Dodge Rampage problems
The Dodge Rampage was a subcompact unibody coupe utility based on Chrysler's L platform and manufactured and marketed for model years 1982-1984. Plymouth marketed a rebadged variant for model year 1983, as the Scamp.
The Rampage combined the handling and passenger carrying characteristics of a traditional passenger car with the open-bed versatility and load capacity of a small pickup truck, similar to its competitors: the Volkswagen Rabbit Sportruck and Subaru BRAT.
Description
Rampage
The Rampage borrowed the car's unibody construction and front end panels and components from the Dodge Omni 024 (later renamed the Charger), using the suspension from its parent vehicles with coil struts and a linkless sway bar at the front, and leaf springs with shock absorbers unique to the Rampage at the rear.
The Rampage was available with a Chrysler-built and designed 2.2 L carbureted inline-four engine with 84 hp (63 kW) to 99 hp (74 kW) depending on the year, a curb weight of around 2,400 lb (1,100 kg) and used a four-speed manual transmission or three-speed automatic transmission. These arrangements gave the vehicle limited performance.
Performance was improved with the introduction of a five-speed manual transmission in 1983. The truck had a load capacity of 1,145 lb (519 kg), for a true "half ton" rating about 90% of the General Motors' Chevrolet El Camino's rating of 1250 lbs.
In 1984, the Rampage received a facelifted front fascia shared with the Charger, with quad 165 mm x 100 mm sealed beam headlights opposed to the dual 200 mm x 142 mm sealed beam headlights found on previous models. The grille was also changed, switching from a 6-slot design to a vertically split design. The lower bumper featured revised indicators, a horizontally split lower air intake, and an impact strip that wrapped around the front end.
The Plymouth Scamp was only marketed for 1983. The Rampage lasted three years before being dropped from production after the 1984 model year. There was a "Shelby Rampage" built by Chrysler/Shelby engineers in their free time for Carroll Shelby, but there is no official record of the existence of such a vehicle. However, a special California market "Direct Connection" Rampage was built in 1984 and only sold at certain California-area Dodge dealerships, which featured the front fascia from the Shelby Charger, 15-inch alloy wheels, and a ground effects package.
Only 250 "Direct Connection" Rampages were produced. 1/3 Black 1/3 Garnet Red 1/3 Santa Fe Blue.
The Dodge Rampage produced sales of 17,636 in 1982, 8,033 in 1983, and 11,732 in 1984 — and total sales for the Plymouth Scamp were 2,184 base models and 1,380 for the Scamp GT.
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Dodge Rampage model years
Common Dodge Rampage problems
Common Problems with Dodge Rampage Cars:
- Vacuum Diaphragm Leak: Some Dodge Rampage models, particularly the 1983 variant, have experienced vacuum diaphragm leaks. This issue can cause the vehicle to struggle with maintaining distributor timing, leading to poor performance and potential engine damage.
- Ignition System Problems: Dodge Rampage owners have reported vibrations and harmonics, often related to the ignition system. These issues can be caused by faulty ignition components, such as spark plugs, ignition coils, or distributors. Regular maintenance and replacement of these parts can help prevent these problems.
- Heater Core Replacement: The heater core, which is responsible for providing heat to the vehicle's cabin, can sometimes require replacement. This process involves removing the dashboard and accessing the heater core, which can be time-consuming and require specialized tools. It's essential to consult a professional or detailed guides for this task.
- Body Rust: Dodge Rampage models, especially those from the 1980s, are prone to body rust. This issue can affect the structural integrity of the vehicle and lower its value. Regular maintenance and repairs can help prevent further rust damage, but extensive rust may require more significant repairs or replacement of affected parts.
- Engine Performance: Some Dodge Rampage owners have reported issues with engine performance, such as poor fuel efficiency and a lack of power. This can be caused by various factors, including faulty carburetion, vacuum leaks, or ignition system issues. Proper maintenance and troubleshooting can help address these problems.
