Ever heard that rumble from a 5.7 Hemi and felt a thrill? That powerful sound often comes from a well-tuned engine, and a big part of that tune-up involves the cam and lifters. But if you’re looking to upgrade your Hemi, you might be scratching your head. There are so many different cams and lifters out there, and picking the wrong ones can lead to a weak engine or even damage.
It’s a common problem for Hemi owners. You want more power and a better sound, but the world of camshafts and lifters can seem super confusing. What kind of performance are you looking for? Will it work with your other parts? These questions can make choosing feel like a chore. But don’t worry, because by the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what you need to know to make the best choice for your 5.7 Hemi.
We’ll break down what cams and lifters do, explore the different types available, and guide you through the important things to consider. Get ready to learn how to give your Hemi the boost it deserves!
Top Cam And Lifters For 5.7 Hemi Recommendations
- FITMENT: Compatible with 2009 Dodge Durango, 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi V8; Compatible with Chrysler Aspen 2009 5.7L Hemi V8
- REPLACEMENT OE NUMBER: Camshaft# 53022263AF, 53022263AE; MDS Lifters# 53021726AC, 53021726AD, 53021726AE, 53021726AF, 53021726BB, 53021726BC, 5038785AD, 5038684AA, 5038785AA, 5038785AB, 5038785AC; Head Gasket Set# HS26423PT
- IMPROVED PERFORMANCE & RELIABILITY: Upgraded camshaft and lifters help eliminate common MDS-related issues like ticking noise, misfires, and lifter failure—ideal for both stock and modified engines
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: Manufactured to meet or exceed OEM standards, ensuring durability, proper oil flow, and resistance to high temperatures and pressure for long-lasting engine protection
- DIRECT REPLACEMENT, EASY INSTALLATION: Precision-engineered components fit directly into your vehicle’s engine without modifications. Perfect for DIY mechanics and professional installers alike
- Cam and Lifter Kit: Camshaft + Overhaul Kit + Valve Tappet + 5.7L Exhaust Pipe Bolt + Cylinder Head Bolt Set + 2Pairs of Gloves
- Headers 5.7 Hemi OEM Number: Camshaft-53022263AF, Valve Lifter-53021728AE, 53021726AE, Overhaul Kit-HS26423PT, CR345HS-C, Cylinder Head Bolt-ES72200
- Fitment: 5.7 Hemi Engine for Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Sport Laramie Longhorn ST HFE Rebel Special Service Limited Big Horn Lone Star Tradesman Classic SLT 2011-2020 Hemi 5.7L V8
- Fitment: Lifters 5.7 Hemi Kit for Dodge Ram 1500 ST Laramie SLT Hemi 5.7L V8 VIN: T 2009-2010
- OEM Part: Easy to install, no need for complicated tools, easy to use, original accessories, direct replacement for your old or broken one
- FITMENT: Compatible with Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Sport Laramie Longhorn ST HFE Rebel Special Service Limited Big Horn Lone Star Tradesman Classic SLT 2011-2020 Hemi 5.7L V8
- REPLACEMENT OE NUMBER: Camshaft# 53022263AF, 53022263AE; MDS Lifters# 5038784AB, 5038784AC, 53021720AB, 53021720AD; Head Gasket Set# HS26423PT; Cylinder Head Bolt-ES72200
- IMPROVED PERFORMANCE & RELIABILITY: Upgraded camshaft and lifters help eliminate common MDS-related issues like ticking noise, misfires, and lifter failure—ideal for both stock and modified engines
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: Manufactured to meet or exceed OEM standards, ensuring durability, proper oil flow, and resistance to high temperatures and pressure for long-lasting engine protection
- INCLUDING: 1 X Camshaft, 1 X 5.7L Exhaust Pipe Bolt, 1 X Overhaul Kit, 4 X Valve Tappets, 1 X Bolt Set, 1 X Oil Seal + Seal Ring, 4 X Water Plugs, 2 Gloves
- 5.7 Hemi Cam Lifter Includes: Camshaft + 5.7L Exhaust Pipe Bolts + Overhaul Kit + 4 Sets of Valve Tappets + Timing Chain Set + Oil Pan + Oil Seal and Sealing Ring + 4 Water Plugs + 2 Pairs of Gloves
- Fitment: Lifters 5.7L Hemi for Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Sport Laramie Longhorn ST HFE Rebel Special Service Limited Big Horn Lone Star Tradesman Classic SLT 2011-2020 Hemi 5.7L V8
- Fitment: Non MDS Cam and Lifter Kit 5.7 Hemi for Dodge Ram 1500 ST Laramie SLT Hemi 5.7L V8 VIN: T 2009-2010
- OEM Number: Camshaft-53022263AF, Chain-53022263AF, Valve tappet-53021720AB*4, Overhaul kit-HS26423PT, CR345HS-C, Cylinder Head Bolt-ES72200
