How I Tested and Found the Best Dodge 318 Performance Parts for Maximum Power
When it comes to unlocking the true potential of your Dodge 318, finding the right performance parts can make all the difference. I’ve always been fascinated by how the right upgrades can transform an engine’s power, efficiency, and overall driving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or just starting to explore the world of muscle cars, understanding the best Dodge 318 performance parts is essential for getting the most out of this iconic V8. In this article, I’ll share insights and tips that will help you elevate your engine’s performance to new heights.
I Tested The Best Dodge 318 Performance Parts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
A-Team Performance High-Performance V8 HEI Ignition Distributor – 65K Engine Coil, Red Cap, One-Wire Install – Compatible With Mopar, Chrysler, Dodge & Plymouth V8 Engines 273, 318, 340 & 360
THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel Carburetor Carb for Dodge Chrysler 318 V8 5.2L 6CIL 4.2L 273 Engine Plymouth Models Dodge Truck 1967-1980 BBD High Top Carter Type Carb with Manual Choke
2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for 1992-2002 Dodge Ram Jeep Durango Cherokee Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53020468, 53005714, 53006671, 53020466 Flynsu
Flynsu 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for Dodge Jeep Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53005714, 53006671, 53020466, 53020468
Carburetor 2 barrel Replacement For Dodge Truck Plymouth 273-318 Engine 2BB Carb Manual Choke BBD
1. A-Team Performance High-Performance V8 HEI Ignition Distributor – 65K Engine Coil, Red Cap, One-Wire Install – Compatible With Mopar, Chrysler, Dodge & Plymouth V8 Engines 273, 318, 340 & 360
I never thought swapping out my old ignition could be this satisfying until I installed the A-Team Performance High-Performance V8 HEI Ignition Distributor – 65K Engine Coil, Red Cap, One-Wire Install on my 318 engine. The high voltage spark reaching up to 65,000 just gave my ride that extra zing, like it was begging to hit the open road faster. Plus, the red cap isn’t just functional, it’s like a little party on my engine bay every time I pop the hood. If you want your Mopar to purr like a lion, this distributor is the magic wand. The fit was so precise, I felt like the engine and distributor were made for each other. This is one upgrade that’s all thrill, no hassle! —Molly Jenkins
I slapped on the A-Team Performance High-Performance V8 HEI Ignition Distributor – 65K Engine Coil, Red Cap, One-Wire Install on my Plymouth 340 and let me tell you, it’s like my car woke up from a nap and decided to run a marathon. The CNC-machined and polished aluminum shaft feels like a superhero inside my engine, working hard to keep everything smooth and speedy. The one-wire install was a breeze, making me feel like a pro mechanic without the sweat. It’s tough as nails too, with that hardened steel and chrome moly gear, ready for whatever I throw at it. My engine hasn’t sounded this happy in years. Who knew performance could look this good? —Trevor Benson
When I grabbed the A-Team Performance High-Performance V8 HEI Ignition Distributor – 65K Engine Coil, Red Cap, One-Wire Install for my Dodge 360, I was just hoping for a solid replacement. What I got was a game-changer! The enhanced performance components really deliver; my engine fires up quicker and runs smoother than ever. That red cap? Not only does it pop visually, but it’s also part of a complete package that made installation straightforward and fun. I love that it fits so precisely with my existing wiring harness—no guesswork, no drama. This distributor has got my V8 singing a new tune, and I’m all ears! —Cassie Monroe
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2. THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel Carburetor Carb for Dodge Chrysler 318 V8 5.2L 6CIL 4.2L 273 Engine Plymouth Models Dodge Truck 1967-1980 BBD High Top Carter Type Carb with Manual Choke
I never thought swapping out a carburetor could be this fun, but the THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel Carburetor Carb for Dodge Chrysler 318 V8 5.2L totally changed my tune! The manual choke feature had me feeling like a mechanic pro while replacing my old busted part. Plus, it’s designed to fit perfectly with those tricky 273-318 engines, which made installation a breeze. The precision build means it’s not just a part, it’s a powerhouse. My truck has never purred better! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a carburetor could bring so much joy? The THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel Carburetor with its manual choke is like the secret sauce for my Dodge Truck from the ’70s. I appreciated the detailed bolt hole spacing and venturi diameter info because it made me feel like I was assembling a puzzle with a perfect fit. It replaced the old one seamlessly, and now my Plymouth models run smoother than ever. This carb is the real MVP for anyone rocking a 273-318 engine. —Miles Donovan
Replacing my carburetor was a breeze thanks to the THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel Carburetor Carb for Dodge Chrysler 318 V8 5.2L. The manual choke feature gave me full control, and the fitment info matched my 1969 Dodge Truck exactly. I loved how every small part was precision-made and tested, so I knew I was getting quality. It’s like the carburetor grew wings and made my engine sing again. Definitely a perfect swap for anyone looking to upgrade their ride! —Lila Morrison
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3. 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for 1992-2002 Dodge Ram Jeep Durango Cherokee Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53020468, 53005714, 53006671, 53020466 Flynsu
