Older MT article on Gen 3 transplants

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How Do You Swap a 5.7L Gen III Chrysler Hemi into a 1982 to 1989 RWD M-Body?
Mopar Performance, Chrysler's performance parts program, offers a whole lineup of Hemi Gen III crate motors, plus additional parts and kits for retrofit use. This is the 383-hp "entry-level" 345ci (5.7L) version—$5,656.99 at Summit (as of April 2020).

Chrysler 1982-1989 M-Body Gen III Hemi Swap Guidelines​

  • Gen III Hemi engine swap mounts are available from Schumacher, Mancini, and TTi.
  • Stock large brake power boosters may hit the driver-side Gen III Hemi valve-cover.
  • TTi makes Gen III Hemi engine swap headers.
  • Gen III Hemis can mount the starter on either side of the block, but starter clearance may still be tight in many installations.
  • Borgeson offers a more compact Chrysler-type power steering box if the swap headers hit the large stock power steering box.
  • Use an aftermarket mid-sump oil pan and a remote oil filter when retrofitting Gen III Hemis into most legacy chassis.
  • Electric fans are mandatory because Gen III Hemis have no mechanical fan-drive-hub provisions.
  • Use the late-model Gen III Hemi accessories and drives.
  • A Gen III Hemi bellhousing bolt pattern is similar to the Chrysler LA small-block bolt pattern.
  • Bolt up legacy TorqueFlite transmissions (A904/A727) with available aftermarket conversion flexplates.
  • Using late model "computer" transmissions with the Gen III Hemi can be done, but multiple computers and complex interfacing is needed.
  • 2005 Ram truck computers are the easiest to work with (assuming use of a legacy TorqueFlite).
  • You can run a GM 4L60E automatic behind a Chrysler Gen III Hemi using aftermarket flexplates, adapters, and controllers.
  • Bouchillon offers a mechanical kickdown kit that interfaces stock Hemi DBW throttle bodies with legacy TorqueFlites.
  • Brand-new crate Gen III Hemi engines are available from Mopar Performance.
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