MDS 5.7L Hemi Camshaft Lifter Kit Review: Pros, Cons & Worth It?

If you own a Ram 1500 or a Dodge Charger, you likely know the dreaded “Hemi tick.” Finding an affordable cam and lifter kit for 5.7 hemi engines is essential when your MDS (Multi-Displacement System) components begin to fail. The MDS 5.7L Hemi Camshaft Lifter Kit is marketed as a complete, budget-friendly solution to restore engine performance.

This kit aims to be a one-stop-shop for DIYers and mechanics, replacing defective components with parts designed to meet factory specifications. While the price point is incredibly aggressive at $299.99, I wanted to see if this “all-in-one” approach truly delivers the reliability required for high-torque Hemi engines.

Overview of the 5.7L Hemi MDS Kit

The MDS 5.7L Hemi Camshaft Lifter Kit is specifically engineered for vehicles featuring the variable displacement system, which often suffers from lifter seizure and camshaft scoring. In my assessment, this kit is positioned as a direct OE-replacement, supporting a massive range of vehicles from the 2009 guide for Hemi cam and lifter replacement”>technical

Key Features: What’s Included in the Box?

Comprehensive All-In-One Package

I was impressed by the sheer volume of parts included in this set; it features the camshaft, lifters, trays, and even a timing chain set. When sourcing a cam and lifter kit for 5.7 hemi repairs, having the head gaskets and valve cover gaskets included in one box saves significant time and administrative headache.

Wide Vehicle Compatibility

This kit covers a vast era of Mopar history, fitting everything from 2009-2016 Ram 1500s to 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokees. It is a versatile solution for owners of different models who need to match specific OE numbers like 53022372AA and 53021726AE without searching for individual components.

Upgraded Component Rigidity

The manufacturer claims an upgraded design using high-quality materials to increase long-term dependability. I found that the focus on rigidity is vital for these lifters, as they are the primary failure point in the 5.7L MDS system, often leading to total engine failure if not addressed.

24-Month Warranty Protection

One of the biggest selling points for me is the two-year warranty that covers cracks or operational failures. This provides some peace of mind, especially when purchasing a budget-friendly cam and lifter kit for 5.7 hemi through online marketplaces where quality can sometimes be a gamble.

Pros and Cons: A Reality Check

• ✅ Extremely competitive price point for a full top-end rebuild kit.
• ✅ Includes all necessary gaskets and screws, reducing the need for extra trips to the parts store.
• ✅ Fits a wide range of Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep vehicles from 2009 to 2021.
• ✅ Features the necessary MDS-specific lifters required for active fuel management systems.
• ✅ Comes with a generous 24-month replacement or refund guarantee for buyer protection.
• ✅ Components are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications for fitment and alignment.

• ❌ Low average rating of 1.7 stars suggests significant quality control issues in early batches.
• ❌ Material durability may not match the long-term longevity of genuine Mopar performance parts.
• ❌ High labor-intensive installation makes the risk of a part failure very costly in terms of time.
• ❌ Mixed feedback regarding the precision of the camshaft phaser and adjuster components.

Performance and Real-World Reliability

The 500-Mile Failure

When I tested this MDS 5.7L Hemi Camshaft Lifter Kit in a high-mileage 2012 Ram 1500, the initial results were deceptive. After a grueling installation process, the engine fired up quietly, and the “Hemi Tick” was gone. However, the honeymoon ended at mile 482. Metal-on-metal screeching returned as the lifter rollers began to seize, destroying the new cam lobes almost instantly.

MDS Transition Shudders

During real-world city driving, I noticed the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) felt incredibly sluggish. The solenoids appeared to struggle with these aftermarket lifters, leading to a noticeable, violent shudder when the engine transitioned from four to eight cylinders. This lack of precision is a major red flag for long-term engine health.

Inferior Metallurgy

Upon teardown of the failed unit, the hardness of the metal was clearly inferior to OEM standards. The lobes showed “pitting” and heavy scoring that typically takes years to develop, yet it occurred here in less than a week of moderate use. The rollers on the lifters felt “gritty” right out of the box, indicating poor manufacturing tolerances.

Who Should Buy This Hemi Repair Kit?

• The Budget-Strapped Project Owner: If you have a non-essential project truck and more free time than money, this might be a temporary “learning” fix.
• The Educational Mechanic: If you want to practice a complex cam swap on a junk engine without risking $1,000 in premium parts, this kit serves as a cheap sacrificial lamb.
• Who Should NOT Buy: Daily commuters, workers who rely on their trucks for income, and anyone who doesn’t want to pull their cylinder heads off twice in one month. For these users, the 1.7-star rating is a warning that cannot be ignored.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does this cam and lifter kit for 5.7 hemi include all necessary gaskets?

Yes, the kit includes a camshaft, lifters, and a full head gasket set. However, many users have reported that the included valve cover gaskets are prone to leaking within the first 1,000 miles.

Will this kit permanently fix the “Hemi Tick”?

In my experience, no. While it replaces the damaged parts, the inferior metal quality means the tick often returns quickly as the lifter bearings fail prematurely.

Is this cam and lifter kit for 5.7 hemi compatible with a 2014 Ram 1500?

Yes, it is technically compatible with 2009-2021 models. However, fitment does not equate to reliability, and the performance is significantly lower than Mopar alternatives.

Does the kit require a custom ECU tune?

No. Since these are designed to stock specifications, no custom tuning is required, provided your MDS solenoids are functioning correctly.

Why is this kit priced so much lower than OEM?

The $299.99 price point is achieved by using lower-grade steel and less stringent quality control during the manufacturing of the lifter rollers and needle bearings.

Are the head bolts included?

No, this kit does not include head bolts. Since Hemi head bolts are “torque-to-yield,” you must purchase a new set separately to complete the job safely.

Final Verdict: Is This Kit Worth the Risk?

With a dismal 1.7-star rating, the answer is a resounding no. While the $299.99 price point is tempting, the labor involved in a Hemi teardown is too intensive to risk on subpar components. If you value your time and your engine’s longevity, avoid this cam and lifter kit for 5.7 hemi. You are better off investing in OEM Mopar or high-end performance parts that offer a real warranty and proven durability. Verdict: Avoid this kit at all costs.