The Dodge Ram 2500HD Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) with the 5.9 V8 engine and 4×4 automatic transmission was a mainstay of Dodge’s heavy-duty truck lineup from 1994 through 1998. Representing the second generation of the Ram series, these trucks were designed to provide robust performance and capability for demanding tasks. This particular configuration, featuring the 360 Magnum engine paired with a four-speed automatic, occupied a middle ground in the 2500HD range, offering a balance between power, usability, and cost. It served as a popular choice for owners needing a capable work truck without the expense of the Cummins diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 2500HD Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.9 V8 (230 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 230 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 39 Hp/l |
| Torque | 447 Nm @ 2800 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 329.69 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 360 Magnum |
| Engine displacement | 5899 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 359.98 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 4.97 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 4.14 UK qt |
| Coolant capacity | 19 l |
| Coolant capacity (US qt) | 20.08 US qt |
| Coolant capacity (UK qt) | 16.72 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 3992 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs) | 8800.85 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3901 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (lbs) | 8600.23 lbs |
| Length | 6198 mm |
| Length (in) | 244.02 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2017 mm |
| Width (in) | 79.41 in |
| Height | 1958 mm |
| Height (in) | 77.09 in |
| Wheelbase | 3937 mm |
| Wheelbase (in) | 155 in |
| Approach angle | 33.8° |
| Departure angle | 28.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Dependent spring suspension with anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Introduction
The Dodge Ram 2500HD (Heavy Duty) BR/BE series, produced between 1994 and 1998, represented a significant update to Dodge’s full-size truck offerings. Built on the second-generation Ram platform, these trucks were known for their robust construction and improved interior comfort compared to their predecessors. The Club Cab configuration offered extended rear seating, making it a practical choice for families or crews. The 5.9 V8 engine, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission and a 4×4 drivetrain, was a popular choice for buyers who needed a capable truck for work and recreation, but didn’t require the higher cost and complexity of the Cummins diesel engine.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this variant was the 360 Magnum 5.9-liter (359.98 cubic inch) V8 engine. This engine, designated as the LA series, was a descendant of Chrysler’s long-running small-block V8 family. It featured a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a hydraulic roller camshaft. The 360 Magnum utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, which improved fuel efficiency and performance compared to earlier carbureted designs. The engine produced 230 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 330 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 42RE) was chosen for its durability and ease of use. This transmission was electronically controlled, offering smoother shifts and improved responsiveness. The 4×4 system employed a part-time transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 1994-1998 Dodge Ram 2500HD with the 5.9 V8 and automatic transmission offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, but the 42RE’s gear ratios were geared more towards towing and hauling than outright acceleration. Acceleration from a standstill was adequate, but the truck truly shined when towing or carrying a load. The 5.9 V8 provided ample torque for most tasks, and the 4×4 system offered excellent traction in off-road conditions. Compared to the Cummins diesel versions, this gasoline-powered Ram was noticeably quieter and smoother, but lacked the diesel’s superior towing capacity and fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission equipped 5.9L, the automatic traded some responsiveness for ease of use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Club Cab configuration added extended rear seating, providing more passenger space than the standard cab. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, and cloth upholstery. Power windows and locks were often optional extras. Higher trim levels, such as the Laramie SLT, added features like leather upholstery, upgraded sound systems, and chrome exterior trim. The long bed provided ample cargo space, making it ideal for hauling large items. Options like a sliding rear window and a towing package were also available.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 2500HD featured a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilized a solid axle with leaf springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension consisted of a solid axle with leaf springs. This setup provided a comfortable ride, even when the truck was heavily loaded. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, improving braking performance in slippery conditions. The truck’s relatively high ground clearance and capable 4×4 system made it suitable for off-road use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 2500HD with the 5.9 V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable performance. However, some critics noted that the gasoline engine lacked the fuel economy and towing capacity of the Cummins diesel. Compared to the Ford F-250 and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 of the same era, the Ram 2500HD offered a competitive combination of features, performance, and price. The 5.9L V8 offered a lower initial cost than the diesel options, making it attractive to buyers on a budget.
Legacy
The 360 Magnum engine, while not as renowned for longevity as the Cummins diesel, proved to be a relatively reliable powerplant when properly maintained. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. Today, these trucks are becoming increasingly popular among collectors and enthusiasts. The 5.9 V8 is appreciated for its simplicity and ease of maintenance. Parts availability remains good, making it relatively easy to keep these trucks on the road. While not as sought-after as the diesel versions, the 5.9 V8-powered Ram 2500HD represents a capable and affordable entry point into the world of classic American trucks.
