2004 V8 Magnum. Must overhaul due to sludge build up in the engine. Lack of maintenance. I'll post pictures and videos as I go along but I'd like any advice I can get on tools that will be required, things I should do as I clean and rebuild, etc. I don't know how hard the oil channels will be to clean once I break down the engine, but I'm going to have to give it a shot. Perhaps a dip for the block?

1. I can't find any lift-points on the motor. I assume I'll have to bolt in eyelets. Anything specific I should use here? Will be doing the work in my garage with an engine lift that will clear the body easily. Have air compressor, tools, ratchets, sockets, wrenches and screwdrivers.
2. Tool advice (especially if I need anything 'special')
3. Cleaning advice (sludge has completely covered the valves. Timing chain is showing a pretty decent amount of wear.
4. Things to look for.
5. Things that aren't necessary but are recommended with the engine torn out.

Will begin the work this Monday and post pics on the removal, breakdown, cleaning, and rebuild for anyone that has to do this in the future. THere's nothing on the net that I can find that shows the detailed process, so I guess the first will be right here in DF. I'm new to working on Dodges (actually, I new to major work on anything newer than a 1998 Mustang.), so your advice will be taken seriously.

 

Man, I'll be honest, I wouldn't rebuild that thing unless you just absolutely had to. There is no way to clean all of the passages even when the engine is torn down.

For removal, Dodge makes a special tool, which is why there aren't any real easy to use lifting points. The tool uses the large stud at the very top of the timing cover. You might try to use that stud and a bolt hole on the back of the block or something for another.

I would still strongly recommend you get a junkyard motor with no sludge. Trying to clean that stuff will be a nightmare and unless you are planning on stripping it completely down to a bare block you won't be able to clean it.

Not to mention you will probably come out cheaper buying a motor then trying to rebuild that one.

 

Dear God, what was I thinking?

Engine is out. Parts of my hands, arms, and soul didn't. No one told me you needed fourteen midgets, a small thermonuclear device, and a friends standing by with a hammer that said "WHAT WERE YOU THINKING" on it's side who would whack you with it every 2.3 minutes.

The block is gone, getting a new one. Wish me luck.

 

nice lol but i'm planning on doing a overhaul on a V8 too so any info you find out while taking your's in and out would be nice

 

Removing a 4.7, especially in a 4WD Dak takes a small act of God. I did leave that part out.