10 Best Aftermarket Lifters for 5.7 Hemi in 2026

Years ago, replacing a lifter was a simple task that rarely required a second thought. Now, the Hemi platform demands precision to handle the Multi-Displacement System and the stress of modern variable valve timing.

Choosing the Best Aftermarket Lifters for 5.7 Hemi requires a bit of homework to match your specific hardware. The right components act like a sturdy foundation for your engine, keeping everything humming along smoothly. Keep reading to see which kits fit your build requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • Verify if your engine requires MDS or non-MDS lifters because these components are not interchangeable.
  • Check the part numbers listed in the product description against your specific vehicle year to ensure compatibility.
  • Purchase complete kits that include new gaskets and bolts to avoid reusing old, stretched hardware.
  • Inspect the oil flow passages on your new lifters to ensure they match the factory specifications for your specific Hemi generation.
  • Prioritize sets that include the necessary plugs if you are performing a full delete or conversion on your cylinder heads.

Our Top Best Aftermarket Lifters For 5.7 Hemi Picks

Top Factory Specification Koomaha MDS Replacement Lifter Set Koomaha MDS Replacement Lifter Set Direct factory replacement Maintains MDS function Standard fitment View on Amazon Read Review
Reliable Non-MDS Upgrade 5.7 Hemi Non-MDS Lifter Kit Eliminates MDS complexity Includes necessary plugs Solid construction View on Amazon Read Review
Consistent OEM Alternative 5.7L MDS Hydraulic Lifter Set 5.7L MDS Hydraulic Lifter Set Smooth hydraulic function Factory-style performance Consistent valve timing View on Amazon Read Review
Performance Conversion Essential Non-MDS Valve Lifter Conversion Kit Non-MDS Valve Lifter Conversion Kit Complete conversion hardware Durable internal design Prevents oil pressure loss View on Amazon Read Review
Comprehensive Overhaul Solution 5.7 Hemi Engine Lifter Kit 5.7 Hemi Engine Lifter Kit Includes gaskets and bolts Simplified parts sourcing Engine-specific compatibility View on Amazon Read Review
Standard Replacement Choice MDS Specific 5.7L Lifter Set MDS Specific 5.7L Lifter Set Accurate factory fit Reliable MDS operation Durable metal construction View on Amazon Read Review
Complete Cylinder Refresh 16-Piece MDS Lifter Set 16-Piece MDS Lifter Set Full engine set Reliable factory timing Consistent hydraulic pressure View on Amazon Read Review
Reliable Daily Driver Replacement MDS Hemi Lifters Replacement MDS Hemi Lifters Daily driver reliability Factory-matched performance Consistent valve lift View on Amazon Read Review
Ultimate Cam Service MDS Camshaft and Lifter Kit MDS Camshaft and Lifter Kit Includes cam kit components Complete gasket set Model-specific fitment View on Amazon Read Review
Quality Aftermarket Standard Geluoxi MDS Hemi Lifters Geluoxi MDS Hemi Lifters Exact factory dimensions Quiet operation Consistent valve timing View on Amazon Read Review

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Koomaha MDS Replacement Lifter Set

    Koomaha MDS Replacement Lifter Set

    Top Factory Specification

    View on Amazon

    If you want a direct replacement for your stock MDS lifters, this Koomaha set is your best bet. It mirrors the factory design, which is essential for maintaining the Multi-Displacement System functionality in your 5.7L engine.

    Just remember that these are specific to MDS-equipped engines. Do not attempt to install them in a non-MDS build, as they will not operate correctly without the necessary oil control solenoids.

    • Brand Name:Koomaha
    • Lifter Type:MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Part Numbers:53021726AD, 53021726AE
    • Additional Feature:Standard hydraulic design
    • Additional Feature:Compatible with factory cams
    • Additional Feature:Designed for 5.7L displacement
  2. 5.7 Hemi Non-MDS Lifter Kit

    Reliable Non-MDS Upgrade

    View on Amazon

    Switching to a non-MDS setup is a popular move for those looking to simplify their valvetrain. These lifters come with the required plugs to block off the MDS oil passages, effectively turning your engine into a traditional V8.

    This is a great choice if you are running a more aggressive, aftermarket camshaft. Without the complexity of MDS lifters, you have one less point of failure to worry about during high-performance driving.

