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Dodge Diplomat

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Dodge Diplomat: A Comprehensive Guide

The Dodge Diplomat, produced from 1977 to 1989, holds a unique place in automotive history. More than just a car, it was an icon of American law enforcement, a reliable family sedan, and a testament to Chrysler's resilient M-body platform. Positioned as a mid-size car, the Diplomat bridged the gap between compacts and larger full-size models, offering a blend of comfort, practicality, and traditional rear-wheel-drive performance.

Generations of the Dodge Diplomat

  • First Generation (1977-1979): This initial run established the Diplomat as a direct competitor to other mid-size offerings like the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fairmont. Key features included its clean, squared-off styling, a comfortable interior, and a range of engine options primarily focused on fuel economy in the face of rising gas prices. Body styles included a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, and a station wagon.
    • Key Changes: Gradual refinements to trim and available options. Minor cosmetic updates year to year.
  • Second Generation (1980-1989): While visually similar to the first generation, the second generation saw a shift towards more fuel-efficient engine choices and a stronger emphasis on its role as a fleet vehicle, particularly with law enforcement agencies. The coupe and wagon body styles were dropped after 1981, leaving the sedan as the sole option.
    • Key Changes: Engine options shifted towards more efficient options, especially the slant-six and small-block V8s with lean burn systems. Increased focus on fleet sales and police packages. Styling remained largely unchanged throughout the 1980s.

Reliability & Common Issues

The Dodge Diplomat, built on the M-body platform, is known for its generally robust mechanicals. However, like any vehicle of its age, potential buyers should be aware of common issues:

Engine

  • Slant-Six (225 Cubic Inch): A legendary engine for its durability. Problems are rare but can include carburetor issues (if equipped), oil leaks (particularly around the valve cover and rear main seal), and occasional overheating.
  • Small-Block V8 (318 Cubic Inch): Another reliable engine. Potential issues include carburetor problems (if equipped), exhaust manifold leaks, and general wear and tear associated with age. Look for proper maintenance records.
  • Lean Burn System: Models equipped with the Chrysler Lean Burn system (primarily early 1980s) can be problematic. The electronic control unit (ECU) is known to fail, leading to poor performance and difficulty starting. Conversion to a more conventional ignition system is a common solution.

Transmission

  • TorqueFlite Automatic Transmissions (A904, A998, A999): Generally durable, but require regular fluid changes to prevent slippage and failure. Check for smooth shifting and any unusual noises.

Suspension & Brakes

  • Front Suspension: Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings are common wear items. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps.
  • Rear Suspension: Leaf springs can sag over time, leading to a less comfortable ride. Shocks and bushings should also be inspected.
  • Brakes: Inspect brake lines for rust and leaks. Check brake pads and rotors for wear. Power brake boosters can fail over time.

Body & Interior

  • Rust: A major concern, especially in areas where salt is used on roads. Check the lower body panels, frame rails, and trunk floor for rust.
  • Interior: Seat upholstery can crack and tear with age. Check the condition of the dashboard and door panels. The headliner may sag.
  • Electrical: Wiring can become brittle over time, leading to electrical issues. Check the operation of all lights, wipers, and accessories.

Driving Experience

Driving a Dodge Diplomat is like stepping back in time. It offers a comfortable, relaxed ride, especially on the highway. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it's not a sports car by any means. The steering is often vague by modern standards, and the body can lean noticeably in corners. However, the Diplomat's strengths lie in its simplicity, reliability, and spacious interior.

Pros:

  • Comfortable ride
  • Spacious interior
  • Relatively simple mechanics, making repairs easier
  • Classic styling
  • Affordable (compared to many other classic cars)

Cons:

  • Mediocre fuel economy (especially with V8 engines)
  • Vague steering and handling
  • Rust potential
  • Older models can be challenging to find parts for
  • Lean Burn system issues (early 1980s models)

Buying Advice

If you're considering buying a Dodge Diplomat, here's some advice:

Years to Look For:

  • Late 1970s Models (1977-1979): These offer a more diverse range of body styles, including the coupe and wagon. They also generally have fewer electronic complications compared to early 1980s models.
  • Mid to Late 1980s Models (1985-1989): These benefit from refinements made over the years, and are often found in better condition due to being newer. Look for models with well-documented maintenance records.

Years to Avoid:

  • Early 1980s Models with Lean Burn: Unless you're comfortable dealing with or converting the Lean Burn system, it's best to avoid these models.

What to Inspect:

  • Rust: Pay close attention to rust, as it can be expensive to repair.
  • Engine & Transmission: Check for leaks, unusual noises, and smooth operation.
  • Suspension & Brakes: Look for wear and tear, and listen for clunking noises.
  • Interior: Assess the condition of the upholstery, dashboard, and headliner.
  • Documentation: Look for maintenance records to get an idea of how well the car has been cared for.

Ultimately, buying a Dodge Diplomat is about embracing a piece of automotive history. With careful inspection and maintenance, it can be a reliable and enjoyable classic car to own.

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