🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2006

Platform Code:

DR/DH/D1

Chassis Designation:

Third Generation Ram (2002-2008)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

Commercial users, fleet owners, tradespeople, towing enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a robust and capable workhorse vehicle.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.

Design Philosophy:

Known for its bold, aggressive styling and robust construction, the third-generation Ram emphasized capability and towing prowess.

Powertrain Options:

Offered a wide range of powerful engine options, including the legendary HEMI V8 and the formidable Cummins turbodiesel, catering to diverse performance and towing needs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models, All Engines, All Transmissions, All Trims

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage for all gasoline and diesel engines, including: 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 8.3L Viper V10 (SRT-10), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (depending on specific model variant). Detailed diagnosis, overhaul, specifications, and torque values.

Transmission:

Coverage for all manual and automatic transmissions. Includes: NV3500 5-speed manual, G56 6-speed manual, 42RE 4-speed automatic, 45RFE/48RE 4-speed automatic, NV4500 5-speed manual (heavy duty). Covers removal, installation, overhaul, clutch service, and diagnostic procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, differential overhaul, driveline maintenance, CV joints, U-joints, transfer case (e.g., NV241DHD, NV241GHD), propeller shafts.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS system components (sensors, modulator, pump), parking brake system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement (calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, independent front suspension (IFS), solid rear axle, shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckles, coil springs, leaf springs, sway bars.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gearbox, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods, drag links, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagrams, wiring harnesses, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting system, fuses, relays, power distribution. Includes diagnostics for body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM).

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, A/C compressor, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, A/C condenser, evaporator, climate control modules.

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, interior trim, upholstery, sealants.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostics, trouble code (DTC) interpretation, diagnostic scan tool usage, component testing, troubleshooting flowcharts, electrical diagnostic procedures.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, tire rotation, coolant flushes, brake inspections, battery maintenance, lubrication points.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, suspension and steering component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical system fixes, bodywork repairs.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based repair advice, electrical circuit tracing.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for using diagnostic tools, reading live data, performing actuator tests, diagnosing sensor faults, intermittent electrical issues, and powertrain performance problems.

Depth:

Comprehensive (Level 3): Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body structural repairs. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF with searchable text and clear, legible diagrams. Printable pages.

Print Readability:

Designed for clarity and ease of reading on screen and when printed. Includes detailed exploded views and circuit diagrams.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P-Code)

Engine Option 2:

5.7L HEMI V8 (M-Code)

Engine Option 3:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (ISB)

5.7L Hemi Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5400 rpm

5.7L Hemi Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

5.9L Cummins Horsepower:

305 hp @ 2900 rpm (late models)

5.9L Cummins Torque:

555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (late models)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines. Common rail direct injection for 5.9L Cummins.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended), Diesel Fuel

3.7L V6:

EER

4.7L V8:

P

5.7L V8 Hemi:

M

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

ISB / EQB

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Gas Std:

NV3500 5-speed manual (on some lower trim/engine models)

Transmission Type Gas Opt 1:

45RFE 4-speed automatic

Transmission Type Gas Opt 2:

48RE 4-speed automatic (heavy-duty)

Transmission Type Diesel Std:

G56 6-speed manual

Transmission Type Diesel Opt:

48RE 4-speed automatic

Overdrive Gears:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive.

Transfer Case:

Available with electronic or manual shift 4WD systems, including NV241DHD, NV241GHD transfer cases.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Std:

134.5 inches (3416 mm) for standard cab, 154.5 inches (3924 mm) for extended cab.

Bed Length Options:

6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,500 - 6,500 lbs (2041 - 2948 kg), varies significantly by configuration.

Max Gvw Range:

Up to 10,500 lbs (4763 kg) for heavy-duty models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for applicable models)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for applicable models)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Standard front airbags. Side curtain airbags and seat-mounted side airbags were optional on some models/trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base AM/FM radio with CD player. Optional premium Infinity audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and dealer-installed DVD entertainment systems.

Navigation:

Factory navigation systems were not widely available or were late additions as dealer options. Aftermarket solutions were common.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear park assist system available on some trims.

Towing Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller available on some models. Heavy-duty towing packages were standard or optional across many configurations.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for severe duty, 100,000 - 150,000 miles for normal. Manual: Inspect, replace as needed or at higher mileage intervals. Refer to specific transmission service.

Engine Oil 5W20:

SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (for 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI). Refer to manual for specific API service classification.

Engine Oil 15W40 Diesel:

SAE 15W-40 CJ-4 or CK-4 rated Diesel Engine Oil (for 5.9L Cummins).

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv3500:

Dexron III / Mercon ATF or equivalent manual transmission fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual G56:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent SAE 75W-90.

Coolant:

Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent.

Hemi 3 Cylinder Mode:

Potential for issues with MDS (Multi-Displacement System) engaging/disengaging, requiring diagnostic checks or component replacement.

Cummins Injector Issues:

Early 5.9L Cummins common rail systems can be sensitive to fuel quality and may develop injector issues. Regular fuel filter changes are critical.

Transmission Hard Shifting:

Some owners reported occasional hard shifts in automatic transmissions, potentially related to solenoid packs or fluid degradation.

Rear Main Seal Leaks:

Can develop rear main seal leaks, particularly on higher mileage vehicles. Requires transmission removal for replacement.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Common issue on 5.7L HEMI, where exhaust manifold cracks can lead to ticking noises. Often addressed with aftermarket headers or replacement manifolds.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long and storied history in the truck market, dating back to the early 1900s. The Ram nameplate, introduced in 1981, became synonymous with ruggedness and capability.

Third Gen Ram:

The 2006 model is part of the third generation of the Dodge Ram (2002-2008), which introduced a significantly updated chassis, more powerful engine options, and improved interior amenities compared to its predecessor.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Cummins Engine Reputation:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine is widely acclaimed for its reliability, durability, and towing capability, often cited as a major selling point.

Hemi Engine Performance:

The 5.7L HEMI engine garnered praise for its blend of V8 power, relative fuel efficiency (due to MDS), and distinctive V8 rumble.