1985 Dodge Ram problems

General information about Dodge-Ram
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year.

Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The name Ram was first used in 1981 model year Dodge Trucks in October 1980, following the retiring and rebadging of the Dodge D series pickup trucks as well as B-series vans, though the company had used a ram's-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933.

Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to win the award three times, winning in 2019, 2020, and 2021.

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Common 1985 Dodge Ram problems

Carburetor Issues in 1985 Dodge Ram

Carburetor problems are a common issue in 1985 Dodge Ram trucks with 318 motors and Holly 2 barrel Carbs. However, it is also possible that the carburetor has been rebuilt recently, in which case the floats may have sunk or leaked, causing the carburetor to run too rich.

Starting Problems in 1985 Dodge Ram

Another common issue in 1985 Dodge Ram trucks is starting problems. For example, some owners have reported that the engine stalls while driving, particularly in turns when the gas pedal is released and the RPM drops. In some cases, this issue can be caused by a faulty relay switch.

Speed Limitations in 1985 Dodge Ram

Some owners of 1985 Dodge Ram trucks have reported intermittent problems with the truck's speed. For example, one owner reported that the truck would only go up to 30 mph, despite the fact that it started properly and did not run rough. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including fuel pump problems or other engine issues.

In summary, 1985 Dodge Ram trucks can experience a variety of common issues, including carburetor problems, starting problems, and speed limitations. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty parts, damage to wiring or filters, and other engine issues. To diagnose and repair these issues, it is often necessary to consult with a specialist and perform a thorough inspection of the truck's engine and ignition components.

What was the worst year for the Dodge Ram?

The worst years

A few model years, in particular, have proven more problematic than others. Model years 2011 and 2012 stand out when it comes to bad years for the 5.7L HEMI, with 2012 being an especially lousy period for Ram pickups. The biggest issue with the 2012 Ram 1500 is the infamous "HEMI tick."

What engine is in a 1985 Dodge Ram?

Engines-Chrysler's fuel-efficient 3.7 litre (225 CID) Slant-Six engine comes standard on D100 and W100 Misers as well as D150, W150 and D250 models. The proven, hard working 5.2 litre 1318 CID) is standard on the W250, W/350 and D350.

What are the best Dodge Ram years?

5 of the Most Reliable Used RAM Trucks

2020 RAM 1500 Classic. For the 2020 model year, RAM redesigned the appearance and features of its trucks. ...
2016 RAM 1500. Slightly earlier into the fourth generation, we can recommend shopping for a 2016 RAM 1500 for a couple of reasons. ...
2021 RAM 1500. ...
2018 RAM 1500.

What issues do Dodge RAMs have?

Common problems include leaking windows, engine failure, and concerns over the truck's frame. Whether you already own a 2023 RAM 1500 or you're considering options for your next vehicle purchase, it's best to be aware of the most common problems with Dodge RAMs for this popular full-size truck.

What was the worst year for the Dodge Ram?

The worst years

What engine is in a 1985 Dodge Ram?

What issues do Dodge RAMs have?

Which year Ram is the most reliable?

The 2024 Ram 1500 is unmatched when it comes to reliability. With a J.D. Power quality and reliability score of 88/100, the 2024 model is not only the most reliable Ram 1500 ever but it's also one of the most reliable American trucks in 2024.

1985 Dodge Ram car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ram problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Engine and engine cooling problems
Steering problems
Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Air problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Dodge Ram vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1985 Dodge Ram complaints

The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Dodge Ram.

2010-06-02

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2010-04-19
Crash: 1
Components: STEERING
Summary: 1985 DODGE RAM 3500 PICKUP, STEERING LINKAGE BROKE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO STRIKE A CONCRETE WALL. *BF OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0190-91. *JB

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2002-06-12

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-05-12
VIN: 1B7K26COSS2
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: POOR BRAKE PERFORMANCE CAUSING VEHICLE TO PROLONG THE STOP. CAUSE UNKNOWN. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK

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1998-06-25

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-11-01
VIN: 3B7KC23C9SM
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
Summary: BRAKE SYSTEM FAILURE DUE TO BRAKE VACUUM PUMP AND HOSES HAVING OIL IN THEM. ACCORDING TO NHTSA'S RECORDS RECALL 97V06800 SHOULD COVER THIS VEHICLE, CHRYSLER CLAIMS IT DOES NOT APPLY.

