RestoMods is giving YOU a chance at owning this 1975 Dodge RamCharger that we’re restoring all in-house. How can you enter? Subscribe publicly to the RestoMods Youtube Channel by September 1,  2025 and you are entered. As you know, our team loves tackling classic cars restorations, but this RamCharger is something truly unique. Its rugged past has left plenty of character marks, and we can’t wait to bring it back to life with the full RestoMods treatment, turning it into a functional powerhouse you’d be thrilled to own.

Before The Restoration:

When we first got our hands on this ’75 RamCharger, it had all the grit you’d expect from a heavy duty truck. The original, numbers-matching big block 440ci engine and all-wheel drive made it clear this was no ordinary SUV. This was a driver’s truck, with a few well-earned dings and scratches to show for it. It even had an air conditioning system—rare for a vehicle of its time.

Based on what we could see, we think this truck started its life as a forestry service vehicle. Its original paint, a muted mint green underneath the layers, suggested it spent a lot of time out in the wilderness. When we first bought it about two years ago, it was running and driving strong. So, naturally, we had to take it out for some fun. The RestoMods team took this RamCharger out on the trails, hit a dirt road, and tested its off-road capabilities. Despite its age, it handled it all like a pro. That was when we knew we had to give it the RestoMods treatment to take this vintage ride to the next level.

The Tear-Down Process:

With a project this ambitious, we needed to start from the ground up. First on the list was a full pressure wash, which revealed years of grime and a few surprises. We uncovered a wasp hive, cleared out layers of dirt, and discovered that the floor needed significant work.

As we disassembled it, we were pleased to find that the frame was in better shape than expected. The factory undercoating had done its job, though it meant we had plenty of scraping and cleaning to do to get down to the raw material. Every inch of the body came off as we got deeper into the restoration. It was clear this RamCharger had seen its fair share of off-road adventures, but we were thrilled to see it had held up well through the years.

Restoring the Frame and Body:

With the RamCharger completely stripped down, it was time to focus on the frame. We sandblasted and powder-coated it to ensure a rock-solid foundation for everything to come. Next up, we picked out new leaf springs and axles that will make this truck even better equipped for off-road performance.

For the body, we opted for a glossy black paint job that will give it a sleek yet rugged look. We also applied a bed liner to prevent rock chips, making sure this RamCharger can handle whatever the trail throws at it. There was no cutting corners with bodywork, either—we dedicated countless hours to smoothing out the surface, aligning panels, and ensuring every detail was just right.

Rebuilding the Engine: New Life for the Big Block 440ci

The heart of this RamCharger, its original numbers-matching 440ci big block engine, was in need of some love. We brought in Cogswell Motorsports to handle the rebuild, and they took us through every detail of the process. The engine was definitely showing its age; the timing chain was loose, and we noticed the stock rods and cast crank would need replacing for performance and reliability. Cogswell went through the whole engine, pulling the cylinder heads, lifters, push rods, and inspecting every component for wear.

After a complete assessment, we added a Speed Master top-end kit, which includes a bigger cam, aluminum heads, and a high-rise intake. We’re aiming to boost this engine’s horsepower to somewhere between 460 and 500, so it’s got all the power you’d expect from a RestoMods build. We upgraded the front accessory drive with a CVF setup, added a fresh radiator, and fully rebuilt the transmission and transfer case, transforming the drivetrain from all-wheel drive to selectable four-wheel drive. This will give the future owner and Youtube giveaway winner more control, whether they’re cruising down the highway or taking it off the beaten path.

Exterior Upgrades and Finishes:

As we work through this restoration, we’re making sure to preserve the RamChargers rugged personality while adding new touches. We sourced new fenders and restored and painted the original grille, so it keeps its vintage look but with a polished finish. The bed liner application ensures the body can handle rough conditions, while other protective finishes, like Dynamat for soundproofing, bring in modern comfort without compromising its classic feel.

Interior: Blending Comfort with Character

The interior is where this RamCharger will really come to life. We’re upgrading it with a retrofitted B-body wiring harness to support new electronics, and the front seats are being customized with a Mexican blanket insert down the middle. The dashboard will get updated with new gauges, and we’re adding air conditioning and a center console cooler to make it comfortable on even the hottest days. 

The Dynamat insulation throughout the cabin will help with noise reduction, creating a smoother ride experience without taking away from its character. These additions make sure it’s just as enjoyable on the highway as it is off-road, combining vintage charm with modern conveniences.

Bringing It All Together: The Final Touches

We’re in the final stages now, focusing on wiring and piecing together the last of the interior. The RamCharger is close to being ready for the road, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting build. This 1975 RamCharger started as a worn-out driver’s truck with a deep rooted history, and now it’s transformed into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that any classic car enthusiast would love.

We’re excited to give this truck away and make someone the proud owner of a truly unique RestoMods creation. With its upgraded engine, beautifully restored body, and carefully crafted interior, this RamCharger is ready for both daily drives and off-road adventures. Make sure to follow along on our YouTube channel to see the final stages and enter for your chance to win this incredible truck. SUBSCRIBE AT: https://www.youtube.com/restomods.