🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Ram Pickup (Heavy Duty) Year: 2006 Model Code: DR (for 3rd Generation Ram) Chassis Code: DR (3rd Gen) Generation Generation: Third Generation (2002-2008) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size Pickup Truck (Heavy Duty) Target Audience: Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics, fleet operators. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD. Key Features Powertrain Options: Known for robust diesel engine options suitable for towing and heavy-duty work. Frame Construction: Built on a strong ladder frame chassis designed for hauling and towing capacities. Towing Hauling: Emphasis on class-leading towing and payload capabilities. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Complete Service & Repair Manual Language: English Format: Downloadable Digital Format (Likely PDF) Page Count: Extensive (Exact count not specified, but 'complete' implies hundreds of pages) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Management: Diagnosis, testing, and repair of fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, and engine mechanical systems for diesel powertrains. Transmission Drivetrain: Service and repair procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, transfer cases, drive shafts, differentials, and axle assemblies. Brake System: Detailed information on hydraulic systems, ABS, EBD, brake components (rotors, pads, calipers), parking brake, and bleeding procedures. Suspension Steering: Repair and adjustment of front and rear suspension components (shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints), steering gear, power steering, and alignment specifications. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, diagnosis of charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, body control modules, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Body And Chassis: Interior and exterior trim removal and installation, body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, and frame diagnosis. HVAC System: Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and performance testing. Fuel System: Diagnosis and repair of the diesel fuel system, including fuel pumps, injectors, filters, lines, and high-pressure common rail system components. Cooling System: Service procedures for radiators, water pumps, thermostats, cooling fans, and coolant specifications. Exhaust System: Diagnosis and repair of exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and emissions components specific to diesel engines. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, fuel, air), tire rotations, and fluid level checks. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Systematic approach to identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical issues using symptom-based diagnostics and DTCs. Component Replacement: Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing, installing, and adjusting virtually all vehicle components. Engine Rebuild: Instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances. Transmission Overhaul: Procedures for transmission removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Electrical Diagnostics: Step-by-step testing of electrical circuits and components using multimeter and diagnostic scan tools. Brake Service: Rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, brake line repairs, and ABS system bleeding. Suspension Alignment: Adjustment procedures for steering and suspension geometry to manufacturer specifications. HVAC Charging Evacuation: Safe procedures for handling refrigerants, system evacuation, and recharging. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls. Diagnostic Tools: Recommends and explains the use of factory diagnostic scan tools and common automotive multimeters. Specifications Data: Includes detailed torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, electrical resistance values, and diagnostic parameters. Troubleshooting Charts: Provides symptom-based troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common issues. Wiring Diagrams: Includes complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Digital Download (PDF recommended for searchability and printability) Searchable Text: Typically yes for PDF format, allowing quick access to specific topics. Printability: Yes, allows users to print specific sections or the entire manual. Print Quality Image Resolution: Expected to be high enough for clear viewing of diagrams, illustrations, and photos. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: Cummins (Ram Heavy Duty) Engine Displacement: 5.9L (ISB / QSB) Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, Turbocharged, Intercooled Diesel Performance Horsepower: Approx. 305-325 hp (depending on specific tune and model year revision) Torque: Approx. 555-610 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and model year revision) Fuel System Fuel Type: Diesel Injection System: High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) Emissions Control: Includes diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems in later iterations, but 2006 models may vary in specific emissions hardware compared to current standards. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag G360) or 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (48RE) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (NV5600 - for specific applications and later in the generation's run, may have carried over for 2006 or been replaced by 6-speed manual) Features Drivetrain: Part-time 4WD or RWD Transfer Case: NV271 (Manual Shift) or NV273 (Electronic Shift) Rear Axle: Dana 70HD or Dana 80 depending on GVWR and configuration. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 140.5" for Regular Cab Long Bed, 160.5" for Crew Cab Long Bed). Length: Varies by configuration (e.g., 227.4" for Regular Cab Long Bed, 247.4"...
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics, fleet operators.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Ford Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.
Key Features
Powertrain Options:
Known for robust diesel engine options suitable for towing and heavy-duty work.
Frame Construction:
Built on a strong ladder frame chassis designed for hauling and towing capacities.
Towing Hauling:
Emphasis on class-leading towing and payload capabilities.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Complete Service & Repair Manual
Language:
English
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (Likely PDF)
Page Count:
Extensive (Exact count not specified, but 'complete' implies hundreds of pages)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Management:
Diagnosis, testing, and repair of fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, and engine mechanical systems for diesel powertrains.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Service and repair procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, transfer cases, drive shafts, differentials, and axle assemblies.
