What small V8 will built in place of the V6 that came out of a 97 Dodge Ram 1/2 ton short wheel base

Hello, the 5.2L (318 cubic inch) V8 was available in 1997, as well as the 5.9L V8 (360 cubic inch). I can't say that either are a "direct drop in replacement", as you will have to replace all the electrical controls, processor and likely transmission to work with it. Also, you may find that the suspension is different as well as alignment angles due to weight changes. My best suggestion is: do not try to drop a V8 in where a V6 was, unless this is a classic car that has known modifications readily available and is not influencing emission controls and computer controls in any way. Anything can be done with infinite resources, but at some point, the practicality becomes a disadvantageous.