Not an "E" body -- but it is a Mopar. Question for y'all....

[Oldschool]

I have a friend that owns a sweet 1989 Dodge Ram truck with a 5.2 and 4 wheel drive. He is willing spend between $5000 and $10,000 to replace the engine/trans in order to get more power. The stock 318 is weak. What would be the best way to go here in your opinion, find and install a 5.7 Hemi out of a wrecked car or buy a crate 360 LA and run it with a carb? Just trying to gather info in order to make a decision on which direction to go. Thanks guys....

[4Cruizn]

I witnessed some good power made out of a 318 . . . 

[cudabob496]

rebuild the 318 for power.
stroke it, put on alum heads, etc

[Aussie Challenger]

Where as the 318 can be made to perform way better than most will admit going with the 360 is the direction most P/U owners prefer to go.
I own a Little Red Express Truck and as most know they go very well, the 360 is and has been a sleeping giant just waiting to be opened up.   
The 360 will drop straight in as it was designed for the P/U range so money saved can be put towards upgrades.   

[RusTy/SE]

Is a big block drivetrain out of consideration?

[DrEamer]

Personally I would look at a 360 based 408-410 stroker crate engine. There are quite a few good vendors to choose from, and it is a proven combination. With his truck being a 4WD, torque is what he needs the most. The pluses are is that it is pretty much a drop in swap, and it fits in his proposed budget.   

[4Cruizn]

I also might check the salvage yard as that may be a cost effective route . . .