I'm Building The CHEAPEST 426 Hemi On YouTube! Ex-Racer Junk, Used Factory Parts, And My Genius Plan

Help me thank Tom Hergert with Rocket Restorations for making this build happen by checking out his channel and hitting subscribe here: / @rocketresto
This Engine Wednesday, I've got something special for you. Quite some time ago now, I teased the idea of piecing together a 426 Hemi and dropping it in my 1968 Dodge Charger. At the time, I didn't actually have the means to do this, and thankfully Tom Hergert with ‪@rocketresto‬ sold the (very expensive) NOS Mopar Performance 426 block before I could dump more than my life's savings into it. But I've been on the lookout for a Hemi's worth of parts I could actually acquire and build ever since - and over the last couple months, Tom brought home almost enough random odds and ends to do exactly this. The parts you see on the bench today are almost all well used factory components. The block and head castings in particular have seen some serious racing action. There are also some various NOS parts. This is the reality of trying to build a "cheap" Hemi - everything is old, worn out, abandoned junk. But I'm fully dedicated to making this junk into a complete, running 426. So today, I present to you... The Leftover Elephant.

[@soxgopro5552]

The 66' wagon would be a killer sleeper with that mill, jus sayin'. 😉

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I know…

[@Roosters_Restos]

​@DeadDodgeGarage not if you want to stay married or keep your balls lol that's her baby.

[@doublebackagain4311]

I'd vote for it, as long as the trim pieces on the front fenders gets put on there #triggered lol

[@romannumeral5547]

I'm not sure who's more excited to see you build this Hemi, me or you 😂. This really does remind me of the old days when we used build our stuff on a shoestring budget. We'd scour parts yards all over the place looking for stuff. Those days are long gone now that most of this stuff has found its way into a very few hands, just like the cars. Kudos to you Jamie for keeping the real spirit of this hobby alive. Wishing you all the best in the New Year, Cheers!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Outstanding. Haha. Happy to do it! Thanks!

[@ohar7237]

To weld up that block, it would be really useful to have a proper heat treating oven (although it would be absolutely miserable to safely take the hot block in and out of it) to get it up to heat, take it out, do the welding, and then stick it back in for the slow cooldown. I'll admit, it works much better with heads, where you only needs a *slightly* huge oven, and you're only juggling a *hundred* pounds of skin-blisteringly hot cast iron instead of five hundred pounds of it. Well, that's probably enough commentary from the KZbin peanut gallery on that. I wish you the best of luck. I'd love to have a Real Hemi (tm) some day, but I'll also probably never want to actually pony up the money for it, so I'm going to live vicariously through you. :D

[@spicydragon3881]

I always dreamed of having a Hemi car, it unfortunately never happened, but when I was in HS I bought a running, driving 70' Road Runner 383, 4spd from a friends dad for $2600!!! I kick myself all the time for ever getting rid of that car. Even though it wasn't a fabled Hemi, I still have awesome memories of driving that car (and in the back seat). I can't wait to see your further adventures, trials and tribulations on the way to achieving Hemi greatness.

[@tonyb3864]

I have been living the Mopar life since 1974. I guess I have been in a coma because I know absolutely nothing about 426 hemis. I come from a humble background and let me tell you even back in the 70s the Hemi game was for a select group of people with deep pockets. Serious drag racers were sucking them all up. A 426 hemi was something my friends and I could only dream about. Very interesting video. Good luck with your build.

[@jeffhutchins7048]

I've only ever actually laid my eyes on ONE.

[@joshjesch6000]

Same here. In a non original plum crazy 69 charger in about 2004 or 2005. I was in awe.

[@SixPackDan]

Rockers love to wear away. Use AMC lifters and drill out the end of the pushrods. Now you are oiling the rocker ball sockets. You can use a 440 block if you use stage V heads with external oil drains. You don't need hemi rods (heavy) you can use 440 and then use the Keith Black piston just for that application because of the rod length difference. Oh and the reason for 426 is that was the nascar limit at the time. I built a 40 over 440 with 440 rods and crank. Using the KB pistons and stage V heads. Used stock hemi intake, valve covers and hooker 5210 headers with 3 inch exhaust. Intake has the Vanke mod and twin 750s. By the way hemis love electronic ignition. I had to make my own base for the aircleaner but once the chrome dome is on you cant tell.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Making a base is my plan. The Hemi may have *stayed* at 426 for that reason. I’m well familiar with Stage V - but they have been out of production forever and ever. I was also considering using 440 rods, as I explained in the video.

