🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

DR

Body Styles:

Pickup Truck, Cab Chassis

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Positioning:

Known for its robust powertrains, towing capacity, and rugged design.

Primary Competitors:

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

Vehicle Strengths:

Heavy-duty capabilities, powerful engine options, comfortable interior for its class, versatile configurations.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides detailed technical guidance for DIY repairs and maintenance, saving owners significant costs associated with dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

Ram Pickup Light Duty 4x2, Ram Pickup Light Duty 4x4, Ram Pickup Heavy Duty 4x2, Ram Pickup Heavy Duty 4x4, Ram Cab Chassis 4x2 DX Family, Ram Pickup 3500 4x2, Ram Pickup 3500 4x4, Ram Pickup 1500, Ram Pickup 2500, Ram Pickup 3500 Less Dual Rear Wheels, Ram Pickup 3500 With Dual Rear Wheels, Ram Pickup 4000 DX Family

Engine Variants Covered:

4.7L 8-cyl. MPI Gasoline, 4.7L 8-cyl. Flex Fuel, 5.7L 8-cyl. SMPI Gasoline, 5.9L 6-cyl. Turbo Diesel High Output, 8.3L 10-cyl. SFI Gasoline

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Printable:

All pages are printable

Language:

English

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Operating System Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Page Count:

Not Specified (typical for download, but assume comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Engine Systems, Ignition Control, Emissions Control, Fuel System, Engine (general)

Drivetrain:

Differential & Driveline, Automatic Transmission, Clutch

Chassis And Suspension:

Suspension, Steering, Tires/Wheels, Frame & Bumpers

Braking System:

Brakes

Electrical And Electronics:

Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Horn, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring

Comfort And Convenience:

Heating & Air Conditioning, Heated Systems

Body And Exterior:

Body, Frame & Bumpers

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting, Fault code diagnosis, System checks

Repair Procedures:

Component replacement, System overhaul, Engine rebuilds, Transmission service

Maintenance Procedures:

Lubrication, Fluid changes, Filter replacement, Tune-ups

Installation Procedures:

Component installation, Accessory fitment (implied)

Depth:

Comprehensive (high quality diagrams and instructions, covers detailed repair)

Target Audience:

Do-It-Yourselfer (DIY) and Professional Technicians

📊 Manual Specifications

File Quality:

High quality diagrams

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within PDF (standard for professional manuals)

Binding Type:

N/A (Downloadable Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Downloadable Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

4.7L V8 Mpi Gasoline:

Displacement: 4.7L (287 cu in), Configuration: V8, Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), Power: Approx. 235 hp @ 4,500 rpm, Torque: Approx. 325 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm.

4.7L V8 Flex Fuel:

Same as 4.7L MPI, but capable of running on E85 ethanol blend.

5.7L V8 Smpi Hemi:

Displacement: 5.7L (345 cu in), Configuration: V8 (HEMI), Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMPI), Power: Approx. 345 hp @ 5,000 rpm, Torque: Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm.

5.9L I6 Turbo Diesel (Cummins):

Displacement: 5.9L (359 cu in), Configuration: Inline 6-Cylinder, Fuel Delivery: Turbocharged, High Output Injection, Power: Approx. 325 hp @ 2,900 rpm, Torque: Approx. 610 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm (High Output variant).

8.3L V10 SFI:

Displacement: 8.3L (505 cu in), Configuration: V10, Fuel Delivery: Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Power: Approx. 500 hp @ 5,600 rpm (Viper V10), Torque: Approx. 525 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm (Viper V10).

Fuel Type:

Gasoline, E85 Flex Fuel, Diesel

Engine Control:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module) managing fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions, and transmission control.

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmissions:

48RE (4-speed automatic, common on 5.9L Diesel, 5.7L HEMI), 45RFE/545RFE (5-speed automatic, common on 4.7L V8)

Manual Transmission:

NV4500 (5-speed manual, available on some 5.9L Diesel models), G56 (6-speed manual, later models replacing NV4500)

Transfer Case:

Command-Trac (NV244, 243) and Selec-Trac (NV273) for 4WD models, with manual or electronic engagement options.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent) for 45RFE/545RFE and 48RE. Consult manual for specific fill capacities.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific GL ratings and viscosities for NV4500/G56.

📐 Dimensions

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model (e.g., 1500, 2500, 3500), ranging from approximately 8,500 lbs to over 11,500 lbs.

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration (cab type, bed length, drivetrain, engine), typically between 4,500 lbs and 6,500 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 10,500 lbs for properly equipped 2500 models, and up to 12,750 lbs for properly equipped 3500 models (DRW). Consult specific configurations.

Payload Capacity:

Varies by model and configuration, typically ranging from 1,500 lbs to over 5,000 lbs.

Wheelbase:

Multiple options: 131.3" (regular cab short bed), 140.5" (regular cab long bed, quad cab short bed), 160.5" (quad cab long bed), 172.4" (Mega Cab long bed).

Bed Lengths:

6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

Refer to specific NHTSA reports for 2006 Dodge Ram. Generally received good ratings for frontal impact, but side impact and rollover ratings may vary.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side curtain airbags (availability varies by trim and configuration).

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS).

Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) available on certain models/trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional SiriusXM satellite radio, optional Infinity premium audio system.

Parking Assistance:

Available rear parking sensors.

Trailer Towing Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller options available on certain trims, heavy-duty towing packages with hitch and wiring.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on engine and oil specification.

Tire Rotation:

Recommended every 7,500-10,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic transmission fluid (ATF+4) typically recommended for service between 30,000-100,000 miles depending on service severity. Diesel manual transmission fluid service intervals are also specified.

Engine Oil Type:

4.7L V8: SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific grade), 5.7L V8 HEMI: SAE 5W-20 (Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent), 5.9L Diesel: SAE 15W-40 (API CJ-4 or CI-4 Plus). Check manual for precise specifications and capacities.

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) - P/N 68048553AA or equivalent (typically orange).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Common Problem Areas:

Potential for radiator leaks, HVAC blend door actuator failures, rust on the rear wheel wells and cab corners, and issues with the 4.7L V8 ignition coils or spark plugs. Diesel models can experience injector or turbocharger issues if not properly maintained.

Diesel Specific Concerns:

The 5.9L Cummins diesel is generally robust, but can be prone to injector pump failures (VP44 on earlier models, common rail on later ones), turbocharger wear, and exhaust manifold cracks if not maintained or operated with appropriate care.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck History:

Dodge has a long-standing history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line dating back to 1981, establishing itself as a major player in the pickup truck market.

Third Generation Ram:

The 2006 model is part of the third generation Dodge Ram (2002-2008), which introduced a significant redesign featuring a more aggressive styling, improved interior, and the introduction of the HEMI engine and Mega Cab configuration.

Manufacturing Locations:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

While specific awards for the 2006 model year are not extensively documented as a singular unit, the Dodge Ram platform generally received praise for its powertrain options, particularly the HEMI and Cummins diesel engines, and its towing and hauling capabilities in competitive comparisons.