    • Lifter Type:Non-MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L, 6.1L, 6.4L Hemi
    • Included Hardware:Lifters and plugs
    • Part Numbers:5038784AD, 53021720AB
    • Additional Feature:Simplifies oiling system
    • Additional Feature:Ideal for performance cams
    • Additional Feature:Prevents lifter failure
  3. 5.7L MDS Hydraulic Lifter Set

    5.7L MDS Hydraulic Lifter Set

    Consistent OEM Alternative

    View on Amazon

    You will appreciate these lifters if you are looking for consistent oil pressure and smooth operation in a daily driver. They act as a reliable substitute for the original equipment, ensuring the engine cycles between four and eight cylinders as intended.

    Be sure to replace your lifter trays at the same time you install these. Even the best lifters can struggle if the plastic retention trays are warped or worn out.

    • Lifter Type:MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Part Numbers:53021726AE, 53021726AD
    • Additional Feature:Standard steel construction
    • Additional Feature:Maintains cylinder deactivation
    • Additional Feature:Precise oil metering
  4. Non-MDS Valve Lifter Conversion Kit

    Non-MDS Valve Lifter Conversion Kit

    Performance Conversion Essential

    View on Amazon

    When you decide to delete the MDS system, you need a dedicated kit that handles the transition cleanly. This set provides the non-MDS lifters along with the plugs to seal the block, preventing internal oil leaks that kill oil pressure.

    It is a straightforward solution for anyone tired of the constant clicking associated with aging MDS hardware. It works well with stock or mildly upgraded camshafts.

    • Lifter Type:Non-MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7, 6.1, 6.4L Hemi
    • Included Hardware:Lifters and plugs
    • Part Numbers:5038784AD
    • Additional Feature:Eliminates cylinder deactivation
    • Additional Feature:Precision machined surfaces
    • Additional Feature:High-grade steel composition
  5. 5.7 Hemi Engine Lifter Kit

    5.7 Hemi Engine Lifter Kit

    Comprehensive Overhaul Solution

    View on Amazon

    This kit is more than just lifters, as it is designed for a full top-end refresh. By combining the lifters with the necessary seals and hardware, it removes the headache of sourcing individual gaskets during your rebuild.

    It is perfect for someone doing a deep engine service. If you are already inside the engine to replace the camshaft, this kit provides everything you need to button it back up.

    • Lifter Type:Non-MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Included Hardware:Lifters, bolts, gaskets
    • Part Numbers:HS26423PT, 53021720AD
    • Additional Feature:Full engine kit
    • Additional Feature:Includes timing cover seals
    • Additional Feature:Consistent hydraulic response
  6. MDS Specific 5.7L Lifter Set

    MDS Specific 5.7L Lifter Set

    Standard Replacement Choice

    View on Amazon

    This set focuses on providing a functional match for the factory MDS lifters in your Jeep or Dodge. They are built to handle the unique oil pressure demands of an MDS system, which is vital for keeping your fuel economy figures accurate.

    Make sure your oil remains clean when installing these. Tiny debris can easily clog the small passages inside these lifters, leading to premature failure.

    • Lifter Type:MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Part Numbers:53021726AE, 53021726AD
    • Additional Feature:Maintains factory efficiency
    • Additional Feature:Standard hydraulic action
    • Additional Feature:Precision fitment
  7. 16-Piece MDS Lifter Set

    16-Piece MDS Lifter Set

    Complete Cylinder Refresh

    View on Amazon

    Providing a full set of sixteen lifters, this pack ensures you can replace every unit in your V8 at once. This is the correct approach for any engine work, as replacing only one or two lifters is like putting a band-aid on a broken leg.

    These are specifically tuned for the 5.7L Hemi's unique firing order and cylinder deactivation requirements. They work best when paired with a fresh set of lifter trays.

    • Lifter Type:MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Quantity Count:16
    • Part Numbers:53021726AD, 53021726AE
    • Additional Feature:Factory specification build
    • Additional Feature:High-pressure hydraulic design
    • Additional Feature:Standard steel body
  8. Replacement MDS Hemi Lifters

    Replacement MDS Hemi Lifters

    Reliable Daily Driver

    View on Amazon

    If you rely on your truck for daily errands, these lifters offer a dependable path back to stock performance. They are engineered to handle the constant switching of the MDS system without binding or failing early.

    They provide the same responsiveness you expect from your engine. Just keep up with your regular oil change intervals to keep these components happy.

    • Lifter Type:MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Part Numbers:53021726AD, 53021726AE
    • Additional Feature:Standard factory design
    • Additional Feature:Corrosion-resistant coating
    • Additional Feature:Smooth operational cycle
  9. MDS Camshaft and Lifter Kit

    MDS Camshaft and Lifter Kit

    Ultimate Cam Service

    View on Amazon

    This kit is for the person who is replacing the camshaft and wants to ensure all related components are brand new. It includes the gaskets and bolts needed for a clean installation, which saves you from multiple trips to the parts store.

