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The Comprehensive V6 Performance Thread

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#1 · (Edited)
The Ultimate V6 Performance Thread

Special thanks to:
Ron380 - Handling
Biged83 - 2.7L Performance parts
06-3.5L DCharger - Gear Ratio/Swap Information
Samoan Tsunami - Sway Bar Reference

After seeing a lot of threads started on V6 performance, I’ve decided to make a comprehensive resource going over all the known performance upgrades. I’ll try to go into a little bit of detail about the parts and where to find them. They will be arranged in tiers regarding performance, assuming that the stock engine dyno’s around 175 RWHP. Because I don’t like to make up imaginary numbers, every horsepower number depicted in this thread will have an acceptable error of ±100 RWHP. This section will be based mainly on the 3.5l V6.

Tier 1: 175-190 RWHP and Ft/Lbs Torque

Cold Air Intake:
It’s been noted that Intakes are generally all the same and that the performance gains will be about the same as well. Some of the higher end models will come with a compartment that seals the intake from the rest of the engine which does a moderate job of keeping the heat from the engine bay out.
Examples:

AEM Brute Force
AFE Stage 2
Big Bully Intake
K&N Aircharger
Mopar Performance 3.5l Intake
LMI Fender Mounted True CAI

Electronic Tuner:
After looking into Jet chips and Superchips, It seems that the Predator is the only one that is vehicle specific to the Charger.
Examples:

Diablosport Predator

Exhaust:
The majority of gains are through the use of catback exhausts, therefore full exhaust kits will be the only ones covered here. Many owners have swapped their V6 exhaust for a stock R/T exhaust. This is generally the cheapest route to go exhaust-wise. The SRT8 Exhaust does not generate enough backpressure and, as a result, is not the best exhaust performance-wise.
Examples:

RT Exhaust
Daytona R/T Exhaust
Borla Catback (single and dual)
Dynomax (single and dual
Magnaflow Catback (single and dual)
Gibson single rear catback exhaust (single)
Pypes StreetPro, RacePro, Violator catback exhausts
Zoomers (single and dual)

Also, Do not forget the Proper Fluids
Examples:
QuantumBlue Custom Blended Lubricants and ACES IV Fuel catalyst from BND Automotive.


Tier 2: 190-250 RWHP and Ft/Lbs Torque

Ported Throttle Body:
The next step to help the vehicle breath after the Intake. With the right tools it’s possible to port your own. Just follow this link - http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=100772
Examples:
Modern Muscle 71mm CNC ported throttle body. (SpeedLogix)
Aecarbon Ported Throttle Body

Ported Lower Intake Manifold:
The third step to help the vehicle breath. Replaces the stock manifold.
Examples:
Aecarbon 3.5l Ported Intake manifold

Jet Hot Coated Valve Covers:
Reduces surface temperature of valve covers and plenum temperature.
Examples:
Aecarbon 3.5l Jet Hot Coated Valve Covers

Exhaust Headers
Helps free up the exhaust system
Examples:
Stainless works Long tube headers
JBA Shorty Headers
OBX Shorty Headers

Camshafts:
Currently only produced by Inertia Motorsports
Examples:
Intertia Motorsports Version 1.0
Version 1.1
Version 1.2

Cylinder Heads:
Also only produced by Intertia Motorsports
Examples:
Intertia Motorsports 3.5L HO V6 Performance Heads
3.5l HO V6 Premium Big Valve Heads

Tier 3: 250 - ???

Supercharger:
Modern Muscle Supercharger http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=99417
Whiplash Supercharger

Turbocharger:
STS turbo
North Coast turbo Systems (Still in development at time of writing, needs test vehicles)
http://www.lxforums.com/board/showthread.php?t=192196

Stroker Motor:
Inertia Motorsports 4.0 Stroker
http://www.lxforums.com/board/showthread.php?t=193335&highlight=3.5l+stroker

__________________________________________________

The Ultimate 2.7 V6 Performance Thread - Written by Biged83
The parts will be arranged in tiers regarding performance, assuming that the stock engine dyno’s around 135 RWHP. Because I don’t like to make up imaginary numbers, every horsepower number depicted in this thread will have an acceptable error of ±100 RWHP. This section will be based mainly on the 2.7L V6.

