Chrysler Hemi Engine - Affordable Excellence

This is a '51-54-style cam with a long snout. We changed to a later low-deck-style cam to allow the use of a Hot Heads front cover.

As part of the front cover kit, Hot Heads supplies a special retention screw and washer. FYI, small-block Mopar timing chain sets will fit a Hemi.

Seventeen pounds of cast iron is eliminated from the front of the engine by using a Hot Heads aluminum front cover. Hot Heads can also supply a variety of crankshaft vibration dampers--we used a Fluidampr.

Be aware when swapping Hemi heads; there is a difference in locating dowel pin diameters. This is an example of the '51-55 stepped style; the later versions are smaller and are the same size on both ends.

Obviously, the heads are what make these engines special. John cleaned up the lumps and bumps in the bowls and ports, surfaced them, and then installed new guides and replacement valves from Hot Heads.

We had lots of reasons to use ARP head studs, not the least of which was that they sure make it easier to put the heads in place. Valvesprings, retainers, and locks were part of the Hot Heads cam kit. This engine has a mild cam, so excessive valvespring pressure is not required.