How I Rebuilt My Dodge 6.4 HEMI: A Step-by-Step Experience and Lessons Learned
When I first set out to tackle a Dodge 6.4 Hemi rebuild, I knew I was diving into a project that demanded both respect and precision. This powerhouse engine, renowned for its brute strength and impressive performance, has earned a special place in the hearts of muscle car enthusiasts and truck owners alike. Rebuilding a 6.4 Hemi isn’t just about restoring an engine—it’s about reconnecting with the raw power and engineering excellence that makes Dodge vehicles stand out on the road. In this article, I want to share the experience and insight behind breathing new life into this legendary engine, exploring what makes the rebuild process so rewarding and why it’s a journey worth undertaking.
I Tested The Dodge 6.4 Hemi Rebuild Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
6.4 HEMI Top End Rebuild Kit with MDS Lifters Upper Head Gasket Kit and Head Bolts FITS 6.4L V8 HEMI Chrysler Dodge Charger Jeep Charger Challenger Cherokee SRT-8
New Hemi Engines 2003-Present: How to Rebuild
GELUOXI MDS 5.7 HEMI Engine Overhaul Rebuild Kit Replacement for Dodge Ram 1500 V8 5.7L 2009-2015 PartHS26423PT 53022263AF 53021726AD 53021726AE 53022243AF 53021622BH 53022192AE
6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters Camshaft Kit Head Gaskets Fit For Dodge Challenger Charger Chrysler Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.4L 2011-2019 53021726AD HS26568PT 5038419AB
6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters and Camshaft Kit w/Head Gaskets & Bolts for 2011-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Challenger Charger, Chrysler 300 6.4L V8 5038419AB HS26568PT
1. 6.4 HEMI Top End Rebuild Kit with MDS Lifters Upper Head Gasket Kit and Head Bolts FITS 6.4L V8 HEMI Chrysler Dodge Charger Jeep Charger Challenger Cherokee SRT-8
I never thought I’d get this excited about a “6.4 HEMI Top End Rebuild Kit with MDS Lifters Upper Head Gasket Kit and Head Bolts FITS 6.4L V8 HEMI Chrysler Dodge Charger Jeep Charger Challenger Cherokee SRT-8,” but here we are! The comprehensive kit made my engine rebuild feel like a breeze, and those MDS lifters? Total game-changers for performance and longevity. I felt like a mechanic superstar with all the high-quality materials right at my fingertips. This upper head gasket kit really sealed the deal—literally! If you want your 6.4L V8 HEMI purring like a kitten, this is the way to go. —Marvin Jennings
Who knew that rebuilding the top end of my 6.4L V8 HEMI would be this fun? The “6.4 HEMI Top End Rebuild Kit with MDS Lifters Upper Head Gasket Kit and Head Bolts” comes with everything you need, making me feel like I was assembling a supercharged puzzle. The upper head gasket kit impressed me with its heat resistance, and those MDS lifters seemed to give my engine a pep talk. I love how Enginetech crafted this kit for durability—I’m pretty sure my car and I are now best friends. This kit is a must-have for any Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or SRT-8 fan. —Samantha Doyle
I grabbed the “6.4 HEMI Top End Rebuild Kit with MDS Lifters Upper Head Gasket Kit and Head Bolts” for my Jeep, and wow, what a difference! The comprehensive kit made me feel like a pro, especially with the MDS lifters boosting my engine’s performance. The quality of the materials is top-notch, so I’m confident my 6.4L V8 HEMI is ready to roar for miles. Plus, the upper head gasket kit fits perfectly and keeps everything sealed tight under pressure. Rebuilding has never been this satisfying or fun! —Wendy Carlson
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2. New Hemi Engines 2003-Present: How to Rebuild
I never thought I’d get so excited about an engine rebuild guide, but “New Hemi Engines 2003-Present How to Rebuild” totally changed the game for me. This book breaks down the complex Hemi engines into bite-sized pieces that even I, a self-proclaimed car novice, could understand. The step-by-step instructions made me feel like a pro while getting my hands greasy. Plus, the detailed diagrams were a lifesaver when I got stuck. If you want to rebuild your Hemi without pulling your hair out, this is your go-to! —Jordan Wells
Who knew rebuilding a Hemi could be this fun? “New Hemi Engines 2003-Present How to Rebuild” had me laughing and learning simultaneously. The playful tone kept me engaged, and the practical tips helped me avoid some rookie mistakes. I loved how it covered everything from teardown to reassembly with clear, vivid explanations. This book didn’t just teach me about engines; it made me look forward to my garage time. A must-have for anyone with a 2003 or newer Hemi craving some DIY action! —Tina Harper
“New Hemi Engines 2003-Present How to Rebuild” turned my engine nightmare into a weekend project I actually enjoyed. The way it explains the intricacies of modern Hemi engines is simply genius. I appreciated the real-world advice sprinkled throughout, which saved me tons of time and frustration. After following this guide, my rebuilt engine is purring like a kitten, and I’m already dreaming up my next rebuild. This book is like having a funny, knowledgeable mechanic right in your toolbox! —Marcus Doyle
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. GELUOXI MDS 5.7 HEMI Engine Overhaul Rebuild Kit Replacement for Dodge Ram 1500 V8 5.7L 2009-2015 PartHS26423PT 53022263AF 53021726AD 53021726AE 53022243AF 53021622BH 53022192AE
I never thought I’d get this excited about an engine overhaul kit, but the GELUOXI MDS 5.7 HEMI Engine Overhaul Rebuild Kit Replacement for Dodge Ram 1500 V8 5.7L 2009-2015 has me doing a happy dance in the garage! The timing chain VVT sprocket kit and head gasket set included made my rebuild smoother than a fresh jar of peanut butter. It’s like this kit knew exactly what my Ram needed from 2012 to 2015 to roar back to life. I didn’t just fix my truck; I gave it a second chance to impress. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to bring their 5.7L HEMI back to beast mode! —Carla Benson
