The Dodge Ram 250 Conventional Cab Long Bed (D/W) D250, equipped with the 5.2-liter V8 engine producing 170 horsepower, was a mainstay of Dodge’s full-size pickup truck lineup from 1981 through 1989. This generation, internally designated as the “D-Series,” represented a significant update to Dodge’s truck offerings, focusing on improved durability and a more comfortable driving experience compared to its predecessors. The D250 specifically denoted a ¾-ton capacity truck, positioned between the lighter-duty D150 and the heavier-duty D350 in the Dodge Ram hierarchy. This variant served as a workhorse for both commercial and personal use, offering a balance of capability and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 250 Conventional Cab Long Bed (D/W) |
| Type (Engine) | D250 5.2 V8 (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1981 |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 32.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 332 Nm @ 2000 rpm / 244.87 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 | 14.2 l / 15 US qt | 12.49 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l / 20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal |
| Length | 5354 mm / 210.79 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2019 mm / 79.49 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3327 mm / 130.98 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 D250 was the LA-series 5.2-liter (318 cubic inch) V8 engine. This engine, a member of the Chrysler LA engine family, was known for its durability and relatively simple design. The 170 horsepower output was achieved through a two-barrel carburetor, a relatively conservative setup compared to later fuel-injected versions. The engine featured a cast iron block and cylinder heads, and a hydraulic lifter camshaft. The 8.5:1 compression ratio was a compromise between power and fuel economy, typical for the era. The four-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing direct control over the engine’s power. While an automatic transmission was available, the manual was favored by those prioritizing fuel efficiency and direct control, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 170 hp 5.2L V8, paired with the four-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, and passing maneuvers required careful planning. The engine’s strength lay in its low-end torque, making it well-suited for hauling and towing. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were spaced to maximize this torque, allowing the truck to maintain reasonable speeds even when heavily loaded. Compared to the optional larger displacement engines (like the 360 cubic inch V8), the D250 5.2L prioritized fuel economy and affordability over outright power. The ride quality, while improved over earlier Dodge trucks, was still firm due to the heavy-duty suspension and leaf spring rear setup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D250, in its base form, was a fairly utilitarian vehicle. Standard equipment included a basic vinyl bench seat, a simple dashboard with essential gauges, and manual windows and locks. The interior was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, rather than luxury. Optional extras included air conditioning, an upgraded stereo system, and a tilt steering wheel. Higher trim levels, such as the Adventurer, offered more luxurious appointments, including cloth upholstery, carpeting, and exterior trim enhancements. The long bed configuration provided ample cargo space, making it ideal for hauling building materials, livestock, or other large items.
Chassis & Braking
The D250 featured a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy use. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, providing a relatively comfortable ride for a truck of its size. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, which was well-suited for carrying heavy loads. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. While adequate for the truck’s weight, the braking performance was not particularly strong by modern standards. Steering was accomplished through a cone worm and recirculating ball system, which provided a solid, if somewhat indirect, steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 250 D250 5.2L V8 was generally well-received as a capable and reliable work truck. Critics praised its durability and relatively low operating costs. However, the 170 horsepower engine was often seen as underpowered, especially when compared to the larger-displacement V8 options available. The 5.2L engine offered a better fuel economy than the 360 cubic inch V8, making it a popular choice for those who prioritized efficiency. Compared to competing trucks from Ford and Chevrolet, the Dodge Ram 250 offered a similar level of capability and value.
Legacy
The Dodge Ram 250 D250 5.2L V8 has become a popular choice among classic truck enthusiasts. The LA-series engine is known for its longevity and relative ease of maintenance. Parts availability remains good, making it a relatively affordable truck to restore and maintain. While not the most powerful or luxurious truck of its era, the D250 5.2L represents a solid and dependable workhorse that continues to find favor with those seeking a classic American pickup truck. Today, well-maintained examples command a reasonable price in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and reputation for reliability.
