The following is from the 1962 booklet, “Salesman’s Facts About The Dodge Dart Ram-Charger 413 V-8 High-Performance Engine Package”:
The Ram-Charger is one of the hottest power plants ever produced on an American assembly line. It includes entirely new high-performance exhaust manifolds, valves and valve gear, cylinder heads, pistons and rings, carburetors, ignition, transmission, and suspension components. These specially engineered features, combined with top engine displacement, put the new Ram-Charger chassis well out in front of all the new performance models.
This booklet tells why it is an extraordinary engine, and how it can be adapted to the special requirements of high-performance driving.
RAM-CHARGER 413 V-8 High-Performance Features
The Ram-Charger uses many special engine parts which are specifically engineered and manufactured to provide the extra stamina needed in organized competitive driving. Special drive-line and suspension features are included. These give superb sports-car-like traction and handling characteristics which surpass even those of the standard Dart.
o SHORT-RAM INTAKE MANIFOLD
This new ram-induction intake manifold substantially increases power output in the competitively important ranges above 4,000 r.p.m. A series of short (15-inch) ram tubes fit between the rocker covers. Tappets can be adjusted with the manifold installed — an important servicing advantage.
o EXTRA-LARGE VALVES
Intake valves (2.08-inch diameter) are streamlined for higher air flow. Exhaust valves are made of high heat-resistant alloy. They are 1/4-inch larger than standard, providing greatly improved exhaust flow. Head gaskets are of stainless steel for extra durability
o SPECIAL CYLINDER HEADS
The port areas of each head are about 25 percent larger than standard for better engine breathing. The exclusive deck structure provides extra-strong gasket sealing to handle the extreme pressures built up in top-performance operation. The heat crossover passage has been eliminated, for greater volumetric efficiency under competitive conditions.
o OVERSIZED EXHAUST SYSTEM
The streamlined cast-iron exhaust manifolds are of the long branch type for greater volumetric efficiency. They have three-inch outlets, with cutouts for minimum back pressure. Each tailpipe is two inches in diameter.
o HIGH-CAPACITY CARBURETOR
This includes two four-barrel Carter carburetors, with hand choking. Air cleaners are of the dry type for high-volume intake combined with optimum filtering effectiveness.
o NEW FUEL PUMP
Three valves provide extra pumping capacity. High spring load provides higher fuel pressure.
o FORGED ALUMINUM PISTONS
Forging provides more strength than is possible with the usual casting process.
o PISTON RINGS
The top compression ring is chrome-plated, high-strength iron for scuff resistance. Number two ring is of standard design. Number three ring is a two-piece design, specially adapted to the lubrication requirements of this engine.
o CONNECTING RODS
These are magnaflux-inspected. This assures maximum dependability under extreme stress.
o OIL PAN
It is equipped with anti-slosh baffles. This feature assists positive lubrication under maximum take-off and top-performance conditions.
o SPECIALLY DESIGNED VALVE GEAR
Mechanical valve lifters replace the standard hydraulic design, to eliminate pump-up at high engine speeds. New high-strength valve-spring retainers and double high-load valve springs are installed to comtrol valve “float” at high r.p.m. Rocker arms include a lock nut on the lash-adjusting screw for easier, more precise adjustments. The valve gear is rated stable to 6,500 r.p.m. on the standard test fixture.
o DEEP-GROOVE PULLEYS
All belt pulleys are deep-groove for better belt retention at high speeds.
o CRANKSHAFT
Hardened journals, with tri-metal bearings that add additional bearing-load capacity, enable the crankshaft to withstand the extra strains produced by the Ram-Charger’s exceptionally high power output.
o IGNITION FEATURES
A special distributor, of full -centrifugal -advance design, has a new cam and a dual-breaker system. The special cam and a high spring load on the points prevent “point bounce”. The dual-breaker system results in increased plug voltage at high speeds. Special lowresistance cables and cold-running spark plugs are designed for high engine power output.
o SPECIAL MANUAL TRANSMISSION
This new floor -shift three -speed gearbox is specifically engineered for maximum-performance work. New shafts, shot-peened gears and extensions give added strength. The outstanding engine power permits closely spaced gear ratios of 2.10, 1.45 and 1 to 1. Other heavy-duty features include a 10 1/2-inch clutch, pearlitic malleable-iron pressure plate, extra-heavyduty torque shaft, and special disc. The housing is of aluminum to save weight.
o HIGH-EFFICIENCY AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The optional heavy-duty Torque-Flite transmission has pushbutton controls and special high-capacity components. It is set to upshift at engine speeds of up to 5,600 r.p.m. Maximum torque -convertor ratio is 2.2 to 1. Planetary-gear ratios are 2.45, 1.45 and 1 to 1. Maximum over-all “breakaway” ratio (5.39 to 1) and general efficiency are the highest of any stock automatic transmission.
o DRIVESHAFT
This is specially balanced for extra-fast acceleration and high running speeds.
o HEAVY-DUTY REAR SPRINGS
A stiffer spring rate helps absorb the extremely high torque developed by the Ram-Charger engine.
o “SURE-GRIP” REAR AXLE
Standard equipment, this feature provides top traction for both wheels. Standard ratio is 3.91 on both transmissions. Other ratios, for special driving requirements, range from 2.93 through 4.89. They are available in ring-and-pinion sets through Dodge dealers.
o WHEELS AND TIRES
Standard tires are 7.50 x 14″ tubeless Tyrex cord, front and rear. For exceptionally rugged requirements, long life, and greater road grip, 6 1/2 K (rim-width size) rear wheels and 9.00 x 14″ rear tires are offered as dealer -installed options.
