Hey! I have a 2001 ram 1500 5.2 46RE.

Currently have the truck sitting with rod knock. I have a used 106k mile 5.2 from a 96. It seems to have some differences and im wondering just how plug and play it is? I have the hoist and leveler all ready to go I just gotta start taking it apart and getting ready but I wanna make sure the motor will go in with ease 😂

 

You can swap any 5.2 magnum engine into your truck, but you may have to re-use your intake manifold (over the years of the magnum engine, they moved sensors around on the intake) and possibly the exhaust manifolds (if the replacement engine has EGR provisions). Are you planning to get the replacement engine from a salvage yard, private owner or have one built?

 

96 won't actually use EGR, but, the manifold may support it. You want to put the original manifold from your truck on there anyway, due to issues the Dog mentioned. May need the sensor under the distributor cap as well, (i think the connector may have changed?) Aside from that, plug and play.

 

I already have the motor. Bought it used running from a 96 out in PA lol. It was in the truck and he has it running than pulled it for me.

so just exhaust manifolds or intake manifold too?

 

I would change the intake as well.

 

will do! Anything I should know or like tips before I jump in? Never pulled a motor before.

 

Unbolt and get the crank sensor off into a safe place so it doesn't get smashed between the motor and the transmission when re-installing the replacement motor. Best to have some long 3/8" extensions with a flexible universal to get the transmission bellhousing bolts off. Also, watch some YouTube videos on the engine removal process to get a feel for it..

 

exactly what I was thinking! Thank you guys

 

Real quick though, for the rod knock motor, you think it’s worth rebuilding ?

 

Depends on how much you plan to spend and how bad the rod knock is. You might get lucky and just need to replace the rod bearings on the offending knocking rod if the crank isn't beat up real bad, if you wanted to repair the motor cheaply..

Personally, I'd opt to go with a 5.9 to give yourself more torque and power. It bolts into the same place as the 5.2 engine and uses the same 46RE transmission.