[@thatsonebadhatharry8610]

​@@DeadDodgeGarageIs it possible to run 12.5/1 on E85? Since it's only a weekend toy it wouldn't cost much more on gas to run E85 other than having to use a special carb or carbs to run the stuff.

[@xozindustries7451]

Throw the block on a big gas grill, heat the whole thing up, weld it up, slowly reduce the heat on the grill until it’s the lowest setting, cover it with blankets and let it sit for a few days to let it cool

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

That’s not far off of what we were thinking, but instead of a gas grille, we were going to build a box.

[@xozindustries7451]

@@DeadDodgeGarage yup, just control the heat, surround the box with sand to keep the heat in

[@ohar7237]

That's probably a lot easier than my heat-treating oven suggestion.

[@racer6583]

Jamie my pap welded cast iron blocks when I was knee high to a grass hopper he always used a torpedo floor heater to heat the whole block and acetylene and oxygen torch to heat up the crack to cherry red then with a arc welder and a nickel rod repair the crack then we put a fire blanket, two of them immediately after he was done then piled moving blankets to keep the heat in and slow down the cooling. The slower you can make the cool down the better the repair will be and the stronger it becomes. This is what my pap has said and done in front of me from when I was 10 to 15 years of age. Then he Quit restoring old model car's like Maxwell's, Essex's and Pierce Arrows to name a few. Hope this helps you.

[@siegel197866]

This is what Alan Butler at skid factory does.

[@Camcodrummer]

Jamie, Precision Casting in Salt Lake city can do all that cast iron repair! They do this all the time.

[@autonomous_collective]

Great top! Thx for sharing...

[@clembob8004]

Whenever I start dreaming about building a hemi, I am reminded why life is much cheaper and easier in small block land (or big block). But a hemi is a hemi, so I am very excited to see this engine come to life and making lots of power. I look at it this way, you are building a hemi so I don't have to.

[@peterdollery629]

I subscribed to Rocket a few months ago when I first heard you mention him in a video. I enjoy his channel and encyclopedic knowledge on Mopar stuff...obviously you are no slouch either. I kind of think you compliment each other nicely. Big thanks to him for the Hemi parts so we can all enjoy watching your build!!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I think we make a good, well balanced team. Thanks!

[@petergrey7125]

Yeah, ditto everything Peter Dollery629 said. Love the Rocketresto channel and Tom is really helpful with information as are you. I agree you guys complement each other in what you do. 👍

[@gilbertwashburn7095]

I worked at several machine shops in my life I stitched a lot of heads including 426 Hemi it was a lot of work but it was worth it now I'm just an old geezer can't do that anymore have a great day I really enjoy your video hemis are the king carburetors for life have a great day

[@racehemi4862]

There are 2 types of Hemi People, those that Want a Hemi & those that Have a Hemi. Welcome to the club. My project started with an original November of '64 Race Hemi engine complete from an actual car. Just as you have discovered a Race Hemi was raced until it failed, repaired, raced again & again & again. Everyone of the problems you have found, I experienced as well. Each problem requires someone with a very unique set of skills to correct the damage & make the parts useable. Approach each challenge with an open mind, the journey along the way will be just as rewarding as the completion and the day Elephant breathes fire again. Enjoy!

[@roadmasterz]

Put it in Tom's CJ!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

No 😅 but I like where your head’s at

[@richjordan9375]

Best of luck with this. No classic hemis in my future; I'm staying small block (unless a righteous C-body with a B/RB makes itself unavoidable for purchase in the future). But it will be fun to watch.

[@SuperNova-43]

If you find a cast iron welding specialist please share. While I’m a Mopar guy I’m restoring a 1935 REO Royale sedan which has a severely cracked cylinder head. It’s one of roughly 9 known of so….

[@autonomous_collective]

TIP: Precision Casting in Salt Lake city can do all that cast iron repair! They do this all the time.

[@SuperNova-43]

@ Appreciate ya! Happy New Year

[@KiwiStag74]

To Hemi or not to Hemi.....that question has been answered. Glad the dream is getting so much closer to reality for you. Will look forward to the day we get to hear it run!

