What engine did the Ramcharger have?
The Ramcharger did not rely on a single engine; across its production run from 1974 to 1993, Dodge offered a range of Mopar V8s. The most common powerplants were the 318 and 360 cubic-inch engines, with optional big-blocks appearing in some years and configurations.
In more detail, the Ramcharger's engines varied by model year and market. Mopar provided a mix of small-block and big-block V8s, allowing buyers to choose performance, towing, or fuel efficiency depending on the setup.
Powerplants by era
Common engines throughout the Ramcharger's life
The following engines represent the backbone of many Ramcharger configurations, particularly in the late 1970s through the early 1990s.
- 318 cubic inches (5.2 L) V8 — a standard small-block that appeared in lower- to mid-range trims.
- 360 cubic inches (5.9 L) V8 — a workhorse for many Ramchargers, offering solid torque and towing capability.
- Optional big-blocks in some years included 383 (≈6.3 L), 400 (≈6.6 L), and 440 (≈7.2 L) for increased power in select configurations.
Availability of big-block options varied by year, trim level, and market.
Later-era updates and fuel management
As emissions standards tightened in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Ramchargers increasingly adopted electronic fuel management. Many 318 and 360 engines in the period featured throttle-body injection or other EFI setups to improve efficiency while preserving performance.
Concluding: The Ramcharger’s engine lineup was diverse by design, reflecting Dodge’s approach to offering a rugged, versatile SUV for a range of buyers—from everyday drivers to off-road enthusiasts.
Summary
The Ramcharger did not have a single engine option; it used a spectrum of Mopar V8s throughout its 1974–1993 run, with the 318 and 360 cubic inches serving as the backbone and occasional big-block choices (383/400/440) appearing in certain years. Later models moved toward fuel-injected small-blocks to meet emissions standards while maintaining capability.
