318 to Hemi or not

HUTNTRK · #1 11-03-2009, 08:21 PM

I have a very clean 1990 4x4 standard cab with a auto & 318EFI, runs great, but no power.
Would be cool to have a 5.7 Hemi but what are the issues tranny, transfer case, any one out there done that, been there?
would a 360 with a carb and stroker be cheaper faster better?
Or what are the other options
this thing needs at least 350HP to get it going and towing
Thank you

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rwb · #2 11-03-2009, 08:24 PM

Just poke and stroke your 318. You can take it to 390ci without any problems. Run around 10 to 1 compression with some good heads and a mild cam and you should be around 500 horses.

aaron7 · #3 11-03-2009, 09:07 PM

Would a 360 be cheaper? Jebus yes. Can't imagine what you'd pay for the Hemi + tranny alone; let alone fabrication.

Here's one if you really want to get started though haha

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/compl...item2c5188a79e

crazzywolfie · #4 11-03-2009, 09:56 PM

you should go with a carburated 360. the 360 are really great engines. you will run into tons of problem if you try to istall 5.7 hemi. plus the 360 are 5.9L

Ironmower · #5 11-05-2009, 07:52 AM

Don't forget to change your torque converter..

AeSix · #6 11-06-2009, 08:39 AM

might be cheaper in the long run to buy a good rust bucket with good engine/tranny and swap em. Not the easiest thing in the world to do, but you've already got to do half the work. But you get a spare set of axels, the right wiring harness, and lots and lots of spare parts. $2k for a 360'd 4x4 shouldn't be too bad to find. Don't expect to be using the body panels, bed or frame as spares. beats paying the $15k it'll cost in the end for the Hemi install.

My 93 318 Mag has hauled closed to 5 tons in bed and trailer combined, not including the weight of the trailer. I'm not sure I'd do more than 55 with it, but she sure felt like she could go there if I wanted her to. Not sure how much you're hauling, but might just want to check into getting your engine repaired, or check into a 318 Magnum.

aaron7 · #7 11-06-2009, 10:26 AM

Put this in, it's only $1000

http://nh.craigslist.org/pts/1453842383.html

AeSix · #8 11-06-2009, 08:15 PM

Consider going Cummins?
If you run out of go-go juice, just pull into a mcdonalds :P
Seriously more work though.