Engine Swap?

Tiny
DREW_P_BALLZ
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 DODGE RAM
  • 4.7L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 133,000 MILES
I have a 2003 Ram 1500 4.7L 2x4 with a blown motor. I have a 2001 ram 1500 5.9L 2x4 as a donor truck. Is the 5.9L compatible to go in the 4.7L truck?
Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 AT 8:56 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 43,351 POSTS
They should be compatible, but I would look at bolt patterns for the bell housing to be sure, if the engines look the same you should be okay. Let me know what you find.
Swapping the 5.9L engine from a 2001 Ram 1500 into a 2003 Ram 1500 that originally had a 4.7L engine is a complex task that involves several considerations:

Engine Mounts and Physical Fit: The 5.9L and 4.7L engines have different designs and sizes. You'll need to check if the engine mounts are compatible or if new mounts need to be fabricated.

Transmission Compatibility: The transmission mated to the 4.7L engine might not be compatible with the 5.9L engine. You'll need to verify if the bell housing patterns and torque converter are compatible, or consider swapping the transmission as well.

Wiring Harness and ECU: The wiring harness and engine control unit (ECU) for the 4.7L are likely different from those required for the 5.9L. You'll probably need to use the wiring harness and ECU from the donor vehicle.

Exhaust System: The exhaust manifold and system may need modification to fit the new engine.

Cooling System: The radiator and cooling system might need to be upgraded to handle the larger engine.

Drive Shaft and Rear Differential: The increased power and torque of the 5.9L might necessitate upgrading the driveshaft and rear differential to handle the additional stress.

Legal and Emissions Considerations: Ensure that the engine swap complies with local laws and emission regulations. Swapping to an older engine might not be legal in some regions.
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Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 AT 12:20 PM

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