How hard is it to put a later model 5.9 in my 84 Ram 150 SE?

 

Do you have a 360 now? You'll have to swap to a carburetor if you don't have fuel injection. Depending on the year of the engine, you'll have to figure balancing out. 318's and 360's were balanced differently and later 360's were different from earlier ones. Then you need to see if it will bolt to your old transmission. I suspect that won't be too much trouble. Physically, you have room for a big block so it should fit fine with just some modification, possibly, to your engine mounts.

 

I'm more concerned with the wiring issue. I know if I switch to carburetor it will get rid of alot of wiring but do I need the computer for it to work in my truck?

 

Not if you switch to carb. Of course, that would mean you need a distributor, voltage regulator, (which you likely already have on the truck) and a few other things to make it run.

 

http://www.magnumswap.com/using-la-parts-on-a-magnum/

 

I am assuming you have a 318 and a automatic? If so, it is easier to point out differences and how to work around. Also, try to get the 5.9 as complete as possible. ie belt drive accessories, etc.

1. You need an external electric fuel pump. I like the carter rotary style.
2. A 7577 edelbrock intake. If fits and works better with the mopar accessories then the chinese ones do.
3. A 96-03 flex plate. Has the correct balance for all 5.9 magnums built into the flex plate.
4. A HEI distributor and wire set. Or a standard electronic ignition mopar style.
5. Y pipe for a magnum motor.
6. 4 bbl carb of choice.

That is mostly it.

You will no longer need the computer.
The magnum motor was designed with the voltage regulator inside the computer, but you can wire up your standard existing regulator. I can post a diagram if needed.
I am using one of the aftermarket HEI 1 wire distributors. Will run it and the fuel pump off of 1 relay that will be on in both start and run .
I am using the magnum manifolds with a new y pipe, but I think you can use the 84 manifolds if you want.
The power steering pump seems to be the same for hook ups and location.
Mine has dual electric fans, but I believe you can use the magnum fan on your truck.
Use your existing oil pressure and cooling sensors on the new engine.
I believe that pretty much covers it.

There are other options and ways, but for me, this is the simplest.

 

I wonder if the Mopar Performance electronic ignition kit is still available. It should have everything you need for the ignition. The old ignition system may fit, but why not go with new Factory parts?

 

Quote:

Originally Posted by ol' grouch

I wonder if the Mopar Performance electronic ignition kit is still available. It should have everything you need for the ignition. The old ignition system may fit, but why not go with new Factory parts?

The aftermarket one is .https://www.ebay.com/itm/Proform-Mop...Cclp%3A2334524


Im using this style

https://www.ebay.com/itm/67-91-Mopar...YAAOSwAThb6a9v

 

Just get MSD6A and use LA style pickup and distributor. You can get a unit also.

 

You could, but that would be more expensive.
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