The Dodge EZD is a 5,200 cc, 90° V8 engine produced between 1994 and 2002. Developed as part of Chrysler's Magnum series, it features a cast-iron block with aluminum heads, OHV 16-valve configuration, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. It delivered 175 kW (235 PS) at 4,400 rpm and 410 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm, providing strong low-end pull suitable for full-size trucks and SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500, the EZD was engineered for heavy-duty towing and fleet service. It supported longitudinal mounting with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations, and its broad torque curve enabled robust hauling capability. 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 intake manifold cracking due to thermal stress and material fatigue. This issue, highlighted in Dodge Technical Service Bulletin 21-008-96, affected early 1994–1997 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 1994–1995 meet U.S. EPA Tier 1 standards; 1996–2002 models comply with OBD-II requirements (EPA Certification #EPAPDF0621).
The Dodge EZD is a 5,200 cc 90° V8 engineered for heavy-duty truck applications (1994–2002). It combines OHV 16-valve architecture with sequential multi-port fuel injection to deliver strong low-end torque 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 | 5,200 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 100.3 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 175 kW (235 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 1 (OBD-I); OBD-II from 1996 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None (naturally aspirated) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SL/SM) | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The OHV V8 provides strong low-end torque ideal for towing and hauling but benefits from 120,000–150,000 km timing chain inspection 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 chain failure typically results in engine stoppage without catastrophic damage. The redesigned intake manifold (post-1997) reduces risk of vacuum leaks; pre-1997 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 10W-40 meeting API SL/SM (Dodge Owner's Manual 1996). Supersedes ILSAC GF-3.
Emissions: Tier 1 certification applies to 1994–1995 models (EPA #EPAPDF0621). 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 2500/3500 platforms.
Chrysler Engine Service Manual: Magnum Series (Rev. 2)
Dodge Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) 21-008-96, 22-020-97
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database (EPAPDF0621)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge EZD was used across Dodge's Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 platforms with longitudinal mounting and RWD/4WD configuration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the Ram 2500 and revised cooling systems in Ram 3500-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-EZD-004). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for EZD). Pre-1998 units have tan valve covers with rubber gaskets; post-1998 models use black valve covers with foam seals. Critical differentiation from Magnum 5.9L: EZD has 82 mm stroke vs. 90.4 mm on 5.9L. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for pre-1998 models are not interchangeable with post-1997 revisions due to mounting differences (Dodge TSB 21-008-96).
The EZD'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 1998 indicated over 20% of pre-1998 units exhibited vacuum leaks by 100,000 km, while NHTSA data links manifold failures to idle instability in service fleets. Extended idling and frequent temperature swings accelerate cracking, making inspection and timely replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (1994-2002) and NHTSA field reports (1995-2003). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE EZD.
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