The 2014 Ram 1500 pickup can be equipped with a new, 3.0L EcoDiesel engine mated to the 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission. The new, 3.0L 24-valve, dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) EcoDiesel is a turbocharged 60-degree V-6. It generates 240 hp at 3,600 rpm and produces 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,000 rpm.

The EcoDiesel V-6 incorporates Fiat’s MultiJet II common-rail fuel-injection system, which features 29,000 psi of line pressure. High-dispersion nozzles and a new servo valve enable fuel-injection events, which occur with greater precision up to eight times per cylinder cycle. This ensures efficiency via clean, smooth combustion.

The EcoDiesel’s 60-degree cylinder-bank angle and 1-2-3-4-5-6 firing order are optimized to manage inertia and firing loads, eliminating the need for a balance shaft. The engine’s aluminum cylinder heads are heat-treated and feature individual bearing caps that help reduce friction and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).

The system also incorporates a new “pre-filter” on the transmission cross-rail and an engine fuel filter. The result is enhanced prevention of injector corrosion, an enabler of long-term durability, as well as protection from the vagaries of regional fuel quality.

The standard engine oil cooler, when the EcoDiesel is used with 5W30 synthetic oil, contributes to a 10,000-mile oil change interval.

The new turbo-diesel is designed and produced by VM Motori, a Chrysler Group diesel engine supplier since 1992.

Putting the ‘Eco’ in EcoDiesel

The new EcoDiesel V-6 achieves 50-state emissions compliance for both tier II and BIN 5. A key enabler is the engine’s cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, which is controlled by electric valves instead of the conventional pneumatic variety. The system also contributes to rapid start-up. The new EcoDiesel is also compatible with B-20 biodiesel.

The new 3.0L V-6 EcoDiesel is among today’s most advanced diesel engines. Its emissions are 60-percent less than those produced by diesel powertrains 25 years ago.

A state-of-the-art selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system also reduces emissions. It incorporates a unique diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system that alerts the driver to low DEF levels, while also allowing the engine to maintain full power.

The Ram 1500 includes an insulated DEF tank with heated lines to mitigate the effects of cold-weather operation. It also features a passive cooling system that does not require engine coolant for the DEF injector. The DEF tank holds eight gallons of fluid. Duty cycle determines refills, but the average interval is about 10,000 miles.