The Dodge Ram 3500 Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) DRW, equipped with the 5.9 Cummins TD engine producing 160 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, was a workhorse pickup truck produced from 1994 to 1998. This variant occupied a specific niche within the second generation of the Ram heavy-duty lineup, offering a balance between capability and relative affordability. The “DRW” designation signifies a Dual Rear Wheel configuration, emphasizing its intended use for heavy-duty towing and hauling. It was a key offering in the North American market, catering to agricultural, construction, and commercial users who required a robust and reliable truck.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 3500 Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | DRW 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 (4.02 in) |
| Piston Stroke | 120 mm (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 (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 24.5 l (25.89 US qt | 21.56 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 4763 kg (10500.62 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4400 kg (9700.34 lbs) |
| Length | 6198 mm (244.02 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2383 mm (93.82 in) |
| Height | 1961 mm (77.2 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3937 mm (155 in) |
| Approach angle | 33.4° |
| Departure angle | 28.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.4° |
| 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 variant was the 5.9-liter (359 cubic inch) Cummins B-series inline-six diesel engine. Specifically, engines produced during this period often carried the ABS or ADZ engine codes, denoting minor variations in calibration and components. This engine was renowned for its durability and torque output, even in its 160 horsepower guise. The engine utilized a direct injection system, a hallmark of Cummins diesels, which contributed to its efficiency and power delivery. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to increase power and reduce exhaust emissions. The engine featured a robust cast iron block and head, designed for longevity and high-stress applications. The four-speed automatic transmission, typically the 47RE, was chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s substantial torque. While not as refined as more modern automatics, the 47RE was known for its simplicity and reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 horsepower and 399.76 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 5.9L Cummins, when coupled with the four-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience focused on utility rather than outright speed. Acceleration was modest, but the truck excelled in situations requiring substantial pulling power. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, prioritizing low-end grunt over quick acceleration. Compared to the gasoline-powered Ram 3500 models, or even the higher-output Cummins variants, this configuration felt comparatively sluggish. However, it offered superior fuel economy and a significantly higher towing capacity. The dual rear wheels provided enhanced stability when carrying heavy loads or towing large trailers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Club Cab configuration offered a small rear seat, increasing passenger capacity to six. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, and vinyl upholstery. The BR trim level generally represented the base model, while the BE trim offered some additional features, such as upgraded interior trim and optional power windows and locks. Popular options included a heavy-duty towing package, a limited-slip differential, and various accessories for the bed, such as toolboxes and tie-down points. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 3500’s chassis was built around a heavy-duty frame designed to withstand significant stress. 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 prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability over ride comfort. The front brakes were discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in heavy-duty trucks of this era. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard equipment, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 3500 with the 5.9L Cummins and automatic transmission was well-received by buyers who prioritized durability, towing capacity, and fuel economy over performance. Critics acknowledged the engine’s robust nature and the truck’s overall capability. Compared to the gasoline-powered Ram 3500 models, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and a higher towing capacity. However, the automatic transmission was sometimes criticized for its lack of refinement and relatively slow shift times. The 160 horsepower version was often seen as a more affordable entry point into the Cummins diesel world, appealing to buyers who didn’t require the higher output of the more expensive variants.
Legacy
The 5.9L Cummins engine, in all its iterations, has earned a reputation for exceptional longevity and reliability. Even today, well-maintained examples of this engine can be found operating reliably with high mileage. The 47RE automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern transmissions, is also known for its durability. In the used car market, these Ram 3500s remain popular among those seeking a capable and affordable work truck. The DRW configuration, in particular, is highly sought after by those who require maximum towing capacity. While newer trucks offer more features and refinement, the 1994-1998 Ram 3500 with the 5.9L Cummins remains a testament to the enduring appeal of a simple, robust, and reliable workhorse.
