powertrain
Best Supercharger Brands for Dodge Challenger: Comparing Edelbrock E-force and Procharger P-1x
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Supercharge Your Dodge Challenger?
The Dodge Challenger is a modern muscle car that celebrates raw V‑8 power. While the factory Hellcat and Demon variants deliver staggering numbers straight off the assembly line, many enthusiasts with naturally aspirated R/T, Scat Pack, or even GT models look for ways to unlock that same aggressive performance. A supercharger is the most effective single modification you can make. It forces more air into the combustion chamber, allowing the engine to burn more fuel and produce substantially more horsepower and torque.
Two brands dominate the Challenger supercharger market: Edelbrock with its E‑Force positive‑displacement unit, and ProCharger with the centrifiugal P‑1X system. Each approaches forced induction differently, and the right choice depends on your power goals, driving style, comfort with installation complexity, and budget. In this comparison, we’ll break down how each system works, what it delivers on the dyno, what it takes to install and tune, and which type of Challenger owner each suits best.
Understanding Supercharging for the Challenger
Before diving into the brands, it’s helpful to understand the two main supercharger architectures used on the Challenger’s Hemi V‑8.
Positive‑Displacement (Roots/Twin‑Screw) Superchargers
Edelbrock’s E‑Force uses a twin‑screw (Lysholm) compressor. This style of supercharger sits directly on top of the engine and forces air almost instantly into the intake manifold. Because the air path is short, boost comes on very early in the RPM band—often from idle—and delivers a very broad, flat torque curve. This type of supercharger is often called a “power under the curve” system because it gives the car that immediate, punchy feel from low RPMs. The E‑Force is a self‑contained unit with an integrated intercooler core (air‑to‑water) to keep charge temperatures under control.
Centrifugal Superchargers
ProCharger’s P‑1X is a centrifugal design. It looks like a belt‑driven turbocharger and mounts to the front or side of the engine, with a long intake path. Centrifugal compressors build boost exponentially with engine RPM. This means relatively mild power increases down low, but a strong, climbing pull the higher the revs climb. Many drivers describe the sensation as similar to a large turbocharger but with instant response and no lag. ProCharger systems are usually paired with an air‑to‑air intercooler mounted in the front of the car.
The fundamental difference between the two shapes the entire ownership experience—from installation to how the car behaves on the street, track, or drag strip.
Edelbrock E‑Force Supercharger: Deep Dive
System Design and Hardware
The Edelbrock E‑Force 2650 supercharger (the current generation for Hemi engines) uses a state‑of‑the‑art twin‑screw rotor set rated for up to 1,000 horsepower. The unit includes an integrated air‑to‑water intercooler with the heat exchanger mounted in the front bumper. The kit is designed to fit under the stock hood of Challenger models (both R/T and Scat Pack), meaning no hood modifications are required. Edelbrock engineers have optimized the intake plenum and throttle body adapter to work seamlessly with the Dodge’s electronic throttle control.
The E‑Force comes as a complete kit: supercharger unit, intercooler system, serpentine belt kit, larger injectors, a new fuel pump (for higher‑power kits), and a pre‑loaded tune. Edelbrock works directly with SCT Performance and DiabloSport to supply a handheld tuner with a safe baseline calibration.
Power Output and Dyno Results
On a 6.4‑liter Scat Pack engine, Edelbrock claims a 50% increase in horsepower—from 485 hp to approximately 727 hp on 91‑octane pump gas. Torque jumps from 475 lb‑ft to around 640 lb‑ft. The torque peak happens as low as 2,500 RPM, which transforms daily driving. Even on the 5.7‑liter Hemi, the E‑Force pushes output into the 500‑plus horsepower range. Independent dyno tests on forums like ChallengerTalk confirm these numbers, often showing slightly higher gains with proper tuning.
Key advantage: The powerband is enormous. You don’t have to rev the engine to the moon to feel the supercharger working; it pulls hard from just off idle.
Installation Complexity
The E‑Force kit is famously one of the easiest supercharger installations on the market. Edelbrock designed it so that most of the work can be done with basic hand tools and a lift or jack stands. Typical installation time ranges from 8 to 12 hours for a competent home mechanic. The supercharger bolts onto the intake valley using existing studs, and the intercooler plumbing is straightforward. Because the system retains the factory accessory drive layout and fits under the hood, there are no modifications to the hood, radiator core support, or engine mounts. One caveat: the fuel system upgrade requires dropping the tank on some models, which adds time, but Edelbrock includes clear instructions.
