MiradaMegacab
Well-Known Member
I run one of these, but it's overkill for a stock engine.
Of course. You would agree though, that a steel sprocket set would be a worthy upgrade over the factory nylon timing gears for a stock engine?I run one of these, but it's overkill for a stock engine.
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Wow, thanks for the detailed response, and the great tips! As for the current stock 318 that's in it, the water pump was done just before I bought it; so no worries there. I like your idea of finding a 5.9 to build up rather than putting all my money into this 318. I might get just do the timing gear upgrade on it (so it doesn't leave me stranded) and leave the rest alone. Then I can take my time and build a better engine for it, with no down time. That's an excellent idea!If your going to spend money on the 318, on the timing chain & gears, maybe adding a cam shaft should be in your plans. Ma Mopar never gave us enough cam for our restrictive heads. Also, the water pump bolts will be seized in the block. Make sure you have the room to drill and retap the block. They totally suck to drill out in the car. If you think you may want more, a 5.2 (318)or 5.9(360) Magnum swap will drop right in and they have nearly 100 more HP/Tq stock than your 318 does stock. 245ish hp vs 145ish. And Id guess a good used junkyard motor wouldn't be any more than a cam, timing chain, gear & lifter pkg is for your 318. You can drive on the 318 while you gather up parts and do any mods or updating, not that you'd need any, before you pull the 'teen for the swap. The Magnums have much better heads and higher compression and roller cam and lifters stock which allows more power to be made. You could swap Magnum heads onto the 318 but I still think a good used magnum would be the cheapest, quickest and easiest way to make more power totally stock. Magnums where only used in trucks, so they make great torque. I have 3 - 5.9's in my yard. One is in a 2000 maxiwagon with 310k Mi, A '99 with 197k and a 95 with 132k. They dont wear out, even the one with 300,000 Mi. It never had wrench on it. The only things you would need is an intake, carb and 360 car oil pan. They are different than the 318 oil pan. Good luck whatever you decide to do and welcome! Theres a great bunch of guys here that will give the shirt off there back. Just ask and they will deliver.
Thank you! I'm very happy with it!Late to the party but.......
That's a damn gorgeous ride you've got there.