The Dodge Ram 3500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) DRW, equipped with the 5.9 V8 engine producing 230 horsepower, represents a significant workhorse offering from Dodge during the 1994-1998 model years. This particular configuration, a dual rear wheel (DRW) pickup, was aimed squarely at buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity. It occupied a specific niche within the Ram 3500 lineup, positioned as a robust, gasoline-powered alternative to the increasingly popular diesel options. The BR/BE generation marked a substantial redesign for the Ram series, moving away from the previous generation’s more utilitarian aesthetic towards a more modern and aerodynamic design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 3500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | DRW 5.9 V8 (230 Hp) |
| 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 | 3992 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs) | 8800.85 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6169 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) (lbs) | 13600.32 lbs |
| Length | 5692 mm |
| Length (in) | 224.09 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2383 mm |
| Width including mirrors (in) | 93.82 in |
| Height | 1854 mm |
| Height (in) | 72.99 in |
| Wheelbase | 3429 mm |
| Wheelbase (in) | 135 in |
| Approach angle | 26.1° |
| Departure angle | 24.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.4° |
| 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| 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 is the 360 Magnum 5.9-liter V8 engine. This engine, a member of the LA engine family, is a pushrod V8 known for its relatively simple design and robust construction. It utilizes a cast iron block and cylinder heads, and features a multi-port fuel injection system for improved efficiency and power delivery compared to earlier carbureted designs. The 360 Magnum produced 230 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 330 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a direct connection to the engine’s power. While an automatic transmission was available, the manual was favored by those prioritizing control and maximizing the engine’s potential, especially when towing heavy loads. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration were typical for heavy-duty pickups of the era.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.9L V8 and five-speed manual combination in the Ram 3500 DRW delivered a driving experience focused on capability rather than outright speed. Acceleration was adequate, but the truck’s substantial weight and the engine’s torque curve meant that it excelled at low-end grunt for hauling and towing. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, crucial for maintaining control when navigating challenging terrain or managing heavy loads. Compared to the available diesel engines, the 5.9L V8 offered a more responsive feel, but lacked the diesel’s superior fuel economy and low-end torque. The DRW configuration significantly enhanced stability when towing, distributing the load more effectively across the rear axle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ram 3500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) DRW with the 5.9 V8 typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its work-oriented nature. Standard features included a vinyl bench seat, basic instrumentation, and a heavy-duty suspension. Air conditioning and an upgraded sound system were common options. The interior was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, rather than luxury. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most variations stemming from optional packages that added features like power windows, power locks, and a tilt steering wheel. The focus remained on providing a functional and reliable work truck.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 3500 DRW featured a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, providing a relatively comfortable ride despite the truck’s heavy-duty nature. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Brakes were disc brakes up front and drum brakes in the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available as an option. The DRW configuration, with its dual rear wheels, significantly increased the truck’s load capacity and stability. The steering system was a hydraulic rack-and-pinion setup, providing responsive and precise steering control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 3500 DRW with the 5.9 V8 engine received generally positive reviews for its capability and durability. Critics praised its robust construction and its ability to handle demanding tasks. However, it was often overshadowed by the diesel-powered Ram 3500 models, which offered superior fuel economy and towing capacity. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-350 and Chevrolet K3500, the Ram 3500 offered a competitive package, particularly for buyers who preferred the simplicity and responsiveness of a gasoline engine. Fuel economy was a notable drawback compared to the diesel options, and maintenance costs could be higher due to the engine’s more complex fuel injection system.
Legacy
The 360 Magnum engine, while eventually superseded by more modern powertrains, remains a popular choice among enthusiasts for its reliability and ease of maintenance. The Ram 3500 DRW (BR/BE) with the 5.9 V8 has developed a following among collectors and those seeking a classic American work truck. While not as sought-after as the diesel versions, these trucks offer a unique combination of capability, simplicity, and affordability in the used car market. Parts availability remains good, and the engine’s robust construction ensures that many of these trucks are still in service today, a testament to their enduring quality.
