What engine is in a 1986 Dodge Ram?
In 1986, a Dodge Ram could be equipped with several engines, with the most common options being a 3.7-liter inline-six (slant-six), a 5.2-liter V8 (318), or a 5.9-liter V8 (360). Which engine a given truck had depended on the specific model, trim, and build date.
The Ram lineup of that era offered multiple powerplants to balance capability and efficiency. Gasoline engines were the standard across light-duty and many heavy-duty configurations, while diesel options would come later on certain Ram models. To determine the exact engine on a particular vehicle, one should check the VIN and engine stamping or consult the vehicle’s original build sheet or owner's manual.
Common engine options for the 1986 Dodge Ram
The following engines were typically available in 1986 Ram pickups, though availability varied by model and configuration.
- 3.7-liter inline-six (slant-six) — A durable six-cylinder option that was widely used in Dodge trucks of the era.
- 5.2-liter V8 (318) — Chrysler’s small-block V8, favored for a balance of power and economy.
- 5.9-liter V8 (360) — A larger V8 aimed at higher towing and payload capability.
Note that exact engine availability depended on factors such as cab configuration, bed length, emissions equipment, and whether the truck was targeted for light- or heavy-duty use. Carbureted and early fuel-injected setups also influenced performance characteristics within these families.
How to identify the engine in your specific 1986 Dodge Ram
Use these methods to confirm which engine is installed in a particular truck.
- Check the engine stamping on the block near the front of the engine for displacement and family codes (e.g., 318 or 360).
- Look at the vehicle identification number (VIN) and consult a Chrysler VIN decoder or service manual to map the engine code to a specific engine family.
- Inspect the engine bay labeling or the glove box/door jamb sticker, which may list the engine option and some identifying codes.
With the engine identified, you can source the correct parts, maintenance schedules, and compatible transmissions for that exact powerplant.
Summary
A 1986 Dodge Ram could be powered by multiple gasoline engines, most commonly the 3.7-liter inline-six, the 5.2-liter V8, or the 5.9-liter V8. The precise engine depended on the vehicle’s trim and build date, and diesel options were not standard in most Rams that year. To confirm the engine in a specific truck, check the engine stamping, VIN, or original build documentation.
