The Dodge ERB is a 3,301 cc, 90° V6 engine produced between 1990 and 1996. Developed as part of Chrysler's Magnum series, it features a cast-iron block with aluminum heads, SOHC 12-valve configuration, and multi-port fuel injection. It delivered 132 kW (177 PS) at 4,400 rpm and 278 Nm of torque at 2,800 rpm, providing strong low-end pull suitable for full-size sedans and police applications.
Fitted primarily to the Dodge Monaco and New Yorker, the ERB was engineered for durability in fleet and law enforcement service. It supported longitudinal mounting with rear-wheel drive, and its robust torque curve enabled strong acceleration from rest. Emissions compliance was achieved via EGR, catalytic converters, and closed-loop fuel control, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 0 standards per certification records.
One documented reliability concern is intake manifold cracking due to thermal cycling and material fatigue. This issue, detailed in Dodge Technical Service Bulletin 18-10-92, affected early 1990–1992 builds and led to vacuum leaks, rough idle, and misfires. Later revisions introduced a redesigned manifold with improved ribbing and mounting geometry, enhancing structural integrity.
Production years 1990–1995 meet U.S. EPA Tier 0 standards; 1996 models comply with OBD-II requirements (EPA Certification #EPAPDF0418).
The Dodge ERB is a 3,301 cc 90° V6 engineered for fleet and passenger applications (1990–1996). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with multi-port fuel injection to deliver strong low-end torque and smooth cruising performance. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 0 and early OBD-II standards, it balances durability with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,301 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 90° V6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (177 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 278 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 0 (OBD-I); OBD-II from 1996 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None (naturally aspirated) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (API SH/SL) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The SOHC V6 provides strong low-end torque ideal for fleet and urban driving but benefits from 105,000–120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to ensure reliability. Use of API SH/SL-rated 10W-30 oil is recommended to maintain valve train lubrication under sustained load. The non-interference valvetrain means timing belt failure typically results in engine stoppage without catastrophic damage. The redesigned intake manifold (post-1992) reduces risk of vacuum leaks; pre-1992 units should be inspected for hairline cracks near runners. EGR and catalytic converter systems require periodic inspection to maintain OBD-II compliance in 1996 models.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 meeting API SH/SL (Dodge Owner's Manual 1994). Supersedes ILSAC GF-2.
Emissions: Tier 0 certification applies to 1990–1995 models (EPA #EPAPDF0418). 1996 models meet OBD-II requirements per 40 CFR Part 86.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output optimized for torque delivery in police and taxi applications.
Chrysler Engine Service Manual: Magnum Series (Rev. 2)
Dodge Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) 18-10-92, 19-015-93
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database (EPAPDF0418)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge ERB was used across Dodge's Monaco and New Yorker platforms with longitudinal mounting and RWD configuration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake tuning in the Monaco Police Package and simplified emissions controls in fleet-spec units-and from 1996 the OBD-II compliance update introduced revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left cylinder bank near the exhaust manifold (Chrysler Manual ENG-ERB-002). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for ERB). Pre-1993 units have tan valve covers with rubber gaskets; post-1993 models use black valve covers with foam seals. Critical differentiation from Magnum 3.5L: ERB has 93 mm bore vs. 94 mm on 3.5L. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for pre-1993 models are not interchangeable with post-1992 revisions due to mounting differences (Dodge TSB 18-10-92).
The ERB's primary reliability risk is intake manifold cracking due to thermal cycling, with elevated incidence in high-mileage fleet vehicles. Internal Chrysler field reports from 1994 indicated over 25% of pre-1993 engines exhibited vacuum leaks by 100,000 km, while NHTSA data links manifold failures to idle instability in police and taxi fleets. Extended idling and frequent temperature swings accelerate cracking, making inspection and timely replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (1990-1996) and NHTSA field reports (1992-1997). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE ERB.
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