Dodge 1 ton chassis problems
In 1939, Dodge presented a completely redesigned line of trucks. Formally the T series for 1939, V series for 1940, and the W series from 1941 through 1947, the trucks became mostly known as the Dodge Job-Rated trucks.
With streamlined, Art Deco–style front sheetmetal, and introducing the concept of "Job-Rated" truck configurations, Dodge tried to offer customers the truck that fit any job they were buying it for, literally comparing it to the process and user experience of buying shoes.
As a result, the 1939 to 1947 Dodge truck range was offered in a bewilderingly large number of available variants and model codes. Six different payload classes, a wide range of bodies, and more than twenty different wheelbase lengths were manufactured, and fitted with different sized versions of the straight six-cylinder Chrysler "Flathead" side-valve engines – from the half-ton TC pickup truck on a 116-inch wheelbase to three-ton tractor cabs. In 1940 alone, 20 different truck frames were simultaneously produced in the same year, which increased to 31 different chassis frames, for 17 wheelbase lengths in 1947.
Nevertheless, mechanically, the trucks were all very similar, with solid axles front and rear and leaf springs at all four corners. With World War II taking up most of production capacity from 1942 to 1945, the 1939 styling continued largely unchanged through 1947, as engineering and production became the main focus. The Dodge trucks enjoyed some popularity before the war, and the last of them – built in 1942, before Dodge turned to mostly military production – had progressed to the W-series model name. When commercial sales of the trucks restarted post-war, they resumed as the 1946 Dodge W-series.
Historic author on Dodge trucks, Don Bunn, noted that the 1939–1947 Job-Rated trucks represent a very significant segment in Dodge history. They were the first to be mass-produced in the new, huge (Mound Road) Warren truck plant. The Job-Rated trucks also formed the basis for Dodge's first light-duty military 4×4s, the 1940 half-ton Dodge VC series, which in turn further developed into the world's first factory four-wheel-drive commercial pickups: the Dodge Power Wagon. And lastly, Dodge was the first of the Big Three U.S. auto manufacturers to offer a diesel-powered truck – all the more exceptional, given that Chrysler engineered and built its heavy-duty diesel engines all in-house. Today, this series is the most popular pickups with Dodge truck collectors.
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Dodge 1 ton chassis model years
Common Dodge 1 ton chassis problems
The Dodge 1 Ton Chassis cars, particularly the 1994-2008 Dodge Cummins, are known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most dreaded issues is the 'death wobble,' which is a violent shaking of the front end, often experienced during high-speed driving
The 2003 Dodge RAM 1500 has numerous engine problems, including the engine turning off while driving, lifters wearing out the camshaft, and the engine turning over but not starting. These issues can be expensive to fix and may require frequent visits to the dealership.
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is another common problem in many modern RAM pickups. When the module malfunctions, it may cause several electrical issues, such as airbags not deploying, faulty A/C systems, coolant fans stopping, power windows failing, and more.
Coolant leaks are also a common problem in Dodge Ram 1500s, particularly in models from 1994 to 2010. These leaks usually come from the water pump, thermostat gasket, and intake manifold gasket, and can cause the engine to overheat and potentially fail if left unattended.
Body structure issues, such as faulty lock mechanisms, defective paint jobs, rust buildup, and bumper holes drilled too large, are also common complaints among Dodge Ram 1500 owners.
Defective TRW crash sensors can potentially disable the airbag deployment in certain RAM 1500 trucks, posing a significant safety risk.
Oil sludge problems have been reported in several Dodge vehicles, including the RAM 1500. This issue can cause engine failure if left unattended, as the thick, oily sludge clogs the passageways in the cylinder block, leading to oil starvation for various moving parts.
Window seals are another common issue in Dodge Ram trucks, with many owners reporting that their whole interior can get wet, leading to mold growth and potential damage to the interior of the truck. This issue can be resolved with adhesive kits or new window seals, which are relatively inexpensive to replace.
Lighting issues, such as headlights, taillights, or turn signals suddenly stopping, are also common in Dodge Ram trucks. These issues can be caused by pinched wiring in the trailer hitch or problems with the TIPM, and can pose a safety hazard if not addressed promptly.
Rotting of the outer wheelhouse, upper wheel arch area of the bed, cab corners, rocker panels, and oil pan are also common body issues in Dodge Ram trucks, which can lead to widespread cancer if not addressed promptly.
Wheel bearings in the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram trucks are notorious for wearing through, particularly around 75,000 miles. These issues can cause higher pitched squeaking/squealing noises and may lead to wheel bearing replacement if left unattended.
What is the most common problem with a Dodge RAM 1500?
RAM 1500 engines fail for a variety of reasons. However, the most common issue appears to be related to a defective transmission. Dodge RAM 1500 engine replacement costs can range widely, with a replacement estimate of as much as $13,000.
Which RAM 2500 to avoid?
Having said that, below are the worst RAM 2500 years to avoid when buying used:
- 2012 RAM 2500.
- 2013 RAM 2500.
- 2014 RAM 2500.
- 2015 RAM 2500.
- 2016 RAM 2500.
- 2018 RAM 2500.
What is the problem with the 2017 Dodge Ram 3500?
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Is there a recall on RAM 3500 transmission?
Ram is recalling more than 248,000 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickup trucks from the 2020 through 2022 model years because a transmission fluid leak may cause a fire. Only trucks equipped with 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engines and a specific six-speed automatic transmission, known as the 68RFE, are in the recall.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge 1 ton chassis years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge 1 ton chassis cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Dodge 1 ton chassis model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge 1 ton chassis model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge 1 ton chassis years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge 1 ton chassis car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge 1 ton chassis , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge 1 ton chassis vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge 1 ton chassis . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge 1 ton chassis vehicles.
List of Dodge 1 ton chassis complaints
Dodge 1 ton chassis 1994
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-29
- Date Complaint: 1996-08-06
- VIN: 1B6MC36C5RS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE TOWING A VEHICLE. THE TRUCK BED WAS MOVING UP AND DOWN. RESULTING IN THE FRAME BEING BROKEN, AROUND THE CAB AREA.
Recalls Dodge 1 ton chassis
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Dodge 1 ton chassis.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge 1 ton chassis 1994
- Report Received Date: 1994-08-01
- Manufacturer: STILES TRUCK BDY AND EQ.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: THE LABEL REQUIRING TIRE AND RIM INFORMATION WAS NOT INSTALLED AS REQUIRED BY FMVSS NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAT PASSENGER CARS."
- Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: THE TIRE COULD BE OVERLOADED AND RESULT IN PREMATURE WEAR.
- Remedy: A COMPLETE LABEL WILL BE PROVIDED TO THE OWNER OR WILL BE INSTALLED FOR THE OWNER.
Are you having problems with your Dodge 1 ton chassis?
