Re: Dodge 318 vs 360


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Posted by Gerry Tandberg on September 29, 1997 at 17:29:48:

In Reply to: Dodge 318 vs 360 posted by Gerry Zell on September 28, 1997 at 19:51:02:

I’ll make this as short as possible. We are NOT talking about the 1957-1966 318 poly motor w with scalloped rockerarm covers. The LA273, LA318, LA340 & LA360 are all from the same engine family.. That means some interchangeable parts...but not all. 273,318,340 share the same 3.31” stroke with varying bores. 360 has a 3.58 stroke and 4.00 bore. This translates to more torque. Each year Chrysler made changes to these motors, most significantly to the heads, intake manifold, carburation, timing, smog equipment.

273/318 share same smaller intake/exhaust valves and port sizes. 340/360 have the larger ports and valves, but there are exceptions. 318/360 passenger car and light truck engines have cast steel cranks. The only LA motors with forged cranks are 318-3 heavy truck and the early 340.

318 and 360 are both externally balanced, (late 340 with cast crank was also externally balanced) as are nearly all late model V8’s today from Ford/GM. Again the only exception are 318-3 and early 340. That means you need to get the correct flywheel for the engine you’ll be using. Best bet, if you want a 318 get one from a truck with manual transmission then you’ll have the correct heavy flywheel needed for a PW. DITTO for 360.

Reliability from 318 or 360 is the same. You can put 340 or 360 heads on a 318 but need to use matching intake manifold. But, you will NEVER make a 318 run as strong as a 360. Stay away from 2210 series Holley carburetor found on 360. Go with 4 bbl. My advice...if you find a 318 with truck flywheel at the right price first go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you a 360 is an inferior motor. Even my bow tie buddies know better.




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