Royal SE Package: 1986 Dodge D150

What is it about trucks that were once throw-away workhorses suddenly becoming quite appealing to own? That’s the feeling I get from this clean, original paint 1986 Dodge D150 with a short bed and 318 engine under the hood. The truck also comes with the Royal SE package, which was the top-of-the-line trim back when this truck was new. It’s a driver, for sure, but it’s a looker with aftermarket wheels and lots of chrome courtesy of the Royal SE trim. Mileage is just under 90,000 and of course, that 318 is near impossible to kill. Find the Dodge here on eBay with bids up to $5,100 with no reserve.

The D150 is one of the more venerable designs of 1980s trucks, right up there with the Chevrolet C10 and Ford F150. And like the others, it was used as a workhorse, entered into fleet duty for service providers, and often used by businesses that did the dirty work, from plumbing to construction to yard maintenance. That said, relatively few are left in any condition whatsoever, especially as a survivor. The Royal SE package got you a full assortment of power features, like the power windows you can see here. Other features included cruise control, power locks, and carpeting, and I’m guessing the fake woodgrain trim around the instrument cluster was part of the package as well. The upholstery looks to be in fine condition and the seller notes that’s because he had it redone in the correct Royal SE spec, along with replacement carpet.

The seller doesn’t mention much about the mechanical history of the truck, other than to say it runs well and doesn’t smoke. The 318 is known for its durability, and really, simple is better when it comes to a truck like this. I wouldn’t change a thing other than letting the engine sing a little bit more, possibly adding some headers and a freer-flowing exhaust – possibly a side-exit setup. The D150 was never meant to be a hot rod, I realize that – but this thing just looks mean with its black paint and factory-ordered optional alloy wheels. Some loud pipes would bring out the attitude this truck is packing.

The D150 looks even better from the sides. The proportions are perfect, and the accessory wheels are just what the wheel wells needed to be filled out slightly. The paint is original and while the seller admits to planning to repaint it, he claims it’s nice enough to leave as-is in the interest of keeping this Dodge as authentic as possible. The chrome details are extensive on the Royal SE package, and incredibly, they all appear to be present and accounted for here. The seller reports it was originally a factory A/C truck, but that the compressor was removed and never re-installed. Get the A/C working and address any mechanical needs and just enjoy this truck – that’s what I’d do. What about you?