Most mechanics will tell you that engine ticking is the ultimate soundtrack of dread for a modern V8 owner. Factory valvetrain components fail with surprising frequency, turning a reliable daily driver into a noisy project car overnight.
Choosing the Best Aftermarket Lifters for 5.7 Hemi prevents catastrophic engine failure before it starts. Let us examine the top choices available right now to keep your truck or muscle car running smoothly.
Key Takeaways
- Decide between MDS and non-MDS designs based on whether you plan to keep the displacement system active or tune it out permanently.
- Match your replacement lifters with a new camshaft if your old components show any signs of scoring or metal pitting.
- Verify the exact part numbers, such as 53021726AD, to ensure proper oil feed alignment in your specific model year block.
- Look for complete overhaul kits that include gaskets and timing components if you are already performing a deep engine teardown.
- Invest in heavy-duty steel bodies that resist the roller needle bearing failures common in factory valvetrains.
| Factory Replacement Standard |  |
Standard MDS Lifters 16-Piece Set | Complete 16-piece set | Maintains factory MDS operation | Broad vehicle compatibility | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Complete Overhaul Solution |  |
Engine Overhaul Timing And Lifter Kit | Includes timing chain kit | Comes with oil pan gasket | Matches OE part numbers | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Displacement System Delete |  |
Non-MDS Valve Lifters And Plugs | Eliminates factory MDS system | Includes necessary engine plugs | Fits multiple Hemi displacements | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Standard MDS Lifters 16-Piece Set
Replacing a valvetrain can feel like open-heart surgery for your engine, but choosing the right parts makes the procedure much smoother. These factory-style replacements fit a massive range of vehicles from 2005 onward, including the Ram 1500 and Charger. They maintain your Multi-Displacement System functionality without requiring custom computer tuning.
You get a full set of sixteen lifters, which covers your complete V8 setup in one go. They match original equipment specifications for oil flow and pressure regulation. But keep in mind that you still need to inspect your camshaft closely before installation, because worn lobes will destroy brand new lifters in no time.
- Lifter Type:MDS hydraulic roller lifter
- Quantity:16 pieces
- Compatibility:2005-2021 Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler 5.7L
- Part Number:53021726AD
- Additional Feature:Direct OEM replacement design
- Additional Feature:Engineered for factory oil pressure
- Additional Feature:Precision roller wheel assembly
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Engine Overhaul Timing And Lifter Kit
Deep engine rebuilds demand more than just a handful of new components, and that is where comprehensive packages shine. This bundle pairs your MDS lifters with a matching timing chain kit and an oil pan gasket. It serves as a one-stop shop for major service intervals on 2009 through 2018 Ram trucks.
Tackling the timing system and valvetrain simultaneously saves you from tearing the front of the engine down twice. The included gaskets and chains ensure fresh seals and precise valve timing right out of the box. The main drawback is the sheer volume of parts, meaning this package is strictly for deep engine work rather than a quick driveway fix.
- Quantity:Full overhaul kit
- Compatibility:2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L
- Part Number:53022263AF
- Kit Type:Engine overhaul kit
- Additional Feature:Includes timing components
- Additional Feature:Fresh oil pan gasket included
- Additional Feature:Comprehensive valvetrain refresh
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Non-MDS Valve Lifters And Plugs
Many truck owners prefer to delete the factory cylinder deactivation system entirely to improve long-term valvetrain reliability. This specialized kit provides non-MDS lifters along with the necessary plugs to block off the active ports in your block. It suits mechanics who want to eliminate potential failures associated with collapsing factory lifters.
The components target the 5.7, 6.1, and 6.4-liter Hemi variants across multiple model years. You gain a simpler, more traditional valvetrain layout once the installation is complete. But remember that you will require custom ECM tuning to turn off the factory MDS codes after installing these mechanical plugs.
- Brand:SUSUCAR
- Lifter Type:Non-MDS hydraulic roller
- Compatibility:2003-2014 Dodge, Ram, Jeep 5.7L to 6.4L
- Part Number:5038784AD
- Kit Type:Lifter and plug set
- Additional Feature:Block-off plugs included
- Additional Feature:Traditional valvetrain conversion
- Additional Feature:Heavy-duty roller construction