Chrysler's Gen 3 Hemi engines can be identified using the 8th digit of the VIN. This method is accurate for factory-installed engines.
GEN 3 HEMI VIN CODES (8TH DIGIT): T = 5.7L Hemi (most common — found in RAM trucks, Charger, Challenger, Durango, Grand Cherokee) W = 6.1L SRT8 Hemi (high-performance cars 2006–2010) D = 6.4L 392 Hemi (SRT and Scat Pack applications 2011+)
ABOUT MDS (MULTI-DISPLACEMENT SYSTEM): Many 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi engines are equipped with MDS, Chrysler's cylinder deactivation system. MDS shuts down 4 cylinders under light load to improve fuel economy.
How to tell if your engine has MDS: • Look at the lifter valley (the area between the cylinder heads, visible when the intake manifold is removed). • An MDS-equipped engine will have 8 small wiring connectors — one per cylinder — for the solenoid-controlled lifters. • Non-MDS engines will not have these connectors.
This matters when ordering a replacement: an MDS engine requires MDS-compatible lifters, and a non-MDS replacement going into an MDS vehicle will require additional modifications.
If you're unsure whether your engine has MDS, call us at 1-844-XPARTS-1 or email support@expediaparts.com with your full VIN and we'll confirm.
