🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Truck Year: 2006 Codes Platform: Third Generation Ram (2002-2008) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size pickup truck, known for its robust build and towing capabilities. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra. Key Features Durability: Renowned for its heavy-duty construction and reliable powertrains, especially in higher trim levels. Towing Capacity: Excellent towing and payload capacities across various configurations. Engine Options: Wide range of V6 and V8 gasoline engines, and a powerful turbodiesel option. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Comprehensive repair and service information for the 2006 Dodge Ram Truck. Page Count Total Pages: 9267 Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF, based on typical product descriptions) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM). Transmission: Manual transmission (NV3500, NV4500), Automatic transmission (42RLE, 48RE, 545RFE) repair, overhaul, and diagnostics. Drivetrain: Axles, driveshafts, differentials, four-wheel-drive system (NV244, NV271, NV273 transfer cases). Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc, drum), ABS, traction control, parking brake. Suspension And Steering: Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications. Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power distribution. Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, bumpers, glass. HVAC System: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system diagnostics and repair. Safety Systems: Airbags, seatbelts, SRS system. Diagnostic And Emissions: OBD-II diagnostics, emission control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement. Repair: Engine repair, transmission overhaul, brake replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault finding based on symptoms. Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable components. Adjustments: Torque specifications, belt tension adjustments, linkage adjustments. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilding, including electrical diagnostics and body repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Likely PDF; searchable text, high-resolution images, printable pages. Print Quality Image Quality: High resolution for clarity of diagrams and photos. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 3.0L (4.7L) High Output Magnum V8, 6.7L Cummins Turbodiesel (in Ram 2500/3500). 3.7L V6: Displacement: 3.7 Liters (226 cu in), Power: ~215 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: ~235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. 4.7L V8: Displacement: 4.7 Liters (285 cu in), Power: ~235-260 hp @ 5200-5300 rpm, Torque: ~300-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm. 5.7L Hemi V8: Displacement: 5.7 Liters (345 cu in), Power: ~345-350 hp @ 5000-5400 rpm, Torque: ~375-390 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm. 6.7L Cummins Turbodiesel: Displacement: 6.7 Liters (408 cu in), Power: ~305 hp @ 3000 rpm, Torque: ~555-610 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm. Performance Engine Management: MPI (Multi-Point Injection) for gasoline engines, Common Rail Direct Injection for diesel. Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6/V8, 89 octane for HEMI), Diesel (ULSD for Cummins). 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: Varies by trim and engine. Likely a 5-speed manual (NV3500) with the V6, or a 4-speed automatic (42RLE) with the 4.7L V8. Optional Optional Transmissions: 5-speed manual (NV4500 HD), 4-speed automatic (48RE, 545RFE), 6-speed manual (G56 - likely with Cummins). Features Overdrive: All automatic transmissions feature overdrive gearing for improved fuel economy. Transfer Case: Part-time 4WD (NV244, NV271) or Full-time 4WD (NV271/NV273) on 4x4 models. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab. Bed Lengths: 6-foot (standard bed), 8-foot (long bed). Weights Gvwr: Varies significantly by configuration, ranging from approximately 6,000 lbs for light-duty to over 12,000 lbs for heavy-duty models. Curb Weight: Varies by configuration, typically starting around 4,500 lbs for a regular cab V6 and exceeding 6,500 lbs for a crew cab diesel. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Driver: Generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable' for frontal impact in most configurations. NHTSA Front Passenger: Generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable' for frontal impact in most configurations. IIHS Offset Frontal: Varies, often rated 'Acceptable' or 'Good' for offset frontal crash tests. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System. Traction Control: Available on some models, especially those with higher trim levels or specific engine options. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags, available side curtain airbags on some models. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio Options: AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional CD changer, optional Sirius Satellite Radio. Navigation: Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels. Driver Assistance Parking Sensors: Optional rear parking assist...
All automatic transmissions feature overdrive gearing for improved fuel economy.
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD (NV244, NV271) or Full-time 4WD (NV271/NV273) on 4x4 models.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab.
Bed Lengths:
6-foot (standard bed), 8-foot (long bed).
Weights
Gvwr:
Varies significantly by configuration, ranging from approximately 6,000 lbs for light-duty to over 12,000 lbs for heavy-duty models.
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, typically starting around 4,500 lbs for a regular cab V6 and exceeding 6,500 lbs for a crew cab diesel.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver:
Generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable' for frontal impact in most configurations.
NHTSA Front Passenger:
Generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable' for frontal impact in most configurations.
IIHS Offset Frontal:
Varies, often rated 'Acceptable' or 'Good' for offset frontal crash tests.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Available on some models, especially those with higher trim levels or specific engine options.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available side curtain airbags on some models.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional CD changer, optional Sirius Satellite Radio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist system.
Connectivity
Power Outlets:
Standard 12V auxiliary power outlets.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on most trims, often standard on higher levels.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil, or 5,000-7,500 miles for synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions and engine. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid:
Intervals vary; often around 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage. Diesel transmissions may have shorter intervals.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SN, SAE 5W-20 (most V6/V8), SAE 5W-30 (some V8/heavy-duty), SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (Cummins diesel).
Coolant:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Color: Orange.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 42RLE, 48RE, 545RFE. Refer to manual for specific transmission fluid type.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and type (e.g., Manual Transmission Lubricant GL-3 or GL-4).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3.
Known Issues
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Can fail, leading to no-start or stalling issues.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Some automatic transmissions may exhibit harsh shifting; often related to fluid issues or solenoid pack problems.
Heater Core Leaks:
Can be a common issue, particularly on models with the 4.7L V8, leading to coolant loss and foggy windows.
Fuel Pump:
Can fail over time, causing starting problems or stalling.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, especially on the 5.7L HEMI, can cause ticking noises.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing capable and rugged trucks, with the Ram line evolving over decades.
Model Evolution
Third Generation:
The 2006 model is part of the third generation (2002-2008), characterized by its distinctive crosshair grille, redesigned interior, and significantly updated powertrains (including the introduction of the HEMI).
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily assembled in the United States (e.g., Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Heavy Duty Truck:
Often cited for its towing and hauling capabilities, a key strength in the competitive truck market.
Powertrain Options:
The HEMI V8 and Cummins turbodiesel engines received acclaim for their performance and power.