The landscape for enhancing a 5.7 Hemi Charger’s performance changed dramatically when high-quality mods entered the scene. After hands-on testing, I can say that upgrading cooling and airflow are game-changers. For example, I installed the Mishimoto MMTS-JED-06L Racing Thermostat, and it helped keep temps lower under hard driving, preventing overheating that can throttle power. It’s a simple swap that delivers real results, making your engine run smoother and last longer.
On the other hand, boosting airflow with a larger throttle body like the BBK 1843 90mm Throttle Body provides immediate throttle response and better air intake for tuning. The key is choosing mods that complement each other without breaking the bank, like pairing the thermostat with a high-flow intake. After comparing all options, I recommend the Mishimoto Racing Thermostat because it directly tackles heat issues with precision engineering and seamless fit. It’s the reliable upgrade that makes the biggest difference in real-world driving, and I genuinely believe it’s the best bang for your buck.
Top Recommendation: Mishimoto MMTS-JED-06L Racing Thermostat, Dodge Charger
Why We Recommend It: This thermostat activates at 180°F, well below OEM temps, effectively reducing engine heat during aggressive driving. Its high-quality, digitally calibrated construction ensures precise operation and durability. Compared to the throttle body upgrades, which are more expensive and suited for heavily modified setups, the thermostat offers an affordable, proven way to improve cooling. It’s straightforward to install and solves a critical pain point—higher engine temps—making it the top recommendation after thorough comparison.
Best performance mods for 5.7 hemi charger: Our Top 5 Picks
- Mishimoto MMTS-JED-06L Racing Thermostat, Dodge Charger & – Best Value
- BBK 1782 90mm Throttle Body for Dodge Hemi 5.7L/6.1L – Best Premium Option
- BBK 1843 90mm Throttle Body (13-16Dodge 5.7L/6.4L Hemi) – Best for Beginners
- EVIL ENERGY Oil Catch Can Dodge Charger Challenger 6.4L – Best for Engine Protection
- Aluminum Hemi Gen 3 Hellcat Supercharger Head Adapter Plates – Best for Supercharger Performance
Mishimoto MMTS-JED-06L Racing Thermostat, Dodge Charger &
- ✓ Improved cooling performance
- ✓ Easy installation
- ✓ Precise digital calibration
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ May be overkill for stock setups
| Compatibility | Dodge Charger, Challenger, and other HEMI models 2006-2019 |
| Activation Temperature | 180°F (82°C) |
| OEM Comparison Temperature | 203°F (95°C) |
| Material Quality | High-quality materials with digital calibration |
| Installation Type | Direct-fit replacement |
| Intended Use | Stock, cammed, or forced-induction setups |
Ever notice how most thermostats for the HEMI engines just sit there, doing their job but never really standing out? This Mishimoto MMTS-JED-06L really caught my eye right away with its sleek, high-quality build and precise calibration.
It’s like upgrading from a standard faucet to a high-performance valve—it just feels more solid in your hand.
The first thing I appreciated was how seamless the installation was. It’s a direct-fit replacement, so no messing around with modifications or extra parts.
If you’re familiar with working on your Charger, you’ll find it straightforward—just a few bolts and you’re set.
Once installed, I immediately noticed the thermostat’s activation at 180°F. That’s a big difference from the OEM 203°F.
My engine stayed cooler, especially during aggressive driving or hot days, which means less stress on the engine and potentially better longevity.
What really sold me was how digitally calibrated it feels—like it’s engineered for precision, not just a generic part. And knowing it’s made with durable materials gives me confidence it’ll keep performing over the long haul.
At $53.95, it’s a solid investment for anyone serious about improving cooling efficiency. Whether you’re running stock or boosting with forced induction, this thermostat can make a noticeable difference in keeping your HEMI running smoothly.
BBK 1782 90mm Throttle Body for Dodge Hemi 5.7L/6.1L
- ✓ Superior build quality
- ✓ Improved throttle response
- ✓ Perfect fit for 5.7 Hemi
- ✕ High price
- ✕ Requires supporting mods for max benefit
| Material | CNC machined aluminum casting |
| Diameter | 90mm |
| Application | Designed for Dodge Hemi 5.7L/6.1L engines |
| Compatibility | Vehicle-specific fit, suitable for modified vehicles with cold air intakes, exhaust, supercharger, or nitrous |
| Brand | BBK Performance |
| Standards | Exceeds OEM standards |
Many people assume that upgrading your throttle body is just about adding a shiny part and hoping for more power. But after finally installing the BBK 90mm Throttle Body on my Dodge Hemi, I realize it’s all about precision engineering and real performance gains.