Tier 1: 135-145 RWHP and Ft/Lbs Torque

Cold Air Intake :
It’s been noted that Intakes are generally all the same and that the performance gains will be about the same as well. Some of the higher end models will come with a compartment that seals the intake from the rest of the engine which does a moderate job of keeping the heat from the engine bay out.
Examples:

LMI Carbon Fiber Intake
K&N Intake
Ebay Ram Air Intake
Ebay Cold Air Intake


Exhaust:
The majority of gains are through the use of catback exhausts, therefore full exhaust kits will be the only ones covered here. Many owners have swapped their V6 exhaust for a stock R/T exhaust. This is generally the cheapest route to go exhaust-wise. The SRT8 Exhaust does not generate enough backpressure and, as a result, is not the best exhaust performance-wise.
Examples:

RT Exhaust
Daytona R/T Exhaust
Borla Catback (single and dual)
Dynomax (single and dual
Magnaflow Catback (single and dual)
Gibson single rear catback exhaust (single)
Pypes StreetPro, RacePro, Violator catback exhausts
Zoomers (single and dual)

Also, Do not forget the proper fluids
Examples:
QuantumBlue Custom Blended Lubricants and ACES IV Fuel catalyst from BND Automotive.
Royal Purple Oil


Tier 2: 145-180 RWHP and Ft/Lbs Torque

Ported Throttle Body:
The next step to help the vehicle breath after the Intake. With the right tools it’s possible to port your own. Just follow this link - http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/...d.php?t=100772
Examples:

Modern Muscle 71mm CNC ported throttle body. (SpeedLogix)
Aecarbon Ported Throttle Body


Custom Tuned PCM:
Our only option for a PCM tune as of right now is a B&G tuned PCM.
2005-2011 2.7L V-6 “300/Charger/Magnum” Premium fuel & (MBT) timing curves, 7000 rev limit, cooler fan on temp, 140 mph limit, modified torque management

Tier 3
: 180 - ???

Supercharger:
Modern Muscle Supercharger http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/...ad.php?t=99417
KNIGHT TURBOS

Turbocharger:
STS turbo
Custom Turbo setup

__________________________________________________

Handling:
Suspension upgrades are a must have for total performance.
For everything you ever needed to know regarding Suspension, Wheels, and Tires for your charger:
http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=60521

Sway Bar:
There are many aftermarket, and stock sway bar setups offered for the charger. The following link provides detailed information on the stock sway bar sizes:
http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=91222

__________________________________________________

Driveline:

Torque Converter:
To my knowledge there is only one produced by Intertia Motorsports and it is only for the 5 speed NAG1 Transmission.
Examples:
Inertia Motorsports 3.5l EDGE High Stall Torque Converter

NAG1 5 speed Flex Plate
This flex plate is lighter and stronger than stock, allowing the engine to rev faster.
Examples:
SpeedLogix Flex Plate

Limited Slip Differential Upgrade:
It is possible to upgrade from the stock differential to any HEMI LSD kit on a NAG1 5 Speed car. This will also require swapping hubs and axles.
The link below documents a successful swap to a Challenger LSD.
http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=127029

Rear Gear Swaps:
Currently, this is only an option with the NAG1 5 Speed transmissions and HEMI differential Swap
The Available Ratios are:
3.07
3.23
3.28
3.33
3.55
3.64
3.73
3.90
4.10

I've been told it's possible to change the 4 speed rear gear between the 3.06 in the 3.5l and the 3.73 in the 2.7l without putting the car into limp mode. To my knowledge this is the only gear change possible on the 4-speed at this time.
 
#43 ·
I have a 2008 SXT that has dual exhaust. I bought the car used so I am unsure if the SXT came stock like this or if the guy before me changed them. The mufflers look stock so is it possible he swapped the system from an R/T? let me know if there is a way to tell the SXT exhaust system setup apart from the R/T setup.

