The Dodge 4.7 engine problems are not new to the Dodge Ram owners. Dodge’s 4.7-liter PowerTech V-8 engine has received mixed reviews since its debut in 1999.
However, the majority of its quality faults stem from a lack of periodic maintenance, which is fatal to any engine.
The 4.7-liter V-8 engine is smaller and more powerful than its predecessor, the 5.2-liter engine.
The Dodge 4.7 engine, sometimes referred to as the PowerTech engine (Chrysler), is a robust and durable engine. It is prone to the same engine troubles as any other vehicle.
Dodge engine problems are most often traced back to poor maintenance in the past, according to research.
In this post, we will examine the numerous Dodge 4.7 engine problems and their solutions.
Most Common 05 Dodge 4.7 Engine Problems
Let’s take a few problems that a Dodge 4.7 engine usually encounters:
01. Failure of the engine
Most drivers have a problem with this. One can expect the engine to last a long time if they take good care of it and never skip a maintenance day.
Dodge’s 4.7-liter V8 has an average life expectancy of around 100,000 kilometers.
When one reaches a mileage of 70,000 miles or more, they’re more likely to experience engine failures. Are there any ways around it?
To cut costs, some mechanics advice swapping out various motor components (a brand-new engine will cost a lot).
However, if the unit is quite old, the best thing to do is to get rid of it and buy something new. An aftermarket engine won’t break the bank if one has an older Dodge vehicle or SUV.
02. Buildup of lubricating oil
It’s also known as oil sludge and occurs when the engine’s oil becomes too thick, preventing it from giving its best performance.
Everything in the engine area gets clogged up as the oil gets thicker. If the problem is severe enough, the vehicle will not start at all.
Checking the oil is the best way to avoid engine and transmission failure.
And don’t skimp on quality. Go with a well-known brand of oil. Synthetic would be ideal. The oil change isn’t the ideal solution always under such circumstances.
Ventilation may need to be addressed. A crankcase and the PCV are obviously what we are talking about here. Let a mechanic do it for you if you’re not up to the challenge.
03. Foam of oil
When one witnesses oil froth, they should immediately understand that something’s wrong with their vehicle.
The oil will have a lot of froth in it, but it won’t be on top of it; rather, it will be toward the bottom. So, what does this exactly sum up to?
A lot of air is mixed up with the oil, which is not good. The engine’s biggest enemy is air. By the way, the bubbles of air may be extremely small.
Another factor is the high level of humidity in the air. Before one starts the automobile, make sure the engine has warmed up a bit.
However, most of the damage is being caused by the air, so let’s see what we can do about it.
As previously stated, using high-quality oil can resolve a wide range of engine issues. It’s possible that the vacuum seal or the housing is damaged if the air bubbles aren’t dissipating.
Check out the nearest auto shop if that’s what you’re dealing with.
04. Overheating
This following problem is extremely prevalent in humid climates. They also complain about overheating, because they are continually pushing the powerplant to its limits.
The most common reason for a hot engine is poor air filtering. Because it isn’t ideal, the manufacturing system gets a C-minus rating. The ideal option is getting an aftermarket air intake kit.
Additionally, the built-in filter will keep debris and dust out of the engine’s path, extending its lifespan.
To save money, coolant can be used. Regular maintenance is critical, so be sure to do it.
Gauges will be the first to alert if something is amiss, so keep an eye out for them. Another telltale symptom is if the engine starts to sound “rumbly.”
05. Ticking sound
Have you ever had to put up with an annoying engine ticking noise? As one might imagine, this is a hard one, as it can suggest either a minor issue or a major one.
The first step under such circumstances should always be a proper diagnosis. This is most likely due to a lack of lubrication in the engine, which may be remedied by adding oil.
It’s possible that running the engine for a few seconds and warming it up will fix the problem.
Solutions For The Dodge 4.7 Engine Problems
Now that we have determined the possible Dodge 4.7 engine problems, here are the solutions that can fix those problems:
- Engine failure problem: If there are some minor problems in the engine where replacing a few parts would do, then one can be saved from a lot of expenses related to the engine replacement.
However, if the engine is quite old and has worn out, then there is no option but to replace it.
- Lubricating oil build-up: In such a case, getting an oil change is a possible solution. One should certainly check the quality of oil first before doing a change.
This though isn’t the only solution. A chemical engine sludge remover is also one of the most straightforward options.
However, they are the quickest and most effective technique to remove engine sludge.
In most cases, they are added to the engine’s old oil, then the engine is idled for five to ten minutes before it is started again.
As the chemical solution dissolves the sludge and draws it back into the oil, this provides it time to do so.
To eliminate the engine sludge, one should simply change the oil and the old oil. Follow the application’s specific recommendations if you’re using something else.
- Oil foam: This is a problem that’s caused by air bubbles within the engine. Many engine problems can be resolved by utilizing high-quality oil, as previously mentioned.
If air bubbles aren’t dissipating, the vacuum seal or housing may be damaged. If you’re facing problems with the car, take it to the local auto shop.
- Overheating: To get rid of overheating problems, using high-quality is one of the most suitable options. Such an issue can be eliminated with regular maintenance.
As a result, truck owners are responsible for performing routine maintenance on their vehicles.
- Ticking sound: When there is a lack of lubrication in the engine, this issue might arise. Adding oil properly and running the engine for a few seconds to warm it can solve this issue.
