Dodge Big Red Truck Introduces Powerful New Cummins 24-Valve Turbo Diesel Engine
7 January 1998
Dodge Big Red Truck Introduces Powerful New Cummins 24-Valve Turbo Diesel Engine
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 7 -- Truckers in search of a
serious turbo diesel will want to consider what's under the hood of Big Red
Truck -- the new 24-valve, in-line six cylinder intercooled turbo diesel
engine now optional on all 1998 Dodge Ram truck 2500 and 3500 models including
Regular, Club and Quad Cabs. The new Cummins engine, built specifically for
Dodge, offers increased torque and horsepower and improved fuel efficiency.
"In addition to bold design and exceptional capability, a key ingredient
for any Dodge vehicle is power," said Ray Fisher, General Manager of the Dodge
Division. "Our customers expect exceptional power and performance in every
segment that we compete."
The new engine retains the characteristics that made the Cummins B
Series diesel engine a proven winner -- reliability, durability, simplicity of
design, fuel economy and superior low-end torque. With 24 valves and a high-
pressure, electronically controlled and centered fuel injection system, the
new Cummins diesel engine offers more pulling power and improved
responsiveness throughout a broader operating range.
For five-speed manual transmissions, horsepower is increased to 235
horsepower from 215 horsepower, while torque is increased to 460 lb-ft. from
440 lb-ft. For automatic transmissions, horsepower is increased to 215
horsepower from 180 horsepower, with 420 lb-ft. of torque. Fuel economy
increases nearly five percent and maintenance intervals are extended to 15,000
miles from 12,000 miles for fuel filter changes and to 7,500 miles from 6,000
miles for oil filter changes.
The engine's 24-valve cylinder head features a four-valve-per-cylinder
configuration which increases airflow and enables vertical injector mounting
over the center of the piston bowl for improved combustion, low-end torque and
quicker response. A Bosch VP44 electronic fuel pump with higher injection
pressures, electronic-controlled timing and fueling allows for precise,
instantaneous control and provides greater responsiveness over the entire
power range (up to 3200 rpm).
The Cummins 24-Valve Turbo Diesel engine meets every 1998 Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resource Board (CARB) emissions
standard without a catalyst or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR). Additional
upgrades include a "no adjust" overhead valve rocker system designed for a
minimum of 150,000 miles without adjustment, a completely redesigned piston
which increases power and fuel efficiency, reduced noise, and cleaner
operation with reduced smoke and emissions.
Cummins Engine Co. Inc. , is the world's largest producer of
200-plus horsepower diesel engines. Based in Columbus, Ind., Cummins is also
a leading manufacturer of alternative fuel engines, diesel engine components,
service products and power systems. Cummins manufacturing for the Dodge Ram
engine are located within the vicinity of its corporate headquarters.
1998 Cummins 24-Valve Turbo Diesel Engine Specifications:
Maximum Horsepower
Manual Transmission 235 hp @ 2700 rpm
Automatic Transmission 215 hp @ 2700 rpm
Peak Torque
Manual Transmission 460 lb-ft. @ 1600-2700 rpm
Automatic Transmission 420 lb-ft. @ 1600-2700 rpm
Governed Speed 3,500 rpm
Clutch Engagement Torque 350 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders 6
Bore and Stroke 4.02/4.72 in (102/120 mm)
Engine Displacement 359.0 cu in (5.9L)
Compression Ratio 16:3:1
Operating Cycles 4 (4)
Oil Pan Capacity 2.5 US gal (9.5L)
Coolant Capacity 10.5 US qt (9.9L)
Net Dry Weight w/Standard
Accessories 962 lb (437 kg)
SOURCE Chrysler Corporation