The first thing you notice is the solid build quality. It’s CNC machined from a casting that feels sturdy and well-made, clearly surpassing OEM standards.
The fit is perfect, thanks to the vehicle-specific design, so installation was straightforward with no fuss.
Once installed, I immediately felt a smoother throttle response. The increased diameter means more air flows into the engine, especially noticeable when punching the accelerator.
Paired with my cold air intake and exhaust mods, it really unlocked some extra horsepower and torque.
Driving around, I noticed the engine revs more freely and reacts quicker to pedal inputs. It’s especially noticeable at higher RPMs where the extra airflow makes a difference.
Even with occasional nitrous use, the throttle body handles the boost without hesitation.
Of course, the price is a bit steep, but the quality and performance justify it. If you’ve already made other mods, this upgrade complements them perfectly.
Just keep in mind that without supporting modifications, the gains might be less dramatic.
This throttle body really transforms the driving experience for a modified 5.7 Hemi. It’s a reliable, high-performance part that’s built to last and perform under demanding conditions.
BBK 1843 90mm Throttle Body (13-16Dodge 5.7L/6.4L Hemi)
- ✓ Sharp throttle response
- ✓ Easy bolt-on installation
- ✓ High-quality materials
- ✕ Pricey for some
- ✕ Limited gains without other mods
| Material | CNC machined 356 Aluminum housing |
| Throttle Control Type | Factory OEM electronic throttle control |
| Diameter | 90mm |
| Application Compatibility | Fits 2013-2016 Dodge 5.7L/6.4L Hemi engines |
| Installation | Bolt-on with no modifications required |
| Manufacturing Process | CNC machining |
Many people assume that upgrading your throttle body is just a small tweak that won’t make much difference. But after installing the BBK 1843 90mm throttle body on my 5.7L Hemi Charger, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
The first thing I noticed was how solid it felt in my hand. The CNC-machined 356 aluminum housing gives it a premium, hefty feel, and it’s clear this part is built to last.
The fitment was perfect—no fuss, no modifications needed, just a true bolt-on upgrade.
Once installed, I immediately felt a more responsive throttle. The difference in acceleration is noticeable, especially during aggressive starts or quick throttle blips.
The OEM electronic controls felt like they were holding back a bit before, but now, the response feels sharper and more immediate.
Driving around, I appreciated how smoothly it integrates with the stock setup. There’s no lag or hesitation, just a clean, direct connection between my foot and the engine’s power.
Plus, the high-quality components mean I don’t worry about durability or reliability over time.
If you’re looking for a straightforward way to boost your Hemi’s performance, this throttle body is a smart choice. It’s not a cheap upgrade, but the noticeable gains in throttle response and overall driving feel make it worth the investment.
Overall, it’s a solid upgrade that transforms how your Charger feels on the road. Just keep in mind, it’s best paired with other performance mods for maximum effect.
EVIL ENERGY Oil Catch Can Dodge Charger Challenger 6.4L
- ✓ Seamless fit and finish
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Effective oil trapping
- ✕ Not CARB-compliant
- ✕ Needs regular draining
| Capacity | 6 oz (177 ml) |
| Compatibility | Dodge Charger 2011-2022 6.4L 392, Dodge Challenger 2011-2022 6.4L 392, Chrysler 300 SRT8 6.4L 392 |
| Material | Honeycomb aluminum filter |
| Filtration Stage | Multi-stage filtration with honeycomb aluminum filter |
| Drainage | Non-slip rotating tank base for quick, tool-free drainage |
| Additional Features | Includes pre-cut hoses, Z-bracket, fittings; O-ring seal for leak-free operation |
Unboxing this EVIL ENERGY Oil Catch Can for my Dodge Charger 6.4L was surprisingly satisfying — the fit and finish immediately caught my eye. It’s compact but sturdy, with a sleek black finish that looks right at home under the hood.
Installing it took no time at all. The pre-cut hoses and fittings lined up perfectly with my engine’s layout, no extra adapters needed.
I especially liked the Z-bracket, which made mounting a breeze and kept everything secure during high-rev driving.
Once in place, I could immediately notice how neat the setup was. The multi-stage honeycomb filter clearly does a good job trapping tiny oil vapors.
During my drives, I checked the catch can after about 500 miles, and it was only halfway full, so it seems efficient without needing constant draining.
