LA cam in magnum block

[fatbaldmoparguy]

Building a 408 out of a magnum block and would like to still run a mechanical fuel pump. Is there any problem using a retrofit style hydraulic roller cam in a magnum block? I realize the old style timing set would have to be used. Would also like to run the factory style lifters with the retro cam. Will be using factory magnum heads and have no problem having pushrods made to length if necessary.
Anything I need to know about this combo?

 

[mderoy340]

go for it. The retrofit roller cam lift spec is usually published for a 1.5 rocker so you need to multiply lobe lift x 1.6 with the magnum rocker.

 

[TrailBeast]

You can do that, but there are mechanical pump eccentric kits for the magnum cam and you would have to run the LA engine front covers.
LA roller cam and LA covers are fine, as are the OE rollers lifters.

I would REALLY have to advise against the factory magum heads.
They crack between the valve seats and because of that have dropped seat chunks in the cylinder.
There are a ton people running cracked heads without problems, but why?
Engine Quest heads are cheap enough, and they are actually better performing, and if ordered as an LA intake bolt pattern you can run any intake the LA motors can.

Have you read through these articles yet?

5.9L Magnum Engine - Make Mine A 5.9

How to Add 129hp to a 5.9l Mopar Magnum - Engine Buldup - Hot Rod Magazine

 

[fatbaldmoparguy]

You can do that, but there are mechanical pump eccentric kits for the magnum cam and you would have to run the LA engine front covers.
LA roller cam and LA covers are fine, as are the OE rollers lifters.

I would REALLY have to advise against the factory magum heads.
They crack between the valve seats and because of that have dropped seat chunks in the cylinder.
There are a ton people running cracked heads without problems, but why?
Engine Quest heads are cheap enough, and they are actually better performing, and if ordered as an LA intake bolt pattern you can run any intake the LA motors can.

Have you read through these articles yet?

5.9L Magnum Engine - Make Mine A 5.9

How to Add 129hp to a 5.9l Mopar Magnum - Engine Buldup - Hot Rod Magazine

The original heads are cracked. When I said factory heads, I actually meant new replacement magnum style castings.
I'm building this engine for someone else and he already has the LA timing cover, eccentric, etc. I thought the LA cam would work but wanted to make sure. Figured plenty of people here would know. Thanks for the input.

 

[273]

I have a magnum 380hp create and has a mechanical pump. So I'd imagine it has the LA cam snout. But if you use a cam designed for 1.5 make sure it will work with 1.6 sometimes makes the ramp to fast to control. Plus you might need more spring.