🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Model Generation:

Third Generation (DR/DH/DJK)

Model Year:

2006

Trim Levels Covered:

All trims for the specified model year

Chassis Code:

DR/DH/DJK

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Ram Truck of the 2006 model year represented a robust and capable contender in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its strong towing and hauling capabilities, and a range of powerful engine options catering to diverse work and lifestyle needs. This era of the Ram was praised for its bold styling and often, its comfortable ride for a truck.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with heavyweights like the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra. Its key differentiators often included unique styling, a more refined interior compared to some rivals in earlier generations, and the powerful Hemi V8 option.

Key Features:

Distinctive Dodge styling, versatile powertrain options, comfortable and spacious cabin, robust chassis designed for hauling and towing, available four-wheel drive.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Wiring Diagrams

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era and scope)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (including injection systems for all variants), exhaust system, emissions control.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch service, transfer case operation and repair, driveshaft and axle service, differential service.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement, steering gear and power steering system service, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components, disc and drum brake service, ABS system operation and troubleshooting, parking brake.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system operation, refrigerant handling, diagnosis and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components.

Body Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat service, glass replacement, exterior trim.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change intervals and specifications, filter replacement procedures, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation and pressure recommendations, brake inspection, spark plug replacement.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.

Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.

Technical Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing settings, diagnostic parameters, fluid capacities and types, electrical schematics, pressure readings, alignment data.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams with component locations and connector pinouts for all electrical systems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and troubleshooting to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages. Likely sourced directly from factory digital archives.

Print Quality:

Printable at home or professional print shop. Text is clear and readable.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (often referred to as '24V' or similar in this era), 8.3L V10 (Viper engine in SRT-10 variant).

3.7L Magnum V6 Specs:

SOHC, 12 valves. Approximate output: 215 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Engine Code: EKG.

4.7L Magnum V8 Specs:

SOHC, 16 valves. Approximate output: 235 hp @ 4500 rpm, 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm. Engine Code: NHD.

5.7L Hemi V8 Specs:

OHV, 16 valves, HEMI head design with Multi-Displacement System (MDS). Approximate output: 345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Engine Code: MVE.

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Specs:

OHV, 24 valves, Turbocharged, Intercooled. Approximate output: 305 hp @ 2800 rpm, 555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm. Engine Code: ETH. (Note: This engine was phased out for newer Cummins engines in subsequent years, but was a mainstay for 2006).

8.3L V10 Specs:

OHV, 20 valves (Viper-derived). Approximate output: 500 hp @ 5600 rpm, 525 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (SRT-10 variant). Engine Code: X5.

Performance Notes:

Engine performance varies significantly based on variant. HEMI and Cummins are noted for strong torque and towing capability. SRT-10 offers supercar-level performance in a truck.

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines. High-pressure common rail injection for the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for 3.7L/4.7L/5.7L, premium may be specified for SRT-10), Diesel Fuel (for 5.9L Cummins).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Typically a 6-speed manual transmission was standard on some base models and the SRT-10, while an automatic was common on V8 and Diesel models.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (45RFE/48RE for V8/Diesel), 6-speed manual (NV5600 for Diesel, Tremec for SRT-10).

Transmission Features:

Some automatic transmissions featured electronic overdrive and torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency. 4WD models utilized a part-time or full-time transfer case depending on configuration.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions:

Varies by cab style (Regular Cab, Club Cab, Mega Cab) and bed length (6.3 ft, 8.0 ft). Example: 2006 Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4x4, 8 ft bed: Length ~259 inches, Width ~79.8 inches, Height ~75.4 inches.

Interior Dimensions:

Spacious cabin, particularly in Quad Cab and Mega Cab configurations. Mega Cab offered near-SUV levels of rear legroom.

Cargo Dimensions:

Bed lengths typically 6.3 feet (short bed) or 8.0 feet (long bed). Payload and towing capacities vary significantly by configuration and engine.

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 4,500 lbs to over 6,000 lbs depending on configuration (engine, cab, 2WD/4WD, payload package).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Typically good frontal crash test performance for its era. Side impact and rollover ratings would be found in detailed reports. Specific 2006 ratings should be verified from NHTSA databases.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) standard. Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) available on some models, though less common than in later years.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, optional side curtain airbags (availability varied by trim), three-point seatbelts, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured an AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trims offered premium audio systems, Sirius Satellite Radio readiness, and optional in-dash navigation systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkSense rear parking assist system was an available option on higher trims. Cruise control was standard on most models.

Connectivity Features:

Accessory power outlets, optional steering wheel mounted audio controls. Bluetooth connectivity was not a standard feature in 2006 and would be aftermarket.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Consult manual for specific engine variant recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection, depending on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine: 3.7L/4.7L (approx. 100,000 miles with specific plugs), 5.7L HEMI (approx. 100,000 miles with specific plugs, using original equipment).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic transmissions: typically 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on towing/heavy use. Manual transmissions: often longer intervals, inspect as needed.

Engine Oil Specification:

3.7L/4.7L: SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic. 5.7L HEMI: SAE 5W-20 full synthetic (MDS equipped). 5.9L Cummins: SAE 15W-40 synthetic blend or full synthetic (CK-4 rated diesel oil recommended).

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Check manual for exact type.

Transmission Fluid Type:

45RFE/48RE automatic: ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar designation). Manuals: GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil as specified by manufacturer.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual), typically a glycol-based fluid.

Common Issues 3.7L V6:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter adapter housing leaks, cylinder head issues reported on some older Magnum engines, but generally reliable.

Common Issues 4.7L V8:

Head gasket failures, spark plug blow-out issues (especially on early models), lifter tick. Generally robust but requires diligent maintenance.

Common Issues 5.7L Hemi:

Exhaust manifold cracks, lifter noise (can be related to MDS system or oil pressure), occasional issues with the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) solenoids or related components. Generally a very strong and popular engine.

Common Issues 5.9L Cummins:

VP44 injection pump failures (earlier 24V versions, less common on later ones with improved lift pump), grid heater issues, occasional turbocharger wear. Known for extreme durability and longevity when properly maintained.

Common Issues 8.3L V10:

High fuel consumption, clutch wear (on manual transmission SRT-10), potential for head gasket issues under extreme use. Primarily found in the high-performance SRT-10 variant.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the early Dodge Power Wagon. The 'Ram' nameplate was introduced in 1981, and by 2006, it had evolved into a significant player in the pickup truck market.

Model Evolution:

The third generation (2002-2008) marked a significant redesign with a bolder, more upright grille, a revamped interior, and the introduction of the highly popular 5.7L HEMI V8. This generation also saw the introduction of the Mega Cab, offering unparalleled passenger space. The 5.9L Cummins remained a strong offering for heavy-duty applications (though this manual specifies pickups, the diesel expertise is linked).

Production Location:

Assembly plants in North America, primarily Warren, Michigan and Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Recognitions:

The Dodge Ram has consistently been a strong performer in its segment, often recognized for its robust powertrain options, particularly the HEMI and Cummins engines, and its distinct styling. Specific awards for the 2006 model year would vary, but it generally competed favorably against its rivals.

Reliability Ratings:

Reliability varies by engine. The Cummins diesel is legendary for longevity. The 5.7L HEMI is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. The 3.7L and 4.7L V6/V8 have had some reported issues but can be very dependable.

Emissions Certifications:

All engines met US EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2006 model year, with specific certifications provided by the manufacturer for each engine variant.