I have a 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 5.2 4x4 5 speed manual. I want to increase horsepower not a huge amount just enough to get it to pick up a little better. Maybe like 50-150hp increase but i dont want to have to build the motor or do anything to seriously. Anyone know what mods i could do that dont require building the whole motor that would increase horsepower

 

None that will get you even close to 50hp

 

Forced Induction. Turbo- or Supercharge it. Of course, that is NOT inexpensive....... but, it is the quickest way to the power you are looking for.

 

It would take quite a bit of cash to add that much power.

You would probably better be served by getting your maintenance up to date, and fixing things like your plenum gasket and replacing your timing chain, if you haven't already done so.

Beyond that, you could install some Harland Sharp roller rockers (which would cause less friction in your valvetrain), and maybe a less restrictive exhaust system, that may net you a few HP.

 

Going that much more power will grenade the transmission as it's only "rated" for 300lb/ft which is what the 5.2 makes. Granted, there's some leeway I'm sure, but it's a light duty transmission.

There are several little things you can add or remove depending on where you're wrenching, but the most you might add is 20hp. Most modifications will "free up" HP but not necessarily make the engine produce more of it.
- Fastman Throttle Body
- Roller rockers
- Gear change (not adding HP but good for revs)
- headers and a good exhaust
- cold tstat and keggar porting or manifold swap
- cam change
- major custom tune

Beyond that, you'll need to have an engine built to suit.

 

Adding a Nitrous Oxide system to your truck is probably the cheapest option to add that kind of horsepower quickly.

 

1.77 rr's 10 h.p.
cai 5 h.p.
headers/exhaust 15 h.p.
52 mm throttle body 5 h.p.
e-fan 8 h.p.
M1 or Hughes intake with proper tune 25 h.p.
60+ usable h.p. no fuss, no muss.

 

CAI isn't giving you 5Hp neither is the 52mm

 

combined with the tune and other parts, yes they will.

 

Negative. First off the factory is already a cold air intake. 52mm throttle body is only good for a mild build not a stock engine.