- Quality: Tested for a perfect fit, fully factory tested to ensure reliability and durability that meets or exceeds OE standards; original size design ensures a perfect fit and direct replacement
- Fitment: 5.7 Hemi Engine Lifter for Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Sport Laramie Longhorn ST HFE Rebel Special Service Limited Big Horn Lone Star Tradesman Classic SLT 2011-2020 Hemi 5.7L V8
- Fitment: Lifters 5.7 Hemi MDS Cam and Lifter Kit for Dodge Ram 1500 ST Laramie SLT Hemi 5.7L V8 VIN: T 2009-2010
- Replace OEM Number: Camshaft-53022263AF, Valve tappet 53021728AE*2, 53021726AE*2, Oil pump-53021622BH, Water pump-53022192AE, Chain-53022316AC, Overhaul kit-HS26423PT, CR345HS-C, Cylinder head bolt-ES72200, VVT Gear-53022243AF
- 5.7 Hemi MDS Lifters Kit Includes: 1 x Camshaft, 1 x 5.7L Exhaust Pipe Bolts, 1 x Timing Chain Kit, 4 x Valve Tappets, 1 x Oil Pan Kit, 1 xOverhaul Kit, 1 x VVT Gear, Water Pump, Oil Pump and 2 x Gloves
- Quality: We have the OE quality parts and accessories you need at the lowest possible prices. Our parts are the best for restoring your vehicle to factory condition performance
- Charger Challenger Grand Cherokee Non MDS 5.7 HEMI Lifters Camshaft Kit w/ Head Gasket Set
- Camshaft 53022372AA; NON MDS Lifters 53021720AA, 53021720AB, 53021720AC, 53021720AD, 53021720AE, 5038784AD, 5038686AA, 5038784AA, 5038784AB, 5038784AC, 53021572AA
- Replacement for 2009-2017 Dodge Durango, Charger, Challenger 5.7L
- Replacement for 2009-2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7L
- Replacement for 2009-2017 Chrysler 300 5.7L
- What you will get: camshaft, 16 valve tappets (front + rear), cylinder head gaskets, oil pan and bearing seat, timing chain and tensioner, overhaul kit, 5.7L exhaust pipe bolts, 2 pairs of gloves
- OEM Number: Camshaft-53022263AF, Valve tappet-53021728AE*2, 53021726AE*2, Chain-53022316AC, Overhaul kit-HS26423PT, CR345HS-C, Cylinder head bolt-ES72200
- Fitment: 5.7 Hemi Engine for Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Sport Laramie Longhorn ST HFE Rebel Special Service Limited Big Horn Lone Star Tradesman Classic SLT 2011-2020 Hemi 5.7L V8
- Fitment: Lifters 5.7 Hemi Kit for Dodge Ram 1500 ST Laramie SLT Hemi 5.7L V8 VIN: T 2009-2010
- 5.7 Hemi Cam and Lifter Kit Warranty Period: 12 months. If you have any questions, please contact us immediately
- FIT FOR DODGE: 5.7 Hemi cam and lifter kit fit for 2009-2015 Dodge Challenger/Charger 5.7L, fit for 2011-2015 Dodge Durango 5.7L, fit for 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L
- FIT FOR JEEP: NON MDS lifters kit fit for 2009-2010 Jeep Commander 5.7L, fit for 2009-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7L
- FIT FOR CHERSLER: 5.7 Hemi camshaft kit fit for 2009-2015 Chrysler 300 5.7L
- PACKAGE INCLUDE: camshaft, NON-MDS lifters, lifter retainers, plugs to install in the valley of the block (instead of the mds oil valves), multiple layers steel (mls) head gasket, valve cover gasket, valve stem seals, intake manifold gasket, exhaust manifold gasket, front camshaft seal, o-rings, head bolts (20 long bolts, 10 short bolts), other small gaskets, timing cover gasket
- PART NUMBER: Camshaft - 53022372AA, valve lifter - 5038784AD, 5038686AA, 5038784AA, 5038784AB, 5038784AC, 53021572AA, 53021720AA, 53021720AB, 53021720AC, 53021720AD, 53021720AE
Upgrade Your Hemi: A Guide to Camshafts and Lifters
So, you want to give your 5.7 Hemi engine a little more pep? Adding a new camshaft and lifter kit is a fantastic way to boost performance, improve engine sound, and unleash hidden power. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you understand what to look for, so you can make a smart purchase.
Why Upgrade Your Camshaft and Lifters?
Your engine’s camshaft controls when your valves open and close. Lifters are the parts that follow the camshaft’s lobes, pushing on the valves. Upgrading these parts can mean:
- More Horsepower and Torque: A new cam can let your engine breathe better, making more power.
- Aggressive Engine Sound: A bigger cam often gives your Hemi that satisfying rumble.
- Better Fuel Efficiency (sometimes): While not always the case, some performance cams can improve efficiency.
- Improved Throttle Response: Your engine will feel more eager when you press the gas.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a cam and lifter kit, pay attention to these important features:
- Camshaft Profile (Grind): This is the shape of the lobes on the camshaft. Different grinds offer different performance characteristics.
