I bought my truck a few months ago and it has the 4.7L magnum. She’s getting up there in miles and I don’t know how the last guy treated it so I’ll probably have to replace the engine soon.

I’ve never done an engine swap before , let alone on a ram so I wanted to ask the knowledgeable fellas here.


Depending on availability and money I’d like to put a 5.7L HEMI or even possibly the 5.9L Cummins. I’ve read that the transmission for the 4.7 and 5.7 are the same so I’m assuming that I’ll need a new transmission if I choose the 5.9.

I’m pretty good with suspension and drivetrain components, but right now engines are an unknown for me. Any knowledge about clearance, engine mounts, wiring harnesses, etc you guys can give me will be appreciated, and for the more seasoned of you maybe even a tool list. Money is a bit too tight to shell out a couple grand for a mechanic to do it, but not for the tools and experience I’ll get from this

 

I think the diesel would be too heavy for a 1500 frame/suspension.... Same year 5.7 should be doable, without too much fussin' about. Tossing another 4.7 in there would be easiest.

 

Either just rebuild the 4.7 if needed or sell the truck and by one with what you want. By the time and money you put in swapping, retrofitting and labor put in to this. You will have spent way more than what it’s worth doing it. Besides the 4.7 isn’t as bad as everyone thinks it is. I’ve got 230000 on mine. It has never left me stranded and has done everything I’ve asked it to do even if I had to push it beyond its limits a few times.

 

I agree. Just keep the motor and repair it as needed, as long as the costs aren't absurd.

 

So if you like throwing $$ away, you can attempt the swap. Otherwise, you already have an engine that isn't far off what that year hemi is rated at (08+ 4.7 = 310 hp, 03-08 5.7 = 345 hp).