Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Commercial fleets, tradespeople, towing enthusiasts, and individual owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Value Proposition:
Cost savings through DIY maintenance and repair, enhanced vehicle longevity, accurate technical information.
Manual Quality:
Original Factory material, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information.
Powertrain:
Engine systems, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Automatic Transmission, Clutch, Cooling system, Lubrication, Emissions Control
Chassis:
Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Steering, Tires/Wheels, Frame & Bumpers
Body:
Body, Heating & Air Conditioning
Electrical:
Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules (ECM/PCM), Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints (Airbags), Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring Diagrams
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Fluid checks and changes, Filter replacements, Lubrication, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical system diagnosis, Engine performance diagnosis
Repair Rebuild:
Engine repair, Transmission overhaul, Brake component replacement, Suspension component repair, Steering system service, Body panel repair, HVAC system repair
Installation Adjustment:
Component installation, System adjustments, Wheel alignment specifications, Tire pressure recommendations
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, including step-by-step repair procedures, detailed specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, facilitating quick access to information.
Printability:
Printable, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.
Diagrams:
Top quality diagrams and instructions, as stated in the product description.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine 1:
4.7L V8 MPI Gasoline
Engine 2:
4.7L V8 Flex Fuel
Engine 3:
5.7L V8 SMPI Gasoline (HEMI)
Engine 4:
5.9L Inline-6 Turbo Diesel High Output (Cummins)
Engine 5:
8.3L V10 SFI Gasoline (Viper Engine)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 235 hp (4.7L) to 500 hp (8.3L V10), with the 5.9L Cummins typically around 325 hp.
Torque Range:
Approximately 330 lb-ft (4.7L) to 550 lb-ft (5.9L Cummins) and 530 lb-ft (5.7L HEMI). The V10 would be significantly higher.
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI), Direct Injection (for Diesel)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, E85 (Flex Fuel), Diesel Fuel
Transmission Options:
Various automatic transmissions (e.g., 45RFE, 48RE, 68RFE for Cummins) and manual transmissions (e.g., NV5600 for Cummins) were available depending on the engine and trim.
Transmission Features:
Tow/Haul mode, overdrive gears, integrated power takeoff (PTO) provisions on some models.
Fluid Specifications:
Specific ATF+4 for automatics, API GL-5 gear oil for manual transmissions and differentials. Manual provides exact specifications and capacities.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended/Quad Cab, Mega Cab
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8.0 ft)
Gvwr Range:
Varies significantly by model (1500, 2500, 3500), from approximately 6,000 lbs to over 12,000 lbs.
Curb Weight Range:
Typically from 4,500 lbs to over 7,000 lbs depending on configuration.
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Likely rated 4 or 5 stars for driver and passenger in frontal impacts, based on typical performance of trucks from this era.
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good to Acceptable, depending on specific test and year variations.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags. Side curtain airbags were optional or standard on higher trims/later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD players, optional premium audio systems, satellite radio readiness, and in-dash CD changers were available.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation systems were available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard speed control (cruise control) system.
Trailer Tow Prep:
Available trailer tow packages, integrated trailer brake controller provisions on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on engine type and driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, especially under heavy use (towing, hauling). Manual transmission fluid checks and changes at longer intervals.
Coolant Change:
Typically every 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on coolant type (e.g., conventional or extended-life OAT).
Spark Plugs:
Varies by engine: 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI typically have longer intervals (e.g., 100,000 miles with platinum/iridium plugs). Diesel requires different maintenance.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines, 15W-40 for the 5.9L Cummins Diesel. Manual confirms specific grade and API service classification.
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Manual specifies exact type and color (e.g., orange or pink).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the exact type and recommended change interval.
Common Problems:
Minor coolant leaks from intake manifold (4.7L), piston slap in HEMI engines (less common), potential for rear axle seal leaks, ABS sensor failures, rust on body panels (especially in road salt regions).
Cummins Specific Issues:
VP44 injection pump failures (on earlier models, less common on 2006), occasional turbocharger issues, exhaust manifold leaks.
Recommended Parts Filters
Oil Filter Example:
Mopar MO-899 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 57899, Fram PH10060, depending on engine).
Air Filter Example:
Mopar or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., Wix WA10206, Fram CA8756).
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line establishing itself as a significant player in the domestic market since its introduction.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2006 model year falls within the third generation (2002-2008), characterized by its bold styling, significantly improved interior, and the introduction of the HEMI V8 and Cummins Turbo Diesel engines.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily assembled in North America (e.g., Warren, Michigan; Saltillo, Mexico).
Initial Release Accolades:
The third-generation Ram received several awards upon its release, including 'MotorTrend Truck of the Year' for 2003, highlighting its design and capabilities.
Engine Awards:
The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine was recognized for its power and performance, frequently appearing on Ward's 10 Best Engines list.
