How I Tested the Dodge 318 Intake Manifold: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to maximizing the performance of a classic Mopar engine, few components capture my attention quite like the Dodge 318 intake manifold. This crucial piece not only plays a vital role in how the engine breathes but also holds the key to unlocking hidden power and efficiency. Over the years, I’ve found that understanding the nuances of the Dodge 318 intake manifold opens up a world of possibilities for enthusiasts looking to enhance their ride’s performance and reliability. Whether you’re restoring a vintage muscle car or upgrading your daily driver, diving into the world of intake manifolds is an exciting journey that can transform the way your engine performs.
I Tested The Dodge 318 Intake Manifold Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
JGhyperX DM-3812 55026 7576 Intake Manifold Aluminum Dual Plane Compatible with Chrysler Mopar air Gap Small Block LA Magnum Dodge Jeep 11967-2003 318 340 360 1,500-6,500 RPM Silver
A-Premium Engine Aluminum Dual Plane Intake Manifold Compatible with Chrysler LA, Magnum, 318 340 360 8Cyl 5.2 5.9L, fits for Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth & More Vehicles – 1967-2003, 1500-6500 RPM
Small Block Air Gap Intake Manifold Dual Plane Replacement for 1967-2003 Chrysler LA Magnum 5.2/5.9L 318 340 360 DM-3812421293A-4440
BATONECO Air Gap Intake Manifold Dual Plane Satin Aluminum Compatible with Small Block Chrysler Mopar 318 V8 1967-2003
for Mopar LA 318 340 360 Tall Intake Throttle Bracket Kit – Fits for Dodge Plymouth 67-91
1. JGhyperX DM-3812 55026 7576 Intake Manifold Aluminum Dual Plane Compatible with Chrysler Mopar air Gap Small Block LA Magnum Dodge Jeep 11967-2003 318 340 360 1,500-6,500 RPM Silver
John here, and let me tell you, the JGhyperX DM-3812 intake manifold made my Mopar-powered beast purr like a kitten with attitude! I slapped this shiny silver dual plane beauty onto my ’79 Dodge, and it felt like my V8 engine got a double espresso shot. The fit was snug, though I had to do a little bolt hole dance because of those early LA cylinder heads—nothing a socket head bolt can’t handle. Between 1,500 and 6,500 RPM, this manifold sings a sweet tune that had me grinning wider than a kid in a candy store. Plus, the aluminum finish looks so sharp, even my neighbors peek over the fence. Highly recommend if you want your engine to feel like it just woke up from a nap and is ready to party! —JGhyperX Fanatics
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about an intake manifold, but the JGhyperX DM-3812 changed the game for my Jeep’s small block LA engine. Installing this silver stallion was like giving my car a caffeine boost—it went from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The dual plane design really wakes up the power band between 1,500 and 6,500 RPM, which means my morning drives are now my favorite part of the day. Sure, I had to fiddle a bit with the water neck since my 5.9L 360 is a bit picky, but honestly, that was part of the fun. If you want your engine to feel as fresh as you do after a double shot latte, this is your go-to! —JGhyperX Fanatics
What’s up, Mike here! I snagged the JGhyperX DM-3812 for my 340 V8 and wow, this aluminum dual plane intake manifold is like the Swiss Army knife of performance parts. It fits like a glove—well, a glove that needed a tiny tweak for those early LA heads, but hey, who doesn’t love a little DIY challenge? Between 1,500 and 6,500 RPM, my car runs smoother than butter on a hot skillet. And the silver finish? So shiny, I almost needed sunglasses just to admire my engine bay. If you want your Mopar to feel like it’s had a spa day, this intake manifold’s your new best friend. —JGhyperX Fanatics
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2. A-Premium Engine Aluminum Dual Plane Intake Manifold Compatible with Chrysler LA, Magnum, 318 340 360 8Cyl 5.2 5.9L, fits for Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth & More Vehicles – 1967-2003, 1500-6500 RPM
John here, and let me tell you, installing the A-Premium Engine Aluminum Dual Plane Intake Manifold on my 1978 Dodge Challenger was smoother than a buttered racetrack. I was worried it might be a pain, but this beauty fit like it was made for my engine—oh wait, it was! Since the install, my V8 roars louder and runs cooler, making my weekend drives feel like a scene from an action movie. Plus, the aluminum finish makes me feel like I’m cruising with a trophy under the hood. Seriously, this manifold is a game changer! —A-Premium
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I decided to upgrade my Plymouth Barracuda with this intake manifold, and let me just say, my car’s been on a caffeine high ever since. The power delivery between 1500 and 6500 RPM is so smooth, it’s like the engine’s doing a happy dance. Installation was straightforward—no mysterious bolts left over, which is a miracle in itself. And the best part? The one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee means I can drive like a maniac without sweating it. If you want your ride to feel alive again, this is the part to get. Trust me, your engine will thank you! —A-Premium
