The Definitive 5.7L HEMI MDS Delete Guide: Curing the HEMI Tick for Good

If you drive a 2009-2020 Dodge Ram 1500 (VIN: T) with the 5.7L V8, you might know the sound: a rhythmic, mechanical tapping known as the "HEMI tick." This is not just an annoyance; it is an alarm bell. It usually means your Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters are failing, grinding against the camshaft and sending metal shavings through your engine.

The most reliable, permanent fix is removing the flawed MDS entirely. Upgrading to a standard V8 setup with a complete Non-MDS Conversion Kit stops the tick and bulletproofs your engine block. Because this is a major top-end rebuild, we have broken down the most crucial installation steps to ensure you or your mechanic get it right the first time.

Crucial Installation Guide: Doing the Job Right

Eliminating the MDS requires precision. Here are the non-negotiable steps when installing your new components:

1. Prep and Protect the Performance Camshaft The heart of your rebuild is the new Performance Camshaft (OEM: 53022263AF). Professional rule number one: never install it dry. Coat the lobes and bearing journals generously in assembly lube to prevent scoring during that crucial first engine start. Guide it into the block gently and keep it supported—patience here saves you from a total engine teardown.

2. Prime the Non-MDS Lifters Your kit replaces the fragile factory components with 16 heavy-duty Non-MDS Valve Lifters (OEM: 53021720AB). Before they go into the block, submerge all 16 lifters in clean engine oil for at least an hour. This "primes" the internal plungers, ensuring they are ready to pump oil immediately. When dropping them into the yokes, double-check that the rollers sit perfectly flat against the cam lobes.

3. Seal the Block with MDS Delete Plugs Because you are removing the MDS solenoids, you will leave open oil passages under the intake manifold. The four MDS Delete Plugs (Ref: 53032221AA) must be pressed firmly into these galleys. If they are not seated correctly, your engine will lose oil pressure instantly, leading to catastrophic failure.

4. Lock Down the Top End Precision Reassembly is all about strict factory specs. Align your new Timing Chain Kit (OEM: 53022316AC) dead-on with the factory marks. When bolting down the cylinder heads over the new MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) gaskets, you must use the brand-new TTY (Torque-To-Yield) bolts provided in the kit. These bolts are designed to stretch once to create a perfect seal and can never be reused.

Why Choose a Comprehensive Premium Overhaul Kit?

Sourcing these engine components piece-by-piece is a massive headache. It risks mismatched parts, delayed shipping times, and blowing your repair budget.

A premium, all-in-one Non-MDS Conversion Kit solves this by delivering exactly what you need in one heavy-duty, 38.5-lb package. It combines exact OEM fitment (like the genuine-spec camshaft and lifters) with upgraded aftermarket sealing solutions (like premium MLS gaskets and fresh TTY bolts). By choosing a complete kit, you eliminate the guesswork, save days of waiting on missing parts, and guarantee maximum durability. It is the smartest way to banish the HEMI tick forever and get your Ram 1500 back on the road with raw, reliable V8 power.