In the beginning...

The Ramcharger is somewhat unique in that it offered a two wheel drive version. However, no four door version of the Ramcharger was offered.

The configuration of the body has changed over the years. Tony Hanson reports that for the first half of 1974, the window channels (top of the doors) were part of a removable top.

Unlike many of its modern counterparts, the 4x4 Ramcharger was not tamed for soccer mom use. Even the Royal SE Ramcharger, with cruise control and power accessories, was a brute, with stiff front leaf springs and a solid, if somewhat harsh, ride. Later Ramchargers (at least since 1982) did offer a fiberglass liftgate, supported by two gas cylinders. Great for loading in the rain, but a real pain if your cargo shifts and ends up leaning against the hatch. It's pretty hard to open a liftgate and catch a falling suitcase (been there, done that).

Ramcharger used to have an identical twin, called the Plymouth Trailduster. Back in the glory days of Detroit quality control, I recall driving by a Chrysler Plymouth dealer, and seeing a Trail Duster with a bright chrome grille that proudly displayed the letters D-O-D-G-E. But, I digress.

The Ramcharger won its fair share of accolades over the years, including 4x4 of the Year from Four Wheeler magazine.

Sadly, the Ramcharger is no longer in production. It was last produced in 1993; although, I have read that it is still built and sold in Mexico. Rumor has it that it will be resurrected based on the new full-size Ram.

More later...

This page was last modified on 27 May 9

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