Can you use a mechanical fuel pump with Magnum front cover?

Cheaper probably, with the cost of machine shop and parts you are talking about $1500 rebuild minimum. Grab a magnum for under $500, $500 for tank/pump/sender, maybe I make you a smokin deal on a harness and fuel line kit then you get a 96-97 Ram 5.2 MT pcm for cheap that will work without a flash.