1987 Dodge Ramcharger problems
The Dodge Ramcharger is a large sport utility vehicle built by Dodge from 1974 to 1993, based on a shortened-wheelbase version of the Dodge D series/Ram pickup chassis. A Plymouth version, named the Plymouth Trail Duster, offered from 1974 to 1981, was Plymouth's only SUV.
The Ramcharger was mostly produced as a two-door, 4×4 vehicle, although a two-wheel-drive version was available. As a full-size SUV, it competed with the Chevrolet K5 Blazer and the 1978–1996 Ford Bronco.
The Ramcharger was discontinued at the end of the 1993 model year in North America. In Mexico, however, production continued until 1996. It was then brought back from 1999 to 2001, still as a two-door SUV and sharing the design of the contemporary Ram pickup. Approximately 30,000 were produced, with all examples being two-wheel-drive only.
In November 2023, Stellantis announced that the Ramcharger nameplate would be revived for a plug-in hybrid version of the 2025 Ram 1500.
Social links
Common 1987 Dodge Ramcharger problems
The 1987 Dodge Ramcharger is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. One of the most prevalent issues is related to the Electronic Control Module (ECM) unit, which is responsible for managing the engine's performance.
Another common problem with the 1987 Dodge Ramcharger is related to the engine head gasket. This issue is particularly prevalent in the 1987 Dodge Daytona Shelby Z, but it can also affect other models with turbo engines. The OEM head gaskets eventually fail, and there are many bad replacement head gaskets on the market. However, some new brands, such as Apex and Felpro version 5, have reinforced corners and are recommended by experts. It is essential to replace the head gasket as soon as possible, as a blown head gasket can lead to severe engine damage.
The 1987 Dodge Ramcharger is also known for noisy stock lifters, which are usually caused by the lifters themselves. If the lifters are noisy and the rest of the top end is fine, it may be necessary to upgrade to the PT lifters, which require shims to make them work. This is a popular upgrade in the 8 valve turbo dodge enthusiasts community and can significantly improve the engine's performance.
The pop-up headlight problem is another common issue with the 1987 Dodge Ramcharger. The headlight module/relay is located on top of the dash, where it gets hot and bakes under the sun. Over time, the solder to the relays breaks down, causing the headlights to stop working. The repair is relatively easy and involves resoldering 8 solder points to make it work again. However, it is essential to be careful when popping the top of the dash off, as it can break the retaining clips.
The Chrysler "Ultimate Sound System" Radio is another common problem with the 1987 Dodge Ramcharger. The radio and display sometimes work but are out more often now that the weather is getting colder. When it does work, the cassette works, and the radio sounds great. However, the display and FM tuner go in and out depending on the temperature outside. There is a fix on Allpar.com for this radio and other Infinity radios, but it involves taking it apart and resoldering all the connections, which can take weeks. Most Chrysler radios from the 1980s to the 2000s have problems, typically a failed cassette mechanism and old/bad solder joints for the FM tuner and display.
Finally, the remanufactured front brake caliper's copper washers are too thin and may leak. This is a common problem with the 1987 Dodge Ramcharger, and it is essential to replace the washers with thicker ones to prevent leaks. It is also essential to check the body weld seams, as they tend to deteriorate over time, especially in the windshield well, where there is a leak at both corners of the windshield well.
In conclusion, the 1987 Dodge Ramcharger is known for several common problems, including issues with the ECM unit, engine head gasket, noisy stock lifters, pop-up headlight problem, Chrysler "Ultimate Sound System" Radio, and front brake caliper's copper washers. It is essential to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
How much is a Ramcharger worth?
A: The average price of a Dodge Ramcharger is $19,853.
Why was the Ramcharger discontinued?
This version of the Ramcharger was not sold in the U.S. for numerous reasons: Two-door SUV sales had been declining: GM soon ended production of its two-door Chevrolet Tahoe in 1999, and Ford replaced the long-running two-door-only Ford Bronco for the 1997 model year with the four-door Ford Expedition.
Are Ramchargers good off road?
All right well Ram Charger made it back without any major problems and we even did a little bit of off-roading with it we did we took it off-road.
How much horsepower does a 1988 Dodge Ramcharger have?
Ramcharger Two's avail- able 5.9-liter 360 CID V-8 engine develops 185 horse- power at 4,000 rpm and 283 pounds-foot of torque at 1,600 rpm to help you tow up to 6,500 pounds with our optional Trailer Towing Prep- aration Package.
How much is a Ramcharger worth?
A: The average price of a Dodge Ramcharger is $19,853.
Why was the Ramcharger discontinued?
This version of the Ramcharger was not sold in the U.S. for numerous reasons: Two-door SUV sales had been declining: GM soon ended production of its two-door Chevrolet Tahoe in 1999, and Ford replaced the long-running two-door-only Ford Bronco for the 1997 model year with the four-door Ford Expedition.
Are Ramchargers good off road?
All right well Ram Charger made it back without any major problems and we even did a little bit of off-roading with it we did we took it off-road.
How much horsepower does a 1988 Dodge Ramcharger have?
Ramcharger Two's avail- able 5.9-liter 360 CID V-8 engine develops 185 horse- power at 4,000 rpm and 283 pounds-foot of torque at 1,600 rpm to help you tow up to 6,500 pounds with our optional Trailer Towing Prep- aration Package.
1987 Dodge Ramcharger car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ramcharger problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Steering problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Dodge Ramcharger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Dodge Ramcharger complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Dodge Ramcharger.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-13
- VIN: 3B4GW12T9HM
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: A STEEL SPRING THAT HOLDS THE SHOES IN PLACE INSIDE THE STEERING COUPLING UNIT HAS BROKEN OFF DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-19
- VIN: LD384GD12T1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CONNECTING BRACKET TO FRONT CROSSMEMBER NOT WELDED PROPERLY AT FACTORY, CAUSING FAILURE. *SD
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1B3BZ44C0HD
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STARTED VEHICLE HEARD A LOUD POP, THEN CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. TT
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-04
- VIN: 1B3BZ44C8HD
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR AXLE BROKE, LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, FRONT WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-16
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VEHICLE NOT DESIGNED WITH FUEL TANK SHIELD, SHIELD IS LISTED AS AN OPTION. *AW
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1987 Dodge Ramcharger problems:
Common problems with Ramchargers? | Dodge RamCharger Central
Jun 11, 2011 ... He wants a blazer style vehicle and I found a 1986 Dodge Ramcharger today on Craigslist. I was wondering what are some common issues you run ...
Q&A: 87 Dodge Ramcharger Electronic Ignition Issues - Solutions ...
Nov 11, 2011 ... Why the difference? Chiltons said to hook coil pos. to bat.pos. and hold secondary 1/4 inch from ground, strike wire from ...
1986 Ramcharger - Known issues? | Dodge RamCharger Central
Oct 25, 2006 ... ... -8.25 For Sale 1987 D150Â 225/904/8.25Â Not even close to stock 2000 Ram 1500 4x4 360/46RE/D44-9.25. Save Share. Like · KThaxton. 20174 posts · ...
1987 Dodge Ramcharger Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Faults: The starter trashed up on purchasing this truck. Torque converter bolts were loose. Plugs, wires, rotor and cap were burnt.
Electrical problems!!!! 85 W-150 318 truck | Dodge RamCharger ...
Jul 25, 2011 ... ... known to cause all sorts of headaches. Pull the carpet back and clean that ground. Cheers Chris. 87 RC, 318, auto, 2WD, dual exh, hooker ...
Leave your review of 1987 Dodge Ramcharger