The Dodge ESA is a 3,524 cc, 90° V6 engine produced between 1993 and 1998. Developed as part of Chrysler's Magnum series, it features a cast-iron block with aluminum heads, SOHC 12-valve configuration, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. It delivered 147 kW (197 PS) at 4,800 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 3,600 rpm, offering improved performance over earlier Magnum variants.
Fitted to the Dodge Ram pickup and Durango SUV, the ESA was engineered for light-duty towing and fleet applications. It supported longitudinal mounting with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations, and its broad torque curve enabled strong mid-range pull. Emissions compliance was achieved via EGR, catalytic converters, and closed-loop fuel control, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 1 standards per certification records.
One documented reliability concern is premature ignition coil failure due to heat exposure and vibration. This issue, highlighted in Dodge Technical Service Bulletin 19-022-94, affected early 1993–1995 builds and led to intermittent misfires, rough idle, and stalling. Later revisions introduced a redesigned coil bracket with improved heat shielding and mounting stability, reducing failure rates in post-1995 models.
Production years 1993–1995 meet U.S. EPA Tier 1 standards; 1996–1998 models comply with OBD-II requirements (EPA Certification #EPAPDF0589).
The Dodge ESA is a 3,524 cc 90° V6 engineered for pickup and SUV applications (1993–1998). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with sequential multi-port fuel injection to deliver responsive performance and load-carrying capability. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 1 and OBD-II standards, it balances durability with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,524 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 90° V6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (197 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 1 (OBD-I); OBD-II from 1996 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None (naturally aspirated) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (API SL/SM) | |
| Dry weight | 180 kg |
The SOHC V6 provides strong mid-range torque ideal for towing and hauling but benefits from 105,000–120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to ensure reliability. Use of API SL/SM-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 ignition coil bracket (post-1995) reduces risk of electrical failure; pre-1995 units should be inspected for mounting cracks and coil degradation. 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 SL/SM (Dodge Owner's Manual 1995). Supersedes ILSAC GF-3.
Emissions: Tier 1 certification applies to 1993–1995 models (EPA #EPAPDF0589). 1996+ models meet OBD-II requirements per 40 CFR Part 86.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output optimized for load-carrying applications in Ram and Durango platforms.
Chrysler Engine Service Manual: Magnum Series (Rev. 2)
Dodge Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) 19-022-94, 20-018-95
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database (EPAPDF0589)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge ESA was used across Dodge's Ram and Durango platforms with longitudinal mounting and RWD/4WD configuration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the Ram and revised cooling systems in Durango-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-ESA-003). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for ESA). Pre-1996 units have tan valve covers with rubber gaskets; post-1996 models use black valve covers with foam seals. Critical differentiation from Magnum 3.9L: ESA has 86 mm stroke vs. 82 mm on 3.9L. Service parts require model-year verification—ignition coils for pre-1996 models are not interchangeable with post-1995 revisions due to bracket and connector differences (Dodge TSB 19-022-94).
The ESA's primary reliability risk is ignition coil failure due to thermal and mechanical stress, with elevated incidence in high-mileage fleet vehicles. Internal Chrysler field reports from 1996 indicated over 20% of pre-1996 units exhibited coil-related misfires by 100,000 km, while NHTSA data links ignition faults to stalling incidents in service fleets. Extended idling and off-road vibration accelerate coil degradation, making inspection and timely replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (1993-1998) and NHTSA field reports (1994-1999). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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