Dodge gets bigger with Mega Cab Dually

Nov. 1, 2005
IT'S BIG. That's for sure. The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually is being called the largest cab on the planet in the pickup truck segment by Mike

IT'S BIG. That's for sure.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually is being called “the largest cab on the planet in the pickup truck segment” by Mike Hawarny, product planner for commercial vehicles.

Featuring dual rear wheels that expand the rear-wheel track to six feet, four inches, the 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 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine.

Available as a 3500 series, configured with 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains, in SLT or Laramie trim and with a six-foot, three-inch box, the 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 new model boosts the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) to 10,500 lb, payload capacity to 3240 lb, and rear gross axle weight rating (GAWR) to 9,350 lb An impressive gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 23,000 lb and maximum trailer weight of 15,600 lb place the Dodge Ram Mega Cab Dually at the top of its class.

The 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.

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" rear wheels with LT235/70R17E tires deliver a smooth ride, as well as enhanced load-carrying capability.

The 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.

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 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.

The 5.9-liter Cummins turbodiesel produces 610 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm. It has 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.

According to Dodge, the Mega Cab models offer the largest pickup cab on the planet:

  • Largest, longest cab: 143.2 cubic feet, 111.1" long.

  • Largest interior cargo volume: 72.2 cubic feet.

  • Largest cargo volume behind rear seat: 7.7 cubic feet.

  • Largest flat floor load area: 16.8 square feet.

  • Largest second-row leg room: 44.2".

  • Largest rear-door opening: 34.5" wide, 35.5" tall.

  • Largest rear-door open angle: 85 degrees.

  • First-ever reclining rear seats: 22- to 37-degree seat-back angle.

The starting point is the Ram Heavy Duty 160.5" wheelbase, long-box model. Dodge Truck engineers re-proportioned the cab and the pickup box by replacing the eight-foot box with the Ram 2500's six-foot, three-inch box, providing an additional 20" for the cab. The result is a cab length of 111.1".

The standard 60/40 two-position fold-down rear seats may be used in several configurations to accommodate passengers and gear. Large storage bins behind rear seats in the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab store tools, sports equipment, or just about any other everyday item. Flip-open bin covers may be closed to conceal items or opened to stow larger items behind rear seats.

Standard disc brakes include brake rotors that measure 13.9" front and rear, standard hydraulic brake boosters, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Electronic Variable Brake Proportioning (EVBP) is a component of the standard four-wheel anti-lock braking system on all Mega Cab models. EVBP is designed to better balance front-to-rear braking effort by making better use of rear brakes when the truck is lightly loaded.

About the Author

Rick Weber | Associate Editor

Rick Weber has been an associate editor for Trailer/Body Builders since February 2000. A national award-winning sportswriter, he covered the Miami Dolphins for the Fort Myers News-Press following service with publications in California and Australia. He is a graduate of Penn State University.