Swapping a LA block into a 2nd gen
 

I have a 79 model 360 LA block and i have a 97 dodge 1500 witch has a 360 magnum in it. i was wondering if you could put the magnum heads on a LA block so i could run the fuel injection intake and keep most of the original wire harness in the 97. if there is an easier way minus running the Holly EFI unit. Please let me know.


Side note: the reason behind wanting to change the motor out is because the magnum motor is flat wore out. Has 250k+ on the motor. and the LA block is freshly built with a little more then stock.

Personally, I wouldn't do it. How about selling the '79 block and rebuilding the 360 magnum that you already have? You can also check to see if you can find a used 360 magnum off craigslist. I found a used 5.9 magnum out of a Dakota and swapped it into my '96 Ram. The magnum motor has a factory hydraulic roller cam, whereas the LA block does not.

Even if you did this swap what would control the transmission? Find a replacement magnum!

The motor mount provisions for the Magnum style mounts are not on the LA block. You'll have to fab up a different set of mounts, and you'll have to find a way to hold the crank sensor to the back of the block on the LA series. You'll have to swap the timing cover, and fab up brackets for the serpentine belt, the Magnum bracketry won't bolt to the LA heads, there is slight differences in bolt geometry.

The LA block also oils the valve train in a completely different manner...... I think you would spend more money trying to get the LA block to work, than you would just buying another motor..... (even a rebuilt one.....)

heads don't bolt up, so then you would lose the intake as well as fuel injection. then you would have to use a fuel regulator. all in the while losing computer. so put the la in a engine bag and find a rebuildable magnum and go ahead and order another set of heads lol