Does your HEMI feel a little… tame? You love the rumble of your 5.7L engine, but you crave that extra punch when you hit the gas. Many truck and car owners feel the same way. Upgrading your camshaft is one of the best ways to unlock serious horsepower and torque. However, diving into the world of cam kits can feel overwhelming. Which grind is right for your daily driver? Will it sound too choppy? Finding the perfect balance between street manners and track performance is the biggest headache for any HEMI owner.
Choosing the wrong cam kit can lead to poor idle quality, vacuum leaks, or simply not getting the power gains you paid for. That’s where we step in. This detailed guide cuts through the confusion. We will explain exactly what components matter in a complete cam kit and how to match the specs to your specific driving style. By the end of this post, you will know exactly what to look for, saving you time and money.
Ready to transform that loyal 5.7L into a powerhouse? Let’s break down everything you need to know about selecting the absolute best Cam Kit for your 5.7 Hemi.
Top Cam Kit 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
- 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
- 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
- 【Compatibility】This complete engine rebuild kit is compatible with 2009-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500, and Chrysler 300 models equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 MDS engine.
- 【OE Part Number】Camshaft: 53022263AF, 53022372AA; Lifter: 05038785AD, 05038786AD; Bolt: ES72200; Overhaul Kit: HS26423PT
- 【Complete Integrated Kit】The kit includes all components required for top-end rebuild: performance-matched MDS camshaft, full set of hydraulic lifters (including MDS lifter assembly), multi-layer steel (MLS) cylinder head gasket set with seals, and new cylinder head bolts.
- 【Cylinder Head Gasket & MDS Components】 Premium MLS cylinder head gasket ensures superior sealing performance. The specially engineered MDS camshaft and lifters effectively address common issues like lifter collapse, cam wear, and engine noise, guaranteeing reliable operation and long-lasting durability.
- 【Enhanced Stability】This kit resolves engine misfires, power loss, excessive oil consumption, and “HEMI rattling” caused by MDS lifter failure or damaged cylinder head gaskets. It serves as the ideal replacement for achieving smooth, quiet, and powerful engine performance.
- 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
- 5.7 HEMI MDS Lifters Camshaft Engine Gasket Kit for Grand Cherokee Charger Challenger 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
- OE Part# Camshaft 53022372AA | MDS Lifters 53021726AD, 53021726AE, 53021726AF, 5038684AA, 5038785AA, 5038785AB, 5038785AC, 68060714AA, 53021726BB, 53021726BC, 5038785AD
- Replacement for Jeep: 2009-2018 Grand Cherokee 5.7L | 2009 2010 Commander 5.7L | Replacement for 2009-2019 Chrysler 300 5.7L
- Replacement for Dodge: 2009-2019 Challenger | 2009-2019 Charger 5.7L | 2011-2019 Durango 5.7L | 2010 2011 Ram 1500 5.7L
- Brand New, 24 Months Warranty
- You will get: Camshaft, 4 sets of Valve Tappets, Overhaul Kit, Bolt Set, Timing Gear Kit, Water Pump, Oil Pump, Gloves (Black Latex + White Work)
- Fitment: MDS Hemi Engine, fits for Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L Engine V8 2003-2008 Laramie, Ram 1500 SRT - 10, Ram 1500 SLT, Ram 1500 ST
- OEM Number: Camshaft-53022064AA, Valve tappet-53021728AE, 53021726AE, Oil Pump-53021622AF, Water pump-53021380AK AW7168, Chain-53021304AE9-0704S, Overhaul kit-HS26284PT1, Cylinder head bolts-ES72200
- OE Parts: We have the OE qulity parts and accessories you need at the lowest possible prices. Our parts are the best for restoring your vehicle to factory condition performance
- Service: If you needs or have any questions, please contact us with the frame number, and we will provide you with the most correct advice. Warranty for 12 Months. Buy with confidence!
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Cam Kit for Your 5.7L Hemi Engine
Upgrading your 5.7L Hemi engine with a new camshaft kit can unlock serious power and a great sound. This guide helps you pick the right one. Think of a camshaft as the engine’s “brain” for airflow. A good kit changes how your engine breathes, making it stronger.
1. Key Features to Look For in a Cam Kit
When shopping, check these things first. These features tell you what the cam can actually do.
Performance Goals
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): This number controls how wide the “overlap” is—when intake and exhaust valves are both open. A smaller LSA gives you more low-end torque (good for trucks). A larger LSA gives more top-end horsepower (good for racing).
- Duration and Lift: Duration is how long the valve stays open. Lift is how far the valve opens. Higher numbers usually mean more power but can make the engine idle rougher on the street.
Kit Inclusions
A complete kit is always better. Make sure the package includes:
- The Camshaft itself (the main part).
- Lifters (they ride on the cam lobes).
- Valve Springs and Retainers (these handle the faster valve movement).
- Pushrods (rods connecting lifters to rockers).
2. Important Materials Matter for Longevity
The material used in the cam determines how long it lasts and how much power it can handle.
Cam Core Material
- Cast Iron: This is common and affordable. It works well for mild street performance.
- Billet Steel: This is much stronger. Billet steel cams handle high RPMs and heavy spring pressure without wearing down quickly. If you plan on adding a supercharger or nitrous, choose billet steel.
Lifter Material
Most modern Hemi kits use **Hydraulic Roller Lifters**. These are generally preferred over older flat tappet designs because they reduce friction and wear on the expensive steel camshaft lobes.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cams are made equal. Quality parts lead to better results and fewer headaches later.
Quality Boosters
- Professional Grinding: High-quality cams have precise lobe profiles. Manufacturers use advanced machinery to ensure the shape is perfect. This leads to smooth power delivery.
- Coating: Some cams come with special coatings (like black oxide or specialized polymer coatings). These coatings reduce friction when the cam first breaks in with the new lifters.
Quality Reducers
- Incomplete Kits: If a kit skips upgrading the valve springs, you risk valve float at high RPMs. This means the engine loses power suddenly and can cause serious damage.
- Incorrect Tuning:** A high-performance cam *must* be tuned correctly after installation. Running the wrong computer settings will hurt performance and potentially overheat the engine.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Who are you buying this for? Your answer changes the best cam choice.
Street Driven Daily Driver
For a truck or car you drive every day, you want smooth idle and good low-end pulling power. Look for a cam with a smaller duration number (under 220 degrees duration at .050 lift) and a wider LSA (112 degrees or more). The engine will sound close to stock but feel much stronger when you step on the gas.
Weekend Warrior / Track Use
If you only drive the car on weekends or take it to the drag strip, you can sacrifice some idle quality for maximum power. Choose a cam with aggressive lift and long duration (over 230 degrees). These cams often create that classic, choppy idle sound that enthusiasts love.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 5.7L Hemi Cam Kits
Q: Do I need a specific tuning device for a new cam?
A: Yes, absolutely. You must use a performance tuner (like HP Tuners or DiabloSport) to adjust the engine’s computer settings (the PCM). The engine will run poorly or not at all without a proper tune.
Q: Will a cam kit hurt my gas mileage?
A: Generally, yes. Performance cams change the engine timing to make more power. This usually means your fuel economy will drop slightly, especially if you choose a very aggressive cam.
Q: How much horsepower can I expect to gain?
A: Gains vary widely based on the cam size and other modifications (like headers or intake). A mild street cam might add 30-50 horsepower. A very aggressive cam can add much more.
Q: Can I install a cam kit myself?
A: Installing a cam is a serious engine job. It requires special tools, like a valve spring compressor and a way to keep the timing chain tight. If you are not an experienced mechanic, hire a professional shop.
Q: What is the break-in procedure for a new cam?
A: The break-in is critical. You must immediately start the engine and keep the RPMs between 2,000 and 2,500 for about 20 minutes without letting it idle too low. This lets the new lifters properly seat onto the cam lobes and prevents rapid wear.
Q: Does a new cam require upgraded valve springs?
A: Always. Any cam that increases valve lift above stock specifications requires stronger valve springs to keep the valves under control at higher engine speeds.
Q: Will a cam kit cause my engine to run hot?
A: An aggressive cam, especially one that runs rich (uses more fuel), can sometimes run slightly hotter than stock. Proper tuning is the best way to manage engine temperature after installation.
Q: What is the difference between a “mild” and “aggressive” cam?
A: A mild cam offers smooth idle and street manners. An aggressive cam has big numbers, makes the most power at high RPM, and usually results in a rough, choppy idle sound.
Q: Is a cam kit safe for my 5.7L Hemi with MDS (Multi-Displacement System)?
A: If you buy a cam kit specifically labeled for MDS use, it will work. However, most performance cams require you to delete or “delete the MDS” system because the factory MDS lifters cannot handle the aggressive ramp rates of the performance cam.
Q: How long does the installation usually take?
A: For an experienced shop, a cam swap on a Hemi usually takes a full day (8 to 10 hours) of labor, not including the time needed for the final tuning session.