When it comes to American pickup trucks, the first thing that comes to mind for many is Dodge RAM with its memorable ram's head logo. But why did this particular animal become a symbol of a powerful car? And how did the brand evolve, which today is associated with reliability, load-carrying capacity and off-road?

In this article we will understand not only the history of the appearance ram on the emblem, but also consider the key models RAM Trucks, their technical features, and also give practical advice to those who are planning to purchase or operate these cars. We will pay special attention to the nuances that dealers often keep silent about - from engine features to typical problems of used vehicles.

Why is there a ram on the Dodge RAM logo: the history of the symbol

The ram's head logo did not appear immediately. Initially, in the 1930s, Dodge used an emblem with an image sheep heads - a symbol of perseverance and strength. This was due to the reputation of the brand's trucks as reliable and durable. However, in 1981, when the company decided to spin off its pickup truck line into a separate division RAM Trucks, the emblem design has been redesigned.

The new logo, introduced in 1993, already depicted ram's head in profile with curved horns - this was supposed to emphasize the aggressive nature of the cars and their ability to “break through” any obstacles. Interestingly, in 2010 the design was changed again: the ram began to look forward, and the horns acquired a more dynamic shape, symbolizing forward movement and innovation.

  • 🐏 1930s - the first emblem with a sheep's head (symbol of endurance).
  • 🚛 1981 — division of a line of pickup trucks under the brand RAM.
  • 🔄 1993 — the appearance of a modern logo with a ram.
  • 💡 2010 — redesign: the ram looks forward, the horns become more dynamic.

Today logo RAM - one of the most recognizable pickup trucks in the world. It is associated not only with power, but also with American car culture, where trucks hold a special place.

📊Which RAM logo do you like best?
Classic (1993–2010)
Modern (since 2010)
Dodge emblem with sheep
I don't care

Evolution of the model range: from Dodge RAM to RAM Trucks

Until 2010, pickup trucks were produced under the brand Dodge RAM, but after rebranding the company Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler) separated them into a separate brand - RAM Trucks. This was done to emphasize the specialization in commercial vehicles and pickups, separating them from cars Dodge.

Among the most famous models:

  • 🚙 Dodge RAM 1500 (1981-present) - The most popular pickup truck in the United States, ideal for everyday use.
  • 🏋️ RAM 2500/3500 Heavy Duty (since 1994) - “heavyweights” for transporting trailers and cargo up to 16 tons.
  • 🔥 RAM TRX (2021–2023) - "monster" with engine Hellcat V8 (702 hp), designed for off-road use.
  • ⚡ RAM 1500 REV (from 2026) - the brand’s first electric pickup truck with a range of up to 500 km.

It is especially worth highlighting RAM 1500 — this model is often called the “golden mean” among pickup trucks. It combines the comfort of a passenger car with a load capacity of up to 2.5 tons and a towing capacity of up to 5 tons (depending on the configuration).

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When choosing between RAM 1500 and RAM 2500 be task-oriented: if you need to tow a trailer weighing more than 5 tons, take Heavy Duty. For everyday driving, the “younger” model is enough.

Model Years of production Engine (base) Max. towing Features
RAM 1500 1981–present 3.6L V6 Pentastar up to 5,715 kg Best selling, hybrid version eTorque
RAM 2500 1994–present 6.4L HEMI V8 up to 9,072 kg Reinforced frame, diesel option 6.7L Cummins
RAM TRX 2021–2023 6.2L Hellcat V8 up to 3,720 kg Sports off-road, 702 hp, suspension Bilstein
RAM 1500 REV from 2026 Electric (168 kWh) up to 5,443 kg Power reserve 500 km, charging 10–80% in 20 minutes

Technical features: engines, transmissions, suspension

One of the key advantages RAM is the variety of engines. Basic versions are equipped 3.6L V6 Pentastar (305 hp), but real enthusiasts choose:

  • 🔥 5.7L HEMI V8 (395 hp) - classic with cylinder deactivation MDS to save fuel.
  • ☁️ 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (420 hp, 1,356 Nm) - for heavy loads and long trips.
  • ⚡ Electric motor (up to 654 hp in RAM 1500 REV) is the future of the brand.

The transmission is another strong point. Most models are equipped 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, which is famous for its smooth shifting. B Heavy Duty a reinforced version with an increased resource is used. And in TRX installed 8HP95 from ZF, capable of withstanding enormous loads.

