The 1987 Dodge RAM 50 Pickup with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine is a compact utility vehicle that requires precise lubrication to ensure longevity and reliable performance. Proper fluids reduce friction, manage heat, and protect critical internal components from wear, corrosion, and deposits that accumulate over time. Selecting the correct viscosity and meeting the original equipment specifications are essential for maintaining the engine’s seal, preventing oil leaks, and maximizing fuel efficiency in this classic truck.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides superior protection against horsepower loss and wear with extended drain intervals of up to 25,000 miles or one year, ensuring the 2.0L engine runs smoothly under all temperature conditions.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine interior free of deposits and protects against low-speed pre-ignition for up to 20,000 miles between changes.
- AMSOIL OE 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective option that fights sludge and deposits while providing full synthetic protection for older engines requiring specific OEM standards.
- AMSOIL 10W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated with boosted detergents and anti-wear additives for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and help prevent leaks in aging engines.
- WIX Oil Filter – Features premium filtration media that improves upon original equipment manufacturers’ standards to trap contaminants and protect the 2.0L engine.
Maintaining the cooling system is equally vital for the 1987 Dodge RAM 50. The engine requires a 50/50 mix or concentrated antifreeze to handle the temperature extremes of summer heat and winter cold. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant uses a unique OAT formulation to protect all metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. For those preferring a concentrated option that can be diluted to exact specifications, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers extended service life and superior corrosion control.
Transmission maintenance ensures the powertrain operates smoothly. For the 4-speed automatic transmission, AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero weather. AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid provides excellent cold-weather performance and promotes smooth shifts to prevent shudder. For manual transmissions or transaxles, AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube is designed to protect brass synchronizers and inhibit rust with long service intervals.
The drivetrain and braking systems also require high-performance protection. For the transfer case, front differential, and rear differential, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube controls thermal runaway and protects against wear in limited-slip applications. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 and AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-110 offer advanced protection against extreme pressure and rust. For the braking system, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures stable viscosity over a wide temperature range and excellent responsiveness for ABS systems.
About the Vehicle: 1987 Dodge RAM 50 Pickup
The 1987 Dodge RAM 50 Pickup represents a significant chapter in the history of compact trucks in North America. Produced during a transition period for the brand, this vehicle was part of the “D-50” line that shared its platform and mechanicals with Mitsubishi, specifically the Mitsubishi Forte. This collaboration allowed Dodge to offer a rugged, four-wheel-drive capable compact pickup that competed directly with the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Hardbody. The 1987 model year is often remembered for its straightforward design, utilitarian purpose, and the robust nature of its mechanicals.
The 2.0L four-cylinder engine is a compact, naturally aspirated powerplant designed for fuel efficiency and torque rather than high-speed hauling. It features a single overhead cam (SOHC) configuration, which was standard for engines of this size in the late 1980s. While it does not produce the horsepower of larger V-6 or V-8 trucks, the 2.0L engine is valued for its reliability and ease of maintenance. It pairs with either a 4-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, offering a balance of control for off-road driving and convenience for daily commuting. The vehicle’s compact size and solid build quality make it a favorite among owners who use it for work tasks, light hauling, or as a weekend 4×4 explorer.
Despite its reliability, the 1987 RAM 50 Pickup is not without its common wear points, particularly for a vehicle that is now over three decades old. One frequent issue involves oil consumption and valve stem seals hardening over time. Using a dedicated high-mileage synthetic oil helps rejuvenate these seals and reduce burning oil, extending the engine’s life. Another common problem is the degradation of the cooling system’s rubber hoses and gaskets, which can lead to coolant leaks. The poly-organic acid technology in AMSOIL antifreeze is specifically designed to be compatible with older rubber compounds, preventing cracks and leaks that standard coolants might exacerbate.
Transmission issues, particularly in the automatic variants, can manifest as slipping or delayed engagement as the fluid ages and loses its friction modifiers. Switching to a high-quality synthetic automatic transmission fluid can restore shifting smoothness and protect internal clutch packs from wear. Finally, differential and transfer case gears often develop noise or grinding sensations due to the breakdown of conventional gear lubricants, especially under the strain of four-wheel-drive operation. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR lubricants are formulated to handle these high-pressure environments, reducing noise and preventing premature wear on the limited-slip differentials and transfer cases common to this generation of the RAM 50.
By addressing these specific maintenance needs with premium synthetic lubricants, owners can ensure that their 1987 Dodge RAM 50 Pickup continues to perform as a dependable workhorse for years to come. The combination of AMSOIL motor oils, filters, and specialized fluids provides a complete protection package that meets the demands of both modern synthetic standards and the specific needs of a vintage compact truck.