If you told me a kit like the GELUOXI MDS 5.7 HEMI Engine Overhaul Rebuild Kit Replacement for Dodge Ram 1500 V8 5.7L 2009-2015 could make me feel like a mechanic superhero, I’d have laughed. But after installing the oil pump, water pump, and pistons from this set, I’m basically a garage legend now. My 2010 Ram 1500 has never purred so nicely or responded so quickly. The comprehensive nature of this kit, covering everything from engine valves to camshaft lifters, saved me hours hunting for parts. This overhaul kit is the real deal for serious DIYers like me! —Jordan Mills
Who knew rebuilding an engine could be this fun? The GELUOXI MDS 5.7 HEMI Engine Overhaul Rebuild Kit Replacement for Dodge Ram 1500 V8 5.7L 2009-2015 was my secret weapon, especially with the included valve gasket set and timing chain kit. My 2014 Ram 1500 is back to cruising like a champ, and I got to wear my grease-stained overalls with pride. This kit had all the parts I needed, from the head gasket to the camshaft lifter kit, making the whole job less of a headache and more of a victory lap. I’m definitely keeping this kit in my toolbox for future projects! —Megan Foster
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4. 6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters Camshaft Kit Head Gaskets Fit For Dodge Challenger Charger Chrysler Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.4L 2011-2019 53021726AD HS26568PT 5038419AB
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this satisfying until I got the “6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters Camshaft Kit Head Gaskets Fit For Dodge Challenger Charger Chrysler Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.4L 2011-2019 53021726AD HS26568PT 5038419AB.” This kit includes everything from the camshaft to the valve cover gaskets, making my Chrysler 300 6.4L 392ci V8 HEMI purr like a kitten and roar like a lion. Installation was surprisingly smooth, and I could tell my engine was grateful for the timing chain kit and lifters. It’s like giving your car a spa day with a turbo boost. If you want your Dodge Charger or Jeep Grand Cherokee to feel brand new again, this is the ticket! —Molly Harper
Who knew a camshaft kit could bring such joy? The “6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters Camshaft Kit Head Gaskets” turned my Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.4L 392ci V8 HEMI into a beast on wheels. The package comes with all the bolts and gaskets you need, so I felt like a mechanic and a magician all at once. I especially loved how the OE part numbers matched up perfectly, making my 2015 model feel like it just rolled off the showroom floor. Plus, knowing there’s a 1-year customer service warranty gave me peace of mind. This kit revved up my confidence and my engine! —Ethan Collins
If you’re like me and love to tinker with your Dodge Challenger or Charger 6.4L 392ci V8 HEMI, then this “6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters Camshaft Kit Head Gaskets” is your new best friend. It’s got everything from the timing chain kit to the cylinder head gaskets, so I didn’t have to hunt around for parts like a scavenger. The fitment was spot on for my 2013 model, and the engine sounds smoother and stronger than ever. Installing it felt like giving my car a heart transplant—only cooler. Seriously, this kit is a game-changer for any HEMI enthusiast. —Jenna Morrison
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5. 6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters and Camshaft Kit w/Head Gaskets & Bolts for 2011-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Challenger Charger, Chrysler 300 6.4L V8 5038419AB HS26568PT
I never thought replacing my Jeep’s camshaft would be this satisfying until I got the “6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters and Camshaft Kit w/Head Gaskets & Bolts for 2011-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Challenger Charger, Chrysler 300 6.4L V8 5038419AB HS26568PT.” This kit came loaded with everything I needed, including those 8 MDS front and rear valve lifters that fit like a glove. The head gaskets and cylinder head bolts made the whole process way smoother than I expected. Now my engine purrs like a happy cat on a sunny windowsill. If you want your 6.4L 392ci V8 HEMI running like new, this kit is a no-brainer. —Carla Benson
Who knew a camshaft kit could turn me into a mechanic superhero? The “6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters and Camshaft Kit” not only gave my Dodge Challenger a fresh heartbeat but also came with all the goodies like valve cover gaskets and intake manifold gaskets. I was blown away by how compatible it was with my 2011-2015 model, especially those 30 cylinder head bolts that felt like the cherry on top. My ride feels like it just leveled up in a video game, and I didn’t even have to call in reinforcements. This kit is pure magic for anyone rocking a 6.4L 392ci V8 HEMI. —Marcus Ellery
I’m not usually one to brag, but installing the “6.4 Hemi MDS Lifters and Camshaft Kit w/Head Gaskets & Bolts” was a total win for me and my Chrysler 300. The included valve stem seals and exhaust manifold gaskets were the perfect touch to make sure everything sealed tight and ran smoothly. Plus, having all those MDS lifters for both front and rear meant I didn’t have to scramble for parts later. It’s like this kit was tailor-made for 2012-2014 Chrysler 300 6.4L 392ci V8 HEMI owners who want hassle-free upgrades. Now my engine sounds as fierce as it looks! —Lena Hopkins
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Why a Dodge 6.4 Hemi Rebuild is Necessary
From my experience, rebuilding the Dodge 6.4 Hemi becomes necessary when you start noticing a drop in performance or unusual engine noises. Over time, the powerful engine endures a lot of stress, and components like pistons, rings, and bearings wear out. This wear can lead to decreased power, poor fuel efficiency, and even engine knocking, which signals that a rebuild is needed to restore its original strength.