- Mild/Street Grinds: Good for everyday driving. They offer a slight performance boost and a subtle sound.
- Performance/Competition Grinds: These are for those who want serious power. They can make your engine louder and require other supporting modifications.
- Lift and Duration:
- Lift: How far the valve opens. Higher lift generally means more air and fuel can enter the cylinder.
- Duration: How long the valve stays open. Longer duration can increase power at higher RPMs.
- Lifter Type:
- Hydraulic Lifters: These are the most common. They use oil pressure to maintain zero valve lash, meaning they are quiet and require less adjustment.
- Solid Lifters: These are less common in modern engines. They require more maintenance but can offer a slight performance edge. Most Hemi upgrades use hydraulic lifters.
- Intended Use: Is this for daily driving, track days, or towing? The cam profile should match your needs.
2. Important Materials
The quality of the materials used directly impacts the lifespan and performance of your cam and lifters.
- Camshaft Material:
- Cast Iron: A common and durable material for camshafts. It’s affordable and performs well.
- Billet Steel: This is a premium material. Billet steel cams are very strong and can handle higher stresses, making them ideal for high-performance applications.
- Lifter Material:
- Steel: High-quality steel lifters are standard. They need to be durable to withstand constant contact with the cam lobes.
- Roller Lifters: If your kit includes roller lifters, they have a wheel that rolls on the cam lobe. This reduces friction and wear compared to flat-tappet lifters, often allowing for more aggressive cam profiles.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a cam and lifter kit better or worse.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands. Companies with a long history in performance parts usually have higher quality control and better designs.
- Manufacturing Precision: How accurately the cam lobes are ground and how well the lifters are machined makes a big difference. Poorly made parts can lead to premature wear and engine damage.
- Heat Treatment: Proper heat treatment of the camshaft and lifters makes them harder and more resistant to wear.
- Kit Completeness: Does the kit include everything you need? Some kits only come with the cam and lifters, while others include springs, retainers, and pushrods. Having a complete kit saves you time and ensures compatibility.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your Hemi and what kind of experience you want.
- Daily Driver: If your truck or car is your daily ride, a mild performance cam will give you a nice sound and a bit more power without sacrificing too much comfort. You won’t want something that idles rough or is too loud.
- Weekend Warrior/Track Car: For those who like to hit the drag strip or enjoy spirited driving, a more aggressive cam can provide significant power gains. Be prepared for a louder exhaust note and potentially rougher idle. You might also need upgraded valve springs and other engine components.
- Towing/Hauling: If you use your Hemi for work or to tow, you’ll want a cam that provides good low-end torque. Overly aggressive cams can hurt your towing ability.
Choosing the right cam and lifter kit is an investment in your Hemi’s performance. By understanding these key features, materials, and factors, you can select a kit that will bring your engine to life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features I should look for in a 5.7 Hemi cam and lifter kit?
A: You should look for the camshaft profile (grind), its lift and duration numbers, and the type of lifters (usually hydraulic for Hemi). Make sure the profile matches how you want to use your vehicle.
Q: What are the most important materials used in these kits?
A: The camshaft is often made of cast iron or billet steel. The lifters are usually made of high-quality steel. Roller lifters are a great upgrade if available.
Q: How do I know if a cam and lifter kit will improve or reduce the quality of my engine’s performance?
A: Quality is improved by choosing reputable brands, precise manufacturing, and good heat treatment. Poorly made parts or the wrong cam profile for your needs can reduce quality and cause engine problems.
Q: What are some common user experiences with upgraded cams and lifters?
A: Users often report a more aggressive engine sound (a rumble), increased horsepower, and better throttle response. Some notice a slightly rougher idle with performance cams.
Q: What are the typical use cases for different types of 5.7 Hemi cam and lifter kits?
A: Mild kits are good for daily driving. More aggressive kits are for weekend track use or performance enthusiasts. Some cams are designed for better towing power.
Q: Do I need to replace anything else when I install a new camshaft and lifters?
A: Often, yes. You might need new valve springs, retainers, pushrods, and sometimes timing sets. Check if the kit is complete or if you need to buy these separately.
Q: How much more horsepower can I expect from a cam upgrade?
A: This varies a lot depending on the cam. A mild street cam might add 15-30 horsepower, while a more aggressive race cam can add much more, often 50-100+ horsepower when combined with other mods.
Q: Will a new camshaft make my 5.7 Hemi louder?
A: Yes, usually. A more aggressive camshaft often results in a deeper, more noticeable exhaust note and a rougher idle sound, which many enthusiasts enjoy.
Q: Can I install a camshaft and lifter kit myself?
A: It’s a complex job that requires mechanical skill and special tools. If you’re not experienced with engine work, it’s best to have a professional mechanic do the installation to avoid mistakes.
Q: How long do upgraded camshafts and lifters typically last?
A: With proper installation and maintenance, high-quality cam and lifter kits can last for many years and tens of thousands of miles. Using good quality oil is crucial for their longevity.