Tuning and Reliability
Edelbrock provides a baseline tune that is conservative and safe for daily driving. Many owners report zero driveability issues and smooth part‑throttle operation. The E‑Force system is CARB‑approved (EO D‑417‑103) for 50‑state street legality, meaning it passes emissions in California and other strict states. For maximum power, you can get a custom tune from a reputable shop like Hemi Performance, but the out‑of‑box calibration is more than adequate. The internals of the 6.4‑liter Hemi are robust enough for the boost level (around 7‑9 psi), but if you plan to push beyond 750 hp, forged pistons and rods become a good insurance policy. The limited warranty from Edelbrock covers defects in materials and workmanship, which gives peace of mind.
Real‑World Driving Experience
Owners universally praise the E‑Force for its driveability. The supercharger whine is subtle at low RPM, and the power delivery feels natural—almost like the car came from the factory that way. It’s an excellent choice for a daily driver that also sees weekend autocross or street pulls. The low‑end torque makes the Challenger feel instantly responsive in traffic, and the intercooler keeps IATs (intake air temperatures) in check during sustained acceleration.
ProCharger P‑1X Supercharger: Deep Dive
System Design and Hardware
The ProCharger P‑1X is a self‑contained gear‑driven centrifugal supercharger. The “P‑1X” designation indicates a high‑flow, high‑boost capable unit that fits within ProCharger’s entry‑level race lineup but with street‑friendly efficiency. The system uses an air‑to‑air front‑mount intercooler, which is highly effective at reducing charge temperatures, especially on long pulls or when track driving. The supercharger itself is mounted on a billet aluminum bracket on the passenger side of the engine bay, driven by a dedicated cogged belt (ProCharger’s helical gear set reduces noise). A large turbo‑style compressor wheel spins at up to 62,000 RPM.
The complete kit includes the supercharger head unit, intercooler and piping, blow‑off valve, high‑flow air filter, belt and tensioner, fuel injectors, and a DiabloSport handheld tuner with a baseline calibration. For Challenger applications, ProCharger offers specific kits for the 5.7L, 6.4L, and 6.2L Hellcat engines.
Power Output and Dyno Results
On pump gas, a 6.4‑liter Challenger equipped with the P‑1X can make over 700 horsepower at the crank (around 600‑620 at the wheels) at 8‑9 psi of boost. ProCharger claims a 70% increase over stock with their “High Output” calibration. Because centrifugal chargers produce boost proportionally to engine RPM, peak horsepower occurs right at redline—typically 6,200‑6,400 RPM. The torque curve is less flat than the Edelbrock, rising steadily rather than peaking early. However, the top‑end rush can be addictive. With a built engine and race fuel, the P‑1X can support over 1,000 horsepower.
Independent testing from Road & Track and speed shops shows that the P‑1X gains are real, but the feel is completely different from a positive‑displacement unit.
Installation Complexity
Installation of the ProCharger P‑1X is more involved than the Edelbrock. The kit requires mounting the intercooler in front of the radiator and running charge pipes to the throttle body. The supercharger bracket must be bolted to the engine block, and the factory intake manifold is retained—no removal of the manifold is needed, which is actually simpler for some steps. However, the overall labor is higher, often 12‑18 hours for a first‑time installer. Many owners choose to have a professional shop install the system, adding $1,000‑$2,000 to the total cost. The instructions are detailed, and ProCharger provides excellent technical support via phone or forums.
Tuning and Reliability
ProCharger pre‑loads the DiabloSport tuner with a base tune that gets the car running smoothly. However, centrifugal systems can be more sensitive to tune quality because the boost curve is less linear. Many owners recommend investing in a custom dyno tune from an experienced shop like Texas Speed & Performance to maximize power and address any part‑throttle issues. The reliability of the P‑1X head unit is top‑notch; ProCharger uses high‑grade Japanese bearings and helical gears that reduce gear noise significantly. The air‑to‑air intercooler never soaks heat like an air‑to‑water system can in stop‑and‑go traffic. Hard launches (especially with drag radials) place high stress on the belt system, so regular belt inspection is advised.
Real‑World Driving Experience
Drivers who love a progressive, building power curve often prefer the ProCharger. Below 3,500 RPM the car feels mostly stock, but as the tach swings past 4,000, the supercharger comes alive with a rush that pushes you back in the seat all the way to redline. The blow‑off valve adds a satisfying “psshh” on gear changes. On the highway, the P‑1X shines—rolling from 60 to 130 mph feels effortless. However, some daily drivers find the lack of low‑end grunt less satisfying for around‑town cruising. The ProCharger is also louder: the gear drive produces a distinct whine, and the intake noise is more pronounced.
