Hi, looking at buying an '83 4x4 automatic 318 - I assume the automatic is the A727? Are these good units typically? Any 1st gen warnings/other regarding oarts availability and other? Thanks!

 

Anyone else have the Ram 250 with the 318/4x4 with the A727 trans?

 

There never was much body part support for these trucks. If your truck has a 3 speed automatic, it's a version of the 727 Torqueflite. Those are solid transmissions, just not the best for economy due to no over drive. It's a solid, basic truck. Mechanical parts are reasonably easy to find.

 

Ive had an 81 W150 (1/2 ton version of this very truck) and an 83 2wd version, both 318s and 2 that I wish I had never sold..... our son has a 90 version as we speak, not been as good of truck the fuel injection of late 80s/early 90s sucked badly.... we've had a couple of those as well......
. would love to have another carbureted one. Im stuck in a "Dakota rut" now and I certainly dont want newer (not into 4 doors and ridiculously short useless bed)
if you dont buy, pass on the info to me!
even among other vehicles we have had with that same 727 tranny, ( you' retalking to someone on my end, that has never owned anything besides a Dodge) these 2 trucks I think were the only 2 that I never had to touch the trans on besides fluid and filter

 

The 727 is one of the longest running(in production) transmissions. It went through several changes but it was basically the the same design. With normal maintenance you won't have any issues. This is true with the LA motors also(318).

 

I finally remembered what your transmission is. It's a Loadflite transmission. Basically, a slightly heavier duty Torqeflite.