It's a long way off, But there's some stuff I'd like to know about 'em anyway... -What's the CHEAPEST hemi V8 to build? -What's the most expensive? -What was the last year Hemi's were made in the 50's? -What problems need to be addressed when BUILDING or REBUILDING a hemi? -Does anybody make a 5-speed trans for these things? ...Websites...??? Thanks!
Last year for the early hemis was '58 (which was a 392, hard to find one now). I'd guess that parts are all pretty much the same price, so the price of the engine itself would be what mostly determines the cost of the build. The main reason that hemi rebuilds are more expensive than other less-common engines is that they have 4 rocker shafts instead of 2, but you don't NEED to replace those, just if they're worn out. www.hothemiheads.com and www.wilcap.com sell adapters, I dunno about 5-speeds specifically, but anything is possible
The guy from HotHemiHeads (I think it was them... I have it at work, not here) told me in an e-mail several months ago that they were working on a t-5 adapter, but it was a way off yet. They aren't cheap to build, that's for sure... I'm building a 53 Desoto 276 now... I need to mic the block and see where I am, I had planned on boring it and adding some higher comp pistons, but that rebuilt kit with pistons is damned near 2gs! It was supposedly a "low-mileage" motor, so if it mics ok, I may just re-ring it and go and try to keep it around $1000. It's pretty sludged up top, but no big ridge in the cylinders, so we'll have to see... I'm still up-in-the-air on******* choices myself. I have the fluid-drive setup that came with it, but I have no idea how it worked or how to use it
Performance Automotive Wholesale (PAW) used to offer a seperate catalog just for early Hemi engine parts. I think they still do. They run an ad in just about every car magazine out there. Call 'em up and ask for their Early Hemi Catalog.
The 392 is, probably, the cheapest to build because they've been the most popular and lots of aftermarket stuff is available. The Dodge and DeSoto hemis are a bit on teh expensive side to build as the intake manifolds from the low blocks aren't interchangeable with the tall blocks as they are with the Chryslers. And camshafts are a bit tough to come by as well. You can still buy brand new cams for Chrysler hemis. King Bearing, now, makes all the various-sized rod & main bearings so that's helped a great deal. No more paying top dollar for someone's hoarded bearings on eBay or through Hemmings. Egge MAchine has most of what you need in the way of rings, bearings, stainless valves, valve guides, etc. PowerPlay's (Hot Heads) stainless valves are questionable. I bought a set for my hemi and the stems were too small and didn't have hardened tips. There's a lot of good info on this site. http://www.hotrodsandhemis.com/
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