The Dodge Ram 150 Conventional Cab Short Bed, specifically the D150 variant equipped with the 5.2-liter V8 engine producing 135 horsepower, represents a significant entry point into the full-size pickup truck market of the early 1980s. Produced from 1981 through 1987, this configuration occupied the base trim level within the Ram 150 lineup, offering a robust and utilitarian vehicle geared towards work and light-duty hauling. It was part of the first generation of the redesigned Ram trucks, designated the “D-Series,” which aimed to modernize Dodge’s pickup offerings and compete more effectively with Chevrolet and Ford.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 150 Conventional Cab Short Bed (D/W) |
| Type (Engine) | D150 5.2 V8 (135 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1981 |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 25.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 2000 rpm / 239.71 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 5211 cm3 / 317.99 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.31 mm / 3.91 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 84.07 mm / 3.31 in. |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l / 4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15 l / 15.85 US qt | 13.2 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l / 20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal |
| Length | 4846 mm / 190.79 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2019 mm / 79.49 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2921 mm / 115 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 298.45×31.75 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 254×63.5 mm |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 195/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the D150 was the LA-series 5.2-liter (318 cubic inch) V8 engine. This engine, designated as the 318, was a robust and relatively simple design, known for its durability and ease of maintenance. It utilized a cast iron block and cylinder heads, and featured a two-barrel carburetor for fuel delivery. The 318 engine produced 135 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 325 Nm (239.71 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal front-mount configuration was typical for rear-wheel-drive trucks of the era. The standard transmission for this variant was a four-speed manual, although a three-speed automatic transmission was available as an option. The automatic, while offering convenience, did impact acceleration and fuel economy compared to the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The 135 hp 5.2L V8, paired with the four-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for typical pickup truck duties. Acceleration was modest, and passing maneuvers required planning. The engine’s strength lay in its low-end torque, making it suitable for hauling moderate loads and navigating varied terrain. The manual transmission allowed for greater control and efficiency, especially when towing. Compared to the optional automatic transmission, the manual offered a more engaging driving experience and slightly improved fuel economy. Higher trim levels, equipped with larger engines like the 360 cubic inch V8, offered significantly more power, but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The D150’s suspension, while functional, prioritized load-carrying capacity over ride comfort.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D150, as the base model, was fairly spartan in its standard equipment. It typically included a basic vinyl bench seat, a simple dashboard with essential gauges, and manual windows and locks. Options included upgraded interior trim, a radio, and a sliding rear window. The short bed configuration offered a practical cargo area for everyday use. The D150 was positioned as a work truck, appealing to buyers who prioritized functionality and affordability over luxury. Higher trim levels, such as the D100 and Adventurer, offered more comfort and convenience features, including cloth upholstery, carpeting, and additional chrome trim.
Chassis & Braking
The D150 utilized a body-on-frame construction, typical of trucks of this era. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The front discs measured 298.45×31.75 mm, while the rear drums were 254×63.5 mm. Steering was accomplished via a cone worm and recirculation balls system, which provided adequate, though not particularly precise, steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 150 D150 was generally well-received as a capable and affordable work truck. Critics praised its robust engine and durable construction. However, the base model’s lack of amenities was sometimes noted. Compared to the Chevrolet C/K series and Ford F-Series, the Ram 150 offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of value. The 5.2L V8 provided a good balance of power and fuel economy for its class, although it was less powerful than some of the larger engine options offered by competitors. Reliability was generally good, with the LA-series V8 engine proving to be a long-lasting and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The Dodge Ram 150 D150 with the 5.2L V8 and manual transmission has become a popular choice among classic truck enthusiasts. The LA-series engine is known for its longevity and relative simplicity, making it a relatively easy engine to maintain and repair. Parts availability remains good, and a thriving aftermarket supports these vehicles. Today, well-maintained examples command reasonable prices in the used car market, appealing to those seeking a classic American pickup truck with a reputation for reliability and durability. The D150 represents a pivotal point in Dodge’s truck history, marking the beginning of a new generation of Ram trucks that would eventually become a dominant force in the full-size pickup segment.
