I have a 2003 dodge ram 1500 4x4 with a 5.7L hemi. It started tapping real loud and now it is sluggish when i try to take off> afraid to drive it because i might mess something up.
Is the engine shot or is this a simple fix. I am told this was a special make and model engine thats why they are 3200,00 at the junk yards. Why cant I just take one out of a
magnum or 300 or jeep and put it in myh truck?

 

I know the early 5.7 hemi had problems with valve seats and dropping valves so you might try doing a compression check and pulling the valve covers to see if valves have been dropped. Rocker assemblies can be problematic for the hemi as well and should be replaced iif rebuilding the heads or long block.
good luck

 

Check Engine Light On?
What were the codes?
(Like what Iowan said)...