Comparison: Edelbrock E‑Force vs. ProCharger P‑1X
| Factor | Edelbrock E‑Force | ProCharger P‑1X |
|---|---|---|
| Peak HP (6.4L, pump gas) | ~720‑730 hp | ~700‑720 hp (crank) |
| Peak Torque RPM | 2,500‑3,000 | 5,000‑6,200 |
| Powerband Feel | Instant, broad, daily‑driver friendly | Progressive, top‑end rush, aggressive |
| Installation Difficulty | Moderate (8‑12 hrs DIY) | Harder (12‑18 hrs DIY, often requires pro) |
| Hood Clearance | Stock hood works | Stock hood works |
| Intercooling | Air‑to‑water (integrated) | Air‑to‑air (front mount) |
| Weight Added | ~65 lbs | ~40 lbs |
| Sound | Subtle whine, feels OEM | More whine, blow‑off valve |
| CARB Legal | Yes (EO D‑417‑103) | Yes (with carb EO for most kits) |
| Typical Kit Price | $7,200‑$8,500 | $6,500‑$7,800 |
| Best For | Daily driver, street, weekend track | Drag racing, highway pulls, built engine |
Installation Considerations and Total Cost
Beyond the supercharger kit price, you need to budget for a few additional items. Both kits include a handheld tuner, but professional custom tuning is highly recommended and typically costs $500‑$800. A dyno tune can optimize timing, fuel, and transmission shift points. You may also need wider tires because the added power will overwhelm stock rubber.
Installation labor at a shop ranges from $800‑$2,000 depending on the system and region. Clutch upgrades: if you have a manual transmission (Tremec TR‑6060), the stock clutch will slip with either supercharger beyond about 600 lb‑ft of torque. Budget $1,200‑$2,000 for a twin‑disc clutch. For automatic (8HP70 or 8HP90), a torque converter upgrade or transmission tuning is advisable.
Total cost of ownership (including supporting mods): Edelbrock route typically $9,500‑$12,000; ProCharger $8,500‑$11,500. The Edelbrock often feels like the higher‑value package for street use because you don’t need as many supporting mods for daily driver performance.
Tuning and Supporting Mods
Both systems rely heavily on the tune. The factory Hemi ECM needs to be unlocked (for many model years up to 2021) via a device like the HP Tuners MPVI2+. Edelbrock and ProCharger both use DiabloSport, which is simpler but less flexible than HP Tuners for custom work. For serious track use, consider going straight to a custom HP Tuners calibration from a specialist like Dusterhoff Tuning or JRE Performance.
Supporting mods both systems benefit from: upgraded fuel system (the included injectors and pump are sufficient for base power, but for race fuel/E85 you’ll need larger injectors, a boost‑a‑pump, or a return‑style system. Exhaust: a high‑flow cat‑back or long‑tube headers can add 20‑30 hp on a boosted car. Cooling: both kits include intercoolers, but for sustained track use, an oil cooler and upgraded radiator are recommended.
Which Should You Choose?
Your decision comes down to how you drive the car 90% of the time:
- Choose the Edelbrock E‑Force if: you want a plug‑and‑play, reliable system that makes the car feel like a factory Hellcat from a stoplight. You’re keeping the car mostly street driven and want minimal fuss. The instant torque is addictive and the install is manageable.
- Choose the ProCharger P‑1X if: you enjoy high‑RPM power and plan to drag race or take the car to the track regularly. You don’t mind a bit more installation work and want a system that leaves room to grow—bigger pulleys, built bottom end, race fuel. The centrifugal character rewards aggressive drivers who keep the revs up.
Both Edelbrock and ProCharger have outstanding reputations for quality. Your local speed shop might have a preference based on what they tune most often—customer reviews on forums like ChallengerTalk are a fantastic resource for owner experiences. Whichever you pick, you’ll transform your Challenger into a true muscle car that can hang with cars costing three times as much.
Conclusion
Supercharging a Dodge Challenger is one of the most satisfying performance upgrades you can make. The Edelbrock E‑Force offers a refined, torque‑rich experience that suits the daily driver and cruiser. The ProCharger P‑1X delivers an adrenaline‑fueled top‑end rush perfect for the drag strip or highway enthusiast. Both are proven, reliable, and CARB‑legal. Match the system to your driving personality, invest in a proper tune, and enjoy the relentless acceleration your Challenger was born to deliver.