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1998-04-23

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 1B7HC16Y8SS
Components: STEERING
Summary: CONSUMER NOT SATISFIED WITH RECALL REPAIR WORK, STEERING SHAFT COULD COME LOOSE, THE REPAIR WAS TO ATTACH TWO PLASTIC STRAPS AROUND STEERING SHAFT.

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1998-03-18

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-06-21
VIN: 2B6FK13GOFR
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: ENGINE FAILURE

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1998-01-09

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: ENGINE FAILURE/BURNING DUE TO DEFECTIVE HOSES AND FITTINGS IN AMSOIL BY-PASS KIT, RECALLED AFTER INCIDENT.

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1997-07-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-06-21
Fire: 1
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: OIL HOSE FAILED, CAUSING LEAKAGE/ENGINE FIRE.

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1997-07-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: OIL LEAK AT OIL FILTER.

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1997-07-01

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-06-21
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: FUEL RETURN LINE BURNED THROUGH.

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1997-07-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-06-21
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: SPARK PLUG/WIRES FAILED.

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1997-03-11

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-03-01
VIN: 1B7JW24W0FS
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE ABOUT 25 MPH THE FRONT WHEELS LOCKED UP BECAUSE THE BOLTS THAT HOLD THE GEARS IN FRONT DIFFERENTIAL SHEARED OFF. *AK

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1996-12-06

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-11-27
VIN: 2B4GB11T7FK
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER AT ABOUT 45MPH, AT WHICH TIME FOUR LAP SEAT BELTS FAILED TO HOLD THE PASSENGERS IN PLACE, THEY DISCONNECTED/CAME APART. *AK

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1995-06-08

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-06-08
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: FRONT DOORS ARE ALMOST FALLING OFF DUE TO WEAK WELDING OR LACK OF RESTRAINT ON FRONT DOOR HINGES (OTHER VEHICLE FROM 486925). *AK

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1995-03-07

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-01-21
VIN: 1HFSC3218SA
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: IN ORDER TO TAKE THE COOLING SYSTEM LEVEL THE BIKE SHOULD BE 90 DEGREES BUT THERE IS NO SUPPORT TO KEEP IT FROM FALLING ON YOU. TT

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1985 Dodge Ram problems:

Common problems with Ramchargers? | Dodge RamCharger Central

https://www.ramchargercentral.com/threads/common-problems-with-ramchargers.149154/

Jun 11, 2011 ... Let me start out by saying I own a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 with a lift and 35" tires. It is a 4x4 and a BEAST off road. I absolutely love my truck, ...

1985 Dodge B250, engine stalls while driving | DodgeTalk Forum

https://www.dodgetalk.com/threads/1985-dodge-b250-engine-stalls-while-driving.662075/

Jun 7, 2022 ... It drives like a dream but since a few weeks I've been having some problems with it. The engine stalls. And not when I'm waiting in front of a ...

1985 Prospector 4WD problems | Dodge RamCharger Central

https://www.ramchargercentral.com/threads/1985-prospector-4wd-problems.335098/

Oct 1, 2023 ... here is some pics to the frequently asked common problem of the central axle disconnect operated 4x4 trucks. this was used from 85-93 RCs ...

'85 D150 Problem | DodgeTalk Forum

https://www.dodgetalk.com/threads/85-d150-problem.210392/

Jun 18, 2008 ... 1985 D-150 L6 - It's been his work truck for 20 years or so. I picked the truck up from Grandma's, where it had been sitting for a year and a ...