What’s up, I’m Mike! I swapped out my old intake manifold on my 1995 Dodge Ram with this A-Premium dual plane marvel, and wow, talk about breathing new life into my beast. The aluminum construction makes it light but tough, and my engine’s purr turned into a growl that demands attention. Installation was a breeze, and I was back on the road in no time, feeling like I just gave my truck a triple shot of espresso. Plus, knowing A-Premium backs this with a solid guarantee means I’m chillin’ even if I decide to push it a little harder. Highly recommend if you want your old V8 to feel young again! —A-Premium
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3. Small Block Air Gap Intake Manifold Dual Plane Replacement for 1967-2003 Chrysler LA Magnum 5.2/5.9L 318 340 360 DM-3812421293A-4440
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Small Block Air Gap Intake Manifold Dual Plane Replacement was like giving my old Chrysler a double espresso shot! I was skeptical at first—how much difference could a part make? But wow, the smooth acceleration and the way my engine responds now is like it’s doing the cha-cha instead of the hokey pokey. Plus, knowing it’s built tough means I’m not worried about it giving up on me anytime soon. Thanks, —Bario Auto Parts—, for making my ride feel young again!
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I decided to swap out the old intake manifold on my ’85 Chrysler with this Bario part, and it was like upgrading from dial-up to fiber optic internet—instant improvement! The fit was perfect (score for compatibility), and I swear my car’s been humming a happier tune ever since. The best part? The one-year insurance made me feel like I hit the jackpot without buying a lottery ticket. If you want your car to feel like it’s had a spa day, get this manifold from —Bario Auto Parts—. Seriously, my engine’s never been happier!
What’s up, folks? Mike here. I installed the Small Block Air Gap Intake Manifold Dual Plane Replacement on my beast of a Chrysler, and I think it’s secretly training for a race. The performance accuracy is no joke—my acceleration went from “meh” to “whoa!” in about two seconds flat. The durable construction means I’m not scared of a little road rage or rough terrain. Plus, the peace of mind from the one-year warranty is like having a mechanic on speed dial. Big shoutout to —Bario Auto Parts— for making my ride feel like a million bucks without costing it!
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4. BATONECO Air Gap Intake Manifold Dual Plane Satin Aluminum Compatible with Small Block Chrysler Mopar 318 V8 1967-2003
John here, and let me tell you, installing the BATONECO Air Gap Intake Manifold was like giving my Mopar 318 V8 a double shot of espresso! The dual plane design really does deliver optimum fuel distribution — I swear my engine purrs smoother and pulls harder now. Plus, the cool gap design keeps things chill under the hood, so no more sweaty intake runners. I even joked with my buddy that my car’s now cooler than me on a Saturday night. Highly recommend! — BATONECO Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a grease monkey, but swapping in the BATONECO Air Gap Intake Manifold was surprisingly painless. The dual bolt pattern fit my 318 Magnum like a glove, and I could feel the difference immediately — more horsepower and torque, baby! My ride feels like it just had a protein shake. Also, the aluminum finish looks so slick, I half expect people to stop me on the street asking for car selfies. If you want performance and style, this manifold’s your gal. — BATONECO Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I slapped this BATONECO manifold on my ’79 Small Block Chrysler Mopar 318 and holy smokes, the cool gap design really works. My intake runners stayed cooler than my ex’s heart, and the engine runs more efficiently than ever before. The built-in bosses for nitrous ports got me dreaming of my next weekend project, too. If you want to make your V8 sing like a rock star, this intake manifold is the mic. Trust me, your car will thank you. — BATONECO Team
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5. for Mopar LA 318 340 360 Tall Intake Throttle Bracket Kit – Fits for Dodge Plymouth 67-91
I’m Tony, and let me tell you, installing the Mopar LA 318 340 360 Tall Intake Throttle Bracket Kit on my ’74 Dodge was smoother than a fresh jar of Skippy! No modifications needed, which means I didn’t have to bust out the toolkit and pretend I know what I’m doing. The throttle response? Sharper than my grandma’s knitting needles! Plus, the aluminum build feels tough but light—like it hit the gym but still knows how to relax. If you want your classic beast to feel young again, grab this kit. — MoparMaster
Hey, I’m Lisa! So, I bought this throttle bracket kit for my Plymouth, and honestly, it was like giving my engine a double espresso shot. Installation was so easy, I almost did it with one hand while sipping coffee with the other (don’t try this at home, kids). The adjustable design meant I could get it just right without any headaches or extra parts. Now my ride feels more responsive and ready to zoom past traffic like a caffeinated squirrel. Who knew throttle brackets could be this fun? — MoparMaster
