Segment:
Full-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
Target Demographic:
Individuals and families needing robust, capable off-road and towing vehicles
Competitors:
Chevrolet K5 Blazer, Ford Bronco, Toyota 4Runner
Key Features:
Body-on-frame construction, available 4x4, powerful V8 engine options, significant towing capacity, removable rear roof section (early models), rugged utility
Engine Service:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, diagnostics, overhaul
Transmission Service:
Manual and automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid service
Drivetrain Service:
Four-wheel drive system, transfer case, driveshafts, axles, differentials, wheel bearings
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, power steering, wheel alignment
Braking System:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, instrument cluster, power accessories, wiring diagrams
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, glass, locks, latches
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection and repair
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting procedures, fault codes (OBD-I), diagnostic flowcharts
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, tire rotation
Repair Procedures:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and adjustment for all major systems
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor/fuel injection, ignition timing, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, linkage adjustments
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for common problems
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, wear limits
Special Tool References:
Identification and usage of specialized service tools
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed explanations, pictorial diagrams, exploded views, photos
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts
Engine 1:
5.2L (318 ci) V8 Magnum
Engine 1 Code:
M37 (often)
Engine 2:
5.9L (360 ci) V8 Magnum
Engine 2 Code:
M47 (often)
Engine 3:
5.2L (318 ci) V8 (pre-Magnum, early models)
Engine 4:
5.9L (360 ci) V8 (pre-Magnum, early models)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 170-230 hp (depending on engine and year)
Torque Range:
Approx. 245-330 lb-ft (depending on engine and year)
Fuel Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for Magnum engines, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for earlier engines
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Standard:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., A500/42RH, A518/46RH)
Transmission Optional:
4-speed Manual (e.g., NP435, NV4500)
Drivetrain Options:
4x2 (Rear-wheel drive), 4x4 (Four-wheel drive)
Transfer Case:
New Process (NP) or New Venture Gear (NV) transfer cases (e.g., NP231, NP241)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 118.7 inches (2WD), 117.7 inches (4WD)
Length:
Approximately 195.5 - 197.5 inches
Width:
Approximately 79.4 inches
Height:
Approximately 68.5 - 70.5 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4,500 - 5,200 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically around 6,000 - 6,500 lbs
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typically for conventional oil, refer to manual for synthetic recommendations)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and interval)
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for precise viscosity based on temperature)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to manual for exact type, likely ATF+3 for this era)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (green type)
Known Issues Engine:
Lifter tick, intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor pickup coil failure, some early transmission hard shifting issues.
Known Issues Drivetrain:
U-joint wear, transfer case chain stretch, axle seal leaks.
Known Issues Chassis:
Body rust (rocker panels, wheel wells), suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), exhaust system rust.
Known Issues Electrical:
Wiper motor failure, power window motor failure, faulty grounds.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged trucks and utility vehicles, often associated with the Ram lineup.
Model Evolution:
The Ramcharger, based on the Dodge Ram pickup chassis, was a popular full-size SUV. The 1994 model year marked the introduction of the redesigned second-generation Ram pickup, which also influenced the Ramcharger's platform. This period saw the adoption of the 'Magnum' engine series, offering improved performance and efficiency.
Production Period:
1974-1993 (First Generation), 1994-2001 (Second Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
USA (primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan)