85 Ram Van Performance in California
Thread Starter
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From:
85 Ram Van Performance in California
I'm brand new here and thanks for a cool forum. I have a question and need comments from those in-the-know.
I own a 1985 Dodge full-size B150 SWB passenger van with the 318-2 BBL and A-737 3-spd auto. This is a California vehicle, so bi-annual smog compliance is critical. While the performance is adequate, it's not stellar. I've had older 318 V8 Mopars that would fly with a few intake, exhaust, cam and ignition tweaks. With California restrictions, CARB list, etc., I'm not sure what I can do to legally liberate some more horsepower from my choked V8.
What legal options do I have? I feel the biggest single problem is the anemic 2-BBL carb. The engine was recently rebuilt about 8000 miles ago and starts, runs and otherwise performs very well. The vehicle overall is in very good condition and I plan on keeping it for many years to come. The B-series vans are extremely versatile, and I love the fact that I have lots of room for eight passengers, or with seats removed can fit two motorcycles, 4x8 sheets of plywood or can tow full-size trailers all day. The driving position, comfort and visibility are good too for a big vehicle.
Thanks in advance for your help!
I own a 1985 Dodge full-size B150 SWB passenger van with the 318-2 BBL and A-737 3-spd auto. This is a California vehicle, so bi-annual smog compliance is critical. While the performance is adequate, it's not stellar. I've had older 318 V8 Mopars that would fly with a few intake, exhaust, cam and ignition tweaks. With California restrictions, CARB list, etc., I'm not sure what I can do to legally liberate some more horsepower from my choked V8.
What legal options do I have? I feel the biggest single problem is the anemic 2-BBL carb. The engine was recently rebuilt about 8000 miles ago and starts, runs and otherwise performs very well. The vehicle overall is in very good condition and I plan on keeping it for many years to come. The B-series vans are extremely versatile, and I love the fact that I have lots of room for eight passengers, or with seats removed can fit two motorcycles, 4x8 sheets of plywood or can tow full-size trailers all day. The driving position, comfort and visibility are good too for a big vehicle.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Record Breaker
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 1,412
Likes: 2
From: Nashville
RE: 85 Ram Van Performance in California
One fast and easy way is to relocate your IAT Sensor if equiped. I know that the 1994+ vans have them. I'm not certain how far back in the Gen-1 vans this sensor was used.
The IAT Sensor is located on the #2 Intake Runner (3.9/5.2/5.9L) or under the Throttle Body, in the manifold (4.7L) - Big Brass looking sensor with two wires (Grayish connector)
Remove the IAT sensor from the manifold and plug the hole with a 1/4" NPT Pipe Plug (Home Depot)
Drill a 1/2" hole in the intake plastic tube and thread the IAT sensor into the hole (use some silicone if you want...not required though) - You may have to extend the wires about 6-12" in some cases (use 16ga. wire)
This little mod has given a little more Hp and peep when the pedal is pushed. This mod is very popular amonst the 3.9L V6 Dodge Dakota owners. The 3.9L V6 engine is the 5.2L V8 (318cid) engine with the last two cylinders chopped off.
This mod should not ruin any of your Cal emission requirements.
The IAT Sensor is located on the #2 Intake Runner (3.9/5.2/5.9L) or under the Throttle Body, in the manifold (4.7L) - Big Brass looking sensor with two wires (Grayish connector)
Remove the IAT sensor from the manifold and plug the hole with a 1/4" NPT Pipe Plug (Home Depot)
Drill a 1/2" hole in the intake plastic tube and thread the IAT sensor into the hole (use some silicone if you want...not required though) - You may have to extend the wires about 6-12" in some cases (use 16ga. wire)
This little mod has given a little more Hp and peep when the pedal is pushed. This mod is very popular amonst the 3.9L V6 Dodge Dakota owners. The 3.9L V6 engine is the 5.2L V8 (318cid) engine with the last two cylinders chopped off.
This mod should not ruin any of your Cal emission requirements.