Brake System:
Detailed information on hydraulic systems, ABS, EBD, brake components (rotors, pads, calipers), parking brake, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension Steering:
Repair and adjustment of front and rear suspension components (shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints), steering gear, power steering, and alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, diagnosis of charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, body control modules, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body And Chassis:
Interior and exterior trim removal and installation, body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, and frame diagnosis.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and performance testing.
Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of the diesel fuel system, including fuel pumps, injectors, filters, lines, and high-pressure common rail system components.
Cooling System:
Service procedures for radiators, water pumps, thermostats, cooling fans, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Diagnosis and repair of exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and emissions components specific to diesel engines.
Approx. 305-325 hp (depending on specific tune and model year revision)
Torque:
Approx. 555-610 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and model year revision)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Diesel
Injection System:
High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR)
Emissions Control:
Includes diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems in later iterations, but 2006 models may vary in specific emissions hardware compared to current standards.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag G360) or 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (48RE)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (NV5600 - for specific applications and later in the generation's run, may have carried over for 2006 or been replaced by 6-speed manual)
Features
Drivetrain:
Part-time 4WD or RWD
Transfer Case:
NV271 (Manual Shift) or NV273 (Electronic Shift)
Rear Axle:
Dana 70HD or Dana 80 depending on GVWR and configuration.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 140.5" for Regular Cab Long Bed, 160.5" for Crew Cab Long Bed).
Length:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 227.4" for Regular Cab Long Bed, 247.4" for Crew Cab Long Bed).
Width:
Approx. 79.9" (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 76.6" (varies by trim and 2WD/4WD)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically 6,000 - 7,000+ lbs
Gvwr:
Ranges from 9,000 lbs to 11,500 lbs for heavy-duty models.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 10,000+ lbs (properly equipped, depending on configuration and hitch type).
Payload Capacity:
Up to 5,000+ lbs (depending on configuration).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not consistently rated for all configurations and years by modern standards, but generally considered robust.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not consistently rated for all configurations and years by modern standards.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio Options:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, some models may have offered satellite radio or premium audio systems.
Navigation:
Factory navigation systems were optional on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Trailer Brake Controller:
Integrated trailer brake controller was an optional factory feature on many heavy-duty models.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Some models may have offered an auxiliary audio input jack.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months for diesel engines, depending on operating conditions (severe vs. normal duty). Check manual for exact diesel oil change intervals.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 miles or annually for diesel fuel filters to prevent injector damage.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Cummins CES 20081 (API CJ-4 or equivalent diesel-specific oil), typically 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic depending on climate. Capacity: ~12 quarts.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 for 48RE automatic; SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for NV5600 manual; SAE 75W-90 for transfer case and differentials.
Coolant:
Cummins CES 14603 (or Fleetguard ES Compleat OAT coolant) or equivalent heavy-duty extended-life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix. Capacity: ~25-28 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Lift Pump Failures:
Early failure of the in-tank lift pump can cause fuel starvation and hard starting. Replacement with an upgraded aftermarket pump is common.
Injector Problems:
Common rail injectors can be sensitive to fuel contamination; regular fuel filter changes are critical. Symptoms include rough running, misfires, and black smoke.
Overhead Cam Shaft Wear:
While robust, some high-mileage engines may exhibit wear on the camshaft lobes. Proper lubrication is key.
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Automatic transmissions (48RE) can develop hard shifting or torque converter issues. Manual transmissions (NV5600) are generally robust but clutch wear is normal.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation:
EGR valve clogging or failure can lead to performance issues and check engine lights, though some 2006 models may have had fewer emissions controls than later years.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the early days of automotive manufacturing.
Model Evolution
Ram Generation 3:
The third generation (2002-2008) represented a significant redesign with a bolder exterior, improved interior, and enhanced chassis for greater capability.
Powertrain Integration:
This generation saw the continued and highly successful integration of the Cummins turbodiesel engine, becoming a hallmark of the Ram Heavy Duty line.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico.
Model Significance:
The 2006 model year is part of the core third-generation platform, known for its durability and powerful Cummins diesel.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Cummins Engine:
The Cummins 5.9L engine is widely recognized for its durability, reliability, and power, often considered a benchmark in the diesel truck market.
Ratings
Truck Of The Year:
While specific awards for the 2006 model year may vary, the Ram Heavy Duty line consistently competed for and received accolades in the truck segment for its capability.