[@jamesblair9614]

I’m really looking forward to following your build. I joined the Hemi brotherhood in the late 70’s, it changes your life. That factory balancer is designed with a nice shoulder that eliminates any possibility of the ring coming off, and there is an index mark on the hub that lines up with the timing mark, so you can tell if the ring has rotated. I have a balancer that looks perfect, but some racer honed out the bore so it slides on and off. That caused it to hammer the nose of the crank, to the point where the crank needed to be grounded down and hard chromed back to stock dimensions. Have you considered installing it in your Coronet wagon?

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Oh, I… briefly considered it. But I can’t do it. Haha.

[@romeoalphafoxtrot9517]

MAN! That is one Hell of an undertaking there! Good luck on it Jamie! I hope all goes well for you.

[@Skid1977brent]

Listening to you talk about the warm and fuzzies you'll get from ANY 426 running on a stand thats yours is something I can relate too! I'm also a mopar parts hoarder and have loads of big block stuff. The 426 hemi parts however, have so far eluded me. I NEED to build one of these! From a fellow dreamer and tinkerer in Canada thanks for this and looking forward to watching you put it all together!

[@carlokerblom770]

Good luck Jamie cool build can’t wait too see the video when you put it together and put it in a car !!

[@PlymouthOnPlywood]

Happy new year Scrap Pack!

[@MrTonyPiscatelle]

Just a thought ! In my 40 years of service tech on high speed turbo air compressor repair we used Hard chroming on the pinion and main shafts. The pinions rotated at 35 thou to 70 thousand rpm and this repair held up fine. Then came Titanium. A group in Texas started using titanium instead of hard chrome and the results were astounding. It is far superior to hard chrome. Just thought you might want to know of alternative metal repair/surfacing. I made a mistake. I meant to say Tungsten instead of titanium ---my bad

[@DanOrcutt723]

Happy New Year to the guy that does the stuff! 🥳🎉

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Happy new year, Dan!

[@0004612]

And eats the corn dogs! 😊

[@DanOrcutt723]

@ 🌽🐶 forever 😁

[@mattwhaley9917]

"One man gathers what another man spills" - R. Hunter Excited to see this pile of parts fulfill your Hemi dreams! Whatever it goes in will be twice as badass with it in it. Just owning a 426 Hemi is clout all by itself. Love your channel and all the projects you do.

[@sickcoy13]

@@mattwhaley9917 well said. By R. Hunter and you.

[@bigpatsunderthehood5552]

I’m always impressed with your work and your dedication to mopar

[@SuperDeadAhead]

awesome video jamie! looking forward to watching all the hemi build videos and learning along the way

[@stevenandrews1012]

Another great Hemi saga Mr.J...You video definitely made me eager to see the next chapter....And for some strange reason also gave me a craving for POP TARTS.....

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I can’t explain that last part. Haha.

[@dragonboypayne21]

Thanks!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Thank you!

[@greghoen6998]

As others have said the rocker shafts will probably straighten out when torqued down. Also welding the block you may need to do that in short welds over many passes allowing cooling between the welds Preheating is a good idea as well as post heating as cast cools very fast at welded areas and cracks I sometimes use nickle rod where it does not need to be machined down as it is very hard

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

As you saw, we pre heated a large section around the crack to 350-500 degrees and post heated to try and slow cooling. But clearly not as effective as baking in an oven and wasn’t enough.

[@carnivoreguy]

Thanks for the good vid! Unfortunately vids on specialty items most people do not have and can't afford don't do as well as cheap fix solutions on common low buck stuff! I struggle threw your challenger vids waiting for stuff like this! 👍 I've been welding cast for 30+ years and my only advice is 316 stainless rod (10% nickle) helps get rid of porosity and silicon bronze rod is a good lower melting temp cap weld/ also I use hot coals and wood ash to cool slow! Unfortunately cast iron is not all the same but I'm sure you'll find someone skilled enough to getter done! I'm out in alberta Canada 🇨🇦 Happy newyear

[@Bradydog-in7ut]

Jamie; 1st of all your shop is a bird zone as I saw your video of you pushing a coffee cup near you Parrot! This is a very brave adventure!! And you are correct! Most 60’s-70 racers not named “Petty” ran races on a shoestring and were constantly blowing and reblowing Hemi engines and reworking then to get them back on the track. Now I know from my little brother if your planning to build a block or the heads with any type of the smallest crack your headed for disaster! How do you think they got that way in the 1st place? Ethereal are extreme stresses in a Hemi engine and you’re going to want to step on it. You got to find a new head for the one with the hairline crack because it will blow up on you sooner or later. Still, It should be fun! Definitely call Uncle Tony for help as he has a wealth of knowledge about these engines. Sometimes families of old part time racers have Hemi parts hanging around old barns and garages. Maybe you could go to Arizona with your guitar playing “El Paso” and Marty Robbins son may give you a good racing head….Yes, Marty Robbins did race selected races during the early 70’s with a best 5th finish.