Suspension in RAM depends on the model:

  • 🚗 RAM 1500 — multi-link at the front, spring or pneumatic at the rear (optional Air Suspension).
  • 🏔️ RAM 2500/3500 - rigid front axle Solid Axle and leaf springs in the rear for maximum load-carrying capacity.
  • 💥 RAM TRX — adaptive suspension Bilstein Black Hawk with a stroke of 33 cm.
What is the MDS system in HEMI V8?

This is a technology that turns off half the cylinders (4 out of 8) during uniform movement to save fuel. For example, on the highway at a speed of 100 km/h the engine switches to V4 mode, reducing consumption by 10–15%.

Particular attention should be paid to the all-wheel drive system. Most models use 4WD with transfer case, but in TRX a unique system has been implemented BorgWarner 48-13 with differential locks and reduction gear.

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Diesel 6.7L Cummins - the best choice for towing heavy trailers. It is not only more powerful than its gasoline counterparts, but also more economical over long distances (consumption ~12 l/100 km versus 18–20 l for the V8).

Typical problems and weaknesses: what to look for when purchasing

Despite the legendary reliability, RAM There are a number of “diseases” that you should know about before buying a used copy. Here are the most common:

⚠️ Attention! In engines 5.7L HEMI (2009–2018) wear out frequently valve lifters (lifters). Symptoms: knocking when cold, disappears after warming up. Repairs cost 150–300 thousand rubles.
  • 🔧 Frame corrosion - a problem for pickup trucks operated in snowy regions (especially models before 2013).
  • 🛢️ Oil leaks from under the valve cover and rear crankshaft oil seal (typical for HEMI with mileage >150 thousand km).
  • 🔋 Electrics: sensor failures O2 and problem blocks TIPM (body control module).
  • 🚪 Door hinges — sag over time and require adjustment or replacement.

When inspecting a used RAM be sure to check:

☑️ Checklist before buying used RAM

Done: 0 / 5

If you are planning to buy RAM 2500/3500 with diesel Cummins, pay attention:

  • 🔥 Turbine - resource ~200 thousand km, after which backlashes are possible.
  • 🛢️ Fuel system - injectors Bosch serve ~150 thousand km.
  • 🔋 Batteries — diesel engines are demanding on starting current, especially in winter.
⚠️ Attention! For 2019–2021 models. with eTorque (hybrid system) there were problems with 48 volt generator. Symptoms: error P0562 (low voltage). Solved by replacing the generator (~80 thousand rubles).

RAM in Russia: current prices, customs and service

Officially RAM not sold in Russia, but the demand for these pickups is consistently high. Main purchasing methods:

  • 🚢 Parallel import — through dealers specializing in American cars (price from 6 million rubles per RAM 1500 2020).
  • 🌍 Self-import from the USA or UAE (requires customs clearance, the cost of which can reach 30–50% of the price of the car).
  • 🔄 Buying used — on the secondary market (from 3.5 million rubles for copies of 2015–2017).

The cost depends on the configuration and year of manufacture:

Model Year Price (used), million rubles. Price (new, imported), million rubles.
RAM 1500 Laramie 2018 4,2–4,8 —
RAM 1500 Limited 2021 6,5–7,5 8,0–9,0
RAM 2500 Cummins 2019 5,8–6,5 —
RAM TRX 2022 12–14 15+

Important to consider maintenance costs:

  • 🛢️ Fuel: HEMI V8 consumes 18–22 l/100 km, diesel Cummins — 12–15 l/100 km.
  • 🔧 Service: an oil change costs 8–12 thousand rubles. (with filters), timing belt (on diesel engines) - 50–70 thousand rubles.
  • 🛡️ Insurance: CASCO on RAM costs 30–50% more than domestic pickups.

It is better to carry out service in specialized centers, for example:

  • 📍 Moscow: American Car Service, USA Auto.
  • 📍 St. Petersburg: RAM Club Russia, AutoExpert.
  • 📍 Regions: look for workshops with experience working with Chrysler/Dodge.

RAM vs competitors: which is better to choose?

Main competitors RAM in the pickup truck market - Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado and Toyota Tundra. Let's compare them based on key parameters:

Parameter RAM 1500 Ford F-150 Chevrolet Silverado Toyota Tundra
Max. towing 5,715 kg 5,830 kg 5,942 kg 4,990 kg
Engine (base) 3.6L V6 3.3L V6 2.7L Turbo 3.5L V6 Twin-Turbo
Fuel consumption (combined) 14–16 l/100 km 13–15 l/100 km 12–14 l/100 km 14–16 l/100 km
Price (used, 2019) 5.0–6.0 million rub. 4.5–5.5 million rubles. 4.8–5.8 million rubles. 5.5–6.5 million rubles.

