I have just aquirred a Hemi 5.7L engine (I will eventually drop it in my 1971 Duster). My goal is 400-425 HP at the flywheel, naturally asperated. Is this possible so far? I have heard that the computer really limits what the engine can do, including controlling the power output (Is this true?). I do not need cats (I do not need to go in for smog due to the age of the vehicle), I plan on getting the Edelbrock, custom exhaust, no A/C,a port and polish (Basically a clean up), and of course a rechip (Once super chip comes out with one). Any other suggestions to reach the desired power level? What has been done? How are these engines affect by similar mods? (I have heard mixed results)

 

I've been thinking of the same thing, except losing the fuel injection and the computer altogether. 400-425 HP should not be a problem. There have been some short tunnel manifolds made that can be adapted for a carb. I haven't really figured out the ignition for it yet since there is no provision for a distributor, but a distributorless ignition can be used from another application. Dynatech makes a nice looking set of long tube headers for the Ram, but who knows if it would clear the k-member on the Duster. The next problem is the tranny. The 727/904/533 won't match-up to the Hemi, so a truck tranny is one possibility, or a kit like those from Keisler (manual tranny).[sm=smiley20.gif] The heads do respond to mild porting from what I've read.

MoPar Performance is supposed to be offering 2 versions of the 5.7L Hemi as a crate motor, which means that there will most likely be cams and intakes available. One engine will be carbureted, the other fuel injected. Both engines will be in the power range your taking about.

Please share your thoughts on this swap.

 

I may have to loose the computer and fuel injection unfortunately, it is starting to sound that way. (It sounds like the aftermarket is having problems with it) I found an extremely good deal on ebay and the engine as we speak is being shipped (The engine is from a 04 Ram 1500 with 600 miles on it). I am eventually going to go for the Keisler T5 kit. I have also heard that Hughes Engines is making an aftermarket camshaft, which I need to email them.

It will be a year plus before I even start to think about actually putting the engine in the vehicle. First I need to stiffen the chassis, loose some weight, new wheels, 4 wheel disc breaks, ect....ect..... But I have the 2 main piece of my dream machine, the engine and the car.