[@45BradB]

It might seem like a reach but see if any of your local viewers work for Cat in Lacey or really any other heavy equipment dealer. At Cat in FL we had an in-house guy who specialized in cast iron repair for all the booms and frames. Spent most of his time in the rental division working on equipment going to the auction for the dealer. You might find a guy who knows a guy 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@mikegimenez2629]

When I installed those milodon spark plug tube seals. I polished the lower section of the spark plug tube, to help the O-Ring seal better. they do make a huge difference.

[@PaulSteinberg-il4tw]

My hat is off to you Jamie taking on this build. I have always wanted an elephant in my garage but alas I could never afford one much less know enough to keep it operating. I am excited to follow along on your build since this is as close as I will ever get to a real Hemi. Good luck with this!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@roywhitman7109]

I found this to be a fascinating video! I'd never seen the process of repairing or welding cast iron before, although I knew people could do it. I truly wish you the very best with this one!👍

[@boilerroomed3682]

Now you've REALLY convinced me I don't EVER want a 426 HEMI, mostly due to the weird rocker arms, spark plug tubes and such but it's almost a UNICORN type of thing! Besides I'm a short block 340/ 318 type and like the higher REVS! The 500 ponies is also a bit daunting depending on the rest of the car being straight (enough) etc....

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Oh, I’m confident this project will talk many people out of Hemi ownership. Haha.

[@wotsac]

@@DeadDodgeGaragethat's the spirit I come to this channel for.

[@TimMartin62]

Really happy for you, and excited to see one of your dreams come true..Im also a bit envious. Keep up the good work!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Thank you!

[@MikeJBlues]

Hemi on a Budget is a win win if you can pull it off. Sadly somewhere is a good hemi block being used as a door stop lol. Hope this is going in the 68 charger ! Happy New Year 🎊😊

[@dirwinzzz]

About ten years ago I went to a shop in Tacoma that specializes in cast iron welding. We hung out there for a while and watched a block being repaired. They wrapped it up with asbestos blankets and heated the whole block up with the biggest rosebud on a torch I have ever seen. As soon as I hear back from the friend I went with I will send you the contact details.

[@dirwinzzz]

The block we had welded was a flat head 6 out of a 1941 dodge command car . Still working fine

[@larryakre5942]

Suggestion for a Hemi transplant.. A 1978 Chrysler New Yorker Brougham, 2 dr., St. Regis package, with factory sunroof (optional). Big, Bold, & Brash. After all, the New Yorkers of the 50's were born with Hemi's. Happy New Year! Skål!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Now THAT would be something.

[@RipRoaringGarage]

I envy that you have this stuff around you. I'm in a car desert....add to that my ongoing game of medical bingo, but main thing was my passion lied in lets say...less popular cars. When even AMCs and Gremlins get more love, you know your car is forgotten to time. Even the forums are dwindling... 460 Fords don't get much love outside of the truck world. And 429s steal the show (I mean, they are basically the same 385 series but...well, the 460 was meant for torque and high speed, in Continentals. I do love those cars. But again...forgotten like mediocre meat in freshly baked gourmet bread of sui..side (youtube rules, sighs) 60s Slabsides and the Panther Town Cars (fine, one gen of Continentals that were Panthers too). But nobody cared about the 70-74 cars. Can't say why. To me, those were some of the best cars ever made. And..they were SUPPOSED to be designed by Iococca, but he lost! I mean, cmon, how can I not love them for that? Sure, Mustangs, Mark IIIs. Sure, nice cars but he was the guy that pushed Rolls Royce grills...gaudification of Lincoln and then... K cars! So yeah, I love things that at best the world forgot about lol. Its bad, when even the aftermarket guys at SMS stopped making vinyl tops for them. Never was a fan of just painting the roof. Its not an early 70s car without that sweet Cavalry Twill. Sorry for the rant. Just one of those days. Reflecting.

