The Dodge Ram 3500 Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) DRW, equipped with the 5.9-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the American heavy-duty pickup truck market of the mid-1990s. Produced from 1994 through 1998, this variant occupied a middle ground within the Ram 3500 lineup, providing a balance between capability, comfort, and cost. The “DRW” designation signifies a Dual Rear Wheel configuration, emphasizing its intended use for demanding towing and hauling applications. This generation of Ram trucks marked a departure from previous designs, introducing a more aerodynamic and modern aesthetic, while retaining the rugged durability expected of a work truck.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 3500 Club Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | DRW 5.9 V8 (230 Hp) 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 | 19 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 20.08 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 16.72 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 4763 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs) | 10500.62 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4354 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) (lbs) | 9598.93 lbs |
| Length | 6198 mm |
| Length (in) | 244.02 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2383 mm |
| Width including mirrors (in) | 93.82 in |
| Height | 1849 mm |
| Height (in) | 72.8 in |
| Wheelbase | 3937 mm |
| Wheelbase (in) | 155 in |
| Approach angle | 26.3° |
| Departure angle | 24.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| 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 | 215/85 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ram 3500 variant is the 360 Magnum 5.9-liter V8 engine. This engine, a member of the LA engine family, is a robust and relatively simple design known for its low-end torque. The 360 Magnum featured multi-port fuel injection, a significant upgrade over earlier carbureted versions, improving efficiency and responsiveness. The engine’s valvetrain utilizes a hydraulic roller camshaft and lifters, contributing to its smooth operation and reduced maintenance requirements. The automatic transmission is a 4-speed unit, specifically the A727 Torqueflite, a durable and well-proven transmission known for its reliability. While not the most technologically advanced transmission available at the time, it was well-suited to the truck’s intended purpose of heavy hauling and towing.
Driving Characteristics
The 230 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 5.9L V8 and automatic transmission combination provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, but the engine’s strength lay in its ability to maintain speed while towing heavy loads. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing, prioritizing low-end grunt over quick acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Ram 3500, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, it did result in a slight reduction in fuel economy and a less direct connection to the engine. Compared to higher-output engine options, like the Cummins diesel, this gasoline V8 was noticeably less powerful, but also significantly less expensive to purchase and maintain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Club Cab configuration offered a small rear seat, increasing passenger capacity to six. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, and cloth upholstery. The BR/BE trim level generally represented a mid-range offering, positioned above the base models but below the more luxurious trims. Optional extras included power windows and locks, a premium sound system, and upgraded interior trim. The long bed provided ample cargo space, making it ideal for hauling large items. The DRW configuration, with its dual rear wheels, was primarily aimed at customers who regularly towed heavy trailers, such as fifth-wheel campers or large construction equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 3500 featured a robust chassis designed to withstand the stresses of heavy-duty use. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, providing a relatively comfortable ride. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, known for its durability and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature. The steering system utilized a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion, providing responsive and relatively effortless steering control. The tires, typically 215/85 R16, were designed for durability and load-carrying capacity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 3500 DRW 5.9 V8 Automatic was generally well-received by truck buyers seeking a capable and reliable work truck. Critics praised its robust construction and ample towing capacity. However, the gasoline engine’s fuel economy was often cited as a drawback, particularly compared to the diesel options. The automatic transmission was appreciated for its convenience, but some reviewers noted that it could feel sluggish at times. In comparison to the Cummins diesel-powered Ram 3500s, this gasoline variant offered a lower initial cost but higher long-term operating expenses due to fuel consumption and potentially more frequent maintenance.
Legacy
The 360 Magnum engine, while eventually superseded by more modern designs, remains a popular choice among enthusiasts for its simplicity and reliability. The A727 Torqueflite transmission is also known for its durability and ease of repair. Today, well-maintained examples of the Ram 3500 DRW 5.9 V8 Automatic are sought after by collectors and those seeking a classic American work truck. While not as fuel-efficient or powerful as modern trucks, this Ram 3500 represents a bygone era of rugged, dependable, and straightforward truck design. Its continued presence on the used car market is a testament to its enduring quality and appeal.