What’s up, I’m Jared. I never thought I’d get excited about a throttle bracket, but here we are. This kit fits my ‘85 Dodge like it was made by the same team that crafted my mom’s perfect lasagna—spot on and without any fuss. The enhanced engine performance is legit; it feels like my car woke up from a long nap and is ready to party. Plus, the customer support was so helpful, they might’ve saved me from a meltdown when I got a little too enthusiastic during installation. Highly recommend! — MoparMaster
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Why My Dodge 318 Intake Manifold Is Necessary
From my experience working on my Dodge 318 engine, the intake manifold plays a crucial role in how the engine performs. It’s the part that distributes the air-fuel mixture evenly to each cylinder, which directly affects power, efficiency, and smooth running. Without a properly functioning intake manifold, my engine wouldn’t breathe correctly, leading to poor combustion and reduced performance.
Another reason I consider the intake manifold necessary is its impact on engine temperature control. It helps regulate airflow and coolant flow, preventing overheating and ensuring the engine runs at optimal temperatures. For me, maintaining engine health and longevity depends heavily on having the right intake manifold that fits and functions perfectly with the Dodge 318 setup.
Lastly, the intake manifold can influence how I tune and upgrade my engine. Whether I’m looking for better throttle response or more horsepower, swapping or modifying the intake manifold is often one of the first steps I take. It’s not just a simple part; it’s essential for unlocking the full potential of my Dodge 318 engine.
My Buying Guides on ‘Dodge 318 Intake Manifold’
When I set out to find the right intake manifold for my Dodge 318, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best performance and fit. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you make a confident purchase.
Understanding the Role of the Intake Manifold
Before buying, I made sure I understood what the intake manifold does. It distributes the air-fuel mixture to the engine cylinders, so a good manifold can improve engine efficiency, power, and throttle response. For the Dodge 318, the right fit and design are crucial to keep everything running smoothly.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Intake Manifolds
I had to decide between an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part and an aftermarket option. OEM manifolds guarantee perfect fitment and original specs, which is great if you want to maintain your engine’s factory characteristics. On the other hand, aftermarket manifolds often offer performance upgrades, such as better airflow or lighter materials, but I had to check compatibility carefully.
Material Matters: Cast Iron or Aluminum?
Most Dodge 318 intake manifolds come in cast iron or aluminum. Cast iron is sturdy and durable, and it’s what came on the original engine, but it’s heavier. Aluminum is lighter and can dissipate heat faster, which can slightly improve performance. I chose based on whether I prioritized weight savings or maintaining original durability.
Compatibility and Fitment
I made sure the intake manifold I chose was specifically designed for the Dodge 318 engine. Even small differences in bolt patterns, carburetor mounting, or coolant passages can cause installation headaches. Checking the year and engine model compatibility saved me a lot of time and trouble.
Carburetor or Fuel Injection Setup
My Dodge 318 came with a carbureted system, so I looked for an intake manifold that matched that setup. If you have a fuel-injected version or are planning a conversion, you need to find a manifold compatible with your fuel delivery system. Some aftermarket manifolds cater to both setups.
Performance Goals
I considered what I wanted from my engine. If you’re restoring to stock, an OEM-style manifold is best. If you’re after more horsepower or torque, some aftermarket options have improved port design or larger plenum volumes. Knowing your goals helped me narrow down choices.
Budget and Availability
Prices vary widely. OEM manifolds can be pricey and sometimes hard to find in good condition. Aftermarket options might offer better value but vary in quality. I balanced cost with reliability and performance to find the best fit for my budget.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always check for any necessary gaskets or hardware needed for installation.
- Look for manifolds that have good user reviews or come from reputable brands.
- Consider consulting with a mechanic or Dodge enthusiast forums for advice tailored to your specific vehicle year and use case.
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to select a Dodge 318 intake manifold that met my needs and helped my engine run better. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect match for your Dodge 318!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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