I'm thinking about doing a manual hemi 5.7 conversion. There are some things that I've found conflicting information on (or no answers to) and I'm a bit confused. Does anybody know?

* Does a regular conversion kit (i.e. AEV or BOR kit) work for both VVT or non-VVT hemis? Do XK VVT hemis work as well? I didn't see them mentioned in a post about compatible VVT hemis.

* Is it true that ONLY Getrag 238 trannys from dodge dakotas work, and that dodge ram 238's are too big?

* All 3.8L accesories (A/C compressor, P/S pump, alternator, etc) are incompatible and must be replaced with WK or XK accesories? If that's the case then there's no difference between getting a WK or XK donor engine, right?

 

I used an engine out of a 2007 Commander with the AEV kit. It came complete with all accessories and sensors. The power steering pump needed to be changed to Grand Cherokee style (same pump, actually, with the difference begin that the reservoir is built-in, or so it appears to me).

The only real difference for compatibility with the AEV kit is the placement of the accessories. The Commander layout is correct. The RAM truck layout is incorrect.

I compared (eye-balled) the accessories on the 3.8 to those that came on my Hemi. They are different (A/C, P/S, and ALT).

I used an auto trans, so I can't speak to the questions on the manual, but I hope this helps answer some of your questions.

-Randy

 

So it would've been better for you to get a Grand Cherokee HEMI since its P/S pump would've fit? And I'm assuming the Alternator and A/C pump would've been ok too?

 

I also used the 07 Commander engine and had to buy alternator, ps pump and ac compressor.

 

No, the current kits from both BOR and AEV will not work with a VVT. AEV should be releasing their VVT kit soon, no idea on BOR. The VVT hemis will need to come from a Grand Cherokee or Commander for the AEV kit. Not sure on the BOR.

Not sure on the manual tranny stuff - I did an automatic.

As for the accessories, that depends on whether you are talking about a VVT or non-VVT motor. I have heard that the new AEV VVT kit will re-use the JK AC compressor. I think the PS pump and alternator still have to come from a commander or grand cherokee. (I had to buy a new alternator even though mine came from a commander. The connector did not mate up with the new wiring harness. It happens.) As for your other question about the PS pump from a Grand Cherokee, remember that is an SRT8 spec'd power steering pump, so if you are doing a 5.7L conversion, you won't get the right pump from either a Commander or a Grand Cherokee. Hope that helps.

 

Give Jerry at Screamin Lizard Customs a call regarding the Getrag 238 options. He did my conversion and I remember him saying something about the specific version of the tranny that was required.

 

good info guys!!