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How much horsepower does a 2005 F-550 have?

The 2005 Ford F-550 offered two distinct engine choices, with horsepower figures that varied by configuration: the diesel option produced about 325 horsepower, while the gasoline option produced about 362 horsepower.


Engine options in the 2005 F-550


The F-550 chassis cab was built for heavy-duty performance, and buyers could choose between a diesel and a gasoline powertrain. Each option carried a different horsepower rating that reflected its design goals—strong torque for towing and payload with the diesel, and higher peak horsepower for certain applications with the gasoline engine.


Diesel option: 6.0L Power Stroke V8 turbodiesel


Before listing the specific figures, it helps to understand the diesel option’s intent: robust low-end torque to move heavy loads and maintain performance under load.



  • Horsepower: 325 hp

  • Torque: ~570 lb-ft


The 6.0L Power Stroke was a common choice for fleets needing sustained pulling power and durability under worksite conditions. Actual output can vary with exhaust configurations, tune, and vehicle use.


Gasoline option: 6.8L V10 Triton


The gasoline alternative aimed to deliver higher peak power for applications where quick throttle response and higher horsepower at higher rpm were desirable.



  • Horsepower: 362 hp

  • Torque: ~457 lb-ft


Gasoline-fed V10 configurations often provide different driving characteristics, with higher horsepower at the top end but different low-end torque profiles compared with the diesel option.


How the numbers translate in practice


In real-world use, the horsepower figure is only part of the story. The F-550’s torque, gearing, axle ratio, and upfits dramatically influence performance in towing, payload, and on-grade climbs. The diesel option’s torque typically provides stronger pulling power at lower speeds, while the gasoline option can offer higher peak power for acceleration in certain load scenarios.


Summary


For the 2005 Ford F-550, horsepower depended on engine choice: the diesel 6.0L Power Stroke delivered about 325 horsepower, and the gasoline 6.8L V10 delivered about 362 horsepower. Prospective buyers or fleet managers should check the specific build sheet or VIN to confirm the exact rating for a given vehicle, as optional upfits and regional variations could cause minor differences.

What motor is in a 2005 Ford F550?


6.0L OHV Diesel V8
6.0L OHV Diesel V8. Engine Modules and Sensors. 6.0L OHV Diesel V8. All 450/550 Series.



Is the 2005 6.0 Power Stroke a good engine?


No, the 2005 6.0 Powerstroke is generally not considered a good engine without extensive upgrades, as it has a history of serious and expensive problems like head gasket failures, oil and EGR cooler failures, and injector issues. While some later 2005 models saw improvements over earlier years, it is widely regarded as unreliable in its stock form and requires a significant investment in modifications to become a durable engine.
 
Common problems with the stock 6.0 Powerstroke

  • Head Gasket Failure: This is a very common and expensive issue. It is often caused by the engine oil and EGR coolers failing, which leads to overheating and the head bolts stretching. 
  • Oil and EGR Cooler Issues: The oil cooler has tiny passages that can get clogged with debris, and the EGR cooler is prone to cracking and failure. 
  • Injector and Fuel System Problems: The fuel injection system is sensitive to debris and can be damaged by a lack of oil changes. Issues with the fuel injection control module (FICM) are also common. 
  • Turbocharger Problems: The variable-geometry turbocharger can fail due to issues with soot, oil coking, or the oil drain tube design. 
  • High-Pressure Oil Pump Failure: The high-pressure oil pump can fail due to a variety of issues, leading to a loss of oil pressure. 

What makes it a better engine (The "bulletproof" upgrade)
  • "Bulletproofing": The term for addressing all of the common failure points is "bulletproofing" the engine. 
  • Upgraded components: This typically involves replacing the stock oil cooler, EGR cooler, and head gaskets, often with stronger studs, and sometimes deleting the EGR system entirely. 
  • Long-term reliability: When properly upgraded and maintained, a 6.0 Powerstroke can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. 

Final considerations
  • "If you know what to look for, it's a good truck": Many owners believe the 6.0 can be a good engine if you buy a truck with a history of thorough maintenance and/or recent bulletproofing. 
  • High cost of repairs: The stock engine is known for needing expensive repairs. Even if you find one that seems fine, it's likely to have problems down the line unless it's already been upgraded. 
  • Reputation: The engine has a poor reputation, so be prepared for skepticism when you buy it. 



How much horsepower does a 2005 6.0 Power Stroke have?


A 2005 6.0L Powerstroke engine produces 325 horsepower at 3,300 RPM and 570 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 RPM. This is consistent with other models from 2005-2007, which saw a slight torque increase compared to the earlier 2003-2004 versions.
 
This video explains the specifications and history of the 6.0L Powerstroke engine: 52sDirty Diesel CustomsYouTube · Aug 12, 2021

  • Horsepower: 325 hp325 hp325 hp at 3,300 RPM3 comma 300 RPM3,300 RPM
  • Torque: 570 lb-ft570 lb-ft570 lb-ft at 2,000 RPM2 comma 000 RPM2,000 RPM 



How much can a 2005 Ford f550 tow?


The 2005 Ford F-550 towing capacity varies by configuration, with a maximum conventional trailer capacity of up to 16,000 pounds and a fifth-wheel towing capacity of up to 24,800 pounds. These figures assume the truck is properly equipped. 

  • Conventional towing: Up to 16,000 lbs 
  • Fifth-wheel towing: Up to 24,800 lbs 
  • Important note: The exact capacity depends on the specific configuration, and it is crucial to consult the vehicle's documentation or a Ford dealer for the exact figures of a particular truck. 


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.