Plymouth Duster problems

Common Plymouth Duster problems

Plymouth Dusters are known for several common problems, primarily related to reliability and engine performance.

• Engine Performance: The engines in Plymouth Dusters, particularly the 360 V8, were notorious for subpar power outputs. For instance, the 360 V8 in the 1976 Duster made only 220 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, which was significantly less powerful than other engines of the same era.

• Electrical Problems: Electrical issues are common in Plymouth Dusters, including problems with bulbs, fuses, alternators, and ignition systems. These issues can lead to starting problems, stalling, and other performance issues.

• Crankcase Ventilation System: The crankcase ventilation system and the crankcase inlet air cleaner should be cleaned once a year to avoid power loss and smoke. Some reported that the filter on their charcoal canister also had to be replaced fairly often.

• Speedometer Cable Replacement and Regreasing: Speedometer cable replacement and regreasing are necessary to prevent problems, particularly in 1974 Chrysler A-body cars.

• Windshield Wiper Linkage: Fixing the windshield wiper linkage is a common repair needed in Plymouth Dusters.

• Choke Thermostat, Linkage, and/or Pull-off: These components are prone to failure, leading to starting problems. When the choke sticks shut on startup, the car may flood, and a screwdriver or pliers may be needed to keep the choke open while starting.

• Ballast Resistor: The ballast resistor is a common fault when the starter cranks but the engine will not start. Most mechanics will replace the electronic ignition system at the slightest provocation, complaining about Chrysler electronics. This is a good indicator that you need a different mechanic.

• Oil Filters: The slant-six oil filters in Plymouth Dusters require specific attention. Until early 1962 production, there was no standpipe, just a short nipple with one end screwed into the oil pump and the other end threaded to accept a spin-on oil filter. Early in 1962 production, a standpipe was added to the nipple to provide a slight extra margin of oil retention, to address complaints that the oil light didn't go out immediately upon startup first thing in the morning.

• Transmission Problems: Transmission issues are also common in Plymouth Dusters, particularly in the A-833 four-speed manual transmission. These issues can lead to difficulty shifting gears, slipping, and other performance problems.

• Insurance Rates: Insurance rates for Plymouth Dusters, particularly those with high-performance engines like the 340, can be quite high due to their sporty nature and potential for high-speed driving.

What was the best year for the Duster?

1974

In the midst of the first oil crisis, 1974 would be the Duster's best sales year, with a total of 281,378 Duster-bodied cars produced, the majority of which being the six-cylinder and 318 V8 models. In 1974 there was a separate model called the Duster 360.

How much is a Plymouth Duster worth?

A: The average price of a Plymouth Duster is $34,723.

Was the Plymouth Duster a muscle car?

Through 1976. It started out strong with a 340 cubic inch V8 producing 275 horsepower but just like all cars of the 70s. It slowly dropped in power until it finally settled at 1:45.

What was the Dodge version of the Duster?

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.