The 1997 Dodge Ram

The 1997 Dodge Ram is a full size pickup truck that comes in a wide variety of sizes and body styles. There are many other competitors in this segment as well, including the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Ford F-Series pickups, and the Toyota Tundra. The Ram has been able to stand out because of its unique body styling which is very noticeable from the “horse collar” grill up front to the accents running outside the cargo box. Areas where this truck excels include towing and hauling, which more often than not are best in class between the Ram and similarly equipped competitors.

The body styling of the 1997 Dodge Ram was first produced for the 94′ model year and was used as the basis for newer models that would be produced after 2001. Most features for this model year are similar to the previous ones including most of the power trains as well. Engines offered for this truck are a 3.7 liter V6, a 4.7 liter V8 and a 5.7 liter V8. Trucks that were manufactured as a basic package without 4 wheel drive most commonly come with the smaller V6 engine. While it is a good engine it is optimal for those who will be doing mostly highway driving and not towing extreme loads. Mid-level packages with 2 or 4 wheel drive are usually outfitted with the mid-sized 4.7 liter V8. Upper level trim models and some 4 wheel drive middle of the road packages come with the larger 5.7 liter engine which is very powerful and offers great amounts of torque.

Trim packages offered for the 1997 Dodge Ram include an ST, LT, Laramie, and few specialty trims. ST models represent just a basic work truck with very few if any additional features beyond what is necessary. Expect one of these trucks to not have power windows or locks, no AC, a tilt steering wheel, and only basic interior fabric options. Moving up in refinement are LT models which offer a moderate amount of interior amenities. These trucks usually have AC, a Cassette/CD player, cruise control, better choices for interior fabrics, and an optional electronic transfer case for 4 wheel drive models. The Laramie edition is the upper level package which offered with leather upholstery, an expanded center console and a lot of additional items that could be purchased.

Also available are a sport themed package and an off-road package. Sport models come with the larger V8 engine and a specially tuned suspension system for performance on pavement. Off-road models were designed with raised bodies and sturdier suspension systems for better performance in off-road situations. Both these packages could come fully loaded if desired.

The only area where the Ram really falls behind competitors like the F150, and Silverado is fuel consumption. Comparable models of the 1997 Dodge Ram usually got at least 1 mpg less than its rivals. The largest trucks with the 5.7 liter V8 get about 13 mpg for city driving and 17-18 mpg on the highway.

One of the most appealing aspects of these trucks are the torque oriented power trains systems which allow them to haul and tow more weight than just about any competitor. They also are very comfortable on the interior and handle very nice which is why anybody looking for their next full-size pickup must consider one of the Ram



Source by Daniel Legal