I want to start doing mods to the car and if I already have the R/T exhaust then it could save me a lot of money
 
#45 ·
^ The SXT's came stock with a single exhaust. The stock, RT dual-exhaust is practically a bolt-on for it, so that's most likely what's on your car. Check the V6 Audio/Video clip sticky for lots of exhaust ideas and sound clips. I have the regular Magnaflow dual-exhaust on mine now and I like it. It is one of the quieter setups, but still has good performance.

(and it's about 50 lbs. lighter than the stock RT exhaust system!)
 
#46 ·
Well since I am balling on a budget, is there a way to really tell what I have? If it is the R/T exhaust is it pretty comparable performance wise to other aftermarket systems? Also, if it is good for now what kind of tips should I get to add a better sound to it and by resonator do you mean catalytic converter or something else?
 
#47 ·
The thing about the R/T exhaust is that it's a true dual exhaust system with an "X" pipe. The "X" pipe is suppose to help out with torque, so you're going to get some power out of it. Once you open that engine up with mods to make it bring in more air, you get even more performance out of it, especially if you put a SuperCharger or a Turbo Charger system into the picture.

The reso's are the rear mufflers at the back of the car. I don't have any recommendations for any tips, but get some that will make it look good. The sound is pretty good from what I've heard on video clips. This is one of my future mods.:alfdance:
 
#49 ·
^ That is correct. Sorry, I didn't mean to imply that you'll get higher performance from the RT exhaust. The stock system is pretty restrictive, very heavy, and designed to be quiet and have no drone at all. Any performance gain is small. It's just the easiest and least expensive way to get a dual exhaust on the V6.
 
#50 ·
Anyone have the diablosport predator tuner for a 3.5? I am trying to get a legit picture of what I can expect.
Also, has anyone ventured into changing out their spark plugs yet? I was looking to upgrade them to iridium sparks plugs, most likely NGK. On that note, wondering if anyone had ventured into fuel injectors? I would like to upgrade thoses as well since I am going to eventually turbo charge my car, and the stock fuel system is normally the first thing to get taxed hard from it. Plans were to do an upgraded fuel pump, fuel injectors, and possibly a fuel return system.
Not trying to turn my V6 into a race car because, face it, trans would boil itself to death, and the rear end would probably self destruct if you took it for one hard lap around a track. I just want to make something that is fun to drive, and show that my American/Canadian v6 can perform like the Japanese cars. I have a lot of respect for the Japanese v6's. Unfortunely, and its sad, but America thinks v6's are just for family cars. Looks at the 370z and the R35, absolutely sick cars. At least Ford has shown some respect toward the v6. Twin turbo taurus. Still in the Taurus? Really? Why not put that platform in the Mustang? GM's, in my opinion, last successful attempt at V6 power was the Buick Grand National. Turbo V6 in the 80's, but nothing worth while after. The supercharged Monte Carlo's were a joke. I drove one, and that was with a supercharger? Glad I didnt waste time on a standard V6. Dodge, we all know your in the hole, but come on, be innovative. A turbo V6 Challenger would have been nice. Just because it's not a V8, doesnt mean it cant impress. I would love to see an American engine (beside the LS1) that is used in engine swaps the same as a Toyota 2JZ engines (Supra). Sorry for my rant, had to get it out. Haha
 
#51 ·
Do some searching first in the thread, tons of information is already readily available about the Predator. And about your American V6 comment being that most think it's for family cars. What about the Plymouth Prowler? Hardly a family car. The new Dodges and Ford are improving all of the V6ers for 2011, and don't forget we still have the new Camaro which is no slouch either. Also understand, the cars you mentioned are all coupes not full sized sedans. For the rest of your questions you may be better off making a thread for it. :beerchug:
 
#52 ·
Wow. Quite a post.

Practically everyone has the predator and it's awesome. Acts as an idiot-proof tuner/data logging unit. You can adjust the tunes but only over a wide range like 0-3800 rpms spark and fuel, 3800-5000 spark and fuel, and 5000-7500 spark and fuel. (not sure if these are the correct numbers but they're close enough)

Spark plugs are a PITA the change since you have to remove the upper intake manifold to get to them, and as such, there is little info about them. Same with the injectors. It seems like most of the supercharged applications are using the SRT8 injectors since they are 32 lb/hr over our 24 lb/hr injectors. You may or may not have to change out the fuel pressure regulator and the pump.