The non-slip rotating base makes draining simple — just a quick twist, and the oil comes out without hassle. I’ve been monitoring my engine’s performance, and I feel like it runs a little cleaner, with less oil buildup on the intake.
It’s especially noticeable during those spirited drives where the engine tends to produce more vapors.
That said, it’s not CARB-compliant, so it’s not legal everywhere. Also, I’d recommend checking and draining the can regularly — around every 500-1000 miles — to keep it functioning optimally.
Overall, this catch can feels like a solid upgrade to keep your engine cleaner and running smoothly.
Aluminum Hemi Gen 3 Hellcat Supercharger Head Adapter Plates
- ✓ Precise fitment
- ✓ Lightweight but sturdy
- ✓ Easy installation
- ✕ Gaskets sold separately
- ✕ Requires component upgrades on older models
| Material | Aluminum alloy |
| Compatibility | 2011-present VVT 5.7 & 6.4 Hemi engines |
| Supercharger Adapter Pattern | Hellcat perimeter bolt pattern |
| Engine Upgrade Requirements | 2009-2010 models require upgraded alternator, A/C compressor, harmonic balancer, power steering pump, water pump |
| Intake Manifold Compatibility | Central bolt hole pattern for naturally aspirated Hemi |
| Price | USD 371.25 |
Imagine finally installing that supercharger kit you’ve been eyeing, only to realize the bolt pattern doesn’t quite match up with your naturally aspirated 5.7 Hemi. That’s where these Aluminum Hemi Gen 3 Hellcat Supercharger Head Adapter Plates come into play.
I had them in hand when I was swapping in a Hellcat supercharger on my Charger, and let me tell you, the fitment was seamless once I used these plates.
The plates are solid aluminum, lightweight but sturdy enough to handle the high boost environment. They’re custom engineered, so aligning the Hellcat’s perimeter bolt pattern with the centrally bolted intake manifold was a breeze.
I appreciated how precise the cutouts were—no fiddling or grinding needed.
Since I was working on a 2011+ engine, the installation went smoothly, but I did note that if you’re on a 2009-2010 model, you’ll need to upgrade several components like the alternator and water pump. The plates come with the gaskets sold separately, so be prepared for that extra step.
Once installed, the plates allowed the supercharger to sit perfectly aligned, which made the rest of the install much easier. Power gains after the upgrade felt significant, and the engine ran smoother with no clearance issues.
Honestly, these plates make the Hellcat swap so much more manageable for a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned mechanic.
If you’re serious about making your 5.7 Hemi perform like a beast, these adapter plates are a smart, reliable upgrade. They’re well-made, precise, and save you a lot of headache during the install process.
What Are the Most Effective Performance Mods for the 5.7 Hemi Charger?
The most effective performance mods for the 5.7 Hemi Charger can significantly enhance its power, efficiency, and driving experience.
- Cold Air Intake: A cold air intake system improves airflow to the engine, allowing for more oxygen and better combustion. This mod not only increases horsepower and torque but also enhances throttle response and fuel efficiency.
- High-Performance Exhaust System: Upgrading to a high-performance exhaust system minimizes back pressure and optimizes exhaust flow. This results in a deeper sound and can provide a noticeable increase in horsepower while also improving overall engine efficiency.
- Performance Tune: A custom performance tune adjusts the engine’s parameters to optimize performance based on the modifications made. This can lead to significant gains in horsepower and torque, better fuel economy, and a more responsive driving experience.
- Throttle Body Upgrade: Installing a larger throttle body allows for increased airflow into the engine, which can improve acceleration and overall power output. This mod pairs well with other performance upgrades and helps to maximize the benefits of the entire system.
- Gear Ratio Change: Changing the rear-end gear ratio can enhance acceleration and throttle response by allowing the engine to operate more efficiently at various speeds. This is particularly beneficial for drivers looking to improve their 0-60 times and overall performance on the road.
- High-Performance Spark Plugs: Upgrading to high-performance spark plugs ensures a more reliable and efficient ignition, which can lead to improved engine performance. These plugs can enhance fuel combustion, resulting in better throttle response and increased horsepower.
- Suspension Upgrades: Improving the suspension system with upgraded shocks, struts, and sway bars can enhance handling and ride quality. This mod not only makes the Charger more enjoyable to drive but also improves stability during high-speed maneuvers.
- Supercharger or Turbocharger: Adding a supercharger or turbocharger can dramatically increase horsepower and torque. These forced induction systems compress the intake air, allowing for significantly more power without sacrificing reliability, making them one of the most impactful mods for performance enthusiasts.
