What year range is 1st gen Dodge?
There isn't a single year range for "1st gen Dodge" because the first-generation window is model-specific.
Model-by-model first-generation year ranges
For context, several well-known Dodge models have distinct first-generation spans. The ranges below reflect typical model-year designations in the United States and can vary by region or body style.
- Dodge Dart (1st generation): 1960–1962
- Dodge Charger (1st generation): 1966–1969
- Dodge Dakota (1st generation pickup): 1987–1996
- Dodge Challenger (1st generation): 1970–1974
- Dodge Neon (1st generation): 1995–1999
These ranges illustrate how the label "1st generation" is model-specific rather than a brand-wide designation. For a different Dodge line, the first-generation period may fall in a different decade entirely.
Model-specific snapshots
Dodge Dart (1st generation): 1960–1962
The Dart name first appeared in Dodge's compact car lineup in 1960. The 1st generation lasted through the 1962 model year, followed by a redesign that began the 2nd generation in 1963.
Dodge Charger (1st generation): 1966–1969
The Charger debuted in 1966 with a distinctive fastback look and performance options. Its first generation persisted through the 1969 model year, after which a broader redesign started the 2nd generation.
Dodge Dakota (1st generation): 1987–1996
Dodge launched the Dakota pickup in 1987, and the 1st generation continued until 1996, setting the stage for the 2nd-generation redesign in the late 1990s.
Dodge Challenger (1st generation): 1970–1974
The Challenger entered the muscle-car era in 1970 and ran through 1974 as its 1st generation, before the model underwent a lengthy hiatus and later revival.
Dodge Neon (1st generation): 1995–1999
Introduced in the mid-1990s, the Neon’s 1st generation spanned 1995–1999, delivering an affordable compact option before a redesign produced the 2nd generation in the following decade.
Summary
In short, the idea of a universal "1st gen Dodge" year range doesn’t exist. Each Dodge model has its own first-generation window, defined by its design changes and redesigns. If you have a specific model in mind, I can pull the exact year span for that model’s first generation.
What year is the 1st gen Dodge?
The first generation Dodge Ram pickup truck covers the model years 1981 through 1993. This generation replaced the previous D series trucks and was the first to use the "Ram" name as part of its official badging.
You can watch this video to learn about the history of Cummins and the Dodge Ram: 59sW350 Crew CabYouTube · Feb 9, 2024
- Start Year: The first generation began with the 1981 model year.
- End Year: Production for this generation concluded in 1993, when the second generation was introduced.
This video explains the history of Dodge trucks from the 1970s to 1993: 57sDead Dodge GarageYouTube · Mar 8, 2023
What year were the 2nd gen Dodges?
The second-generation Dodge Ram trucks were produced from 1994 to 2002. While the Ram 1500 was available for the entire 1994-2002 range, the Ram 2500 and 3500 models ran from 1994 to 2002 as well. There were some model year variations, including an interior refresh in 1998 and the introduction of the 24-valve Cummins engine in 1998.5.
- Years: 1994–2002
- Ram 1500: 1994–2002
- Ram 2500/3500: 1994–2002
- Notable changes:
- Interior updated in 1998
- 24-valve Cummins engine introduced in 1998.5
What year are 3rd gen dodges?
The 3rd generation of Dodge Ram trucks spans from the 2002 to 2009 model years, with the 1500 (half-ton) models produced from 2002-2008 and the 2500 and 3500 (medium and heavy duty) models from 2003-2009. This generation is known for introducing the common-rail Cummins diesel engine and the Mega Cab option.
- Dodge Ram 1500: 2002–2008
- Dodge Ram 2500: 2003–2009
- Dodge Ram 3500: 2003–2009
What year is 5.9 Cummins to avoid?
You should avoid 5.9 Cummins years with known weaknesses, specifically 1998.5–2002 (due to the unreliable VP44 injection pump and potential lift pump failure) and 1999–2001 (due to the "53 block" casting, which is prone to cracking). While other years may have specific issues, these are the most frequently cited for potential major failures.
Specific years and common problems to avoid:
- 1999–2001: These are the most critical years to avoid due to the "53 block" casting with thin water jacket walls that can lead to cracking and coolant leaks.
- 1998.5–2002: These models use the Bosch VP44 injection pump, which is prone to failure. A failure in the lift pump that feeds the injection pump can cause a chain reaction, leading to the expensive VP44 failing as well.
- 2004.5–2005: These models have injectors that were more prone to premature wear, which can lead to rough starts, smoke, or fuel in the oil.
Other considerations:
- Transmission: The 47RE automatic transmission, found in 1994-2002 trucks, is a weak point due to its older design and smaller components.
- 1998: This year is a bit of a transition year, but can still have the VP44 injection pump issues mentioned above.
Years considered more reliable:
- 1994–1998: These 12-valve engines are highly reliable due to their mechanical P7100 injection pump.
- 2006–2007: The last of the 5.9L common rail engines are considered by some to be the peak of 5.9L performance before the introduction of the 6.7L.
