1990 Dodge B350

Introduction to the 1990 Dodge B350

The 1990 Dodge B350 is a versatile full-size van that offers a spacious interior, powerful engine options, and reliable performance. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission configurations, including:

• 5.2L V8 (170 hp, 290 lb-ft)
• 5.9L V8 (190 hp, 330 lb-ft)
• Automatic transmission
• Manual transmission

While the Dodge B350 is generally well-received for its practicality and performance, it has been known to experience certain issues over time.

Engine

5.2L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leaks
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cylinder head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.9L V8

• Valve cover gasket leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the top of the engine
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil pan gasket leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the bottom of the engine
  • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Automatic Transmission

• Torque converter shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration when shifting gears, particularly at low speeds
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Manual Transmission

• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace the clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noises when shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace the bearings or gears
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, difficulty steering
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock absorber leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system not functioning
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies even after short periods of time
  • Solution: Inspect for parasitic battery drains, such as faulty lights or accessories
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, particularly around the wheel wells and undercarriage
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door panel clips breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Door panels rattle or fall off
  • Solution: Replace the door panel clips
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard cracks (1990-1992 models only)
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or cover the cracks with a dashboard cover
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Dodge B350 is a reliable and capable van, but it is not without its potential issues. Some of the more common problems include intake manifold gasket failure, valve cover gasket leaks, and torque converter shudder. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are not typically severe and can be addressed with proper maintenance and repairs.