues, power window motor failures.
Common Complaints Body:
Rust on body panels (especially rear fenders, cab corners, and frame rails in certain climates), tailgate hinge wear.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building durable and powerful trucks, with the Ram line dating back to the 1980s.
Third Generation:
The 2006 model year falls within the third generation (2002-2008), which saw a significant redesign emphasizing bolder styling, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced powertrain options, including the introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
