Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance
Competitors 2006:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan
Robust Construction:
Known for its durable construction and heavy-duty capabilities
Engine Options:
Wide range of powerful V8 and V6 engine options
Towing Hauling:
Class-leading towing and payload capacities in many configurations
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECM/PCM)
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case, driveline components
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electrical, power distribution
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) controls and components
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, glass, frame, exhaust system
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, tire rotation
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit testing, component testing
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, diagnostic parameters
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds
Engine Options Available:
4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 3.7L Magnum V6, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (mentioning common options)
Engine Code 4.7L:
EFA (2006 spec)
Engine Code 5.7L:
EHE (2006 spec)
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 235-260 hp (depending on configuration)
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approx. 300-335 lb-ft (depending on configuration)
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 345 hp
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approx. 375 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (regular 87 octane recommended for 4.7L and 3.7L, 89 octane recommended for 5.7L HEMI)
ECM PCM Type:
Various Chrysler/Dodge controllers, specific models detailed in manual
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (NV3500/NV4500 for heavier duty)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42RLE), 48RE automatic (for 5.9L Cummins and some V8s)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic controls, overdrive, torque converter lock-up
Transfer Case:
2WD or 4WD with part-time transfer case (e.g., NV241 DLD)
Wheelbase Options:
Standard Cab (134.5 in), Extended Cab (140.5 in), Crew Cab (160.5 in) - Varies by configuration
Overall Length Range:
Approx. 220-240 inches (depending on cab and bed configuration)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 6,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Ranges from 6,000 lbs to 10,500 lbs (depending on ¾-ton or 1-ton classification)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:
Good (refer to specific model year for precise ratings)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:
Good (refer to specific model year for precise ratings)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (supplemental side airbags may be optional on some trims)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (optional), Sirius satellite radio (optional), premium Infinity audio systems available
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Trailer Towing Features:
Factory trailer brake controller wiring provisions, tow hooks
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used; refer to manual for specifics)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, check manual for manual transmissions
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles
Engine Oil 4.7L V8:
SAE 5W-30, API SJ or SL (Chrysler MS-6395 compliant)
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, API SL (Chrysler MS-6395 compliant)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602)
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Hemi Recomendaciones De Mantenimiento:
Lifter tick on some 5.7L HEMI engines, oil consumption issues on certain engines, torque converter shudder in transmissions
Common Repairs:
Ball joints and tie rod ends wear, radiator leaks, power steering pump failures, catalytic converter issues
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Second Generation Ram:
The 2006 model is part of the second-generation Ram (1994-2001, with significant updates for 2002-2008). This 2006 model represents the latter half of the updated second generation (often referred to as 2.5 Gen).
Major Updates 2002:
Significant redesign in 2002 included a new interior, updated exterior styling, and introduction of the HEMI engine.
Production Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA