1978 Dodge W200 problems
The Dodge Power Wagon is a four-wheel drive medium duty truck that was produced in various model series from 1945 to 1980 by Dodge. The Power Wagon name was revived for the 2005 model year as a four-wheel drive version of the Dodge Ram 2500. As a nameplate, "Power Wagon" continues as a special package of the four-wheel drive version of 3/4 ton Ram Trucks 2500 model.
The original civilian version, commonly called the "flat fender" Power Wagon (FFPW) or "Military Type", was mechanically based on Dodge's 3/4-ton WC series of World War II military trucks. The Power Wagon was the first 4x4 medium duty truck produced by a major manufacturer in a civilian version. It represents a significant predecessor to the many modern four-wheel drive trucks in use today. It was marketed as the WDX truck. Until about 1960 it was internally known by its engineering code T137 – a name still used for the original series by enthusiasts. Following Chrysler Corporation policy of badge engineering to provide a greater number of sales outlets overseas, Power Wagons were also marketed around the world under the Fargo and De Soto badges.
Starting in the 1957 model year, factory four-wheel-drive versions of the Dodge C Series trucks were produced and sold as the W-100, W-200, W-300, and W-500, alongside the older Power Wagon. The pickups had the "Power Wagon" badge on the fender. The older design Power Wagon was marketed as the "Military Type" to distinguish it from the styled pickup versions. Later the "Military Type" was given the series number W-300M, and ultimately WM-300.
The heavy-duty four-wheel-drive W-300 and W-500 trucks were marketed as "Power Giants". The four-wheel-drive version of the Dodge Town Wagon also got the "Power Wagon" badge. The "Military Type" sales in the United States ended by 1968, because the vehicle did not comply with new federal light-duty truck regulations. The "Power Wagon" options continued on the Dodge D-Series through the 1980 model year. For the 1981 model year, "Power Ram" became the marketing logo for the medium-duty Dodge trucks, and the "Power Wagon" name was not used until the 2004 revival.
Back in 1999 there was a Dodge Power Wagon concept.
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Common 1978 Dodge W200 problems
Based on the complaints and recalls related to the 1978 Dodge W200, several common problems have been reported by owners:
- Wheels: This model had issues related to wheels, with complaints about wheel hop problems and vibrations during takeoff. Owners have reported Driveline vibrations on takeoff, even after addressing the wheel hop issue by adjusting the lift springs and removing excessive block height from the rear.
- Steering: Steering problems have been a concern, with complaints about resistance and noise from the power steering system. Despite efforts to align the v-belt accessories and address the resistance caused by large tires, some owners have experienced persistent belt squealing and steering noise.
- Fuel System: Complaints regarding the fuel system have been noted, including issues with fuel leaks and clogged fuel filters. Owners have reported leaks in components like the transmission dipstick tube seal, leading to low fluid levels and potential risks. Additionally, clogged fuel filters have caused fuel starvation from the bed tank after a short period of driving.
- Brakes: The brake system has been a source of complaints, although specific details are not extensively mentioned in the sources. It is advisable for owners to ensure regular maintenance and inspection of the brake system to prevent any potential issues.
- Transmission: Transmission problems have been reported, with concerns about leaks and fluid levels. Owners have faced challenges with leaks from components like the transmission dipstick tube seal, leading to low fluid levels and the need for frequent monitoring and maintenance.
- Other: There have been general complaints categorized under "Other," which may encompass a range of issues not explicitly detailed in the sources. Owners should be vigilant about any unusual symptoms or malfunctions in their vehicles and address them promptly to maintain optimal performance and safety.
These common problems reported by owners of the 1978 Dodge W200 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and timely repairs to ensure the longevity and reliability of this classic vehicle.
What engine came in the 1978 Dodge Power Wagon?
Within an unrestored and original engine bay sits a 318ci V8. It has a 2-barrel carburetor on top, and an NP435 transmission on the back. A Dana 44 front axle, and a 9-3/4 rear axle are noted for the 4x4 drive.
What is the wheelbase of a Dodge W200?
146"
W200 6-man Crew Cab Sweptline or Utiline on 146" wheelbase. W300 Utiline on 133" wheelbase. And WM300 military-type Utiline on 126" wheelbase. They're all covered in the Dodge 4-Wheel-Drive Catalog.
How much is a 1978 Dodge Power Wagon worth?
Average Cost Is Roughly $25K
Among other sales beyond the 100 on classic.com, the average price seems to be $25,000 as mentioned on Hagerty. For example, a seller has a 1978 Dodge Power Wagon in average condition with the front-end completely rebuilt and new upper and lower ball joints installed.
What is a Dodge W200?
The Dodge W200 was a variant of the 3rd Gen Dodge D Series that debuted for the 1972 model year. The W200 was a light-duty, three quarter-ton pickup truck offered in short or long bed configurations, with sleek Sweptline or fendered Utiline bedsides.
1978 Dodge W200 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge W200 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1978 Dodge W200 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1978 Dodge W200 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1978 Dodge W200.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE DICKCEPEK F-C RADIAL TIRES SHOW BUBBLES AND HAVE VIBRATION PROBLEMS.
1978 Dodge W200 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1978 Dodge W200.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: DUE TO IMPROPER MATERIAL CONSTRUCTION THE HYDRO-BOOST FLUID RETURN HOSE MAY NOT BE CAPABLE OF WITHSTANDING THE TEMPERATURES AND/OR PRESSURES EXPERIENCED WITH THE HYDRO-BOOST SYSTEM. ALSO, THE HYDRO-BOOST FLUID HIGH PRESSURE HOSE ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE BEEN MISLOCATED, ALLOWING THE ASSEMBLY TO CONTACT THE FRAME SIDE RAIL. ABRASION RESULTING FROM CONTINUED CONTACT ALONG WITH IMPROPER MATERIAL CONSTRUCTION MAY CAUSE PRESSURE HOSE FAILURE. EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS MAY CAUSE HYDRO-BOOST FLUID LEAKAGE, RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF POWER ASSIST FOR THE STEERING AND BRAKING SYSTEMS. COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING OR BRAKING WILL NOT OCCUR SINCE BOTH SYSTEMS WOULD REVERT TO MANUAL OPERATION.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSTALL A HYDRO-BOOST FLUID RETURN HOSE CONSTRUCTED FORM THE PROPER MATERIAL, POSITIONING THE HOSE ASSEMBLY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE CLEARANCE BETWEEN IT AND THE FRAME SIDE RAIL.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
- Summary: IMPROPER ROUTING OF THE "HYDROBOOST" HYDRAULIC SYSTEM HIGH PRESSURE HOSE ASSEMBLY COULD ALLOW A TUBULAR SECTION TO CONTACT THE FRAME SIDE RAIL. ABRASION FROM THE CONTACT COULD RESULT, CAUSING A LEAK IN THE HOSE ASSEMBLY.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REROUTE "HYDROBOOST" HIGH PRESSURE HOSE ASSEMBLIES AND ANY DAMAGED HOSES WILL BE REPLACED.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
- Summary: AN INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT CONTAINING A MISMATCHED POT COUPLING ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES. THIS COUPLING MAY HAVE AN OVERSIZED SERRATION DIAMETER. AN OVERSIZED SERRATION COULD PREVENT THE COUPLING FROM ADEQUATELY TIGHTENING ONTO THE GEAR OR SHAFT SPLINES.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, INSTALL A REPLACEMENT SHAFT COUPLING.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT THE FUEL TANK VENT SYSTEMS FOR BLOCKAGE AND CORRECT, IF NECESSARY. FUEL TANKS WILL BE INSPECTED FOR CRACKING OF THE FRONT PANEL AND REPLACED, IF NECESSARY.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FUEL TUBES (FUEL TANK TO PUMP) ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY BE ROUTED SUCH THAT TUBE TO UNDERBODY REINFORCEMENT FLANGE INTERFERENCE MAY RESULT DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. TUBE ABRASION CAUSED BY SUCH INTERFERENCE MAY RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REROUTE THE FUEL TUBE OR INSTALL A NEW FUEL TUBE, IF DAMAGED, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1978 Dodge W200 problems:
transfer case problem? / 1977 W200 | Dodge RamCharger Central
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Ignition issues / HEI debacle | DodgeTalk Forum
Apr 12, 2017 ... In case a bit of voltage drop was causing problems ... 1978 W100 360 727 NP208 (was 203) 1976 W200 M885 318 727 NP203 ... Dodge RAM - General Talk ...
Q&A: 1978 Dodge Motorhome 440 Engine Issues - Expert Answers
Jan 1, 2010 ... All, have a 78 440 motor home, ran fine when parked. Now, no spark from coil, have 12v at BOTH + - side of coil. How do - Answered by a ...
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