🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Years Covered:

2005, 2006

Body Styles Covered:

Pickup Truck (1500, 2500, 3500)

Chassis Codes:

DR (for 2003-2008 generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, technicians.

Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust construction, powerful engine options, towing capability, spacious interior.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential information for cost-effective maintenance and accurate repairs, saving money on labor costs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance

Electrical System Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, component testing

Powertrain Coverage:

Engine, transmission, driveline, axles

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, steering, brakes, frame

Body And Interior Coverage:

Body panels, doors, interior trim, seats, HVAC

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (estimated for comprehensive coverage across both years and engine variants)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, internal component repair, timing, sealing, lubrication

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, ignition system, emission controls, cooling system, starting and charging

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, manual transmission overhaul, shift linkage

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM)

Driveline And Axles:

Driveshafts, universal joints, differentials, axle bearings, seals

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering gear

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, front and rear brake component replacement (disc/drum), ABS, hydraulic system

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, pressure regulation

Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:

HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, climate control diagnostics

Body Electrical:

Lighting systems, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn

Instrument Panel And Gauges:

Instrument cluster, warning lights, gauge operation

Audio And Security Systems:

Radio systems, speaker replacement, alarm system

Driver Information System:

Information displays, trip computer functions

Chassis Control Systems:

ABS, Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) if applicable

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms and drivability issues

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing various parts

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II diagnostics, specific system tests

Rebuilding Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Tightening Specifications:

Torque specifications for all critical fasteners

Alignment Specifications:

Wheel alignment angles and procedures

Troubleshooting Codes:

Explanation and diagnostic steps for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Specifies use of scan tools, multimeters, pressure gauges, and specialized equipment.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for easy information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-go reference

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 3.7L Magnum V6, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (2500/3500 models)

Displacement 4.7L:

4.7 Liters (285 cu. in.)

Configuration 4.7L:

V8

Horsepower 4.7L:

Approx. 235-240 hp

Torque 4.7L:

Approx. 295-300 lb-ft

Displacement 5.7L:

5.7 Liters (345 cu. in.)

Configuration 5.7L:

V8 (HEMI)

Horsepower 5.7L:

Approx. 345-350 hp

Torque 5.7L:

Approx. 375-380 lb-ft

Displacement 3.7L:

3.7 Liters (226 cu. in.)

Configuration 3.7L:

V6

Horsepower 3.7L:

Approx. 215 hp

Torque 3.7L:

Approx. 235 lb-ft

Displacement 5.9L Cummins:

5.9 Liters (359 cu. in.)

Configuration 5.9L Cummins:

Inline-6 Turbo Diesel

Horsepower 5.9L Cummins:

Approx. 305-325 hp

Torque 5.9L Cummins:

Approx. 555-610 lb-ft

Fuel Type:

Gasoline, Diesel

Induction System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Common Rail Diesel Injection (CRDI) for Cummins

Fuel Octane Requirement:

87 Octane (recommended for 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI, check manual for specific requirements)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE/44RE/45RFE depending on engine) for most gasoline models; 6-Speed Manual (NV5600) often paired with Cummins Diesel

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500) for some V6 models; 4-Speed Automatic (48RE) for Cummins Diesel

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions), Manual Transmission Fluid (specific type varies, consult manual)

Transfer Case Options:

Part-time 4WD (NV241DHD), Full-time 4WD (NV244, specific applications)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 134.7" for Quad Cab Short Bed, 140.5" for Regular Cab Long Bed)

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., approx. 220" to 248")

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration and powertrain (e.g., 4,500 lbs to 7,000+ lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 8,000 - 10,000+ lbs (depending on configuration, engine, and axle ratio)

Payload Capacity:

Up to 3,000+ lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Good (for 2005 model year, check specific year for detailed breakdown)

IIHS Ratings:

Acceptable to Good depending on specific crash test and year. (Refer to IIHS.org for specifics)

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard on most models

Traction Control System TCS:

Available on some models

Electronic Stability Program Esp:

Not widely available on this generation Ram

Airbags:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), available side curtain airbags for some models/configurations

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory AM/FM/CD radio with optional satellite radio and navigation systems. Uconnect hands-free communication system became available later in the generation.

Speaker Configuration:

Standard 4 or 6-speaker systems, optional premium audio with subwoofer.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Parking Sensors:

Available on some models

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary input for audio (later in generation), Uconnect integration (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specific recommendations)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-25,000 miles or annually

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (check manual for specific intervals and fluid type)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 3-5 years

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (for gasoline engines, verify with manual based on engine and climate); SAE 15W-40 (for Cummins Diesel)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5-7 quarts (for V8 engines, consult manual)

Coolant Spec:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT - Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Common Issues Gasoline Engines:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially 5.7L HEMI), intake manifold leaks, oil filter housing leaks, lifter noise (HEMI), piston slap (early 5.7L HEMI).

Common Issues Diesel Engines:

Injector issues, potential for vacuum pump leaks, front timing gear wear (less common than later models but possible), water separator issues.

Common Issues Transmission:

Torque converter shudder (automatic transmissions), 2nd gear issues (some manual transmissions), clunking from driveline.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, steering stabilizer issues (4WD models), sway bar links.

Common Issues Electrical:

Tipm (Totally Integrated Power Module) failures (can cause various electrical gremlins), window regulator failures, instrument cluster issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck History:

Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with heavy-duty capability and ruggedness.

Generation Name:

Third Generation Ram (2002-2008)

Key Design Changes For This Generation:

Introduced a more aggressive, chiseled exterior design, significantly larger interior space, and the introduction of the HEMI engine.

Manufacturing Locations:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2005-2006 models are less prominent than later iterations, the Ram truck line consistently receives recognition for its capability and value in various consumer surveys and awards from publications like MotorTrend and Four Wheeler.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings for this generation can be mixed, with some areas like the HEMI engine and electrical systems showing variability. The manual is crucial for understanding and addressing common issues to improve long-term reliability.