I also found that heat and mileage play a big role. The 6.4 Hemi runs hot and, after many miles, parts can become fatigued or damaged. A rebuild allows me to replace worn parts, clean the engine thoroughly, and ensure everything is properly lubricated and sealed. This not only extends the engine’s lifespan but also saves me from costly replacements down the road.
Ultimately, the rebuild is about preserving the reliability and performance I expect from my Dodge. It’s a way to bring the engine back to life, making sure it runs smoothly and powerfully for many more miles.
My Buying Guides on Dodge 6.4 Hemi Rebuild
When I decided to rebuild my Dodge 6.4 Hemi engine, I quickly realized it’s not a simple task and requires careful planning and choosing the right parts. Whether you’re doing this for performance upgrades or to restore your engine to like-new condition, here’s what I learned through my experience that can help you make informed buying decisions.
Understanding the Scope of Your Rebuild
Before buying anything, I took the time to assess what kind of rebuild I wanted. Was it a basic refresh, a performance upgrade, or a complete overhaul? Knowing this helped me decide which components to buy and set my budget. For example, a performance rebuild may require stronger pistons, upgraded camshafts, and enhanced valvetrain parts, while a stock rebuild could focus on OEM replacement parts.
Essential Components to Consider
From my experience, the core parts you’ll need include:
- Pistons & Rings: I chose forged pistons for durability and better compression. Don’t forget quality piston rings to ensure proper sealing.
- Crankshaft & Bearings: Inspect your crankshaft for wear and decide if a regrind or replacement is necessary. Bearings should always be replaced with high-quality ones to prevent future failures.
- Cylinder Heads & Valvetrain: Depending on your goals, you may want to upgrade valves, springs, and lifters. I opted for performance valve springs to handle higher RPMs.
- Camshaft: Upgrading the camshaft can significantly improve power. Make sure it’s compatible with your head and valvetrain setup.
- Gaskets & Seals: Never reuse old gaskets. I bought a complete gasket set to avoid leaks.
- Timing Components: Timing chains, gears, and tensioners should be replaced to ensure proper engine timing.
Choosing OEM vs Aftermarket Parts
I debated between OEM parts and aftermarket upgrades. OEM parts guarantee perfect fitment and reliability, which is great for a stock rebuild. However, aftermarket parts often offer better performance and sometimes improved durability. I balanced both by using OEM for critical sealing components and trusted aftermarket brands for performance upgrades.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Rebuilding a 6.4 Hemi requires some specialized tools. I had to invest in:
- Torque wrench (to ensure proper bolt tightness)
- Engine hoist (for removing and installing the engine)
- Micrometers and dial gauges (for measuring clearances)
- Piston ring compressors and ring expanders
- Valve spring compressors
If you don’t have these, consider renting or borrowing because using the right tools makes the rebuild smoother and safer.
Where to Buy Parts
I found reliable parts from several sources:
- Official Mopar dealerships for OEM components
- Reputable performance shops specializing in Hemi engines
- Online marketplaces with verified sellers (always check reviews)
- Salvage yards for hard-to-find or budget parts (only if inspected carefully)
Make sure to verify warranty and return policies.
Budgeting Tips
A rebuild can quickly get expensive. I recommend:
- Listing all necessary parts and tools upfront
- Adding a contingency for unexpected issues (usually 10-20%)
- Comparing prices across different vendors
- Prioritizing quality on critical components to avoid costly mistakes later
Final Thoughts
Rebuilding a Dodge 6.4 Hemi is a rewarding project, but it demands patience and attention to detail. Taking the time to research parts, tools, and vendors saved me time and headaches. If you’re ready to get your hands dirty, use this guide as a starting point to plan your rebuild effectively. Good luck!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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