How much does it cost to have a 5.7 Hemi rebuilt?

Rebuilding a 5.7 Hemi engine can cost between $3,000 and $7,500 on average, depending on the extent of the rebuild, who does the work, and parts used.

Quick Overview

The 5.7L Hemi V8 is a popular engine produced by Chrysler for use in trucks, SUVs, and performance cars. It offers solid power and reliability when properly maintained. However, like any engine, it can require a rebuild after high mileage or if it has experienced failure.

A basic rebuild of a 5.7 Hemi involves disassembling the engine, cleaning and inspecting components, replacing any worn or damaged parts, reassembling the engine to factory specs, and dyno testing. This can cost $3,000 to $5,000 on average if done by a professional shop.

A more extensive performance rebuild with upgraded parts can run $5,000 to $7,500 or more. The cost depends on factors like:

• Engine condition – A worn out engine will need more new parts
• Shop rates – Dealer vs independent shop
• Parts used – OEM, aftermarket, performance upgrades
• Machine work needed – Boring, honing, valve jobs, etc
• Additional customization – Polishing, porting, blueprinting, etc

It’s important to use a reputable performance shop for a Hemi rebuild to ensure quality workmanship and parts. Trying to save money with used or cheap parts usually leads to issues down the road.

What’s Involved in Rebuilding a 5.7 Hemi Engine?

Rebuilding a 5.7L Hemi involves a full teardown and inspection of all major engine components. Here is a look at the key steps:

1. Disassembly – The engine is taken down to the bare block. The heads, oil pan, timing cover and all other parts attached are removed for access.
2. Cleaning – Years of oil, grease and sludge need to be cleaned from the block and parts. This is done manually and with special degreasing chemicals.
3. Inspection – Once cleaned, a thorough inspection looks for any cracks, damage, or excessive wear. Critical measurements are taken.
4. Machine work – Most rebuilds require some amount of machining to recondition the block, heads, and other components. This includes boring, honing, valve work, decking, etc.
5. Parts replacement – Worn or damaged parts like pistons, rings, bearings, timing components and gaskets are replaced.
6. Assembly – The block is reassembled with all new parts and gaskets, torqued to spec.
7. Testing – The finished engine needs break-in time on a dyno or test stand. It is checked for leaks, oil pressure, and performance.

Proper cleaning, precision machining, and high-quality parts are crucial for a reliable Hemi rebuild. Many shops also offer upgrades like ported heads, performance camshafts, forged internals, and other customizations for added power.

Cost of Parts for a 5.7 Hemi Rebuild

Here are typical costs for replacement parts in a 5.7L Hemi rebuild:

Part	Cost (Est.)
Piston and rod assemblies	$350 – $500 each x 8 = $2,800 – $4,000
Crankshaft bearings	$50 – $150
Timing chain set	$100 – $300
Camshaft	$250 – $400
Lifters	$150 – $300
Cylinder heads	$500 – $800 each x 2 = $1,000 – $1,600
Head gasket set	$150 – $300
Misc. gaskets, seals, fasteners	$300 – $500

These are average cost ranges for OEM-quality parts. You can pay more for performance parts or less for some used components. Basic engine hardware and gaskets can easily run $1,000 to $2,000 alone.

Machine Work Costs

Machine work is required during most engine rebuilds to recondition the block, heads, and other components. Here are typical machine shop costs:

• Cylinder boring/honing – $200-300
• Deck block resurfacing – $100-200
• Valve guide replacement – $100-150 per head
• Valve seat replacement/grinding – $150-250 per head
• Head milling/resurfacing – $200-300 per head
• Block or head crack repair – $500+

You can easily spend $1,000 or more on machine work alone. This is required to restore damaged, warped, or out-of-spec surfaces in the engine.

Labor Costs for 5.7 Hemi Rebuild

In addition to parts, the labor involved in teardown, cleaning, assembly, and installation also factors into the total rebuild cost. Here are typical labor estimates:

• Basic rebuild labor – $1,500 to $2,500
• Performance rebuild labor – $2,500 to $4,000

This can vary greatly by shop. Some factors affecting labor rates:

• Experience with Hemi rebuilds – Specialty shops may be faster.
• Shop overhead – Larger shops tend to have higher rates.
• Geographic location – Rates vary across different regions.
• Reputation – Top engine builders can charge premium rates.
• Custom work – Modifications or upgrades add labor time.

Get labor quotes from several trusted shops before deciding. Check reviews and examples of their past work as well.

How to Save on a 5.7 Hemi Rebuild

Here are some tips to potentially lower your total rebuild cost:

• Find a good independent shop vs the dealer – They tend to offer better rates.
• Supply your own parts – OEM or quality aftermarket parts can save vs shop markup.
• Reuse components in good shape – Pistons, heads, etc. if they pass inspection.
• Limit machine work – Only do what’s absolutely necessary to avoid overbilling.
• Do prep/teardown work yourself – Remove accessories to save shop labor time.
• Price out machine shops separately – Compare rates on boring, decking, valve work, etc.
• Avoid extensive upgrades for now – Focus on stock rebuild, upgrade later on if desired.

However, it’s usually not advisable to cut corners or go too cheap on a rebuild. Using poor quality parts or inexperienced labor can lead to problems down the road. A proper Hemi rebuild calls for precise machine work and assembly.

Pricing out parts and labor separately from a few shops can help find a balance of cost savings yet quality workmanship.

Is It Worth Rebuilding vs Replacing a 5.7 Hemi?

With rebuild costs averaging $5,000 or more, is it worth repairing a used 5.7 Hemi versus replacing it with a remanufactured or crate engine?

Here are some factors to consider:

• Overall vehicle condition – If the truck/car is in good shape otherwise, a rebuild makes sense.
• Mileage and history – Lower miles and well maintained? Probably a good candidate for rebuilding.
• Cost of replacement – Reman long blocks often run $4,000 minimum. New crate motors over $7,000.
• Availability of replacements – Reman Hemi cores can’t always be found quickly.
• Desired performance level – Rebuild allows upgrading internals and customization.

In general, if the enginefailure is limited (like a spun rod bearing) and the body, chassis, etc. are in good shape on a lower mileage Hemi vehicle, performing a rebuild can make more financial sense versus replacement in many cases.

However, with higher miles or extensive damage, replacement may be the better option. Always weigh the total costs against engine condition and vehicle value.

Conclusion

The average cost for a complete 5.7L Hemi rebuild usually ranges between $3,000 and $7,500 depending on the parts, machine work, and labor required. With high mileage or extensive damage, a full overhaul is recommended using quality OEM or performance parts to handle the Hemi’s power output. An experienced engine builder also helps ensure proper clearances and assembly for the best longevity.

While the total bill is rarely cheap, rebuilding the Hemi is still often a better investment versus replacement if the vehicle’s overall condition is good. Taking some steps to price shop and limit unnecessary upgrades can help reduce the total rebuild costs while still getting a reliable, long-lasting engine.