    The inclusion of these specific gaskets makes it a high-value option for a project build. You get everything aligned for the specific 2009 to 2017 Ram engine architecture.

    • Lifter Type:MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Included Hardware:Lifters, gaskets, bolts
    • Part Numbers:53022263AF, HS26500PT
    • Additional Feature:Includes head bolts
    • Additional Feature:Optimized for performance
    • Additional Feature:Comprehensive service package
  10. Geluoxi MDS Hemi Lifters

    Geluoxi MDS Hemi Lifters

    Quality Aftermarket Standard

    View on Amazon

    These lifters from Geluoxi offer a solid alternative when your factory lifters begin to tick or collapse. They are designed to match the exact dimensions of your original parts, making the installation process relatively easy.

    They provide the necessary hydraulic action to keep your valvetrain quiet and efficient. They are a solid choice for maintaining a stock Hemi engine over the long haul.

    • Brand Name:Geluoxi
    • Lifter Type:MDS
    • Engine Compatibility:5.7L Hemi
    • Part Numbers:53021726AD, 53021726AE
    • Additional Feature:Durable steel build
    • Additional Feature:Standard hydraulic fitment
    • Additional Feature:Designed for factory cams
See also  10 Best Italian Coffee Beans in 2026 (Buyer's Guide)

Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Aftermarket Lifters For 5.7 Hemi

Lifter Compatibility And Generation

The 5.7 Hemi engine went through significant changes over the years, specifically regarding the Multi-Displacement System, or MDS. You must verify if your engine uses these cylinder-deactivating lifters or the standard non-MDS units found in manual transmission models. Mixing these up is a fast track to a check engine light or, even worse, a collapsed lifter that ruins your camshaft.

Material And Durability

Steel billet lifters are the gold standard for high-performance builds because they handle increased spring pressure far better than stock equivalents. If you plan to install a more aggressive camshaft, you need lifters with hardened steel bodies to prevent the needle bearings from failing. Cheap components are like a house of cards: they might look fine initially, but they crumble under the stress of high RPMs.

Oil Feed Geometry

Proper oiling is the lifeblood of a hydraulic lifter, so check that the oil feed holes align perfectly with the lifter bores in your block. If the feed hole is restricted or misaligned, the lifter cannot maintain the correct pressure against the camshaft lobe. This leads to that dreaded ticking noise that keeps every Hemi owner awake at night.

Lifter Tray Integrity

Your lifters are held in place by plastic trays that prevent them from rotating inside the bore. You should always buy a fresh set of OEM or reinforced trays whenever you replace the lifters themselves. Reusing old, brittle trays is a gamble, as a single failure allows the lifter to spin, which will obliterate your camshaft in seconds.

See also  10 Best Journaling Pens in 2026 (Buyer's Guide)

Hydraulic Preload Specs

Achieving the correct lifter preload is essential for quiet operation and longevity. Most manufacturers recommend a preload setting between 0.030 and 0.050 inches, but you must check the specific instructions for your chosen brand. If the preload is too loose, you get noise, and if it is too tight, you risk hanging a valve open, which destroys your compression.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my lifters are failing?

The most obvious sign is a persistent ticking sound coming from the engine bay that gets louder as the oil warms up. You might also notice a misfire code or a sudden loss of power if a lifter has collapsed and is no longer opening the valve fully.

Can I use non-MDS lifters in an MDS engine?

You can, but you must also disable the MDS system in your engine computer and replace the camshaft with a non-MDS profile. If you simply swap the parts without tuning the software, the computer will attempt to activate a system that no longer exists, leading to immediate engine errors.

Do I need to replace the camshaft when I change lifters?

If your old lifters have pitted or damaged faces, you should replace the camshaft as well. Installing new lifters on a cam with worn lobes is like putting new tires on a bent rim, as the damage will transfer to the new components almost immediately.

What is the benefit of a link-bar style lifter?

A link-bar lifter uses a metal bridge to keep the lifters aligned, which removes the need for the plastic lifter trays. These are much stronger and are designed to handle the aggressive ramps of high-performance aftermarket camshafts that would shatter standard factory trays.

See also  10 Best Tools for It Professionals in 2026 (Guide)

How long should I break in new lifters?

Follow the cam manufacturer's guidelines, which usually involve a twenty-minute run at varying RPMs to ensure the oil coats every surface properly. Avoid letting the engine idle for long periods during this initial phase, as you need constant oil pressure to seat the lifters against the cam lobes.

Thomas Stanley
Thomas Stanley
Articles: 4142