Image of 1987 Dodge D350, sourced from www.bigiron.com , Image Link.

Unsung Hero of the American Road: The 1987 Dodge D350

In the pantheon of classic American trucks, the 1987 Dodge D350 stands as a testament to durability and practical design. Born from the assembly lines of Chrysler Corporation's Dodge division, this workhorse was crafted during an era where functionality reigned supreme in the truck world. The D350 was part of the Dodge Ram lineup, which would eventually become synonymous with rugged capability. A unique fact that might tickle the fancy of truck enthusiasts is that the 1987 model year marked one of the final iterations of the classic Ram design before a major overhaul in 1994, making it a swan song of sorts for the beloved third-generation Ram.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1987 Dodge D350 was characterized by its no-nonsense, boxy silhouette—a shape that exuded strength and reliability. Its broad-shouldered stance and prominent grille were complemented by rectangular headlamps that were a common design cue of the era. Inside, the cabin was utilitarian with a focus on durability; vinyl bench seats and a simple dashboard layout were the norms, though higher trims offered more comfort with plush seating and additional amenities. Technologically, the D350 was equipped with features that were advanced for its time, such as electronic fuel injection for some engine options. Color choices ranged from classic reds and blues to more subdued tones like grays and browns, with two-tone paint schemes being a popular choice among buyers. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the single rear wheel long-bed version, which offered both space and payload capacity for a variety of tasks.

Historical Significance

The Dodge D350's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It helped cement the reputation of Dodge trucks as reliable workhorses. What set this vehicle apart from its contemporaries was its emphasis on towing and payload capacities, which were among the best in its class at the time. The D350's legacy is evident in how it paved the way for future generations of Dodge trucks that continued to prioritize performance and utility.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1987 Dodge D350 was known for its robust engine options, including the venerable 5.9-liter V8. While top speed and acceleration figures were not headline-grabbing, they were more than adequate for a vehicle designed to haul and tow heavy loads. The truck handled as expected for a large pickup of its time—steady and reliable rather than sporty. Drivers could expect a commanding view of the road, a satisfying rumble from the engine, and a sense of confidence when towing or fully loaded.

Ownership Experience

The D350 served many roles—from a daily driver for tradespeople to a dependable companion for long-haul towing. Its maintenance and reliability are hallmarks of its design, with many components being straightforward to repair or replace. This accessibility made it a favorite among those who preferred to handle their vehicle's upkeep personally.

Fun Facts

A lesser-known tidbit about the 1987 Dodge D350 is that it occasionally found its way into fleet service for various government agencies, adding to its aura of dependability. While it may not have set records in speed or sales, its endurance is legendary among those who still cherish these trucks today. Criticisms at the time focused on its austere interior and fuel economy, which were common trade-offs for utility vehicles of that period.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1987 Dodge D350 has a niche following among classic truck collectors. Its value range can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and originality, with well-preserved examples fetching higher prices. While production numbers were not scarce, finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. As such, prices can range from a few thousand dollars for well-used models to upwards of $20,000 or more for showroom-quality specimens. The market trend shows a slow but steady appreciation, particularly for unmodified trucks or those restored with originality in mind.

Conclusion

The 1987 Dodge D350 may not be the flashiest vehicle on the collector's market, but its steadfastness and utility have earned it a place in automotive history. It embodies an era where trucks were built to work hard and last long—a true unsung hero of the American road.

1987 Dodge D350 Door Seal (Imported). Replaces OEM #55023781-IS-LM 123Door Seal (Imported). Replaces OEM #55023781. Fits either side. 160" Long. Each

1987 Dodge D350 Door seal. Full-size trucks. Fits cab doors either side-LM 123Door seal. Full-size trucks. Fits cab doors either side. 160 in. L. Replaces OEM# 55023781. Each.

1987 Dodge D350 Lockstrip Seal, 54-93 Mopar Full Size Truck, Van & SUV, Chromed Plastic Type-LS 2-VLockstrip Seal, 54-93 Mopar Full Size Truck, Van & SUV, Chromed Plastic Type, Each. Works with Metro p/n VWS 2706.

1987 Dodge D350 Chrome Windshield Lockstrip-LS 3-CThis chrome lockstrip insert's into the weatherstrip to lock in the glass. Includes center cover clip. It's sold as a single piece to do one application.

1987 Dodge D350 Windshield Seal, 72-93 Dodge Full Size Truck, 74-93 Mopar SUV, With Trim Groove-VWS 2720-BThis seal installs first on the body then the glass is placed in the opening. A separate lockstrip (Not Included) inserts into the rubber and secures the glass in place. The part numbers for Lockstrip are Chrome LS 3-C and Black LS 2-A. This product is made from the original specs and with high quality ozone resistant EPDM rubber for a great fit and long life. This item is designed to be installed during glass replacement.