Tearing apart hemi 5.7, machine work worth it?

Way more fabbing than you realize!

Stick with the 3rd Gen Hemi!! V10, you probably wouldn't finish it (firewall and the entire trans tunnel modification). Bigblock, weight is a real problem with handling in the A-body ( I Know, I have had them!)

I am extremely impressed with what my 370" Hemi is capable of :) . 12.70's in a 4500 pound brick! Basically bolt-ons and a good custom tune. Imagine easy 11's in a 3200# A-body. I have tip'd 160mph going "into" 5th gear in my SRT8 Charger. BTW, that is with a 3.06 rear gear!

You can get recycled engine and trans assemblies from a place called LKQ. They warranty their engines for up to 2 years. They are removed from wrecked vehicles.

LKQ is a nation wide company so google them in your city. I have seen SRT8 eng/trans assemblies go for around $5000-7000. The NAG1 is a good auto trans or you could find an assembly with a 6 speed.

Just my lousy two pennies ;)