1994 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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Common 1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis problems
The Dodge 1 ton chassis 1994 is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues range from motor sludge, window seal leaks, lighting problems, body structure issues, and wheel bearings issues.
- Motor Sludge: The 1994 Dodge Ram trucks are prone to motor sludge, which is a thick, tar-like substance that builds up in the engine over time. This sludge can clog the engine's oil passages and cause the engine to run poorly or even fail. The sludge is caused by the use of low-quality oil, infrequent oil changes, or a combination of both. To fix this problem, it is recommended to use high-quality oil and change it regularly.
- Window Seal Leaks: Another common problem with the Dodge 1 ton chassis 1994 is window seal leaks. The window seals on these trucks can crack and shrink over time, allowing water to leak into the truck's interior. This can cause mold and mildew to grow, as well as damage to the truck's interior. To fix this problem, it is recommended to replace the window seals with new ones. This is an easy DIY fix with any number of adhesive kits, or you can purchase and install new window seals for under $25 per window.
- Lighting Issues: Lighting issues are common in Dodge Ram trucks and are one of the most frequently-cited problems. Owners find that their headlights, taillights, or turn signals suddenly stop working, causing irritation at best and a safety hazard at worst. In some cases, the issue is caused by pinched wiring in the trailer hitch. These cases are easy to identify since the lights shut off immediately after attaching the trailer. Other times, the issue is yet another symptom of problems with the TIPM. Either way, the fix is usually low-cost if you’re able to perform the work yourself.
- Body Structure Issues: As with most Dodge trucks, Dodge Rams are known for rotting away well before their time. The more common body issues on Dodge Ram trucks include rotting of the outer wheelhouse and upper wheel arch area of the bed, rotting of both driver and passenger side cab corners, rotting of both driver and passenger side rocker panels, typically starting across the lower door weatherstrip seal, and rotting of the oil pain. These rust problems start out as a bubble or two in the paint, and then quickly turn into widespread cancer. In addition to regular undercarriage cleanings, it is highly recommended to apply some protective coating to the underside of the truck. And, as soon as you see that first paint bubble, fix it.
- Wheel Bearings: The 2002-2008 Dodge Ram trucks, including the 1994 model, are notorious for wearing through front wheel bearings. Wheel bearing replacement in the 2002 Dodge Ram seems to be the most prevalent starting around 75,000 miles. Some owners reporting that they’ve replaced one or both sides multiple times with under 100,000 miles on the truck. You can usually hear a wheel bearing going as it will make a higher pitched squeaking/squealing noise as you’re driving. If you notice this type of noise, have it checked immediately. If you wait too long, the bear could lock up, causing that wheel to freeze and the truck to dart/roll in that direction. This could be extremely dangerous, especially at highway speeds.
These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the Dodge 1 ton chassis 1994. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the truck's longevity and safety.
What year was the Ram 1500 was bad?
Even if these models have a lot of miles, if you find a good deal and you can verify the truck has been well-maintained, you might want to take a chance on them. Here are the Dodge RAM 1500 years to avoid: 2003, 2010-2013 (5.7-liter V8), 2014, 2015, 2016.
What year did Dodge trucks have bad transmissions?
The transmissions that are related to common complaints and recalls for Dodge Ram trucks are five and six-speed automatic transmissions. These were found in the 2009 Dodge Ram and 2010 through 2017 Ram models 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500. The transmission provides the link between the engine and drive wheels.
What are the best years for Dodge 1500?
Here's everything we now know about Ram's first electric pickup truck.
- 8 2020 Ram 1500: 80/100. Via Kevauto. ...
- 7 2017 Ram 1500: 81/100. Ram. ...
- 6 2018 Ram 1500: 81/100. via Ram. ...
- 5 2008 Dodge Ram 1500: 83/100. Via BaT. ...
- 4 2013 Ram 1500: 83/100. Ram. ...
- 3 2010 Ram 1500: 84/100. Via BaT. ...
- 2 2012 Ram 1500: 86/100. Via: Ram. ...
- 1 2024 Ram 1500: 88/100.
What is the biggest problem with Dodge Ram?
Engine Problems
Many of the Ram truck problems we've seen involve exhaust manifold failures, compression issues, leaks, stalls, cylinder head malfunctions, and more. These Ram customer service complaints have been relatively common in recent years. If something seems off with your engine, get it inspected ASAP.
What year was the Ram 1500 was bad?
Even if these models have a lot of miles, if you find a good deal and you can verify the truck has been well-maintained, you might want to take a chance on them. Here are the Dodge RAM 1500 years to avoid: 2003, 2010-2013 (5.7-liter V8), 2014, 2015, 2016.
What year did Dodge trucks have bad transmissions?
The transmissions that are related to common complaints and recalls for Dodge Ram trucks are five and six-speed automatic transmissions. These were found in the 2009 Dodge Ram and 2010 through 2017 Ram models 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500. The transmission provides the link between the engine and drive wheels.
What are the best years for Dodge 1500?
Here's everything we now know about Ram's first electric pickup truck.
- 8 2020 Ram 1500: 80/100. Via Kevauto. ...
- 7 2017 Ram 1500: 81/100. Ram. ...
- 6 2018 Ram 1500: 81/100. via Ram. ...
- 5 2008 Dodge Ram 1500: 83/100. Via BaT. ...
- 4 2013 Ram 1500: 83/100. Ram. ...
- 3 2010 Ram 1500: 84/100. Via BaT. ...
- 2 2012 Ram 1500: 86/100. Via: Ram. ...
- 1 2024 Ram 1500: 88/100.
What is the biggest problem with Dodge Ram?
Engine Problems
Many of the Ram truck problems we've seen involve exhaust manifold failures, compression issues, leaks, stalls, cylinder head malfunctions, and more. These Ram customer service complaints have been relatively common in recent years. If something seems off with your engine, get it inspected ASAP.
1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge 1 ton chassis problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-29
- 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.
1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis.
- 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 Dodge 1 ton chassis problems:
Top 5 Problems Dodge Ram Truck 2nd Generation 1994-02 ...
May 7, 2020 ... ... Problems Dodge Ram 1500 2nd Gen 1994-2002 0:36 Steering Wander 2:23 Transmission Regulator Valve 3:24 Front Dash 4:33 Transfer Case Grinding ...
1995 Dodge 3500 Camper Van - Class B Forums
Jan 20, 2010 ... The Dodge 3500 van is indeed the 1 ton version of the (Ram) series trucks. ... My 1995 PleasureWay is built on the Ram 3500 chassis with the 318 ...
Top 5 Problems Dodge Ram 2500 Truck 1994-2002 1st Generation ...
Sep 13, 2023 ... ... common problems with the Ram 2500 based on feedback from mechanics across the country, and the manufacturer. He also gives you tips on how ...
In terms of reliability are Dodge trucks as good as their Chevy and ...
May 11, 2018 ... The last 3 p/ u trucks in my drive had the big blue oval in the grille. The 1/2 ton GM is the biggest joke on the road as far as a truck goes.
Dodge Ram Steering Wander Troubleshooting Part 1 - YouTube
Feb 20, 2020 ... Dodge steering into traffic? All over the road? Are you running a steering box brace ? Here we describe some of the most common problems we ...
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