The Dodge Ram 3500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) DRW, equipped with the 5.9 V8 engine producing 230 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Dodge’s heavy-duty truck lineup from 1994 to 1998. This particular configuration, a dual rear wheel (DRW) model with four-wheel drive, represented a work-focused variant within the second generation of Ram trucks, known internally as the BR/BE series. It was designed for owners needing substantial towing and payload capacity, primarily in agricultural, construction, and commercial applications. The BR/BE generation marked a significant step forward in Ram truck design, offering improved comfort and features compared to its predecessors, while maintaining a rugged, utilitarian character.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 3500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | DRW 5.9 V8 (230 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 230 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 39 Hp/l |
| Torque | 447 Nm @ 2800 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 329.69 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 360 Magnum |
| Engine displacement | 5899 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 359.98 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 4.97 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 4.14 UK qt |
| Coolant | 19 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 20.08 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 16.72 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 4763 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs) | 10500.62 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4173 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) (lbs) | 9199.89 lbs |
| Length | 5692 mm |
| Length (in) | 224.09 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2383 mm |
| Width including mirrors (in) | 93.82 in |
| Height | 1966 mm |
| Height (in) | 77.4 in |
| Wheelbase | 3429 mm |
| Wheelbase (in) | 135 in |
| Approach angle | 33.3° |
| Departure angle | 29.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 23.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Dependent spring suspension with anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/85 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ram 3500 was the 360 Magnum 5.9-liter V8 engine. This engine, a member of the LA engine family, was known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. It featured a cast iron block and cylinder heads, with a two-barrel carburetor feeding the multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 230 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 447 Nm (329.69 lb-ft) of torque at 2800 rpm. The 42RE four-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission, while durable, was not known for its refinement or fuel efficiency. It featured a torque converter lockup to improve highway fuel economy, but its shift points were often criticized as being slow and imprecise. The 4×4 system employed a part-time transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.9L V8 and 42RE automatic combination in the Ram 3500 delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, particularly when heavily loaded. The focus was squarely on providing the low-end torque necessary for towing and hauling. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for work, rather than speed. Compared to the optional Cummins diesel engine, the 5.9L gasoline V8 offered significantly less torque, making it less suitable for extremely heavy loads. However, it was quieter and smoother than the diesel, and its initial cost was lower. The DRW configuration provided enhanced stability when towing, but also made the truck wider and more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ram 3500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) DRW 5.9 V8 4×4 Automatic typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included a vinyl bench seat, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. Power windows and locks were often optional extras. The interior was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, with hard-wearing materials used throughout. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most trucks being configured as work vehicles. Options included upgraded sound systems, cruise control, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 3500’s chassis was built for heavy-duty use. It featured a robust frame and a solid rear axle suspended by leaf springs. The front suspension utilized a coil spring design with a stabilizer bar. Brakes were disc on the front axle and drum on the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available, but not standard on all models. The DRW configuration significantly increased the truck’s stability, particularly when towing, but also added to its overall weight. The tires, typically 215/85 R16, were chosen for their load-carrying capacity and durability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 3500 with the 5.9L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by buyers who prioritized affordability and simplicity over outright performance. Critics noted the engine’s adequate power and torque, but also pointed out its relatively poor fuel economy compared to diesel alternatives. The automatic transmission was often criticized for its sluggish shifts and lack of refinement. Compared to the Cummins diesel-powered Ram 3500, the 5.9L V8 model was significantly less expensive to purchase, but also offered less towing capacity and lower fuel efficiency. It appealed to buyers who only occasionally needed to tow heavy loads and preferred the quieter operation of a gasoline engine.
Legacy
The 1994-1998 Dodge Ram 3500 with the 5.9L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice among those seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. The 360 Magnum engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is essential. The 42RE transmission, while not the most sophisticated, is generally durable if properly maintained. Today, these trucks are often found in the hands of farmers, ranchers, and tradespeople who appreciate their ruggedness and simplicity. Parts availability is generally good, and the trucks are relatively easy to repair. While not as desirable as the Cummins diesel models, the 5.9L V8-powered Ram 3500 offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a capable and affordable work truck.