RAM-CHARGER 413 V-8 OPERATING CHARACTERISTICS
Like any thoroughbred performer, the Ram-Charger has a strong personality. This gives it certain mechanical traits very different from those of ordinary engines. Here are some of these traits, the reasons for them, and some suggested adjustments to them.
o GAS AND OIL MILEAGE
In a high -performance precision engine, oil cleanliness is a must. So engine oil should be changed every 1,000 miles — and more often in dusty areas.
Since carburetors and axle ratios are designed for maximum power rather than for outstanding economy, good gas mileage cannot be reasonably expected.
Adequate lubrication at very high engine speeds is accomplished by eliminating valve-stem seals and by using low-friction, wide-clearance piston rings. These special features result in somewhat higher oil consumption than is found in ordinary power plants.
o ENGINE IDLING
The long-duration camshaft provides maximum power output at the expense of smooth idling and low-speed response. Similarly, increased piston clearance and the special valve mechanism allow dependable highspeed operation, but sacrifice some of Dodge’s customary engine quietness.
o COLD-WEATHER DRIVING
This engine is designed primarily for the elevated operating temperatures generated by performance driving. That’s why heating arrangements have been removed from the intake manifold. During cold-weather operation, the resulting tendency toward carburetor icing and delayed warm-up can be combatted by partially covering the radiator, using a gasoline with anti-icing additives, and allowing the car to stand for a few minutes with the engine off after the water temperature is up to normal.
o FREQUENT CHECKING PAYS OFF
For finest performance, the ignition system should be kept in top-notch condition. So it’s advisable to inspect, adjust and replace spark plugs and ignition points at fairly frequent intervals.
Automatic transmission shifting bands require frequent checking and adjustments for maximum performance and long life.
RAM-CHARGER 413 V-8 MAXIMUM-PERFORMANCE CAPABILITIES
When the car is to compete in approved acceleration trials, a little extra attention to details can often bring a decisive edge in performance and lengthen the life of the engine.
o HELPFUL HINTS
To open exhaust outlets to the atmosphere (when rules permit) the standard exhaust cutout can be used, bypassing the muffler and tailpipe assembly.
For better suspension control during fast starts, additional spring clips can be used to tie the ends of each leaf to the rest of the spring.
Air pressure in the front tires may be increased, to lessen rolling resistance. Tires of high butyl content can be used on the rear, to give best traction on most surfaces.
o FOR ADDED PERFORMANCE AND PROTECTION
Valve lash, spark plugs and timing should be checked frequently to let the Ram-Charger operate consistently at peak efficiency. The highest octane fuel available (102 or higher) must be used. Front-end alignment should be set correctly. Brake shoes can be adjusted to eliminate any possible brake drag.
A word of caution: to protect the fine working parts of the engine, it should not be run over 6500 r.p.m. And it’s necessary to limit wideopen throttle bursts to fifteen seconds duration.
Serious competition in all-out performance contests offers additional opportunities to bring this engine to a peak of perfection. Here are some ways by which the Ram-Charger can be made a top contender in highly competitive acceleration trials.
o FUEL SYSTEM
Two electric fuel pumps can be installed for faster feeding, Since the carburetors have been factory-set for maximum-power fuel-air ratio, no experimenting with them is necessary.
o DRIVE LINE
Faster shifting with the manual transmission can be achieved by installing a spring-loaded straight-through shifting mechanism (HurstCampbell or comparable device). And a higher numerical axle ratio will enable the engine to reach its power peak before the car reaches the end of a performance run.
o COOLING
Cool air can be routed to the carburetors by whatever means competition rules allow. A smaller fan can be installed to ease the load on the engine when weather permits.
o SPARK PLUGS
The standard Champion J9Y plugs should be set at .025″ electrode gap.
o VALVE ADJUSTMENT
Valve spring heights should be set to the proper specifications.
o SUSPENSION AND BRAKING
Optional rear wheels can be used. The pinion bumper .should be contacting the floor pan when the car is at its ready-to-run height. Heavyduty rear shock absorbers can be used for optimum wheel control. An optional right rear spring installation will improve traction. The automatic brake adjusters may be removed and the brakes kept adjusted manually.
o OPERATING TIPS
Experimenting with tire size, compound and pressure — combined with sharp starting techniques — will help achieve top performance. And a final word of warning: the 13.5:1 – compression- ratio engine must never be run at top speeds for more than fifteen seconds at a time.
