Watch 4WD Magazine Tear Down a 5.9L Dodge Magnum

Bryan Irons and Perry Mack of Canada's 4WDrive Magazine got their hands on a 1998-vintage 5.9L Dodge Magnum engine with the intention of swapping it into a Dodge Dakota. Before that could happen, they needed to play engine detective and tear the Magnum down to see what kind of life it led and what was still usable. They even made a video to show you how to methodically take an engine apart and what to look for once you're inside. You can find the video and a teardown checklist on the 4WDrive website.

We won't spoil the surprise and tell you what Bryan and Perry found, but there were a few nasties that cropped up. Many of the issues they found are common to boneyard-sourced engines no matter the manufacturer.

We do want to call your attention to a most awesome tool Bryan used--a set of pliers for removing spring-style hose clamps. Just fit the flex head to the clamp and squeeze the handle. The tool locks the clamp open for easy removal--no more prying with screwdrivers or putting your fingers in danger. Get this Performance Tool version for well under 30 bucks.

So what plans do Perry and Bryan have for their Magnum? There are rumors of a 408 stroker kit and making around 500 horsepower and a like number of torques. We'll keep you posted.