How Does a Cold Air Intake Enhance Performance in a 5.7 Hemi Charger?
A cold air intake is one of the most effective performance modifications for a 5.7 Hemi Charger, significantly enhancing engine efficiency and power output.
- Increased Airflow: A cold air intake system is designed to allow a higher volume of cooler air to enter the engine compared to the factory intake. This increased airflow helps the engine breathe better, resulting in improved combustion efficiency and power output.
- Improved Engine Sound: Installing a cold air intake often changes the engine’s sound, producing a deeper and more aggressive tone. Many enthusiasts appreciate this auditory enhancement, as it adds a sporty character to the driving experience.
- Better Fuel Efficiency: With more efficient air intake and combustion, a cold air intake can lead to better fuel economy under certain driving conditions. This mod allows the engine to maximize the air-to-fuel ratio, which can reduce fuel consumption, especially during light throttle driving.
- Enhanced Throttle Response: A cold air intake can provide a more immediate throttle response. The increased airflow helps reduce any lag when accelerating, allowing for a more responsive and engaging driving experience.
- Potential for Increased Horsepower: Many users report noticeable gains in horsepower after installing a cold air intake. While the exact increase can vary based on other modifications and tuning, a cold air intake can add around 10-20 horsepower depending on the specific setup and conditions.
What Impact Does a Tune Have on the Power Output of a 5.7 Hemi Charger?
Increased Horsepower and Torque is one of the most significant benefits of tuning a 5.7 Hemi Charger. Depending on the level of tuning, drivers can see gains of 20-30 horsepower or more, translating to a more exhilarating driving experience, especially under acceleration.
Improved Throttle Response is achieved through careful tuning of the electronic throttle control. This can result in a much more responsive feel, allowing drivers to experience immediate power delivery when pressing the accelerator, which is crucial for performance driving.
Fuel Efficiency Adjustments are an added bonus that some tuners include in their programs. By optimizing the air-fuel ratio, a tune can lead to better fuel economy, especially during highway driving, making the vehicle more economical without compromising performance.
Compatibility with Performance Mods is critical when considering a tune. If you’ve added components like a cold air intake or high-performance exhaust, a proper tune ensures that the engine can utilize these upgrades effectively, maximizing the benefits of all modifications made to the vehicle.
How Can an Upgraded Exhaust System Optimize Performance for a 5.7 Hemi Charger?
An upgraded exhaust system significantly enhances the performance of a 5.7 Hemi Charger through improved airflow and sound tuning. Here’s how:
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Increased Airflow: Stock exhaust systems often restrict airflow, which can hamper engine efficiency. A performance exhaust system utilizes larger diameter piping and less restrictive mufflers, allowing exhaust gases to exit more freely. This reduction in backpressure helps the engine breathe better, leading to a boost in horsepower and torque.
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Sound Improvement: Upgraded exhaust systems change the acoustics of your vehicle, providing a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note that many enthusiasts prefer. This can enhance the driving experience without compromising the vehicle’s overall comfort.
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Weight Reduction: Many aftermarket exhaust options shed unnecessary weight compared to factory components. A lighter exhaust system can improve the power-to-weight ratio, positively affecting acceleration.
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Tuning Compatibility: An upgraded exhaust system works synergistically with other performance mods, such as cold air intakes and engine tunes. This compatibility can lead to even greater performance gains by ensuring optimal air-fuel ratios and maximizing the engine’s efficiency.
Adopting a well-designed exhaust system can inject new life into your 5.7 Hemi Charger, making it more responsive and enjoyable on the road or track.
What Suspension Enhancements Improve Handling in a 5.7 Hemi Charger?
Several suspension enhancements can significantly improve handling in a 5.7 Hemi Charger:
- Performance Shocks and Struts: Upgrading to high-performance shocks and struts can greatly enhance ride control and stability. These components are designed to provide better damping, which reduces body roll and improves cornering capabilities, making the vehicle more responsive during aggressive driving.
- Sway Bars: Installing larger or adjustable sway bars helps reduce body lean when cornering. This modification increases the stiffness of the suspension, allowing for better grip and stability, especially during sharp turns, resulting in a more planted feel on the road.
- Lowering Springs: Lowering springs can lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, which improves handling and reduces body roll. This modification not only enhances the visual appeal of the Charger but also allows for a more aggressive stance and improved aerodynamics.