Benefits RAM:

  • ✅ Comfort — the best sound insulation and suspension among American pickup trucks.
  • ✅ Interior — premium materials in top trim levels (Limited, Laramie).
  • ✅ Diesel Cummins — the most reliable and durable in its class.

Disadvantages:

  • ❌ Price - more expensive Ford and Chevrolet by 10–15%.
  • ❌ Dimensions - more difficult to control on narrow roads.
  • ❌ Electronics - more "glitches" with multimedia than Toyota.

If you need pickup truck for towing - take it RAM 2500 with Cummins. Suitable for everyday driving and comfort RAM 1500 with HEMI or hybrid eTorque. And if reliability and simplicity are important, consider Toyota Tundra.

Tuning and improvements: how to improve RAM

Owners RAM often resort to tuning to make a pickup truck even more powerful or unique. Here are the popular destinations:

  • 🔥 Power increase:
    • 🔧 Chip tuning (ECU firmware) - adds 20–50 hp. (cost 30–50 thousand rubles).
    • 💨 Installing a turbo kit on HEMI V8 (up to +150 hp, but engine life is reduced).
    • 🛢️ Replacing the exhaust with straight-pipe (better sound, but fines for excessive noise).
  • 🏔️ Offroad modifications:
    • 🔹 Lift kit (lifting the suspension by 5–10 cm) - from 150 thousand rubles.
    • 🔹 Installation of off-road tires BFGoodrich KO2 or Nitto Ridge Grappler.
    • 🔹 Bottom reservation (relevant for TRX).
  • 🎨 External tuning:
    • 🔹 LED headlights and foglights.
    • 🔹 Vinyl stickers (matte or chameleon film).
    • 🔹 Bumper installation Ranch Hand or winches.
⚠️ Attention! When installing lift kits higher than 7.5 cm, it is required replacement of steering rods and shock absorbers to reinforced ones. Otherwise, the suspension geometry will be disrupted, which will lead to uneven tire wear.

For diesel RAM 2500/3500 popular:

  • 🛢️ Installation of an additional fuel tank (increasing the power reserve to 1,500 km).
  • 🔥 Replacing the turbine with BorgWarner S400 (increase up to 100 hp).
  • 🛡️ Reinforced brake discs DBA or EBC.

The cost of a full-fledged tuning can reach 1–1.5 million rubles, but the result is worth it - the pickup becomes not only more powerful, but also more individual.

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Before tuning the engine, be sure to check the condition of the transmission. Increasing power by 30% or more requires strengthening the gearbox and driveshaft!

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about Dodge RAM

🔹 Is it possible to officially buy RAM in Russia?

No, official dealers RAM in Russia no. Cars are supplied through parallel imports or imported by private individuals. When purchasing, be sure to check the car's history (for example, through Carfax or AutoCheck), since many copies have an American “biography” with accidents or flooding.

🔹 Which RAM engine is the most reliable?

Considered the most reliable 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel. With proper maintenance (regular oil changes every 10 thousand km, fuel filters every 20 thousand km), it can easily cover 500–700 thousand km. Gasoline HEMI V8 are also durable, but require more attention to the cooling system and valve lifters.

🔹 How much does customs clearance cost for RAM 1500?

The cost of customs clearance depends on the year of manufacture and engine size. In 2026 for RAM 1500 2020 with engine 5.7L it will be approximately:

  • Duty: ~1.5 million rubles.
  • VAT (20%): ~300 thousand rubles.
  • Disposal fee: ~20 thousand rubles.
  • Customs duty: ~50 thousand rubles.

Total: ~2 million rub. (may vary depending on the dollar exchange rate).

🔹 What oil to pour into the HEMI V8 engine?

Manufacturer recommends oil Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 5W-20 (semi-synthetic) or Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30 (synthetic). It is important to use approved oil MS-12633 (for RAM 2019 and newer). Replacement interval is every 8–10 thousand km (or once a year).

🔹 Is it possible to run RAM on 92 gasoline?

Officially RAM with engines HEMI V8 and V6 Pentastar designed for 95 gasoline (octane number 91 according to the American standard AKI). Using 92 gasoline is possible, but is fraught with:

  • Reducing power by 5–10%.
  • Increased risk of detonation (especially in hot weather).
  • Accelerated wear of spark plugs.

If there is no alternative, short-term use of 92 is allowed, but it is better to add octane-boosting additives (for example, Liqui Moly Oktan Plus).