Segment:
Heavy-duty pickup truck, positioned for commercial use, towing, and heavy hauling.
Target Audience:
Owners, fleet managers, repair shops, and DIY mechanics requiring in-depth repair and maintenance information.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.
Utility:
Known for its robust chassis, powerful engine options, and towing/hauling capabilities.
Manual Value:
Provides authoritative factory data, essential for accurate diagnostics and repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealer service.
Primary Coverage:
Complete factory service and repair information for the 2006 Dodge Ram Pickup 3500 4X2.
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era).
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, downloadable).
Engine:
Covers all engine options, including internal engine components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, and emission controls.
Transmission:
Details for automatic and manual transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, clutch operation, and shift controls.
Drivetrain:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, wheels, and tires.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including hydraulic components, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and parking brake.
Electrical:
Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Exterior and interior body components, doors, windows, seats, and structural information.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including components and refrigerant service procedures.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, and use of diagnostic tools.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all vehicle components and systems.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting charts and diagnostic flowcharts to identify and resolve problems.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for the removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, high-quality wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive and detailed, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers. Includes in-depth diagnostics, specifications, and rebuild procedures.
Engine Options:
5.7L HEMI Magnum V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, 8.3L V10 Triton V10 (less common for 3500).
Engine Displacement 1:
5.7L (345 cu in)
Engine Type 1:
HEMI Magnum V8, OHV, 16 valves
Horsepower 1:
345 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque 1:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Displacement 2:
5.9L (359 cu in)
Engine Type 2:
Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, OHV, 24 valves
Horsepower 2:
305 hp @ 2800 rpm
Torque 2:
555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (with 48RE Automatic Transmission)
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, High-pressure Common Rail (HPCR) Injection for Cummins diesel.
Transmission Standard:
48RE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (for both gasoline and diesel engines).
Transmission Optional:
NV5600 6-Speed Manual Transmission (primarily with Cummins Diesel).
Transmission Features:
Includes detailed procedures for torque converter replacement, transmission fluid service, internal component repair, and shift linkage adjustment.
Wheelbase:
140.5 inches (standard bed), 160.5 inches (long bed)
Overall Length:
229.7 inches (standard bed), 249.7 inches (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, typically 6,000 - 7,000+ lbs.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
10,000 lbs to 11,500 lbs (depending on configuration).
Payload Capacity:
Varies significantly based on configuration, up to ~4,000+ lbs.
Towing Capacity:
Up to ~15,000+ lbs (properly equipped).
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 out of 5 stars (driver and passenger).
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 out of 5 stars (front and rear passengers).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Standard front airbags for driver and passenger.
Audio System:
Factory stereo systems typically included AM/FM/CD players, with optional satellite radio and premium audio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation systems were available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Trailer Brake Controller:
Optional integrated trailer brake controller for enhanced towing safety.
Power Outlets:
Standard 12V power outlets.
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type).
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 5,000 - 15,000 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil quality and operating conditions).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, and as specified for manual transmissions.
Engine Oil Gas:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine).
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CJ-4 or CK-4 rated synthetic diesel oil, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual).
Transmission Fluid 48Re:
Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent).
Coolant:
Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Cummins Injector Issues:
Potential issues with VP44 injection pump failure on earlier models or injector line leaks on common rail systems under certain conditions. Manual covers diagnostic procedures.
Automatic Transmission Overheating:
48RE transmissions can be prone to overheating under heavy towing. Manual provides information on cooling system checks and upgrades.
Front Suspension Wear:
Common for heavy-duty trucks; ball joints, tie rod ends, and steering linkage can experience wear. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Grid Heater Failure Diesel:
Grid heater element or relay can fail in cold weather. Manual details troubleshooting steps.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in the truck market, dating back to the 1930s, building a reputation for durable and powerful trucks.
Third Generation:
The 2006 model year falls within the third generation of the Dodge Ram (introduced for 2002), characterized by its distinctive crosshair grille and bold styling. This generation saw continuous improvements in engines, transmissions, and features.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Coahuila, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.
Diesel Engine Award:
The Cummins 5.9L inline-six turbodiesel engine was highly regarded for its power, durability, and reliability, often cited as a benchmark in its class.
Truck Of The Year:
While specific model awards vary, the Ram Heavy Duty line generally received positive reviews from automotive publications for its capability and design during this era.
