A more redefined Ram

Chrysler Group engineers have employed the use of hydroforming, new airbag technology, and aerodynamics, among other things, to improve the design, ride, and safety of the Dodge Ram 1500 for model year 2002

Building on the success of the Ram's rugged styling introduced during the last major redesign in 1994, Chrysler Group engineers have made a number of enhancements to the vehicle, such as a larger interior, improved aerodynamics, a redesigned chassis and suspension, new body architecture, and a number of safety additions and options. The pickup is also offered with a choice of two new Magnum engines and a new 45RFE automatic transmission.

The 4.7-L Magnum V8, the same engine introduced on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, replaces the 5.2-L V8, delivering more peak power and improved fuel economy. Power is increased to 175 kW (235 hp), up from the 171-kW (230-hp) rating of the 5.2-L unit. The engine also generates 400 N·m (295 lb·ft) of torque at 3200 rpm. The 3.7-L Magnum V6 engine, a scaled down version of the 4.7-L V8, replaces the 3.9-L V6 and offers 157 kW (210 hp), a 26-kW (35-hp) increase over the previous 3.9-L engine. It produces about 312 N·m (230 lb·ft) of torque at 4000 rpm (for more V6 details, refer to the Jeep Liberty article in this issue). Both the 3.7-L V6 and 4.7-L V8 engines get about “one mile per gallon” better fuel economy than their predecessors. The engines feature sequential, multiport, electronic fuel injection and a cast-iron block with aluminum-alloy heads.