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Old 03-02-2004, 01:47 AM
Webslinger60 Webslinger60 is offline
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Yes those engines are slightly different.
Starting in 85, Chrysler made two BIG improvments to the LA engine family 318 & 360. First both have roller cams and even though the cam
duration (240/248) stayed the same, the 'roller" design reacts quicker.

Second the heads intake ports wrere re-shaped & called "swirl-port" heads. The 318 is casting#302 and the 360 is casting#308.
The 318's #302 heads had more of a dramatic swirl effect and higher
compression ratio.

So even though the late 80's 318's were choked with emissions systems and a poorly designed computer ignition, the Net HP stayed at around
150, or 70's levels. A late "roller" 318 installed in an older car without
emissions stuff runs very strong.

Many Mopar guys say if you take the #302 head & install the larger
360 size valves, that mod alone is good for 50 horsepower.
HIgher performance roller cams for Mopars are expensive though, about $300 bucks. try to find a 85-89 Police Diplomat with the 318 4bbl.
That engine had the 360 #308 heads & a 268/276 roller cam.
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