5 HEMI Crate Engines You Can Find Under $4000

5 HEMI Crate Engines You Can Find Under $4000

Looking for Affordable HEMI Power? Here Are 5 Crate Engines Under $4000

HEMI engines have earned their legendary status through decades of delivering raw power, reliability, and that unmistakable exhaust note. Whether you're building a classic muscle car, upgrading your daily driver, or tackling a restoration project, finding a quality HEMI crate engine that fits your budget can be challenging. The good news? You don't need to spend a fortune to get genuine HEMI performance.

We've compiled a list of 5 HEMI crate engines available for under $4000 that deliver exceptional value without compromising on quality or power.

1. 5.7L HEMI (2003-2008) - The Modern Classic

Price Range: $2,800 - $3,500

The 5.7L HEMI from the early 2000s represents the perfect entry point into modern HEMI ownership. Originally producing 345-370 horsepower depending on the application, these engines brought the HEMI name back to prominence in Dodge Ram trucks, Dodge Chargers, Chrysler 300s, and Jeep Grand Cherokees.

Why it's a great value:

  • Proven reliability with millions of units produced
  • Variable valve timing (VVT) on 2009+ models improves efficiency
  • Abundant aftermarket support for performance upgrades
  • Direct bolt-in replacement for many Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep vehicles
  • Multi-Displacement System (MDS) cylinder deactivation on some models

Best for: Daily drivers, truck builds, and budget-conscious muscle car swaps

2. 6.1L HEMI (2005-2010) - The Performance Upgrade

Price Range: $3,200 - $3,900

Step up to the 6.1L HEMI and you're getting serious performance credentials. Found in the Dodge Charger SRT8, Chrysler 300C SRT8, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, and Dodge Challenger SRT8, this engine pumps out 425 horsepower in stock form.

Why it's a great value:

  • 425 HP and 420 lb-ft of torque from the factory
  • Forged internals make it ready for boost applications
  • Higher compression ratio (10.3:1) than the 5.7L
  • Larger intake and exhaust ports flow better
  • Can handle 600+ HP with basic upgrades

Best for: Performance builds, track cars, and anyone wanting maximum naturally aspirated power

3. 5.7L HEMI (2009-2015) with VVT - The Efficient Powerhouse

Price Range: $3,000 - $3,800

The updated 5.7L HEMI with Variable Valve Timing represents Chrysler's refinement of an already excellent platform. These engines produce 370-395 horsepower depending on application and offer improved fuel economy alongside their power gains.

Why it's a great value:

  • VVT technology improves low-end torque and efficiency
  • Active intake manifold optimizes airflow across RPM range
  • Better fuel economy than earlier HEMI engines
  • Lower mileage units often available in this price range
  • Compatible with modern engine management systems

Best for: Modern swaps, daily performance vehicles, and builds prioritizing both power and efficiency

4. 5.7L HEMI Eagle Engine (Remanufactured) - The Warranty Option

Price Range: $3,400 - $3,900

If you want peace of mind with your HEMI purchase, remanufactured Eagle engines offer factory-level quality control with comprehensive warranties. These engines are completely disassembled, inspected, and rebuilt to OEM specifications.

Why it's a great value:

  • Typically includes 3-year/100,000-mile warranty
  • All wear components replaced with new OEM parts
  • Professionally tested and compression-checked
  • Comes complete with all accessories installed
  • Zero-mile condition with proven reliability

Best for: Professional shops, customers needing warranty coverage, and reliability-focused builds

5. 5.7L HEMI from Dodge Ram (2003-2008) - The Truck Engine Value

Price Range: $2,500 - $3,200

HEMI engines pulled from Dodge Ram trucks often represent the best value in the used market. These engines typically see highway miles and regular maintenance, making them excellent candidates for swaps and rebuilds.

Why it's a great value:

  • Often lower mileage than car-based HEMIs
  • Regular oil changes and maintenance common in truck applications
  • Same core engine as car applications with minor accessory differences
  • Abundant supply keeps prices competitive
  • Easy to adapt to various applications

Best for: Budget builds, project vehicles, and anyone comfortable with minor adapter work

What to Look for When Buying a Used HEMI Crate Engine

Before purchasing any used HEMI engine under $4000, verify these critical factors:

Compression Testing

Every cylinder should show consistent compression readings within 10% of each other. Healthy HEMI engines typically show 170-190 PSI per cylinder.

VIN Matching

Ensure the engine matches your vehicle's year, make, and model specifications. Wiring harnesses, sensors, and mounting points can vary significantly between years.

Complete Assembly

Verify that all essential components are included: cylinder heads, intake manifold, fuel injectors, ignition coils, oil pan, timing cover, and all sensors. Missing components can add hundreds to your final cost.

Mileage Verification

Request documentation or photos of the odometer from the donor vehicle. HEMI engines regularly exceed 200,000 miles, but lower mileage units offer better long-term value.

Warranty Coverage

Look for sellers offering warranty protection that covers both the engine and shipping damage. This protects your investment from unexpected failures.

Installation Considerations

Budget an additional $1,000-2,000 for installation-related expenses:

  • Engine mounts and adapters
  • Wiring harness modifications
  • ECU programming or standalone engine management
  • Exhaust fabrication
  • Cooling system upgrades
  • Transmission adapter (if needed)

Why Choose a HEMI Engine?

HEMI engines offer several advantages that justify their popularity:

Hemispherical combustion chambers allow for larger valves and more efficient airflow, resulting in better power output per cubic inch than traditional wedge-head designs.

Proven reliability means these engines regularly exceed 200,000 miles with basic maintenance. The robust bottom end can handle significant power increases.

Aftermarket support is exceptional, with thousands of performance parts, tuning options, and upgrade paths available from dozens of manufacturers.

Resale value remains strong due to ongoing demand from enthusiasts and the HEMI's legendary reputation.

Final Thoughts

Finding a quality HEMI crate engine under $4000 is absolutely achievable with the right knowledge and a trusted supplier. Whether you choose the budget-friendly 5.7L from a Ram truck or step up to the performance-oriented 6.1L, you're getting an engine platform with proven reliability, massive aftermarket support, and genuine American muscle car heritage.

The key is working with a reputable supplier who provides compression testing, VIN matching, warranty coverage, and complete assemblies. This ensures you're getting a quality engine that will deliver years of reliable performance.

Ready to find your perfect HEMI crate engine? Browse our inventory of tested, inspected, and warranty-backed HEMI engines, all priced competitively and ready to ship to your door.

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