Did the Ramcharger come with a 440?
The Ramcharger could be equipped with a range of V8 engines, and the 440 cubic inch big-block was available in some Ramcharger configurations. It was not standard across the lineup and appeared mainly in select years, trims, or orders. This article examines how the 440 fit into the Ramcharger’s engine options and what collectors should know.
Engine options across the Ramcharger lineage
Below is a snapshot of the engines commonly seen in Ramchargers, with the 440 appearing as an optional big-block in certain configurations. Most Ramchargers were delivered with smaller-displacement V8s, while the 440 represented a higher-performance choice for specific buyers.
- 318 V8 (5.2 L) — a widespread base engine that offered reliable power for many Ramcharger models.
- 360 V8 (5.9 L) — a popular mid-range option, often chosen for a balance of power and weight.
- 400 V8 (6.6 L) — a big-block upgrade used to boost torque for off-road use and towing tasks.
- 440 V8 (7.2 L) — a relatively rare big-block option, typically found on higher-trim or heavy-duty builds and valued by collectors for its raw power.
These engine options reflect the general Mopar lineup in Dodge trucks and their SUV derivatives. Availability could vary by model year, market, and emission regulations.
Generation-by-generation context
Understanding why the 440 is uncommon helps clarify its status in the Ramcharger lineup. Across the Ramcharger’s production span, big-blocks were offered, but emissions rules and weight considerations limited availability over time. The 440 appears most often in late-1970s to early-1980s configurations that were ordered for heavy-duty use or as part of special packages. By the late 1980s and into the early 1990s, the Ramcharger leaned more toward mid-range V8 options as market demand evolved.
- Early to mid generations saw big-block options, including the 400 and, in some cases, the 440, depending on trim and market.
- Later generations generally favored lighter engines, with the 360 and 318 being the most common, and the 440 reserved for limited-production or special-order builds.
For enthusiasts seeking a Ramcharger with a factory 440, documentation and provenance are important, as many examples may have engine swaps or non-original configurations.
How to verify a 440-equipped Ramcharger
For buyers and collectors, confirming factory 440 status involves a few key checks. The following steps help determine whether a Ramcharger’s big-block 440 was built in at the factory or added later.
- Check the VIN and build sheet or fender tag for engine codes and option packages that indicate a big-block V8 configuration.
- Inspect the engine block and head casting numbers to confirm a 440 displacement, and compare with Mopar big-block identifiers.
- Look at the cooling system, exhaust manifolds, and overall engine bay layout for big-block characteristics that align with a 440 setup.
- Seek original documentation such as window stickers, dealer invoices, or service records showing the 440 as the factory-installed engine.
Due diligence is essential, as some Ramchargers may have had engines swapped after purchase or during restorations.
Summary
The Ramcharger did offer a 440 V8, but it was not a standard feature across the model line. The 440 appears in relatively rare, factory-approved configurations and is more commonly found in late-1970s to early-1980s builds or special orders. If you’re pursuing a Ramcharger with authentic factory 440 power, prioritize documentation and original engine identification to verify the configuration.
