🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Pickup (Heavy Duty)

Year:

2006

Model Code:

DR (for 3rd Generation Ram)

Chassis Code:

DR (3rd Gen)

Generation:

Third Generation (2002-2008)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck (Heavy Duty)

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics, fleet operators.

Key Competitors:

Ford Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.

Powertrain Options:

Known for robust diesel engine options suitable for towing and heavy-duty work.

Frame Construction:

Built on a strong ladder frame chassis designed for hauling and towing capacities.

Towing Hauling:

Emphasis on class-leading towing and payload capabilities.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (Likely PDF)

Page Count:

Extensive (Exact count not specified, but 'complete' implies hundreds of pages)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Diagnosis, testing, and repair of fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, and engine mechanical systems for diesel powertrains.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Service and repair procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, transfer cases, drive shafts, differentials, and axle assemblies.

Brake System:

Detailed information on hydraulic systems, ABS, EBD, brake components (rotors, pads, calipers), parking brake, and bleeding procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Repair and adjustment of front and rear suspension components (shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints), steering gear, power steering, and alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, diagnosis of charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, body control modules, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Body And Chassis:

Interior and exterior trim removal and installation, body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, and frame diagnosis.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and performance testing.

Fuel System:

Diagnosis and repair of the diesel fuel system, including fuel pumps, injectors, filters, lines, and high-pressure common rail system components.

Cooling System:

Service procedures for radiators, water pumps, thermostats, cooling fans, and coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Diagnosis and repair of exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and emissions components specific to diesel engines.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, fuel, air), tire rotations, and fluid level checks.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic approach to identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical issues using symptom-based diagnostics and DTCs.

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing, installing, and adjusting virtually all vehicle components.

Engine Rebuild:

Instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances.

Transmission Overhaul:

Procedures for transmission removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Step-by-step testing of electrical circuits and components using multimeter and diagnostic scan tools.

Brake Service:

Rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, brake line repairs, and ABS system bleeding.

Suspension Alignment:

Adjustment procedures for steering and suspension geometry to manufacturer specifications.

HVAC Charging Evacuation:

Safe procedures for handling refrigerants, system evacuation, and recharging.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools:

Recommends and explains the use of factory diagnostic scan tools and common automotive multimeters.

Specifications Data:

Includes detailed torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, electrical resistance values, and diagnostic parameters.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Provides symptom-based troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common issues.

Wiring Diagrams:

Includes complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital Download (PDF recommended for searchability and printability)

Searchable Text:

Typically yes for PDF format, allowing quick access to specific topics.

Printability:

Yes, allows users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Image Resolution:

Expected to be high enough for clear viewing of diagrams, illustrations, and photos.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Cummins (Ram Heavy Duty)

Engine Displacement:

5.9L (ISB / QSB)

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Turbocharged, Intercooled Diesel

Horsepower:

Approx. 305-325 hp (depending on specific tune and model year revision)

Torque:

Approx. 555-610 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and model year revision)

Fuel Type:

Diesel

Injection System:

High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR)

Emissions Control:

Includes diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems in later iterations, but 2006 models may vary in specific emissions hardware compared to current standards.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag G360) or 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (48RE)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (NV5600 - for specific applications and later in the generation's run, may have carried over for 2006 or been replaced by 6-speed manual)

Drivetrain:

Part-time 4WD or RWD

Transfer Case:

NV271 (Manual Shift) or NV273 (Electronic Shift)

Rear Axle:

Dana 70HD or Dana 80 depending on GVWR and configuration.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 140.5" for Regular Cab Long Bed, 160.5" for Crew Cab Long Bed).

Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 227.4" for Regular Cab Long Bed, 247.4" for Crew Cab Long Bed).

Width:

Approx. 79.9" (excluding mirrors)

Height:

Approx. 76.6" (varies by trim and 2WD/4WD)

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration, typically 6,000 - 7,000+ lbs

Gvwr:

Ranges from 9,000 lbs to 11,500 lbs for heavy-duty models.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 10,000+ lbs (properly equipped, depending on configuration and hitch type).

Payload Capacity:

Up to 5,000+ lbs (depending on configuration).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not consistently rated for all configurations and years by modern standards, but generally considered robust.

IIHS Side Impact:

Not consistently rated for all configurations and years by modern standards.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, some models may have offered satellite radio or premium audio systems.

Navigation:

Factory navigation systems were optional on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Trailer Brake Controller:

Integrated trailer brake controller was an optional factory feature on many heavy-duty models.

Auxiliary Input:

Some models may have offered an auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months for diesel engines, depending on operating conditions (severe vs. normal duty). Check manual for exact diesel oil change intervals.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 miles or annually for diesel fuel filters to prevent injector damage.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

Cummins CES 20081 (API CJ-4 or equivalent diesel-specific oil), typically 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic depending on climate. Capacity: ~12 quarts.

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 for 48RE automatic; SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for NV5600 manual; SAE 75W-90 for transfer case and differentials.

Coolant:

Cummins CES 14603 (or Fleetguard ES Compleat OAT coolant) or equivalent heavy-duty extended-life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix. Capacity: ~25-28 quarts.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Lift Pump Failures:

Early failure of the in-tank lift pump can cause fuel starvation and hard starting. Replacement with an upgraded aftermarket pump is common.

Injector Problems:

Common rail injectors can be sensitive to fuel contamination; regular fuel filter changes are critical. Symptoms include rough running, misfires, and black smoke.

Overhead Cam Shaft Wear:

While robust, some high-mileage engines may exhibit wear on the camshaft lobes. Proper lubrication is key.

Transmission Hard Shifting:

Automatic transmissions (48RE) can develop hard shifting or torque converter issues. Manual transmissions (NV5600) are generally robust but clutch wear is normal.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation:

EGR valve clogging or failure can lead to performance issues and check engine lights, though some 2006 models may have had fewer emissions controls than later years.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the early days of automotive manufacturing.

Ram Generation 3:

The third generation (2002-2008) represented a significant redesign with a bolder exterior, improved interior, and enhanced chassis for greater capability.

Powertrain Integration:

This generation saw the continued and highly successful integration of the Cummins turbodiesel engine, becoming a hallmark of the Ram Heavy Duty line.

Manufacturing Plant:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico.

Model Significance:

The 2006 model year is part of the core third-generation platform, known for its durability and powerful Cummins diesel.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Cummins Engine:

The Cummins 5.9L engine is widely recognized for its durability, reliability, and power, often considered a benchmark in the diesel truck market.

Truck Of The Year:

While specific awards for the 2006 model year may vary, the Ram Heavy Duty line consistently competed for and received accolades in the truck segment for its capability.