1977 Dodge Ramcharger convertible

Price: - Item location: Chicago, Illinois, United States
Description:

1977 Dodge Ramcharger

I am offering up for sale what I have come to call the “Civilized Beast,” a 1977 Dodge Ramcharger with full convertible top. I have owned five Dodge trucks previously, mostly first generation (two D-150’s, D-350, W-250 w/ Cummins) and a Dakota w/magnum V-8. So, I have some experience with these trucks. When I bought this truck from the previous owner in 2018, the body was virtually rust free. It had a four-inch lift, which improves the stance of the truck; Hedman headers, an Edelbrock head and Mickey Thompson valve covers.

Mechanicals. I performed a complete tune with new wires, plugs, points, distributor and rotor. I had the mechanic set the timing to 10 degrees below top dead center. I had read the truck ran better at that setting. However, I’m thinking about turning it up to top dead center to see if I feel a difference. If you are the winning bidder, do what you will. I also added an Edelbrock carburetor. Mechanically, the vehicle is sound. Transmission shifts smoothly through all three gears. It is not a speed demon. However, it has tons of torque and loads of power.

· Installed a new Die-Hard Battery last year

· Ignition module

· Neutral switch and connector

· Tie rods and bearings

· New front brake pads, rotors, calipers

· New brake lines, disengage electronic trailer brake controller

· Adjust rear drum brakes

· Voltage regulator

· New stereo system w/backup camera and security alarm

Body work. I drove it over to the body and fender guy. He kept it for over a year. There were few unexpected surprises. At the front and rear quarters, there were a few nasty spots near the wheel wells. I have uploaded a few process photos to provide evidence of the painstaking repair and restoration process. I did not do a frame off.

We used a two-stage process to arrive at the color, 2002-2004 Chrysler Inca Gold. I did not install side view mirrors because they might interfere with the visual appeal of the truck. Again, the winning bidder can decide mirror placement. I liked the seats from an old Ford van. Install the wiring (included) and the rear seat folds out into a bed. With the tailgate down, you can camp out under the stars. Add a tent to provide some measure of safety and protection from critters and such.

Performance? As I indicated earlier, 0-60 takes about two days, with 185 H.P and 290 Lbs-ft of torque. But who are we kidding anyway? This brute can go anywhere…in style. We don’t need to get there fast.

The presentation is stunning. I have gone over all the major mechanical and structural details. That said, this description is not a representation, nor warranty of future condition or performance. The vehicle is being sold as is, where is. There are a few minor punch list items, which will need to be addressed. Specifically:

·Mirrors will need to be installed because the removal of the window frame has created placement issues. It will take some creativity to avoid defacing the smooth lines and side view.

·Windshield wipers are slow. I only drive on sunny days. So, no worries

·Door locks have not been keyed. It’s a permanent, open top convertible, with an alarm system. So, you know….

I can’t think of anything else to say about the vehicle. So, I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves. I’m open to offers. I’m only selling because I’m approaching retirement and need to thin the herd. This has been a labor of love. I have really enjoyed the challenge of transforming this vehicle from an ugly duckling into a “civilized beast”! This vehicle is also for sale locally. So, if you want it, come, and get it. Terms are cash or verified wire transfer before the vehicle will be released. The title is free and clear in my name. I will respond to all serious inquiries at my earliest convenience.

Thanks for looking!