17-06-2005
In a salute to the largest pickup truck market in the United States, Dodge tipped its hat to Texas today and unveiled the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually.
Building on Dodge Ram’s leadership momentum, the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab – the most spacious and versatile pickup cab on the planet – adds a dual-rear-wheel model that takes towing and hauling capability to new levels of performance.
“The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually will attract consumers who require the utmost in space, utility and capability,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Brand Marketing, Chrysler Group. “With the ability to tow and haul heavy loads, securely stow gear and simultaneously bring the entire family along, the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually is the ultimate truck.”
Featuring dual rear wheels that expand the rear-wheel track to six feet, four inches, the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually provides more payload capacity and enhanced trailer-towing stability. To supply class-leading muscle, the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually model comes standard with 610 lb.-ft. of torque, courtesy of its 5.9-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine.
Available as a 3500 series, configured with 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrains, in SLT or Laramie trim and with a six-foot, three-inch box, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually comes standard with a six-speed manual or optional automatic transmission. An electric-shift transfer case is standard on four-wheel-drive models, and a limited-slip differential is optional.
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually arrives in Dodge dealerships in January.
“Dually” Capable
Building on Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s prodigious towing and hauling capability, the new dual-rear-wheel model boosts the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to 10,500 lbs., payload capacity to 3,240 lbs., and rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) to 9,350 lbs. An impressive Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating (GCWR) of 23,000 lbs. and maximum trailer weight of 15,600 lbs. place the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually at the top of its class.
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually’s rear suspension is similar in both two- and four-wheel-drive models and is equipped with a heavy-duty 11.5-inch solid axle and longitudinal leaf springs. Three leaves carry normal loads and an auxiliary leaf supports additional load capacity.
“Capability is a Dodge bragging point and we are taking it to the next level with the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually,” said Mike Donoughe, Vice President – Body-on-frame Product Team. “With the added stability of dual rear wheels, the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually enables customers to tow or haul the heaviest farm, ranch, construction or recreational equipment – anywhere, anytime – while also transporting passengers in ‘Mega’ comfort.”
New gas-charged monotube shocks in the rear suspension feature unique valving to accommodate the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually’s increased payload capacity, providing exceptional control and durability. In addition, dual 17-inch rear wheels with LT235/70R17E tires deliver a smooth ride, as well as enhanced load-carrying capability.
Mega Towing
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually provides a combination of standard and optional features that make towing easier, such as a Class IV hitch receiver with a seven-circuit wiring harness, 750-amp battery, heavy-duty engine cooling and an auxiliary transmission oil cooler.
“Towing and hauling capability is critical for our customers, as more than 90 percent of Dodge Ram Heavy Duty customers tow with their truck,” said Donoughe.
A “Tow/Haul” mode, as well as “Overdrive Off,” delivers maximum trailer-towing performance by providing crisp shifts and reducing gear searching when climbing hills. These systems will also select a lower gear in downhill conditions in order to utilize the engine’s breaking capability.
Distinctive trailer-tow mirrors featured on the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually offer a large rear-viewing area that may be customized to drivers’ needs and preferences. Mirrors provide two views on both sides: close-up and wide-out. In addition, mirrors flip up 90 degrees for viewing beyond wide trailers.
Class-dominating Cummins Power
The 5.9-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel is the king of the heavy-duty diesel segment with class-dominating 610 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,600 rpm – peaking earlier than either Ford’s PowerStroke or Chevrolet’s Duramax® diesels – translating to a noticeably better vehicle launch when towing and accelerating, as well as better drivability.
“The Cummins Turbo Diesel is the engine of choice for 85 percent of Dodge Ram Heavy Duty customers,” said Donoughe. “Unlike other diesel options on the market, Cummins is synonymous with smooth power delivery, best-in-class torque, excellent fuel economy and durability that is unmatched in the industry.”
The Cummins Turbo Diesel offers reliability, durability and efficiency with an in-cylinder combustion and a diesel oxidation catalyst solution that requires no exhaust gas recirculation components. In addition, gallery-cooled, high-strength aluminum pistons provide increased durability, resulting in an average of 350,000 miles before overhaul.
Text and photos courtesy of DaimlerChrysler