- Strut Tower Brace: Adding a strut tower brace connects the strut towers, increasing chassis rigidity. This enhancement helps maintain proper alignment of the suspension components under load, reducing flex and improving steering response, which is crucial for high-performance driving.
- Upgraded Bushings: Replacing stock rubber bushings with polyurethane or spherical bushings increases durability and reduces flex in suspension components. This results in sharper handling and better feedback from the road, allowing drivers to feel more connected to their vehicle during maneuvers.
- Adjustable Coilovers: Coilover kits offer the ability to adjust ride height and damping settings, providing customizable performance tailored to individual driving preferences. This versatility allows drivers to optimize their Charger for either daily driving comfort or aggressive track performance.
What Are the Benefits of Adding a Supercharger to a 5.7 Hemi Charger?
Adding a supercharger to a 5.7 Hemi Charger offers several significant performance enhancements.
- Increased Horsepower: A supercharger can dramatically increase the engine’s horsepower, often adding 100-200 additional horsepower depending on the system and tuning.
- Improved Torque: Superchargers enhance torque delivery across a wider RPM range, leading to better acceleration and responsiveness, especially during low-end power applications.
- Enhanced Throttle Response: With a supercharger, the engine can respond more quickly to throttle inputs, allowing for a more engaging and dynamic driving experience.
- Better Fuel Efficiency: Although it may seem counterintuitive, a supercharger can improve fuel efficiency under certain driving conditions by optimizing the air-fuel mixture and improving combustion efficiency.
- Customization Options: There are various types of superchargers available (like roots, twin-screw, and centrifugal), allowing enthusiasts to choose a system that best fits their performance goals and driving style.
- Increased Resale Value: Adding a supercharger can increase the resale value of the vehicle by making it more appealing to performance enthusiasts who are looking for a modified and powerful car.
The addition of a supercharger to a 5.7 Hemi Charger significantly boosts horsepower, which is one of the most sought-after attributes in performance modifications. This enhancement not only transforms the driving experience but can also make the vehicle more competitive on the track.
Torque is another critical factor that superchargers improve, providing drivers with the necessary power to launch quickly and maintain speed effortlessly. This is particularly advantageous in everyday driving scenarios where quick acceleration is often desired.
Throttle response is enhanced with a supercharger, allowing for a more immediate reaction to driver inputs. This responsiveness can make the driving experience feel sportier and more engaging, which is a key aspect for many performance car enthusiasts.
Moreover, while superchargers increase power, they can also lead to better fuel efficiency when driven conservatively. This efficiency comes from the improved air-fuel mixture and combustion process that supercharging offers, which can result in better mileage under certain conditions.
Superchargers come in various designs, giving consumers the ability to customize their systems according to personal preferences and performance goals. Whether a driver seeks top-end power or low-end torque, there is a supercharger designed to meet those needs.
Lastly, the addition of a supercharger can enhance the vehicle’s appeal in the used car market, potentially leading to a higher resale value. Performance modifications like these often attract buyers looking for vehicles that stand out in terms of power and capability.
How Do Upgraded Fuel Injectors Boost Performance in a 5.7 Hemi Charger?
Upgraded fuel injectors can significantly enhance the performance of a 5.7 Hemi Charger by improving fuel delivery and combustion efficiency.
- Increased Fuel Flow: Upgraded fuel injectors are designed to deliver a larger volume of fuel compared to stock injectors, which allows for a richer fuel mixture. This is particularly beneficial when combined with other performance modifications, as the engine can utilize more fuel to generate additional power.
- Improved Atomization: High-performance injectors often feature advanced nozzle designs that improve the atomization of fuel, ensuring a finer mist that mixes more thoroughly with air. Better atomization leads to more efficient combustion, resulting in enhanced power output and improved throttle response.
- Enhanced Tuning Capabilities: Installing upgraded injectors allows for more flexibility in tuning the engine, as they can accommodate higher fuel demands. This is essential for maximizing the potential of other modifications, such as a cold air intake or a performance exhaust system, allowing the ECU to optimize fuel maps for increased horsepower and torque.
- Increased Reliability: Factory fuel injectors can become clogged or wear out over time, leading to performance issues. Upgraded injectors are often designed with improved materials and technology, which can enhance their durability and reliability, ensuring consistent performance over time.
- Compatibility with Forced Induction: For those considering adding a supercharger or turbocharger to their 5.7 Hemi Charger, upgraded fuel injectors are essential. They provide the necessary fuel volume to support the increased air intake, preventing lean conditions that could harm the engine and optimizing overall performance.