Swapping my 1996 RAM 3500 4x4, 135" WB rotted frame for a southern rust free.? Can anyone tell me what years Are a direct fit? Hollander shows only shows me that 1996 fits!!! What is the difference of the other years?

 

I would bet you that any differences are minor. Chevy did the same thing on their B-Bodys, from 1977 to 1996 any body will bolt to any frame, but the locations of factory line holes, hold downs, etc changed, so they aren't technically the same, and have a different part number.

I wouldn't be scared to grab any 3/4 or 1 ton frame from say 96 up to 02. The only reason I would shy away form the earlier ones is Dodge had a problem and all the early ones has a recall to the front spring mounts, no sense in using one of those unless you just can't find a later model.

 

^ What he said about 94-02.

I have a few 94-95 frames. One of them (the 3500) has extra reinforcement under the coil pockets. Probably original judging from rust. I've heard these plates could be bought from Dodge and added later.

IMO, there's nothing holy or pristine about the 2ndgen frames. They're welded and rivetted from a multitude of pieces in the first place. It wouldn't bother me one bit to cut/paste/reinforce as needed.

The cab & chassis frame is supposed to be beefier. Wheelbase and mounting a pickup box could be tricky though.

 

They are not the same 94 to 02, in the engine mount and front crossmember area. A 1997 model has engine mounts different from a 1998 model. You can swap mounts and use the early or late interchangeably but the frames are not the same in that specific area. There are some other minor changes as they progressed in years but that's the most significant change that makes them not a direct swap.

 

The location of the rear 4 link mounts that are welded to the frame also had a change in the 1998 model.

 

So 94-97 are my best option? Thanks for the replies. ..