- Seat Compatibility: Some owners have reported issues with seat compatibility, particularly when attempting to install seats from other Dodge models, such as the Omni. Ensuring that the seats are compatible with the Rampage's interior and safety features is crucial before installing them.
- Finding Replacement Parts: Some Dodge Rampage owners have reported difficulty finding replacement parts, particularly for older models. This can make repairs and maintenance more challenging and potentially more expensive. Seeking out specialized parts suppliers or online marketplaces may help alleviate this issue.
- Value Assessment: Determining the value of a Dodge Rampage can be challenging, as factors such as the vehicle's condition, mileage, and rarity can significantly impact its worth. Consulting with professionals or researching comparable sales can help provide a more accurate valuation.
- Engine Swaps: Some Dodge Rampage owners have opted to swap out the original engine for a more powerful or reliable alternative. This can be a complex and time-consuming process, requiring significant mechanical knowledge and specialized tools. It's essential to research and plan carefully before attempting an engine swap.
How rare is a Dodge Rampage?
Only 250 "Direct Connection" Rampages were produced. 1/3 Black 1/3 Garnet Red 1/3 Santa Fe Blue. The Dodge Rampage produced sales of 17,636 in 1982, 8,033 in 1983, and 11,732 in 1984 — and total sales for the Plymouth Scamp were 2,184 base models and 1,380 for the Scamp GT.
How many miles per gallon did the 1982 Dodge Rampage get?
Based on data from 2 vehicles, 244 fuel-ups and 41,603 miles of driving, the 1982 Dodge Rampage gets a combined Avg MPG of 23.99 with a 0.25 MPG margin of error.
How much does a Dodge Rampage cost?
Technology and impressive performance the Rampage is expected to make a lasting impression on the Brazilian Automotive Market. However being a premium luxury brand in Brazil Ram Vehicles come with a
What was the Plymouth version of the Dodge Rampage?
Chrysler Corporation introduced the Dodge Rampage in 1982, and it was only rebadged as the Plymouth Scamp in 1983. It debuted with a 2.2L K I4 four-cylinder engine that generated only 96 horsepower.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Rampage years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Rampage cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Dodge Rampage model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Rampage model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Rampage years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Rampage car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Rampage , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Rampage vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rampage model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Rampage . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Rampage vehicles.
List of Dodge Rampage complaints
Dodge Rampage 1984
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-25
- Date Complaint: 2007-08-21
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1B7EZ44C8ED
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1984 DODGE RAMPAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HER VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDERNEATH THE HOOD WHILE PARKED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED. THE POWERTRAIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 223,236. THE CONSUMER STATED WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE RECALL NOTICE WHICH SHOWED ON THE INSURANCE PAPERS AND WOULD LIKE IT INVESTIGATED. UPDATED 09/18/07 *TR
Recalls Dodge Rampage
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Dodge Rampage.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Rampage 1984
- Report Received Date: 2008-04-14
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS PRODUCTS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
- Consequence: THE NUTS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGING FOR THESE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES ARE MISSING THE INTENDED PREVAILING TORQUE (SELF-LOCKING) FEATURE. IF THE INCORRECT NUT WAS TO BECOME LOOSE, THE JOINING MEMBERS MAY LOOSEN LEADING TO A SEPARATION OF THE BALL JOINT. THIS MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.
- Model: Dodge Rampage 1984
- Report Received Date: 1984-11-21
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE POTENTIAL FOR FUEL LEAKAGE EXISTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AT THE FUEL RESERVOIR SEAM AND ITS HOSE CONNECTIONS. THE FUEL RESERVOIR IS A SILVER COLORED CAN MOUNTED TO THE AIR CLEANER.
- Remedy: THE HOSES AND THE METAL TUBE THAT ATTACHES TO THE FUEL RESERVOIR WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEW COMPONENTS. THE DEALER WILL ALSO REPLACE OR RESEAL THE RESERVOIR.
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