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What motor is the 5.9 Magnum?

The 5.9 Magnum is a robust and reliable diesel engine that has been widely used in various vehicles, particularly in the heavy-duty truck and commercial vehicle market. This engine, known for its impressive power and durability, has become a staple in the automotive industry.


What is the 5.9 Magnum?


The 5.9 Magnum is a 5.9-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine that was produced by Cummins, a leading manufacturer of diesel engines. This engine was primarily used in Dodge/Ram trucks, as well as in some commercial and industrial applications. The 5.9 Magnum was known for its exceptional towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and long-lasting performance.


Key Features of the 5.9 Magnum



  • Displacement: 5.9 liters (359 cubic inches)

  • Configuration: Inline six-cylinder

  • Aspiration: Turbocharged and intercooled

  • Horsepower: Ranging from 160 to 325 hp, depending on the model year and application

  • Torque: Ranging from 400 to 610 lb-ft, again depending on the model year and application

  • Fuel Injection: Direct injection

  • Cooling System: Liquid-cooled


The 5.9 Magnum was known for its robust construction, with a cast-iron block and head, as well as a forged steel crankshaft. This design contributed to the engine's exceptional durability and long service life, making it a popular choice for heavy-duty applications.


Applications of the 5.9 Magnum


The 5.9 Magnum engine was primarily used in the following vehicles and applications:



  • Dodge/Ram Trucks: The 5.9 Magnum was the standard diesel engine option in Dodge/Ram heavy-duty trucks, such as the Ram 2500 and 3500, from 1989 to 2007.

  • Commercial Vehicles: The 5.9 Magnum was also used in various commercial and industrial applications, including school buses, delivery vans, and construction equipment.

  • Agricultural Equipment: The engine's power and reliability made it a popular choice for agricultural machinery, such as tractors and harvesters.


The 5.9 Magnum's reputation for durability and performance has made it a sought-after engine, even long after its production ended. Many enthusiasts and owners of older Dodge/Ram trucks continue to maintain and upgrade their 5.9 Magnum engines, ensuring that this iconic diesel powerplant remains a staple in the automotive world.

Is a 5.9 Magnum a hemi engine?


That the Dodge 5.9 Magnum is not a HEMI only matters depending on your goals. The 5.9 Magnum is not as powerful or efficient as the third-gen HEMI engine (although the difference in fuel economy was negligible back in 2003).



Is the 5.9 V8 Magnum a good engine?


The 5.9 is a very dependable engine. It's biggest complaint is fuel economy and the second biggest is that it rated at a lower horsepower than Chevy 5.3 or Ford 5.4.



How much HP can you get out of a 5.9 Magnum?


The Engine
Magnum 5.9 engines commonly carried a rating of 245 horsepower, with the tiny factory hydraulic roller camshafts delivering a hair over . 400-inch lift.



What makes a Dodge engine a Magnum?


The most significant changes that defined the Magnum was a new top-end package. Magnum heads featured larger valves with smaller stems, revised ports, and a new valvetrain style.



Is a V8 Magnum a hemi?


No. The “Magnum” series of engines were redesigned LA-series engines in 318 and 360 cubic inch sizes. They were a substantial improvement over the previous Chrysler small-block V8, but share almost no parts with the earlier engines.



What year did Dodge stop making the 5.9 Magnum engine?


2003
The revision extended the service of the traditional Mopar small-block another 12 years, finally ending production with the 2003 model year. The 5.9 was strictly a truck engine, powering the likes of Durangos, Dakotas, Rams, vans, and Jeeps.



When did Dodge discontinue the 5.9 Magnum?


2003
The 5.9 L Magnum was available until the 2003 model year, when it was replaced with the 5.7 L Hemi V8 engine.



What is a 5.9 Magnum engine?


Magnum 5.9 L V8
This was based on the LA-series 360 cu in (5.9 L) engine, and included the same upgrades and design features as the 5.2 L. The standard 5.9 L produced 230 hp (172 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 325 lb⋅ft (441 N⋅m) at 3,200 rpm; torque was increased to 330 lb⋅ft (447 N⋅m) at 2,800 rpm in the heavy-duty version.



Is the 5.9 L Cummins?


5.9 L. The 5.9 L Cummins, also known as the "12-Valve" Cummins was the first member of the Cummins B-Series to be used in a light truck vehicle. The 6BT used Bosch fuel systems, injector, and VE rotary pump and P7100 inline injection pumps.



How much HP does a stock 5.9 Magnum have?


The 360ci (5.9L) Magnum had a rated output between 230 and 250 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.