For how I use my truck, yes the swap was worth it. I also have a brother that is an engine machinist so I had the extra support of having him as a resource. I pull a 28 foot fifth wheel camper and the 318 just couldn't do it stock.

*** Based on stock numbers the 360 does not give you much more than the 318 for HP and torque. ***
318 = 220 HP with 300 lb/torque
360 = 235 HP with 330 lb/torque.

But honestly, if I had to do it again, I would probably have just modified the 318. Added a cam, HS Roller Rockers, Ported and poilished the heads, new timing gear, etc. Then I could have sold the truck and bought the diesel that I should have had in the first place.

The 4.10 gears will make a huge difference as thay will bring your engine closer to it's true torque curve. I still have 3.55's and dream of a set of 4.10's.

 

Quality input guys, thanks.

I was reading on one of the 408 websites that the 318 has a higher revving potential, does anyone have an accurate guess of what the different motors are capable of running safely?

 

Why not just rebuild the engine you have in the truck? Its not the coolest, but it is one of the cheapest options. You could even toss in some performance parts while you are at it.

 

why wouldnt you just over bore your 5.2, and add a few performance options, like cam, port polish, say a supercharger, just little things make it easier and simpler, and it would be one nice sleeper truck

 

when thinking about an engine transplant
perhaps give some thought
to less expensive fuels like compressed natural gas, e85, propane
...which could pay for the swap in less than 100,000 miles

 

CNG = Less Power, bitch to start in cold weather
E85 = Don't see a future
Propane = See CNG

 

What options do you have with the 5.9 as far as bore size goes? I was thinking motor swap when my 5.9 goes out but it may be cash going out the window.