RAM-CHARGER 413 V-8 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
The Ram-Charger 413 is not only a high-performance engine that is second to none in stock-car ranks, it is an entire automobile designed especially for competitive-type driving -You’ll see in the information listed below.
o ENGINE
Piston displacement, cu. in………………………… 413
Bore and stroke, in………………………….4.19 x 3.75
Compression ratio…………………………..(13.5 to 1*)
Horsepower…………………………………..410 (420*)
Torque, lb.-ft……………………………….460 (470*)
Carburetor……………………………….Double. 4 bbl.
Cooling system………………………17 qts., with heater
Crankcase capacity (oil)……………4 qts., plus 1 qt. for
filter when it is changed.
(*Maximum-performance option)
o TRANSMISSIONS
Standard 3-speed heavy-duty manual, floor shift. Ratios: 2.10, 1.45, 1 to 1.
Optional 3-speed automatic heavy-duty Torque-Flite. Water cooled. Ratios: 2.45, 1.45, 1 to 1.
o EXHAUST
3″ Dual. Aluminized muffler and tailpipe.
o AXLE RATIOS (Sure-Grip differential standard)
Standard – 3.91 to 1.
Optional – 2.93, 3.23, 3.55, 4.10, 4.30, 4.56, 4.89 to 1.
o ELECTRICAL
Alternator – 35-amp, 6-diode
Battery – 12-volt, 59 amp-hr. rating
o SUSPENSION
Torsion bar, front
Leaf, rear (heavy-duty) 55″ x 2 1/2″ – 6 leaf.
Shock absorbers – Oriflow, hydraulic, double-acting, telescopic.
o BRAKES
Lining area – 195.2 sq. in. Internal expanding, duo-servo, self energizing, selfadjusting.
o TIRES
Standard — 7.50 x 14″ Tyrex cord.
Optional — 9.00 x 14″ rear.
o FUEL TANK CAPACITY
20 gallons.
o STEERING GEAR RATIOS
Manual – 24 to 1. 5.3 turns, full right to full left.
o TURNING DIAMETER
Curb-to-curb, 40.3 ft.
o WHEELBASE
116 in.
o COMPRESSION RATIO
Combustion chamber volume:
Minimum 83 cc
Maximum 86 cc
To reduce the volume of the combustion chamber 1 cc, .005″ must be milled from the head surface. For each 0.01″ removed from the cylinder head, 0.0122″ must be removed from the intake side of the head.
Distance from the top of the lower flat of the piston to the block deck:
11:1 C.R. 13.5:1 C.R.
Minimum .0155″ .018″
Maximum .0455″ .043″
o BOLT AND NUT TORQUES
Cylinder head bolts, 75 lbs. ft.
Main bearing bolts, 85 lbs. ft.
Connecting-rod nuts, 45 lbs. ft.
Intake manifold bolts, 30 lbs. ft.
o CLUTCH FREE-PLAY ADJUSTMENT
Minimum 1/2″
Maximum 3/4″
o AXLE SHAFT END PLAY
Minimum .013″
Maximum .023″
o OIL
Any name-brand oil “For Service MS” may be used.
o FUEL PUMP PRESSURE
6-8 p.s.i. at 1500 r.p.m. engine idle.
o ENGINE IDLE
Speed – 1000 r.p.m.
Vacuum – 10 inches of mercury.
o AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION LINE PRESSURE
105 p.s.i.
o VALVE LASH
Intake Exhaust
Cold Cold
Normal driving .026″ .032″
Acceleration trials .026″ .032″
o IGNITION
Spark Plugs:
Electrode Gap — .025″
Comp. Ratio 11:1 — J9Y
Comp. Ratio 13.5:1 — J79
Ignition point gap – .018″ or .014″-.0191″ dwell.
Timing-36° at 3,000 r.p.m. or 120 at 800 r.p.m.
o PISTON CLEARANCES
Comp. Ratio Comp. Ratio
11:1 13.5:1
Normal driving……….0035″-.0045″
Acceleration trials…..0035″-.0045″ .008″-.010″
o PISTON RING END GAP
.013″ – .035″
o VALVE SPRING HEIGHTS
Minimum – 1.83″ Maximum – 1.86″
o BEARING CLEARANCES
Main bearings, .001″ -.0035″
Connecting-rod bearings, .001″ – .0035″
RAM-CHARGER 413 V-8 GENERAL INFORMATION
The Ram-Charger engine is for automotive enthusiasts only. The special thrills of owning it are reserved for the relative few who can appreciate and properly care for the finest kind of high -performance stock automobile.
o BREAK-IN PERIOD
This is the same as on the standard Dart (see owner’s Manual) except that oil should be changed every 1,000 miles.
o SPECIAL PARTS READILY AVAILABLE
full complement of precision parts are available through Dodge dealers. Dealers can write or telegraph Chrysler Motors Corporation, Centerline Parts Plant, 7000 E. 11 Mile Road, Centerline, Michigan, P.O. Box 300 -or phone JE 9-3000, extension 7593.
o NOTE:
If this engine is to be used in acceleration trials, participation must be limited to events sponsored by a nationally established governing organization.