The Ram TRX Supercharger Upgrade: From 575 HP to 850+ HP

The Ram TRX already commands respect with its factory-rated 575 horsepower from a supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8. But for owners who want more — a lot more — aftermarket supercharger upgrades can push output past 850 horsepower at the wheels, transforming the TRX into a genuine super-truck. This guide covers the leading brands, common supercharger sizes, supporting modifications, real-world performance results, and key considerations before pulling the trigger on an upgrade.

Why Upgrade the TRX Supercharger?

The stock TRX supercharger is a 2.4L twin-screw unit that delivers 14.5 psi of boost. While sufficient for 575 HP at the crank, it leaves significant headroom. A larger supercharger can move more air per revolution, allowing the engine to burn more fuel and produce substantially more power. Combined with proper fueling and tuning, a supercharger upgrade is the single most effective bolt-on modification for increasing horsepower on the TRX — often adding 200–300 wheel horsepower without touching the engine internals.

Leading Supercharger Brands for the Ram TRX

Whipple Superchargers

Whipple is one of the most trusted names in forced induction for late-model HEMI engines. Their direct replacement supercharger kits for the TRX feature larger twin-screw rotors (available in 2.9L, 3.0L, and 3.2L) with improved aerodynamics and thermal efficiency. Whipple kits include all necessary hardware, a high-flow intercooler, and a custom ECU calibration. Owners report gains from 700 to over 850 wheel horsepower depending on the kit and supporting mods. Whipple’s official site provides detailed specifications and dyno charts.

Magnuson Superchargers

Magnuson, known for its positive-displacement (twin-screw) superchargers, offers a 3.0L and 3.1L kit tailored for the TRX. Their systems are engineered to deliver smooth, linear power delivery with excellent low-end torque. Magnuson also emphasizes thermal management through larger intercooler bricks and optimized bypass valve tuning. Many tuners prefer Magnuson for its reliability and ease of calibration. Magnuson’s product pages show dyno results and vehicle fitment details.

Edelbrock Superchargers

Edelbrock offers a 3.0L twin-screw supercharger kit under their E-Force series. The kit is designed for a simple installation — it replaces the factory supercharger and lower intake manifold, retaining the stock hood. Edelbrock’s calibration is typically conservative, aimed at maintaining drivability and factory-like idle quality. Peak power from an Edelbrock-equipped TRX is generally around 680–720 wheel horsepower on pump gas, with potential for more on E85. Edelbrock’s website includes detailed fitment guides.

Roush Performance

Roush has long been a player in the supercharger market for late-model Ford trucks, but they have also developed a Phase 1 kit for the Ram TRX. The Roush system uses a 2.9L twin-screw supercharger and includes a unique intercooler brick design. While Roush claims around 700 horsepower, many owners report slightly lower numbers compared to Whipple or Magnuson, partly due to Roush’s conservative tuning. Still, the kit is known for its quality and warranty support.

ProCharger (Centrifugal Alternative)

Although less common for the TRX, ProCharger offers a staged centrifugal supercharger system. Centrifugal units produce boost proportionally to engine RPM, providing a more linear, top-end-focused power curve. ProCharger’s TRX kit includes a dedicated air-to-air intercooler and a modified front-drive system. Power levels can exceed 800 wheel horsepower with a proper fuel system. For owners who prefer the sound and character of a centrifugal blower, ProCharger is a valid option. ProCharger’s website has application-specific data.

Supercharger Sizes and Their Performance Impact

The displacement of the supercharger rotor pack directly affects air flow capacity. Here’s a breakdown of common sizes and the horsepower ranges they support on the TRX:

2.9L to 3.0L Superchargers

These small-to-mid-size upgrades are a popular sweet spot. They offer substantial gains (around 100–150 wheel horsepower) while remaining compatible with the stock fuel system and engine internals in many cases. Typical results on 93 octane fuel are 680–750 wheel horsepower. With a return-style fuel system and E85, 800+ wheel horsepower is achievable. Kits in this range include Whipple 2.9L, Magnuson 3.0L, and Edelbrock 3.0L.

3.2L to 3.3L Superchargers

These larger rotor packs are the choice for owners chasing 850+ wheel horsepower. The Whipple 3.2L is the most common option in this category. To fully utilize the additional air flow, supporting modifications are essential: an upgraded low-pressure fuel system (pump, injectors, and controller), high-octane or E85 fuel, and a custom dyno tune. On E85, 850–900 wheel horsepower is routine, and some shops have pushed past 950 wheel horsepower with headers and ported heads.

Centrifugal Supercharger Sizes

ProCharger uses an F-1 series or D-1SC head unit, with displacement measured in liters of air flow per revolution. The TRX kit typically uses a D-1X head unit, which flows roughly equivalent to a 3.0L twin-screw but with a different boost curve. Centrifugal setups are often paired with aftermarket intakes and intercoolers to maximize top-end power.

Supporting Modifications for 850+ Wheel Horsepower

A supercharger upgrade alone won’t reliably deliver 850 wheel horsepower. The following parts are necessary to maintain fuel delivery, air-fuel ratios, and engine safety at high power levels:

Fuel System Upgrades

The TRX’s factory fuel pump is capable of supporting around 650 wheel horsepower on pump gas. Beyond that, an aftermarket return-style fuel system is required. Options from companies like Injector Dynamics, FIC, and Fore Innovations include larger fuel pumps, fuel pressure regulators, and high-impedance injectors (typically 1000–1650 cc/min). For E85, even larger pumps and flex-fuel sensors may be needed.

Intercooling and Heat Management

Higher boost levels generate more heat. Upgraded heat exchangers, high-flow water pumps, and lower-temperature thermostats help keep intake air temps in check. Many supercharger kits include an upgraded intercooler brick, but stand-alone air-to-water intercooler upgrades from FrozenBoost or CSF are common on high-horsepower builds.

Exhaust and Intake

A free-flowing cat-back exhaust and high-flow catalytic converters (or off-road pipes) reduce backpressure. Cold-air intake systems (like AFE or S&B filters) can also reduce intake restriction, though the stock intake with a larger supercharger is often sufficient.

ECU Tuning

Proper calibration is critical. Reputable tuners like Dusterhoff, HHP, or Kong Performance provide custom tunes via HP Tuners or DiabloSport. Expect to pay $500–$1,500 for a remote dyno tune. A poor tune can cause engine failure regardless of hardware quality.

Real-World Performance Results: Dyno and Track Data

Dyno Numbers

Independent dyno results from shops like RIPP Superchargers and Lonestar Performance show typical results on 93 octane:

  • Whipple 2.9L: 710–730 whp, 670–700 wtq (SAE corrected)
  • Whipple 3.2L: 810–850 whp on pump gas; 880–920 whp on E85
  • Magnuson 3.0L: 700–740 whp on 93; 780–820 whp on E85
  • Edelbrock 3.0L: 670–720 whp (conservative calibration)

Note that wheel horsepower is typically about 15–18% lower than crank horsepower due to drivetrain loss. A vehicle with 850 whp has roughly 1,000 crankshaft horsepower.

Quarter-Mile and 0–60 Times

Track data from TRX forums and dedicated TRX communities show:

  • 0–60 mph: Stock = 3.6 sec; with 850+ whp = 3.1–3.3 sec (often limited by traction)
  • Quarter-mile: Stock = 12.2 sec at 108 mph; with 850 whp = 10.8–11.2 sec at 125–130 mph
  • 60–130 mph: Stock = ~11 sec; upgraded = ~7–8 sec

These times depend on tire choice, track conditions, and transmission tuning. Many owners run drag radials (e.g., Nitto NT555R2 or Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S) to maximize grip.

Cost Overview for Ram TRX Supercharger Upgrades

Pricing varies widely based on kit brand, supporting mods, and labor. General estimates:

  • Supercharger kit (2.9L–3.2L): $6,500–$9,500
  • Fuel system (return-style): $2,500–$4,000
  • Injectors + fuel pump module: $1,200–$2,000
  • Custom dyno tune: $500–$1,500
  • Installation labor: $1,000–$2,500 (if not DIY)
  • Exhaust and intake (optional): $1,000–$3,000

Total build cost to reach 850+ wheel horsepower is typically $12,000–$18,000, depending on parts choices and whether you do the work yourself.

Reliability and Longevity Considerations

With proper tuning and supporting mods, a 850+ whp TRX can be a reliable daily driver. However, pushing the engine past 900 whp on stock internals involves risk. The factory pistons and rods are strong but not indestructible — sustained high boost on low octane fuel or excessive heat can lead to piston ring land failure. Most builders recommend keeping power levels to 850 whp or less on stock bottom end for peace of mind. Upgraded fuel injectors and a quality tune are non-negotiable.

Choosing the Right Kit for Your Goals

  • Street-driven / moderate power: 2.9L–3.0L kit (Whipple or Magnuson) with stock fuel system and 93 octane tune → ~700 whp.
  • Performance / track use: 3.2L kit, fuel system upgrade, E85, and a cold-air intake → 850+ whp.
  • Extreme build (stock bottom end limit): 3.2L Whipple, full fuel system, headers, and aggressive E85 tune → 900+ whp. Requires meticulous maintenance and octane control.

Each approach has different costs, maintenance, and reliability trade-offs. Consulting with a reputable TRX tuner before purchasing is highly recommended.

Where to Get More Information

For first-hand owner experiences, join the Ram TRX Owners Group on Facebook or browse the Ram TRX Forum. These communities have build threads, dyno sheets, and advice on specific kits. For technical specifications, visit the manufacturers’ websites listed above.

A Ram TRX supercharger upgrade is one of the most rewarding modifications for enthusiasts who want real, measurable performance. With the right combination of brand, size, fueling, and tuning, the 850+ horsepower barrier is not just achievable — it’s becoming the new standard for serious TRX builds.