The Dodge Ram 2500HD Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) equipped with the 5.9 Cummins TD engine and a 4×4 automatic transmission represents a significant iteration in Dodge’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 1994 through 1998, this variant occupied a crucial position in the American pickup truck market, catering to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity. It was part of the second generation of the Ram series, known for its robust construction and focus on work-oriented functionality. This particular configuration, combining the Cummins diesel with an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, aimed to provide a balance of power, convenience, and capability for demanding tasks.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 2500HD Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.9 Cummins TD (160 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 2500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 27.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 542 Nm @ 1500 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 399.76 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 5883 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 359 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 102 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 4.02 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 120 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 4.72 in. |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.4 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 10.99 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 9.15 UK qt |
| Coolant | 24.5 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 25.89 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 21.56 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 3992 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs) | 8800.85 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5398 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) (lbs) | 11900.55 lbs |
| Length | 6198 mm |
| Length (in.) | 244.02 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2017 mm |
| Width including mirrors (in.) | 79.41 in. |
| Height | 1958 mm |
| Height (in.) | 77.09 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3937 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 155 in. |
| Approach angle | 33.8° |
| Departure angle | 28.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ram 2500HD is the 5.9-liter (359 cubic inch) Cummins inline-six diesel engine. This engine, designated with codes like ABS or ADZ depending on specific calibration, was renowned for its durability and low-end torque. The 5.9 Cummins utilized a direct injection system, a hallmark of Cummins diesels, which contributed to its fuel efficiency and power output. A turbocharger with an intercooler was standard, boosting horsepower to 160 at 2500 rpm and generating a substantial 542 Nm (399.76 lb-ft) of torque at a relatively low 1500 rpm. The engine featured a robust cast iron block and head, designed for longevity and heavy use. The automatic transmission was a 4-speed unit, providing convenient shifting for a variety of driving conditions. While not as performance-oriented as a manual transmission, it offered ease of use, particularly for drivers frequently towing or hauling heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 horsepower and 542 Nm of torque delivered by the 5.9 Cummins in this configuration provided ample power for most tasks expected of a heavy-duty pickup. However, compared to higher-output Cummins variants or gasoline-powered Ram 2500s, this version offered a more moderate driving experience. Acceleration was adequate but not brisk, and the automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant when downshifting for passing maneuvers. The 4×4 system provided excellent traction in off-road conditions and inclement weather. The long bed configuration, combined with the heavy-duty suspension, resulted in a comfortable ride when unladen, but the ride quality could become harsher when the truck was loaded. The gear ratios in the 4-speed automatic were optimized for towing and hauling, prioritizing low-end grunt over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Club Cab configuration offered a small rear seat, increasing passenger capacity to six. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, and vinyl upholstery. The BR/BE trim level generally represented a mid-range offering, positioned above the base models but below the more luxurious trims. Optional extras included power windows and locks, a cassette player, upgraded sound systems, and various towing packages. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of work-truck use. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly labeled controls and gauges.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 2500HD featured a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilized a dependent spring setup with an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring configuration. This setup provided a good balance of load-carrying capacity and ride comfort. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front axle and drum brakes on the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature. The tires were typically 245/75 R16 size, providing adequate grip for both on-road and off-road driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 2500HD with the 5.9 Cummins diesel and automatic transmission was well-received by buyers seeking a capable and reliable work truck. Critics praised the Cummins engine for its durability and torque output, but some noted that the 160 horsepower version lacked the outright power of higher-output Cummins variants. Compared to the gasoline-powered Ram 2500s, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and longer engine life. The automatic transmission was appreciated for its convenience, but some drivers preferred the control offered by a manual transmission. The 5.9 Cummins automatic was a popular choice for those who needed a heavy-duty truck but didn’t require the highest levels of performance.
Legacy
The 5.9 Cummins diesel engine, in all its iterations, has earned a reputation for exceptional longevity and reliability. Even today, well-maintained examples of the 1994-1998 Ram 2500HD with the 5.9 Cummins are highly sought after in the used truck market. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design contribute to its durability. While modern diesel engines offer more power and refinement, the 5.9 Cummins remains a favorite among truck enthusiasts and those who value dependability. The BR/BE generation Ram 2500HD, particularly with this engine and transmission combination, represents a classic example of American heavy-duty truck engineering.
