🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

DR/DH

Product Type:

Parts Catalog

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck.

Target Audience:

Dodge Ram owners, independent repair shops, auto parts suppliers, and automotive enthusiasts.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.

Catalog Utility:

Essential for accurate part ordering, ensuring compatibility and avoiding incorrect purchases.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All genuine and aftermarket parts for the 2006 Dodge Ram pickup truck.

Specific Systems Highlighted:

Engine, drivetrain, chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical, HVAC, body, interior, accessories.

Total Pages:

600

Type:

Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed (based on common industry practice for extensive parts catalogs), or potentially digital (PDF).

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Assembly:

Detailed breakdown of engine components including block, heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, timing components, oil pump, water pump, manifolds, and associated gaskets and seals.

Fuel System:

Components such as fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel rail, throttle body, and evaporative emissions (EVAP) system parts.

Cooling System:

Radiator, radiator hoses, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, heater core, and associated plumbing and mounting hardware.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, clamps, and heat shields.

Drivetrain Components:

Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveshafts, universal joints, axles, differentials, axle shafts, bearings, and seals.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components including control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, springs, shock absorbers/struts, and related bushings and hardware.

Steering System:

Steering gear/rack and pinion, power steering pump, steering linkage, steering column, steering wheel, and associated components.

Brake System:

Brake rotors, brake pads, calipers, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake components, and ABS system parts.

Electrical System:

Alternator, starter motor, battery, ignition system components, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, sensors, and control modules.

Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning (HVAC):

Compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver/drier, blower motor, control panel, ductwork, and cabin air filter.

Body And Exterior:

Body panels (fenders, doors, hood, bed), bumpers, grille, mirrors, glass, weatherstripping, trim pieces, lights, and tailgate components.

Interior Components:

Seating, dashboard, instrument panel, door panels, floor coverings, headliner, seat belts, airbags, and interior trim.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheels (steel and alloy), tires, lug nuts, valve stems, and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) components.

Part Identification:

Primary function: precise identification of correct parts using diagrams and part numbers.

Interchangeability:

Implied ability to identify interchangeable parts across different sub-models or option packages.

Depth:

Extremely high for parts identification. Does not typically include repair procedures, diagnostics, or torque specifications, but provides the foundational data for such tasks.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

Likely a high-resolution PDF for digital versions, or professionally bound printed copy.

Quality:

Expects clear, legible diagrams and text, suitable for referencing detailed part illustrations.

Binding:

For printed versions, likely perfect binding or spiral binding for ease of use and durability.

Paper:

Durable paper stock, often with a glossy finish for diagrams, designed to withstand frequent handling in a workshop environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants Covered:

This catalog will cover parts for all factory-offered engines for the 2006 Dodge Ram. Common engines include the 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, and the 5.7L HEMI V8.

3.7L V6 Specs:

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

4.7L V8 Specs:

Displacement: 4.7 L (285 cu in), Horsepower: Approx. 235 hp @ 4800 rpm, Torque: Approx. 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.

5.7L Hemi V8 Specs:

Displacement: 5.7 L (345 cu in), Horsepower: Approx. 345 hp @ 5000 rpm, Torque: Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Features Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System (MDS).

Induction Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline.

🔧 Transmission

Available Transmissions:

This catalog will detail parts for various transmissions. Standard configurations often included the NV3500 5-speed manual (V6) and the 545RFE 5-speed automatic (V8).

Optional Transmissions:

Higher trim levels or specific configurations could also feature the 48RE 4-speed automatic transmission (typically with the HEMI).

Drivetrain Options:

Available in both 4x2 (RWD) and 4x4 configurations with a part-time transfer case.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Wheelbases varied significantly based on cab configuration (e.g., Regular Cab, Club Cab, Mega Cab) and bed length, typically ranging from 120.5 inches to 160.3 inches.

Body Styles:

Offered in various cab configurations (Regular Cab, Quad Cab, Mega Cab) and bed lengths (6.3 ft, 8.0 ft).

Curb Weight Range:

Varies significantly by configuration, typically from around 4,500 lbs to over 5,500 lbs.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr):

GVWR varied by configuration, typically ranging from approximately 6,000 lbs to over 8,500 lbs for heavier duty models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

For 2006, the Dodge Ram typically received good to acceptable ratings in NHTSA frontal and side-impact crash tests, though specifics vary by body style and test configuration. Frontal: 4 stars (driver), 5 stars (passenger). Side-impact: 4 stars.

Braking System:

Standard front disc, rear drum brakes (or optional rear disc). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard or widely available.

Airbag System:

Standard multi-stage front airbags for driver and passenger.

Seat Belts:

Front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters. Rear seat belts depending on seating configuration.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Available with various audio systems, including AM/FM stereo, CD players, and optional premium sound systems. Some models may have had satellite radio capability.

ABS System:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models for enhanced braking control.

Trailer Towing Features:

Factory-installed trailer tow packages were common, including wiring harnesses, trailer brake controller provisions, and enhanced cooling.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Refer to the owner's manual for precise recommendations.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Typically SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine recommendation). API certified viscosity grade.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) for this era. Often a pink or orange color.

Transmission Fluid Type:

For 545RFE/48RE automatics: ATF+4 (Type 9602). For NV3500 manual: Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF), GL-3 or GL-4.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, shock absorbers/struts, and water pumps are common wear items.

Hemi Engine Issues:

Early HEMI engines could experience lifter tick or issues related to the MDS system if not properly maintained or if operating conditions were severe.

Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmissions (545RFE, 48RE) can develop issues with solenoid packs or torque converters with high mileage. Manual transmissions are generally robust.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable pickup trucks, with the Ram nameplate establishing itself as a distinct and powerful line of vehicles.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2006 model is part of the third generation of Dodge Ram trucks (2002-2008), which introduced significant styling and engineering updates, including a more pronounced grille, improved interior, and the introduction of the HEMI engine.

Manufacturing Locations:

The Dodge Ram trucks were primarily manufactured in North America, with key assembly plants including Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

The Dodge Ram was a strong contender in its segment and received various positive reviews for its styling, power (especially with the HEMI), and towing capabilities from automotive publications.