Has anyone changed out 5.2 (318) for more power? I replaced OEM gears with 4.56 and still need more towing. I have been told replacing with 5.9 (360) is a complex process to get everything working together again. What about upgrading to newer hemi? Anything I can do to existing 5.2 by rebuilding? Thanks

 

What size tires do you have??

 

If you are below a 31 inch tire, and 4:56 isn't cutting it, putting in a 360 isn't going to do a damn bit of good. The 360 makes barely any more power then the 318, and simply chews down more gas to do it.

What you need is a completely new truck, and a Diesel at that.

 

Seriously, how many of these threads have been posted in 24 hours????

 

to damn many lol

 

first 3 pages.

 

First of all, let me say I agree with Viper, a diesel would probably be the best bet for you (and therefore, a Ram 2500/3500).

The 360 will make quite a bit more power than the 318 if its properly tuned with a programmer/flash. Stock, Viper's right, it doesn't make much more power than the 318, and does drink a little more.

That being said, I had the 318 in a 5000 lb 1995 Dakota, and I have the 360 in my 5500-5700 lb Ram, and even before the Flashpaq, the Ram was peppier.

The 5.9L would be a lot easier to swap in than a newer Hemi. You'd have to replace most of the drivetrain (including tranny) and wiring, computer, etc. for a Hemi.