4.7 Dodge Engine Specs
In 2008 and onwards, Dodge’s 4.7-liter engine received an upgrade. The following are the engine’s specifications:
- Specifications of the 1st generation
The engine has a displacement of 4.701 cubic centimeters, which equates to 287 cubic inches. The bore is 3.66 inches in diameter and the stroke is 3.4 inches long, as far as dimensions are concerned.
At a compression ratio of 9.5:1, A 6,000 RPM top speed and 235 horsepower are achieved at 4,600 RPM.
Between 290 and 305 foot-lbs. of torque can be found in different variants of the vehicle. The automobile gets 16 mpg, per the EPA.
Using a single overhead camshaft and two valves per cylinder, the chain-driven engine valve system has 16 valves.
Pivot roller rockers (hydraulic end) are used in the valve system. The system for fuel injection has a multi-port, electronic design.
Its iron block is topped with aluminum alloy, while the heads are made of cast iron. Graphite iron is used to make the bed plate. A total of six quarts of oil can be stored in the vehicle.
- Specifications for the 2nd generation
The new 4.7L bears the initials “H.O.,” which stands for High Output. 265 horsepower and 330 foot-pounds of torque are available in this model.
Corsair” was the final 4.7L, and it was capable of 290 horsepower and 320 foot-pounds of torque when it arrived.
Chrysler did make some changes to the engine performance and specification ratings, but for the most part, they are the same across all three versions.
With the most recent revision, the compression ratio has been raised to 9.8:1, and the intake manifold, cylinder heads, and camshaft pistons have all been modified.
Related camshaft: can low oil cause camshaft position sensor?
Dodge 4.7 engine differences with 5.7 Hemi engine
The decision of which eight-cylinder engine is most suitable for the user’s requirements will depend on a number of important considerations.
Although a Ram with a 4.7-liter engine will normally cost less, the 5.7-liter Hemi engine provides a significant increase in both horsepower and torque over the 4.7-liter engine.
The Hemi engine, with its nearly doubled towing capability compared to that of the 4.7, is the greatest option for individuals who will be undertaking a lot of towing because it is the most versatile engine.
The 5.7 only comes with one transmission choice, which is a 5-speed automatic, but the 4.7 may be purchased with either an automatic or manual transmission.
Both the two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations are standard with both engines.
Dodge 4.7 engine reliability
The 4.7L V8 PowerTech engine has a lengthy lifespan due to its high-quality construction.
There are few electronic systems to fail, a solid cast-iron block and bedplate to support, and a set of trustworthy timing chains.
Rocker arms could kick out of their functioning positions if the hydraulic lash adjusters in the 4.7L PowerTech engine failed only at the beginning.
Maintenance on this engine is all that is required to keep it running for 200,000 miles (300,000 kilometers).
The PowerTech series of engines, however, do not bear poor servicing. Thin oils and frequent oil changes are necessary to keep the engine clean from the inside, which can lead to more significant issues.
Dodge 4.7 engine life expectancy
The performance of your Dodge 4.7L depends entirely on how well you maintain your engine.
It is often said 4.7s that are “fragile,” which means that if even the most fundamental maintenance is ignored, they can rapidly deteriorate.
The lifespan of a Dodge 4.7-lit is typically estimated to be 100,000 miles. In most cases, the first signs of engine trouble appear somewhere around the 70,000-mile mark.
If you give it the same kind of basic maintenance that you would give any other engine, it will serve you well for a very long time.
4.7 dodge engine prices
The length of the warranty affects the price of a Dodge 4.7 engine. Prices for this engine typically range between $1,995.00 and $3,133.00, with an average price somewhere in the middle of those ranges.
The duration of the warranty period is entirely up to what the buyer decides to go for.
The cost of a warranty that covers the product for three years will be less than that of a warranty that covers the product for five or seven years.
However, if one is looking for a particular 4.7 engine, they should search online using the engine part number to determine the actual cost of the component.
Most Essential FAQs About Dodge 4.7 Engine Problems
Is it recommended to use synthetic oil in Dodge?
The engines of older cars can benefit from synthetic oils in the same way as engines of more recent models can.
Pennzoil synthetic oil is approved for all Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram vehicles and will not void a warranty.
How to handle the Dodge 4.7 engine failure problem?
Whenever an engine wears out after running for several miles, it can often lead to engine failure. As a result, if the engine parts can’t be replaced, one would need to buy a new one.
What is the life expectancy of Dodge 4.7 engine?
The average life expectancy of a Dodge 4.7 engine is around 100,000 miles.
How to check an issue in 4.7 head gaskets?
The stock head gaskets that Chrysler utilized in these engines are perfect. There is nothing to worry about. Assembly faults are possible, although they aren’t a major problem.
How to handle overheating issues of Dodge 4.7 engine?
Using high-quality coolant and also regular maintenance can help in tackling the overheating issues with Dodge 4.7 engine.
What accounts for the high output of Hemi engines?
During combustion, less heat escapes from the Hemi engine’s surface area than with flathead engines, causing the fuel burn to be hotter.
Airflow can be increased by using larger valves. Engines on the Ram 3500, 2500, or 1500 tracks are all Hemi.
Conclusion
Those who have read this post thus far must have understood the common Dodge 4.7 engine problems.
As long as the condition isn’t too serious, these issues can be fixed with routine upkeep.
We have shared the possible solutions to the issues one might encounter with their Dodge 4.7 engine and hopefully, these solutions help the truck owners.
However, in case, one can’t handle these problems on their own, it’s recommended that they take their vehicle to an auto repair shop.
Such engines and their parts are highly expensive, so taking chance with them isn’t a great idea.