Turbo Diesel Buyer's Guide
Dodge Ram Trucks:  A Book Review

Updated:  November, 2001

Robert Patton, Editor of the TDR, called me recently with the news that Don Bunn has just published a new book entitled Dodge Ram Trucks – 1994 to 2001 Photo History. “Jim, should you choose, your assignment is to review Don’s book and comment on its usefulness as if you were looking for a used Turbo Diesel truck.”

“Sure,” I said, “ I’ll work real hard on it.” Heh, heh, heh. You gotta understand that reading Don’s history books about Dodge trucks isn’t work, it’s fun! No work involved at all!

Peppered with many pictures of each model, and enclosed in a text full of facts and interesting little tidbits I didn’t know, this book is a very interesting read from cover to cover.

First, lets get the book’s statistics out of the way.  This book is soft-bound, it measures 7-1/4" x 9", and is 118 pages. The book is published by Iconografix of Hudson, WI as part of their Photo History Series. Its list price is $24.95, but look for a “bundle” deal from the TDR available through the Geno's Garage website.

The first section deals with how the styling of the ’94 to 2001 trucks came about, and the corporate climate at Dodge at the time. The philosophy in the mid 80s seemed to be that, “We’re not really in the truck business now, so why not make a dramatic statement, since we’ve little to lose?” The advent of the Dodge/Cummins marriage is well documented by Don. I didn’t know that the first Dodge/Cummins truck prototype was constructed in 1984. It didn’t run, but proved the Cummins could be stuffed into the then-current engine bay.

The first running prototype was in a 1985 model, which was used for feasibility and durability testing (the Dodge part, not the Cummins). These were exciting times at Dodge truck! The first retail model was in 1989, which sported a Turbo Diesel (sans intercooler and a tachometer), a plain-jane puller. It was Dodge’s answer to the weak-kneed, naturally aspirated diesels of the times and a fuel miserly answer to the big block gas engine competition. It sold pretty well, and injected new life into the aging Dodge truck platform.

The next section deals with each model year of truck from 1994 to 2001. It chronicles the changes and skyrocketing sales, and is liberally sprinkled with pictures. A few are factory photos of showroom stock trucks, but most pictures are of trucks that have been modified to suit the owner’s needs (which certainly adds to my interest). Look at the trucks you see in your town – nobody, but nobody, leaves these trucks stock in appearance or performance! The pictures range from utility trucks, to highly stylized and/or accessorized custom trucks, to fire trucks (my favorites), and everything in between. If you’re looking for ideas to personalize your Turbo Diesel, this is a good place to start! Included are racing trucks and the Cummins ReCon land speed record diesel truck. You’ll enjoy the pictures of the corporate styling exercises such as the awesome “T-Rex” six-wheel monster, and the updated Power Wagon.

Don’s book perfectly chronicles the evolution of the Turbo Diesel from the first non-intercooled model through the 24-valve, HO models. Everything is carefully researched and documented. He forecasts future availability of a hybrid fossil fuel/electric Ram for contractors that can double as a 20KW electric generator on the job site! That truck would certainly be nice to have when the home power goes out during an ice storm, and you suddenly become the envy of your neighbors.

Of novel interest is a section on Dodge Ram scale models. These miniaturized plastic or metal versions of your real truck can sit on your desk or shelf to keep you focused on your favorite hobby while you work, or can keep you focused on your intended future purchase.

There are sections that give you all of the stats on engines, clutches, transmissions, etc., through the years. This area is must reading if you are shopping for a “new” used ride.

What more can I say! I’ve barely touched on the contents of this book. You simply must read it for yourself. I promise you that it’ll be fun and informative – not work!

Jim Anderson
Dandridge, TN