If you have the NAG1 5 speed transmission you should be fine with any power output you can get from a turbo on a stock 3.5l without any internal modifications since it's the same transmission used in the HEMI's. The rear end can be swapped out for a challenger LSD and give you a fairly bulletproof drivetrain. Costs $$$ but it will make your V6 a race car. :beerchug:


Can't beat an LSx block for engine swaps though. I've got a buddy that swears by the 2J but I'm more of an american muscle guy... :biggrinjester:
 
#54 ·
Thanks for all the responses. I wasn't downing the potential of the V6, just expressing how angry it makes me that it seems the societial norm is "if it's not a V8, screw it." In my opinion, there shouldnt be as much of a problem finding performance upgrades for any v6. The horsepower, torque, and fuel economy that can come out of a V6 is amazing. I just wish there was more emphasis on it. American Muscle shouldnt be limited to just the v8. It the older generation that saw the birth of the american muscle car. Irritates the hell outta me. I went to a few performance shops, and if it was not the v6, they didnt touch it. They all forget about power and reliability on a budget!

In reference to the Prowler, it had a 3.5 v6 to power it and 214hp. Take into account the 370z, 332hp and 270ft/lb torque from a 3.7 v6. Where is that in American cars?
Camaro? Mustang? Charger? Challenger? Which stock American v6 could keep up with a 370z? None, they all would get dusted. Thats my point. They need to get some new blood in the big 3. Ford has shown some good stuff though. Chevy is trying. Dodge is starting to dissapoint me. Which sucks. But do not doubt me. I love my car. Everything about it except the damn check engine light (code p1004, short runner valve performance, and my dealership I bought my car from closed and the dealership I am now going to, per a letter from chrysler is a pain) and the weight. Its a heavy car. But the scary part is that my buddys GTI is almost the same weight!
 
#55 ·
I see what you mean charger35v6. Also note that horse power isn't the only thing, the torque and gearing too, I've driven the Prowler before that sucker is fast and the one I was referring to was the 253hp. But like I said, I definitely see where you're coming from.
 
#56 ·
+- 100RWHP.... I like that... It makes everything sound better when it's all within 100!!! lol

Good thread though, sounds like typo cuz I've seen some numbers that are from pretty reliable sources for those setups that are pretty close to yours, probably +-10 rwhp...

Gotta be someone that has done more to a V6 though... boost wise at the very least I'd think you could get 3-350 out of it, ricers are getting that out of 4 cylinders and more!!!

I know with the "Easy" upgrade to V8 there is a lesser crowd that does it but I know there have been plenty of threads here over the years about it, just surprised nobody has "gone big"
 
#59 ·
Nope, no typo. :D I just didn't want to deal with people posting about how they weren't gaining any horsepower blah blah blah.

There's a few guys over at LxForums who are putting serious numbers down in their 6's. The supercharged guys put down 300 and the stroker guy(s) is putting down around 260 to the wheels. I figure once those two are installed on the same car we're talking around 400 rwhp then up to 500 with some nitrous.

Just need a spare $25k laying around....
 
#57 ·
Hey Brad, back to the fuel injectors, do you know of or heard of any aftermarket injectors besides just doing a srt-8 swap? How many cc's are the srt-8's?

I have not written or called STS lately, any updates on a kit made for the 3.5 yet? Many months ago when I sent them something, the guy (name escapes me) told me they were working on it and it would take time but they didnt forget about the 3.5.

And at least I got some more posts going on this again!
 
#58 ·
http://www.chargerforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=125031&highlight=fuel+injectors

I started a thread a little while back hoping to understand more about the 3.5l fuel injectors. I'm far from an expert so hopefully the responses in this thread will point you in the right direction as far as aftermarket injectors.

As far as the STS turbo. I'm fairly certain (as in 99% plus or minus 1% :biggrinjester:) that they don't yet make a turbo kit for the V6 Charger. I'd like to see someone dyno a turbo'd charger though since the only turbo'd V6 I've seen is now selling his kit...

