Segment:
Heavy-duty pickup truck
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, towing and hauling capability, wide range of powertrain options, legendary durability.
Objective:
To provide comprehensive service and repair information for the 2006 Dodge Ram series, ensuring peak operating condition and facilitating accurate repairs.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, exhaust systems, engine control modules (ECM), heated systems.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, differential, driveline components, clutch (for manual transmission).
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), tires and wheels.
Body Chassis:
Frame, bumpers, body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, roof, exhaust system routing, chassis components.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, electrical components, lighting, instrument cluster, audio/video systems, chime/buzzer systems, power systems, speed control, vehicle theft security, horns, wipers/washers, navigation/telecommunication systems, electronic control modules (ECM/PCM).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, maintenance schedule recommendations.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-to-cause analysis, diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including electrical and electronic faults.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step procedures for removal, installation, disassembly, and reassembly of all vehicle components and systems.
Special Procedures:
Specific procedures for the SRT-10 variant, diesel engine service, and advanced electronic system diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth electrical troubleshooting and component-level diagnostics.
Engine Option 1:
4.7L Magnum V8 (2006 Ram 1500/2500)
Engine Option 1 Hp:
Approx. 235 hp @ 4500 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
Approx. 335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Option 2:
5.7L HEMI V8 (2006 Ram 1500/2500)
Engine Option 2 Hp:
Approx. 345 hp @ 5400 rpm
Engine Option 2 Torque:
Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Option 3:
8.3L V10 SRT-10 (2006 Ram SRT-10)
Engine Option 3 Hp:
Approx. 500 hp @ 5600 rpm
Engine Option 3 Torque:
Approx. 525 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Engine Option 4:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (2006 Ram 2500/3500)
Engine Option 4 Hp:
Approx. 325 hp @ 2900 rpm
Engine Option 4 Torque:
Approx. 610 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm
Fuel System Gas:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel System Diesel:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent
Standard Transmission 1500
Transmission 1500 Std:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Optional Transmission 1500
Transmission 1500 Opt:
6-Speed Manual (NV3500 for some models)
Standard Transmission 2500 3500
Transmission 2500 3500 Std:
6-Speed Manual (NV5600 for Cummins Diesel models)
Optional Transmission 2500 3500
Transmission 2500 3500 Opt:
4-Speed Automatic (48RE for Cummins Diesel models), 4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE for gas models)
Transmission Srt 10:
6-Speed Manual (T-56 Viper Transmission)
Transfer Case Type:
Electronic Shift-on-the-Fly (ESOF) or part-time manual transfer case depending on configuration.
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 140.5" for Quad Cab 6'4" box, 160.5" for Crew Cab 8' box)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by model and configuration (e.g., 5,000 - 7,500+ lbs)
Gvwr:
Varies by model (e.g., 6,500 lbs for 1500, 8,800 - 9,500 lbs for 2500, 10,500 - 11,500 lbs for 3500)
Bed Lengths:
Available in 6'4" and 8' bed lengths.
NHTSA Ratings 2006:
Varies by specific model and configuration; generally good for its class in frontal and side impact tests for the era.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all wheels, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, available side-impact airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional Infinity audio systems, Sirius Satellite Radio availability.
Available Features:
Trailer Brake Controller integration, ParkSense Rear Park Assist (optional on some trims).
Telematics:
Available Uconnect hands-free communication system on some higher trims, integrated navigation system on premium models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on engine oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Automatic: every 30,000-60,000 miles; Manual: inspect as needed or as per severe service schedule.
Engine Oil Spec:
For 4.7L & 5.7L HEMI: SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30; For 5.9L Cummins: SAE 15W-40 (API CI-4 or higher).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 13.0-15.0 quarts (12.3-14.2 liters) depending on engine and cooling system capacity.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
NV3500: Manual Transmission Fluid (refer to manual for specific GL rating); NV5600: SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant.
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Common Problems Gas:
Lifter tick (especially 5.7L HEMI), intake manifold leaks, fuel pump failures, occasional cylinder head issues on 4.7L.
Common Problems Diesel:
Lift pump failure, injection pump issues (VP44 on earlier models but less common on 06), turbocharger issues, EGR valve problems, injector failures.
Common Problems General:
Water pump leaks, A/C system issues, power window motor failures, rust on body panels, ball joint wear.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing heritage in the pickup truck market, known for robust trucks and powerful engines.
Ram Third Generation:
The 2006 model year falls within the third generation (DR platform, 2002-2008), which saw significant redesigns including a more modern chassis, updated interior, and introduction of the HEMI engine and Quad/Crew Cab configurations.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Saltillo, Mexico and Warren, Michigan, USA.
