Hey Guys, I am picking up an 04 Durango tomorrow with a stock Hemi in it. Engine is blown so I will be replacing. As always if I can upgrade while putting in the wrench time and have an excuse to do so I want to! Are there any good priced crate engines out there or would I be better off having the current engine rebuilt? For my needs I don't need anything wild as this is a daily driver for the wife but some extra power is always sought after any and all advice great appreciated. Thanks!

 

http://www.jasperengines.com/index.php

You could try Jasper.
FF

 

Thanks for the reccomendation! do you know if they are factory spec or if they fix the inherent problems with them blowing?

 

No, I rent a warehouse from them and they seem like a good company.
FF

 

Guy canceled on the deal today (wants to make it tomorrow ), but during that time I have been researching and finding out all the issues with the 04 hemi. Starting to seem like it may not be worth it to put the time and money into it. Thoughts?

 

The 2004 does have a lot of recalls and problems. I would buy a different model year.
FF

 

MD:
Not so fast! While it is true that the 04 D's had their share of issues, as long as the price was right along with miles, body condition, etc , it may not be a bad deal.
Having owned both a 4.7L 01 D and now an 04 Hemi, I do recommend the extra HP of the 5.7.
Swapping in another Hemi is no simple task, but it can be a DIY project if you have the time and tools.

OTOH, having it done will run you anywhere between $3500 and $7000 depending on whether you go with a rebuild, boneyard engine, or a new one.

Do you have any idea what caused its demise? How many miles where on it?
The 04 Hemi's had valve spring issues as well as some type of bottom end clearance issue.
The valve issue results in a valve dropping into its attendant cylinder (as mine did), and the bottom end problem usually sends a rod through the oil pan or out the side of the block.

Don

Don