i think i'll run by the jy this weekend and try to find a 5.2 tb and kegger, better pick up a haynes too. might as well have everything ready and do it all at once. besides the modded intake and new timing chain what else should i take care of while i'm in there

 

Bypass hose for sure.
T-stat for sure.
Water pump if you don't mind a little extra cost.

 

Well, since you're going to have the water pump off anyway, give it a very thorough inspection. Pay particular attention to the pulley/shaft bearing. If you find that it may be about to go south, you may want to replace it preventatively.

 

did the magnet test today and yep its steel so the plenum is definitely steel. does anyone have any idea what kind of lifespan i can expect out of my 318 once the plenum is fixed. i'm a **** when it comes to maintenance (oil changed every 3k on the dot) tune up every 20k. I'm just wondering how many more miles i can get before it needs a rebuild. (222,000 right now)

 

Unfortunately, there is no straight answer for your question. It depends largely on your (and the previous owner's) driving style. If you hammer the accelerator regularly, don't expect too much out of it. Likewise, if you take good care of it, and don't make a habit of breaking your foot off in the throttle, you could expect quite a bit more.

That being said, the durability of the chrysler 318 is near legendary. Look up "cash for clunker 318" on youtube for a vid showing how long it takes for one to die. Even when held at red line with no coolant or oil (they drained the oil, and replaced it with a water/sodium silicate combo if memory serves), they take forever to bite the dust.