I hope you all appreciate the fact that I restrained from using the word “epic” in my description of this Dodge Ramcharger. The patina is just so perfect on it that it demands the use of overused adjectives, but I’ll hold back on your account. Seriously, the looks of this truck are why we love authentically-aged vehicles versus the ones made to look old as there’s no replacement for the real deal. This Ramcharger is listed here on eBay as a runner with a 318 paired to a reconditioned A727 transmission.
Bidding is currently at $5,700 with no reserve. The oversized wheels and tires are another big reason for the strong eyeball appeal as they look absolutely perfect on this truck. The wheels are very period-correct Centerlines and obviously the lower offset helps them poke out nicely from the fender wells. The paintwork is what it is, which is to say rough in some places and better in others, with minimal evidence (if any) of the presence of body filler or other indications of having lived somewhere that rust is a problem. Based on the description, it seems safe to infer that the Dodge has been in California all its life.
The interior is perhaps the best surprise of all considering the truck has been used and isn’t a restored specimen. Bucket seats with light-colored upholstery that isn’t completely filthy is a rare find, along with stain-free carpeting. The door panels look good as well, although they have been modified slightly to accept larger aftermarket speakers. Amazingly, the dashboard doesn’t appear to be cracked. This Ramcharger was equipped with factory “Max Cool” air conditioning, but of course, it doesn’t work. The seller notes the pump belt is removed.
The engine retains all of its original smog equipment, and the seller notes a mild valve cover gasket leak. The Dodge is said to run well but could likely also use a carburetor adjustment due to running a bit rich at times. The options list is pretty generous, as the Ramcharger left the factory not only with A/C but also with power disc brakes, a rare OEM roof vent, tinted glass, a factory transmission cooler, and extra chrome trim. The no reserve pricing makes this a potentially very good deal for the next owner, who will likely experience the joy of owning a well-loved classic truck.
I like the way it looks. I had a 1977 Plymouth Trailduster with a 318/727 4wd set up. Built like a tank. So I know it’s a great set up here. The trans cooler is the size of the AC condenser unit. It’s huge. The only thing I wish was the picture of the dashboard gauges and the mileage It would have been nice to see that. Otherwise this is definitely a worthwhile truck to get and leave it the way it looks. Good luck to the next owner..🇺🇸🐻🇺🇸
I asked the owner if the vehicle would pass smog in Calif. He said the truck always passed smog up until August of 2021. From then, the truck sat more than was driven. An inspection was performed just in case it sells in Calif. and said “IT WOULD NOT PASS”, due to the PPM of Hydro Carbons. Mechanic said likely from not being driven and the richness in the carb. Owner said they still retain the original smog equipment and is all in place, plus a new Catalyic Converter and new smog pump were were added a while back. So basically it’s all that and a matter of a carb adjustment, maybe higher octane fuel or to just be driven more and heated up.
Patina sucks!