1992 Dodge W350

About the 1992 Dodge W350

The 1992 Dodge W350 is a heavy-duty pickup truck available with a wide range of engine and transmission options. It is known for its powerful engine and rugged construction, making it popular for hauling heavy loads and towing trailers. However, like most vehicles, the W350 has its share of potential issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 5.9L V8 (245 hp and 330 lb-ft torque)
  • Blown Head Gasket
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the engine, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, rough idle, engine stalling
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 7.2L V8 (300 hp and 420 lb-ft torque)
  • Connecting Rod Bearing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Knocking sound from the engine, loss of power, engine seizure
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the engine
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Cummins 5.9L I6 Diesel
  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Automatic 4-speed (Chrysler 44RE/46RE)
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, slipping gears, overheating transmission
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle hesitating to accelerate, difficulty shifting gears
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• Manual 5-speed (New Process 241)
  • Synchronizer Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise
    • Solution: Replace the synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping sound when turning, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, poor handling, loss of traction
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting, electrical system not charging
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical components malfunctioning, intermittent power loss
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected wiring harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust on body panels, undercarriage, and frame
  • Solution: Treat and prevent rust with rust-resistant products
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dependent on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Fan Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower not working, weak airflow
  • Solution: Replace the HVAC fan motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Dodge W350 is a capable and reliable pickup truck, but it is not without its potential issues. The engine, transmission, and suspension components are generally durable, but they can encounter problems over time, especially with heavy use. The cost of repairs for major issues can be significant, so it is important for owners to be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their maintenance and ownership costs.