How much horsepower does a 1992 Dodge Ram 250 have?
The horsepower of a 1992 Dodge Ram 250 varies by engine and configuration. Gasoline-powered Ram 250s ranged roughly from 170–210 horsepower for the 5.2-liter V8 and about 230–245 horsepower for the 5.9-liter V8, while a turbo-diesel option (the 6BT 5.9L) produced roughly 160 horsepower. These figures reflect typical ratings from that year’s brochures and manuals, with slight variation by emissions equipment and drivetrain.
Engine options and their power outputs
The Ram 250 lineup in 1992 offered several powertrains to suit different needs, from daily driving to heavier towing. The following options illustrate the range of horsepower customers could expect that model year.
- 5.2L V8 (318 cubic inches) — approximately 170–210 horsepower
- 5.9L V8 (360 cubic inches) — approximately 230–245 horsepower
- Diesel option: 6BT 5.9L turbo-diesel — approximately 160 horsepower
In practice, the exact horsepower depended on factors such as emissions equipment, carburetion vs. fuel injection, and transmission pairing. Buyers choosing the gasoline V8s usually prioritized higher peak power, while the diesel offered torque for towing and hauling.
Diesel option specifics
The diesel variant used in some 1992 Ram 250 models was the Cummins 6BT 5.9L turbocharged inline-six. It delivered lower peak horsepower than the gasoline V8s but provided substantially higher low-end torque, a common trade-off for diesel-powered pickups intended for workhorse duties.
Performance implications and real-world use
Horsepower is only one part of how a truck performs. The Ram 250’s curb weight, axle ratio, transmission, and gearing all influenced acceleration, towing capability, and fuel economy. For example, the diesel option’s torque often translated to better towing performance, especially at lower speeds, even if its horsepower rating was lower than the gasoline V8s.
Summary
For the 1992 Dodge Ram 250, horsepower varied by engine: about 170–210 hp from the 5.2L V8, roughly 230–245 hp from the 5.9L V8, and around 160 hp from the Cummins 6BT 5.9L turbo-diesel. Choosing between them depended on whether the priority was peak power and street performance or torque and workload capability.
What year to stay away from Ram 2500?
The 2013 model year is often cited as a year to avoid due to a severe "death wobble" issue, while other years with significant problems include the 2012-2016 and 2018 models, which have been linked to various issues like brake and steering system failures. Additionally, the 2014-2018 models with the 6.4L HEMI engine can be problematic due to transmission issues.
Specific years to approach with caution
- 2013: Frequently mentioned as one of the worst years due to a severe and expensive-to-fix "death wobble" steering issue that occurs after about 30,000 miles.
- 2012-2016: This range is frequently listed as problematic, with common complaints including steering system failures, brake system failures, turbocharger breakdowns, and transmission defects.
- 2014-2018 (6.4L HEMI): These years are associated with the 66RF transmission, which was prone to overheating, shifting problems, and valve body/solenoid failures.
- 2018: This year is noted for a high number of complaints, particularly regarding the braking system.
- 2019-2022 (Cummins): There have been numerous recalls and issues reported with the Cummins engines from these years, including fire risks related to the intake heater grid relay and other electrical issues.
Other models with reported issues
- Some 2020-2023 models have also experienced widespread transmission issues, notes CarParts.com.
- Recent models like the 2022 and 2023 have also had multiple recalls, though they may be less severe than the issues in older years, including problems with the in-car electronics, water leaks, and emission control devices, reports Consumer Reports.
Is a Dodge D250 a 3/4 ton truck?
1989 1st Gen Dodge D250 3/4-Ton Pickup Truck, Ex- USAF Air Force, Runs Good, V8.
Is the 1992 Dodge D250 reliable?
The 1992 Dodge D250 has an average reliability rating of 5.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers.
What engine is in a 1992 Dodge D250?
1992 Dodge D250 Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 2 D250 Club Cab Long Bed | Save 2 of 2 D250 Regular Cab Long Bed |
|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine | |
| 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel |
