How to Increase Dodge Charger Hellcat’s Horsepower to 800+ with Pulley Swaps and Exhaust Upgrades

The Dodge Charger Hellcat is known for its impressive power and performance. However, many enthusiasts seek to push the limits even further. One of the most popular methods to increase horsepower is through pulley swaps and exhaust upgrades. This article will guide you through the process of achieving 800+ horsepower in your Hellcat.

Understanding the Basics of Horsepower

Before diving into modifications, it’s essential to understand what horsepower is and how it affects vehicle performance. Horsepower is a measure of the engine’s ability to do work over time. In simpler terms, it’s the power your vehicle has to accelerate and maintain speed.

The Role of Pulley Swaps

Pulley swaps are one of the most effective ways to increase the supercharger’s boost level. By replacing the stock pulley with a smaller one, you can increase the supercharger’s RPM, resulting in more air being forced into the engine.

Choose a smaller supercharger pulley.
Ensure you have the correct tools for the swap.
Consider upgrading the belt to accommodate the new pulley size.

Steps for Pulley Swap

Here are the steps to successfully complete a pulley swap:

Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical issues.
Remove the engine cover for better access.
Loosen the tensioner and remove the stock pulley.
Install the new, smaller pulley and reattach the belt.
Reconnect the battery and start the engine to check for any issues.

Exhaust Upgrades for Enhanced Performance

Along with pulley swaps, upgrading the exhaust system is crucial for maximizing horsepower. A performance exhaust allows for better airflow, reducing back pressure and improving engine efficiency.

Benefits of Upgrading the Exhaust

Improved sound quality and a more aggressive tone.
Increased horsepower and torque.
Enhanced throttle response.

Types of Exhaust Upgrades

When considering exhaust upgrades, you have several options:

Cat-back exhaust systems.
Header upgrades.
High-flow catalytic converters.

Steps for Exhaust Upgrade

Follow these steps to upgrade your exhaust system:

Lift the car securely using jack stands.
Remove the stock exhaust system starting from the headers.
Install the new exhaust components, starting from the headers back to the tailpipe.
Ensure all connections are tight and leak-free.
Lower the car and start the engine to check for any leaks or issues.

Tuning Your Hellcat for Optimal Performance

After completing the pulley swap and exhaust upgrades, tuning your Hellcat is essential to maximize performance. A proper tune adjusts the engine’s air-fuel mixture and ignition timing, ensuring the engine runs efficiently with the new modifications.

Choosing a Tuning Method

ECU Reflash: A popular method that involves reprogramming the engine’s computer.
Standalone Engine Management: For those looking for complete control over engine parameters.
Custom Tuning: Working with a professional tuner to get the best results.

Steps for Tuning

Here’s a basic outline for tuning your Hellcat:

Connect the tuning device to the vehicle’s OBD-II port.
Upload the new tune to the ECU.
Monitor engine parameters during the first test drive.
Make adjustments as necessary for optimal performance.

Conclusion

Increasing the horsepower of your Dodge Charger Hellcat to 800+ is achievable through pulley swaps and exhaust upgrades. By understanding the importance of each modification and following the appropriate steps, you can unlock your vehicle’s full potential. Always remember to tune your engine after making modifications for optimal performance and reliability.

Table of Contents