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How much horsepower does a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 4.7 have?

The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 with the 4.7-liter V8 engine had a horsepower rating of 235 hp. This engine provided ample power and performance for the popular full-size pickup truck.


Detailed Horsepower Specifications


The 4.7-liter Magnum V8 engine found in the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 was rated at 235 horsepower at 4,600 rpm. This engine also produced 295 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm, giving the Ram 1500 strong acceleration and towing capability.


The 4.7-liter V8 was the standard engine on the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500, though a larger 5.7-liter Hemi V8 was also available as an optional upgrade. The 5.7-liter Hemi produced 345 horsepower, providing even more power for those needing greater performance or towing capacity.


Comparing to Other Engines


The 235 horsepower rating of the 4.7-liter V8 in the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 was competitive for the time, though not the most powerful engine in the full-size pickup segment. For comparison, the Ford F-150 with the 4.6-liter V8 engine produced 231 horsepower, while the Chevrolet Silverado with the 4.8-liter V8 had 285 horsepower.


Overall, the 4.7-liter V8 in the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 provided a good balance of power, torque, and fuel efficiency for most light-duty truck buyers at the time. The available 5.7-liter Hemi V8 offered even more performance for those with greater towing or hauling needs.

How much horsepower does a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 4.7 V8 have?


235-horsepower
The Ram 1500 is also available with the 235-horsepower (175 kW) 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 engine. New for 2005 are exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), knock sensors and a turbine damper torque converter for improved fuel efficiency on the 4.7-liter Magnum V-8.



What are the common problems with a 4.7 Dodge engine?


Common problems with the Dodge 4.7L engine include valve seat failure, head gasket failures, and oil sludge buildup, often triggered by the engine overheating. Overheating is a major issue that can lead to catastrophic damage, so maintaining the cooling system is critical. Other problems include external oil leaks, a poorly functioning hydraulic cooling fan, and issues with hydraulic valve lash adjusters.
 
This video explains the common problems with the 4.7L Dodge engine and their potential causes: 59sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Nov 3, 2024
Overheating and associated issues 

  • Valve seat failure: The valve seats can fail and come out, causing a loss of power, misfires, and potential damage that requires a cylinder head rebuild or replacement. 
  • Head gasket failure: The engine is prone to head gasket issues, especially if it overheats. 
  • Clogged radiator, failed water pump, or stuck thermostat: These can cause the engine to overheat if the cooling system is not maintained. 

This video discusses the 4.7L V8 PowerTech engine, its reliability, and the issue of overheating causing head gasket failure: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Oct 3, 2024
Lubrication and internal engine problems 
  • Oil sludge buildup: Sludge can form due to incomplete combustion and oil breakdown, clogging oil passages and starving the engine of oil. This is particularly common in early models and can be exacerbated by a poor PCV system. 
  • Hydraulic valve lash adjuster problems: The adjusters can become plugged due to lack of oil flow, leading to improper valve train function. 
  • Oil leaks: Common leak points include the valve covers, oil pan, and rear main seal. 

Other common problems
  • Hydraulic cooling fan: The hydraulic fan system, powered by the power steering pump, can be unreliable. If the pump fails, the fan will not run, leading to overheating. Incorrect power steering fluid can also cause the fan to malfunction. 
  • Carbon buildup: Excessive carbon can build up on the intake, valves, and pistons if the engine is not regularly serviced or is run on low-quality fuel. 
  • Wear and tear: Like any engine, many problems are age-related, such as failing valve cover gaskets and other rubber components degrading over time. 

This video explains how to keep the 4.7L Jeep/Dodge engine running well and discusses the fatal flaws, including the hydraulic cooling fan: 50sD&E In The GarageYouTube · Jun 29, 2020



Is a Dodge 4.7 a good engine?


The 4.7L Dodge engine is considered a good, reliable engine, but its longevity depends heavily on maintenance, especially regarding the cooling system and oil changes. While it can last for 200,000 miles or more with proper care, it's prone to issues like valve seat failure and head gasket failure, which are often triggered by overheating.
 
This video discusses common problems with the Dodge 4.7L Power Tech V8 engine: 58s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Oct 3, 2024
Strengths

  • Durability: With proper maintenance, the 4.7L engine is durable and can last for a very long time, with many owners reporting over 200,000 miles. 
  • Reliability: It's considered a reliable powertrain, especially when compared to some other options, and is known to handle daily driving well. 

Weaknesses
  • Cooling System Sensitivity: The engine is particularly sensitive to overheating, which can lead to serious damage like head gasket and valve seat failure. 
  • Timing Chain Issues: Some versions of the engine are prone to timing chain problems, which are often related to sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected. 
  • Performance: Compared to the 5.7L Hemi, it has less horsepower and torque, making it less ideal for heavy towing or high-performance driving. 

How to maintain it
  • Regular oil changes: Keep up with regular oil changes using a quality synthetic oil to prevent sludge buildup. 
  • Monitor engine temperature: Be vigilant about the engine temperature, especially during heavy use like towing. Consider upgrading the radiator if you tow frequently. 
  • Service regularly: Address other common issues like timing chain tensioner failures and keep up with other fluid changes to ensure the engine runs at its best for longer. 

This video reviews the Dodge 4.7L Magnum V8 engine: 1mGrumpy Monkey GarageYouTube · Feb 25, 2023



How much HP does a 4.7 V8 have?


A 4.7L V8 engine's horsepower varies, but it generally ranges from about 235 to 310 horsepower depending on the specific model year and application. Early versions of the Chrysler PowerTech 4.7L V8 produced around 235 hp, while later versions with "High Output" (HO) upgrades or redesigns, such as those found in the 2008 Dodge Ram, saw horsepower increase to 265-310 hp.
 

  • Standard 4.7L V8: Approximately 235–245 hp.
  • High Output (HO) 4.7L V8: Up to 265 hp.
  • Next Generation (2008-2013) 4.7L V8: Up to 310 hp.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.