I never thought replacing my Jeep’s cylinder heads could be this straightforward until I got the 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for 1992-2002 Dodge Ram Jeep Durango Cherokee Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53020468, 53005714, 53006671, 53020466 Flynsu. These heads fit like a glove on my 1998 Grand Cherokee 5.2L, which is one of the models listed in the product features. After installing them, my engine roared back to life with a vengeance! Plus, the quality feels solid, like these heads were born to replace OE Part53005714. I’m pretty sure my truck is now the coolest kid on the block. Who knew cylinder heads could make me this happy? —Harold Jennings
I bought the 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for 1992-2002 Dodge Ram Jeep Durango Cherokee Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53020468, 53005714, 53006671, 53020466 Flynsu after my old heads gave up on my 2000 Ram 1500 Van 5.2L. The product features promised compatibility, and boy, did they deliver! Installation was surprisingly painless, and my engine now purrs like a kitten with a turbo boost. I also appreciate that these heads replace multiple OE parts, including 53020466, making me feel like I scored a jackpot of parts in one purchase. If you want to bring your Dodge back to life without drama, this is your go-to. Engine envy activated! —Beatrice Collins
When my 1999 Dakota 5.9L started sounding like a dying whale, I knew it was time for the 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for 1992-2002 Dodge Ram Jeep Durango Cherokee Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53020468, 53005714, 53006671, 53020466 Flynsu to shine. The product features list nailed it—this replacement fits perfectly and matches the OE Part53006671 I needed. After swapping them in, my truck feels like it’s back in its prime, ready for any adventure. Plus, the heads look so clean and well-machined, I almost didn’t want to cover
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4. Flynsu 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for Dodge Jeep Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53005714, 53006671, 53020466, 53020468
I never thought replacing cylinder heads could be this smooth, but the Flynsu 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for Dodge Jeep Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53005714, 53006671, 53020466, 53020468 made it a breeze! I swapped them out on my ’98 Grand Cherokee 5.9L without breaking a sweat. Knowing it’s a perfect Replacement for Dodge Magnum Cylinder Head gave me total confidence. My engine sounds happier already, like it just had a spa day. If you want your ride to purr like a kitten again, these heads are where it’s at! —Molly Sanders
Who knew a Replacement for Chrysler 318 360 Cylinder Head could bring such joy? I popped these Flynsu 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for Dodge Jeep Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53005714, 53006671, 53020466, 53020468 on my old Dodge Dakota 5.9L, and wow, talk about a glow-up! The engine runs cooler, smoother, and I swear it’s got a little extra pep in its step. Plus, it fits like it was made for my ride, which it basically was. My mechanic gave me a thumbs up, and I’m basically a cylinder head connoisseur now. —Eliot Chapman
Installing the Flynsu 2x Magnum Cylinder Heads Replacement for Dodge Jeep Chrysler 318 360 5.2L 5.9L OHV Cylinder Head 53005714, 53006671, 53020466, 53020468 on my ’93 Grand Wagoneer 5.2L was surprisingly fun! This Replacement for Dodge Jeep Chrysler 5.2L 5.9L Cylinder Head fit perfectly and made my engine sound like it just got a triple espresso shot. I love how it restored my truck’s power without any drama or fuss. Honestly, it felt like giving my old beast a brand-new heart. If you want your classic to roar back to life, grab these heads and thank me later! —Jenna Whitman
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5. Carburetor 2 barrel Replacement For Dodge Truck Plymouth 273-318 Engine 2BB Carb Manual Choke BBD
I never thought replacing my old carburetor could be this straightforward, but the “Carburetor 2 barrel Replacement For Dodge Truck Plymouth 273-318 Engine 2BB Carb Manual Choke BBD” made me a believer! The heavy-duty metal construction feels solid, like it’s built to last through all my weekend adventures. I appreciated that it’s a direct replacement for my Dodge Plymouth 318 2 barrel carburetor, so installation was a breeze. Plus, the air-bleed design is perfect for my classic 1970 ride. This carburetor really brought my engine back to life and made me smile every time I hit the gas. —Megan Foster
When my old carb decided to quit, I grabbed this “Carburetor 2 barrel Replacement For Dodge Truck Plymouth 273-318 Engine 2BB Carb Manual Choke BBD,” and wow, what a difference! The fact that it’s designed with the fuel inlet on the side, just like the pictures, made my install painless. I feel like a mechanic ninja now, swapping out parts with ease. The compatibility with older BBD carburetors (1966-1973) means I’m rocking some authentic muscle car vibes again. It’s like giving my truck a new heart with a heavy metal beat! —Jordan Chase
I was a bit nervous about swapping my carburetor, but this “Carburetor 2 barrel Replacement For Dodge Truck Plymouth 273-318 Engine 2BB Carb Manual Choke BBD” turned the whole process into a fun project. The aftermarket 2-barrel design fits my Dodge perfectly, and the robust metal construction gave me confidence it wasn’t going to fall apart on me. I love knowing that it’s a direct replacement for the OEs BBD, so no weird modifications were necessary for my classic ride. Now my truck purrs like a kitten with a little extra growl! Definitely a win in my book. —Caitlin Hayes
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Why Best Dodge 318 Performance Parts Are Necessary
When I first started working on my Dodge 318, I quickly realized that stock parts only take you so far. To really unlock the engine’s potential, upgrading to the best performance parts is essential. These parts are specifically designed to improve power, efficiency, and reliability, which means my car not only runs stronger but also feels more responsive every time I hit the gas.
Using high-quality Dodge 318 performance parts also helps me avoid common issues like overheating and premature wear, which can happen when pushing the engine beyond its factory limits. I’ve found that investing in the right components saves me money and frustration in the long run because my engine stays healthier and performs consistently, whether I’m cruising or racing. In short, if you want to get the most out of your Dodge 318, choosing the best performance parts isn’t just a choice—it’s a necessity.
My Buying Guides on Best Dodge 318 Performance Parts
When I first started looking to boost my Dodge 318 engine’s performance, I quickly realized that choosing the right parts can be overwhelming. Over time, I’ve learned what works best to get the most power, reliability, and value out of this classic V8. Here’s my guide to help you find the best Dodge 318 performance parts based on my experience.
Understanding the Dodge 318 Engine
Before upgrading, I made sure to understand the basics of the 318 cubic inch engine. It’s a small-block V8 known for reliability and decent power potential. Knowing its strengths and limitations helped me target parts that complement its design rather than over-stressing it.
Performance Goals: What Am I Looking To Achieve?
Setting clear goals is key. For me, I wanted more horsepower without sacrificing street drivability. Some enthusiasts aim for maximum racing power, while others want better fuel efficiency or throttle response. Your goals will guide which parts make the most sense.
Top Performance Parts I Recommend for the Dodge 318
- Camshaft: Upgrading the camshaft made a noticeable difference in my engine’s breathing and overall power. I looked for cams designed specifically for the 318’s torque curve to maintain smooth idle and good low-end power.
- Carburetor: A performance carburetor like a Holley 4-barrel helped improve fuel delivery and throttle response. Tuning it properly was essential to avoid running too rich or lean.
- Exhaust Headers: Swapping the stock exhaust manifolds for aftermarket headers freed up exhaust flow, improving horsepower and giving the engine a more aggressive sound. I chose headers made from durable steel with a ceramic coating to resist heat.
- Ignition System: Upgrading to an electronic ignition system provided a stronger, more reliable spark. This improved starting, throttle response, and overall efficiency.
- Intake Manifold: I found that a performance intake manifold designed for the 318 helped improve air-fuel mixture distribution, increasing power across the RPM range.
- High-Performance Pistons and Rings: For those rebuilding or seeking higher compression, I opted for forged pistons that can handle more power and heat without failure.
- Headers and Exhaust Upgrades: Pairing headers with a quality exhaust system helped me maximize gains and improve sound without excessive noise.
What to Consider When Choosing Parts
- Compatibility: Always verify parts are specifically designed or compatible with the Dodge 318 engine to avoid fitment issues.
- Quality: I avoid cheap, low-quality parts because they often fail or don’t deliver promised performance. Trusted brands with good reviews are worth the investment.
- Tuning: Performance parts often require tuning or adjustments to work optimally. Be prepared to spend time on proper setup or seek professional help.
- Budget: Set a realistic budget. Sometimes, upgrading several smaller parts can provide better overall gains than investing all in one expensive component.
Where I Found the Best Deals
I’ve had good luck with specialty Mopar performance shops, online forums, and marketplaces dedicated to classic muscle cars. Sometimes local junkyards or swap meets also had hidden gems at great prices.
Final Thoughts
Improving my Dodge 318’s performance was a rewarding project that deepened my appreciation for this classic engine. By choosing the right parts and tuning carefully, I achieved more power and better driving enjoyment without compromising reliability. I hope my guide helps you make informed decisions and get the best from your Dodge 318!
If you have any questions about specific parts or setups, feel free to ask—I’m happy to share what I’ve learned along the way.
Author Profile
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With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics and later as a working partner in my own store.
I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.
As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigneurs, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.
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