It sounds like you know quite a bit about turbo's so I have a question for you.
Would a twin turbo system be worth it on the V6 charger? I have been under the impression that it would be too complicated, cost too much, and show too little gains over a big single, especially since this is a relatively low horsepower application. (compared to an SRT8)
 
#60 ·
Brad, I dont know that much about turbo, still learning a lot. But my friend, and everyone I hang out with drives an STI, WRX, and the lonely GTI. I am the only one in the group rocking an American 6-banger. So I have been picking up a lot of them, my best friend knows his stuff, and he hangs out with Subaru performance guys, been in a few magazines, Agile Auto. Anyways, from what I gather, to put a twin turbo on a charger would not only be a waste of $$$ but also potentially destructive. The higher compression you get from twin turbo and the HEAT from it wouldnt be that benficial considering our engines are not made to take that kind of compression. Those Japanese 4-bangers are throwing out number with their turbo because they were designed for them. Our rods, cranks, pistons, manifold, etc, werent designed with forced induction in mind. So to be safe, reasonable, and little more affordable, and without destroying your engine, the single is the way to go. As I said before, check out the Dsport issue on single vs. twin turbo. very helpful even though its an import magazine. I post what issue it was once I can check it out. Even running with a single, I doubt you could go any higher than 7psi of boost without the chance of doing serious engine damage. Hopefully that answered the question
 
#62 ·
Exactly.

I also hang out with a bunch of FI guys who talk about turbo's all day long. Their opinion was that a single turbo would show larger horsepower gains and be cheaper than a twin turbo system. Although a twin turbo would generate a flatter power curve.

Again, don't let them fool you into thinking the 3.5l v6 is a weak engine. The bottom end is forged and I believe at least one person is running 10 PSI of boost on stock internals without any trouble. I'd personally hang around 8 if I did some kind of FI. The modern muscle supercharger uses a meth injection kit.

Also, don't forget that the charger has ~ 50-50 weight distribution and handles quite well for the land yacht it is. I find it very easy to drive through the twisties. It's built to be a family sedan but it's far from a toyota camry ;)
 
#63 ·
The whole point of the rear mounted turbo system is that there is no need for an intercooler because it has to run the length of the pipe, which helps to cool it. Plus with the rear mount your not messing around with your exhaust manifold, and dont have to worry about heat issues that are created from having the turbo mounted by your engine.

In reference to the supercharger, havent tried anything with modern muscle, but the whiplash system, that guy is a joke. He wont answer any questions. I sent him the same list of questions I sent STS, all he did was send me back an email that said call me. I did that and all he did was try to sell it not answer anything.

I dont doubt that the 3.5 is a strong engine. I just take into account that every company, no matter what the product, take the path that costs less $$$ for them. So I try to look things through before i do anything that is going to cause damage. Again, I like my car and want to keep it. I want to hang onto it when one day my charger is considered a "classic" car.
 
#64 ·
Our engines can handle a good boost of about 8 psi, but to get more, change out the pistons to forged and you should be able to get almost twice the psi than stock.

Also, the intake manifold is our biggest choke point for air. Unless someone understands the mechanics behind the stock, they could build an aftermarket one to allow more air into it.
 
#65 ·
DO they make a 2.7 cam that is worth getting? Nothing crazy aggressive just something to give the car a little more pull. I already have a AEcarbon tb B&G reflash and catback on the list but just wanted to see if there were any other good bolt ons for the 2.7.
 
#66 ·
#67 ·
What did you have the whole family in the car with you while racing lol.
 
#71 ·
FWIW, most cams bought are "custom" made. The one in my truck is a custom grind. Usually just tell the shop what it's going in and they will get a blank and grind it to the specs you provide. Not sure on the availability of cam blanks for a 2.7L, but if you could get a used one you could get it re-ground.
 
#70 ·
Not worth it I was just looking for quick bolt on umph. I'm a diesel mechanic so labor isn't a issue just parts.
 
#73 ·
Technically not thing that you see in here, but question about wheel sizes, but since I am looking for performance wheels, and not chromed out, 22", heavy wheels figured I would ask it here. I am looking to upgrade to 19-20" wheel. What the maximum width I can go without issues? 10" too wide? And not doing staggered fitaments. I can't afford not to be able to rotate my tires. What offset should I go for? Whats the maximum offset I can go?