[@beljames1563]

Looking forward to this build. Back in the day the 426 hemi was the ultimate in cool. It was the stuff of legend as well as lies. But it was always the holy grail. If you were lucky enough to own one you were instantly famous locally...well maybe infamous depending on who's parents you were talking to.

[@jeffosim8789]

It’s great that you will have a 426 Hemi engine that all of us dream about . I am happy that I had the next best thing ,a 440 6 barrel engine i put in a 1970 Satellite . It was not a factory 6 barrel engine it was one that I pieced together , but the 6 barrel intake was a factory 1969 aluminum one with matching factory carbs for that year.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Hell yeah!

[@MrMongo107]

Find someone who welds up cast iron railings. That's who I used! He did a terrific job.

[@Roosters_Restos]

I can relate to the just owning a hemi. Take my blown hemi. Can I afford to just go all in and build it. Sure if I give up food, heat, lights and minor things like that. Hoarding and saving a buck is the way to go. However as you just learned used parts can have hidden surprises like lots of them. I have seen a lot of bent rocker shafts and was about to get a set from a guy when he saw me rolling them on his work bench. He got mad when I told him to make a flute out of them. 2hr drive for nothing. I can tell you how some get bent. Let's call it an abrupt engine stop. Or boom. Oh, and at least your block has not a crack down the cam valley that was common. Both Tony and I have seen that in race motors. In fact, the first repops had issues with breaking there. Now fixed but lots of cranky guys with 10k blocks that broke. Nick's garage had a rant on that some years back. Oh 12 to 1 comp. Pump gas plus klotz 626 octane boost to 102 octane and go have fun. I can teach you how to make a good cocktail cheap lol. Don't drink it or spill it on paint unless you don't like your paint lol. I have been blending fuel for decades and it's way cheaper than race fuel. Lastly 440 rods and 426 rods. 426 rods as 100 thousands shorter. Never use used aluminum rods they stretch. In fact, the rods you have are fine as long as they weigh the same. Stock rods are strong as a rule. But as you know all too well, they tend to make pretty picture windows too. And remember, if your building a hemi breakfast boritos and corndogs are now your diet to afford one. So you will be at home with it. Here i will buy you one ❤

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I’m hip to the length difference. Apparently people use them and there is a KB piston made specifically to gain the height back. But I haven’t looked into that, I’m planning to run these. They look pretty nice.

[@bod7468]

Those rocker shafts can probably be bumped straight on a press just use a aluminum block on the press. After each bump check them on a flat surface with a feeler gauge.

[@bookofrevelation4924]

Harley Davidson crank shafts are known to warp, and are corrected by hitting them one bump at a time while checking trueness with dial gage after each blow to it. Saw a channel doing it. Reminds me of straightening nails after pulling them out with a the claw, to use them again.

[@bookofrevelation4924]

Nothing to lose trying, if they're not usable presently.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I’ll definitely be trying to make them live. Press is a thought. My other thought was simply bolting them down and checking the arms for smooth movement.

[@doublebackagain4311]

Agreed - came here to say just this. 👍

[@68PlymouthPat]

Would love to see the Hemi in the Charger! If not, finding a 68-70 B-body would be awesome! Especially a Roadrunner!

[@pcbullets8726]

It's crazy how much parts are for these engines. I look forward to seeing where this all ends up. And yes, I am subbed to Tom's channel as well.

[@minnesotatomcat]

Yes I subscribed to Rocket Restorations! I gotta say he doesn’t have your special brand of colorful commentary and humor, but always lots of great information 👍

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Absolutely. He’s more of a straight man than me but very, very knowledgeable.

[@VolcanoPudding]

Good to have you back. I know you haven't posted a video since last year.🎸

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

😅

[@robertlacob8831]

Jamie, I can understand your obsession for a running hemi, but I grew up with those engines blowing up a lot so I migrated to the 383/400s of the day and the small block 318/340s. So much more reliable and still drives excellent with decent fuel mileage. And, they don't cost an arm and leg to build!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

That’s ok - I don’t want it to be reliable, drive well, or get good mileage!

[@dadalebreton184]

JB weld those heads chambers and weld a rock crucher metal screen around the block in case it reve over 5000 RPM. Hahaha. I love you show and explainations. This 1 sounded like Whole lotta Love!❤

[@laingconley5316]

Check the thickness of the piston domes. You may be able to machine away some the dome if they are thick enough. This would help in reducing compression ratio and even lightens the pistons.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I know it! I might have a hard time doing that with vintage Arias race stuff though. Might be able to swap them for street pistons.

[@Vaino_Hotti]

I like the grassroots stuff, and as a Ford guy I don't mind a bit of learning. Cheers to a fast and fun 2025!

[@garydotson2277]

I’m looking forward to this build. I’ve never built a Hemi but have been around a few of them.

[@jeffreyvietzke228]

Big cams that ‘bleed off’ cylinder compression at low rpm to aid in detonation will allow detonation at wide open throttle. There is no free lunch. High compression needs high octane. BTDT for the past 45 years. Great stuff here, keep it up !

[@allenm00]

if the shafts are just bent, you can probably get a machine shop to straighten them using a lathe and a dial indicator. We had good success doing this on production assembly equipment from time to time. They just chuck them up and work their way down the shaft straightening them a little at a time. we had a maintenance guy drop off a bent shaft once to the machinist asking for 2 just like it but without the wear. The shafts had worn out and were bent. The machinist didn't know anything about what they were used for, so he made them just like the one he dropped off. He said he had a difficult time matching the bends. The maintenance guy learned that he should have specified "straight" as well.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

That’s a good one. Haha.

[@richardweyland116]

Right, that's what I sweated when I bought a complete 426 Hemi engine and sent it off to an engine builder. Luckily, it passed the tests. It wasn't cheap, but a really good deal. It didn't get beaten to crap. The 426 I bought in a 'Cuda seems to be ok, I've driven the crap out of it - not raced it but drive it. It's probably the most reliable classic car I have.

[@rocco3381]

We need a live build with Uncle Tony 💪

[@josepenate7367]

happy new year Jamie,,,good future project,no doubt in my mind this build will be cool.

[@minnesotatomcat]

I agree, save that hemi for something better than the rust bucket charger. I like the 68 roadrunner brainstorm 👍

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

It won’t be a rust bucket by the time we’re done…

[@iamnoone.]

JAMIE. I bow to you for taking this on. Had a 70 hemi challenger stolen in 85, and it always had to have work on it, and I told myself I'd never build another one. I've had just as much fun with a 440 and know I'm a 273 a body guy. I've had many people go. Sure, you had a hemi car till I showed them the title to the car. Between the pictures and title, that's all that remains of the challenger

[@ronaldrey8474]

In the Navy I was a welder . AMS aviation mechanical structures add I'd use a a sand box to slow cooling down. Is there a option for bronze type rods for welding cast ??

[@Amoparman408]

I get all the Ooos and Ahhhs the HEMI brings. But when I saw the W2 headed 340, that got my attention. Also I have a dual quad tunnel ram that would fit that. Good luck with the 426 build, they are an absolute riot, especially above 4K RPM. Ask me how I know😜.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

You had me at dual quad tunnel ram…

[@raymondward1009]

With all the problems you've been having it might be a better idea to go with a modern 6.4 and a conversion kit. I currently have a 2019 RAM with a 400 HP 5.7, it's only got 59000 miles on it and runs like a top it's really all I want (HP wise) for the street, I keep the oil changed regularly and run 93 pump gas, Ive heard of guys using 87 pump gas I've tried it and it just seems to run better on Hi-test gas. The plan is once it gets tired, say 120000+ miles, I want to use that block, a conversion kit and some nice racing parts for a 1969 Barracuda full-on strip trailer queen! If I keep my current driving distances it should be 4-5 more years before she gets to that point, Ive got two and a half years worth of payments left so I should have a couple years to start putting together the rest of what I'm going to need. I'm still in good physical shape for my age of 61 but by the time I get that all done I'll likely just have a little fun with it (try not to blow it up) and sell it.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I strongly dislike third gen Hemis and have no intention of ever putting one in a car for myself. I *might* buy a modern 6.4 powered car, but I’m not going to swap one. I will get this done for thousands less than a third gen swap. I want the old school unit. That’s all I want.

[@autonomous_collective]

Yes, Gen III hemi's are really popular and cheap to get now. Easily make 1000 to 1200 HP.... But. I'm like you, my 2004 Dodge Ram SLE 4x4 Bumble Bee's 5.7 makes 496HP / 549TQ. Great street car with torque right off idle and no issues. I to use SHELL 93 octane fuel. Just awesome fuel. Had my heads done by MMX.

[@raymondward1009]

@@DeadDodgeGarage I can respect that brother but I see some low mileage 6.4's with trany's for less than 6K on E-BAY. Just saying

[@markcleveland9645]

You could try heat on those rocker shafts to see if you can bring them back to straight

[@Trex1268]

As far as I know about cast iron. You're going to have to stick that entire block in a 600-degree oven before you weld on it. Once it's welded it needs to be covered with an asbestos blanket and gradually be brought down temp-wise. That's your best shot and even that's not guaranteed. There's also the tapered plug method.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

That’s our basic understanding. Tried to get away with heating the whole block somewhat and the repair area to 500, verified using an IR thermometer, and post heating with a torch to slow cooling. Obviously that didn’t work.

[@gregking308]

I do have a Hemi crank that's been magnafluxed and came out fine if you wind up needing one.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Nice. We have like eight of them.

[@macdrew77]

If welding fails again, maybe look into lock n stitch. Seen it on a few machining channels for cast iron repair.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Heard of that. Brazing is another option. But we have a plan…

[@kenchorney2724]

When I worked in a shop in the 80's we had a customer who was selling a couple of worn out high mileage 426 Hemi engines. He was asking 5k each for them. I thought that was a lot at the time...

[@seanMGB1975]

I relate to your comment about how it’s not perfect but it’s good enough for me. I feel like I say that all the time with my project car. People love to tell you how to spend your money. Ugh Looking forward to the next video.

[@deanberolzheimer2658]

I would like to address the elephant in the room. Hello Elephant!

[@bookofrevelation4924]

You spotted me! Hello Elephant Watcher.

[@countswing284]

I was shocked to find out that parts previously used in a racing application would have cracks. Happy New Year! Cheers! 😎👋🏎🏁🏁🎇🎆🎇🥂

[@kennethjosephson134]

Wishing you a Happy New Year. I just purchased some Unobtainium from Tom for my C body convertible. By coincidence, I subscribed to his channel yesterday.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Nice!

[@JackassOfAllTrades07]

22:23 if your machinist says it’s gonna be fine run with it. The pitting is just gonna hold oil. It’s kind of like how in really old equipment. There will be dimples in the brass bearings to hold oil.

[@Anthony-nw5zv]

Those rocker shafts, maybe someone had loosened the ends of the assembly too much at once, and having excessive valve spring pressure bent the shafts. Have fun and Happy New Year 😊

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Talked to a very knowledgeable Hemi guy and that’s what he figures. He also said just bolt them down and see what happens, because it will probably be fine. I like that answer. Haha.

[@VC.valiant]

I seen 2 old guys 30yr ago, weld up 3 cylinder block, big cracks between cylinders 1&2 they heated it , used 4mm Arc welding rods ,most likely some cast steel arc rods, good luck with the hemi.

[@DJTruth_1970]

Raced Hemis for years, got some stories to tell…ever get to NC, let me know. I’ll take you to Mopar heaven where the Hemis live.

[@timmcooper294]

Wayyyy Cool !! I would run those heads in a heart beat. I have run many cracked blocks and heads over the years that I had discovered after pulling apart running engines with no symptoms, and re-assembled. One of these was cracked from the deck down two cylinder walls about 1/2", and I ran that bastard HARD for a year afterwards with no issues. It's not like a cracked connecting rod or crankshaft. Speaking of crankshaft... Ditto on that. Wouldn't worry at all for your application. I am a little jealous looking at that "junk" LOL!! I cringed and laughed at the same time watching the Tig welding attempt. Tig is a great process, but too many young guys think its superior for everything..... Gas torch, home made brick oven, and probably have to re-machine every surface. Detroit's wonder metal is amazingly great for certain reasons, but repairs..... Ugh.... Most guys who try to weld it don't really understand what cast iron is or why it's sooo fussy. I'm no expert either, but I have welded it very successfully ( No, I don't do it for hire, as I know that sometimes, even doing everything "right" it can fail)

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Honestly, when I learned that the block had been pressure tested and no leak was found from that crack, I almost just let it be. We had high nickel rod sitting right there ready to go, but when he found the package of cast iron repair TIG rod, he did some reading and decided it would be an easier go. Our next move was to build an oven. But we tried something else today that… might work. We’ll see.

[@sirphilo]

Happy Hemi New Year! Good luck!

[@2stroketime348]

you have to heat a cast iron block in a heat blanket up to 350 + and braze it with a special brazing rod that contains cast iron and brass content just a tip

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Yes, brazing is one method. We heated it to 350-500 degrees, welded it with a cast iron repair tig rod, and slowed cooling by keeping a torch on it afterward and letting it come down slowly. Didn’t work, obviously, but it was a nice idea.

[@jefffanning2799]

Very much looking forward to hearing the elephant roar! Best of luck, Jamie!

[@craigerickson6308]

Hemi rebuild, the perfect winter project 😊

[@dirtyoldfarmhand3]

Awesome. Thanks for the video.

[@DPWheeler67]

Happy HEMI New Year, this is the ultimate Mopar BUILD!!!!!!!!!

[@trimmerman1]

Are you trying to sell any of your projects? Perhaps, if you advertised them for sale and offered fix ups. For an upcharge of course. With an excited client and deposit. It might motivate you and get your car storage area cleaned out for some fresh new/old stock. Food for thought buddy.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I suppose you have no idea how many projects I’ve sold or how long I’ve been doing it. Lol. I often mention on video when things are for sale, or have been sold. Trying to use video for sales has never done anything for me, aside from one abandoned deposit on a car that is still here. I do get all kinds of comments from people that say they are interested, almost all with no followup emails or messages. I sell things on Marketplace.

[@trimmerman1]

@@DeadDodgeGarage That's what I was wondering. Yes, ytb is not good for selling. Marketplace is surprisingly popular and effective. There are lots more listing sites out there. Even a couple of magazines left. One thing I thought of. Myself, I look at listings for all kinds of stuff, auction sites etc. Frequently, they will have tool boxes for trucks. You know, big bolt on ones. I have no clue what they are worth new. However, if they are separated from their old truck or or mounted to a dead one you can buy them for practically nothing. (perhaps a couple hundred.) Put one of those on any kind of truck it would have a whole new appeal. It's a lifestyle business. Food for thought.

[@oudoorguy4300]

I worked at an engine machine shop in the 80’s. From my bad memory cracks in the valve seats were not uncommon (they were a feature on 350 heads :-)) and solved with titanium seat inserts. Not a total fix but one less maybe?

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

This one already has inserts in it. The two cracks from the plug holes run right to the inserts and stop. Hopefully it stays that way and doesn’t get into water…

[@randyman828]

383 my favorite.

[@d1mennis]

Dual Quad Cross Ram? That would be epic. Good luck with the puzzle!

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Dude, I was looking at them today… they are not even a little bit cheap.

[@ricksaint2000]

Way to go Jamie, You Rock!

[@DaleSample]

12:1 compression. 102 to 110 octane. You can lower the compression ratio with thicker Head gaskets. 11.2:1 0r lower 93 octane. Head gasket 15 to 20 thou thicker.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Thick gaskets may be where we go. We’ll see.

[@idaholineman5788]

This is going to be an awesome build!!

[@ron8802]

I picked up a pair of aluminium valve cover breathers from a 426 hemi..at a swap meet like 20 years ago.....they have decals on them from a very famous race engine rebuilder(cant remember)....let me know if your interested....😊

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I’m definitely interested! I actually have a pair myself but they’re not wide enough to cover those holes. [e-mail]

[@WilliamMCCORMICK-t1d]

When you weld cast iron. One way to accomplish the repair is to heat the engine in or on a charcoal fire.

[@MoparRob-66BEL]

Would love to see you do a ‘66 hemi Belvedere build .

[@xozindustries7451]

I’d do a Belvedere, those cars are killer.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Agreed! Used to have one.

[@louislepage5111]

Uncle Tony will be interested in this 😊

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

I’ve talked to him about it. Haha.

[@louislepage5111]

Not surprised 😊

[@gregloy5790]

Who is Tony? Is he your uncle? Why should anyone care?

[@Mercmad]

After the debacle with Nick's Garage over a badly assembled engine I stopped taking notice of anything Uncle Tony has to say .

[@RevolutionMuscle]

@@gregloy5790 Hes a miserable old guy on youtube that talks shit about just about anyone else doing anything with classic Mopars.

[@johnmullins2798]

I wouldn't be afraid of those heads either. I'm sure you're aware likely 90% of Magnum heads are cracked between the seats. Running every day. Good luck on your build. Looking forward to it.

[@DeadDodgeGarage]

Oh, I’m *fully* aware. Haha. Thanks!

[@BlindBatG34]

I hope your wife doesn't expect you to bring home a check from Rocket. Happy New Year, Jamie!