1992 Dodge B350

Introduction:

The 1992 Dodge B350 is a full-size van offering versatility and durability for commercial and personal use. It features a powerful 5.9L V8 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivering 230 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. The B350 is renowned for its spacious interior, heavy-duty construction, and reliable performance, but some issues have been reported over the years.

Engine

5.9L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, reduced power output
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, poor throttle response
  • Solution: Replace TPS
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Exhaust Manifold Warping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leaks, knocking noise, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace exhaust manifolds
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid from transmission pan or lines, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Repair or replace leaking components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping during gear shifts, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
• Valve Body Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagements, no shifting
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Lowered ride height, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, electrical system malfunction
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead after being parked for a period of time
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair source of battery drain (e.g., parasitic draw)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on issue
• Wiring Harness Damage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical shorts, intermittent failures, no power to various components
  • Solution: Repair or replace damaged wiring harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on extent of damage

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, frame, and undercarriage
  • Solution: Rust treatment and prevention measures
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in plastic dashboard
  • Solution: Replace or repair dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Heating and Air Conditioning Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat or cold air, poor airflow
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair heating or AC system components (e.g., compressor, blower motor)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000

Summary

The 1992 Dodge B350 is a capable vehicle with reported issues of varying severity. The most common issues relate to the engine, including intake manifold gasket failure and throttle position sensor problems. Transmission issues, suspension wear, and electrical problems are also known to occur. Rust can be a concern due to the vehicle’s age, while some interior components may experience cracking or failure. Overall, the cost of repairs can range from minor to significant, depending on the severity of the issue.