FYI: The legendary Dodge Ram SRT-10, once the fastest production truck, is being revamped to challenge the Dodge Demon on the quarter-mile.
Revamping the Dodge Ram SRT-10
A speed enthusiast’s dream began with a fierce machine—the Dodge Ram SRT-10. Initially powered by an 8.3-liter V10 churning out 500 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque, it claimed the title of the fastest production truck upon its 2004 release. Now, the team at ScrappedLifeLee is on a mission to surpass even the mighty Dodge Demon’s speed.
From Viper V10 to Hellcat Dominance
The first step was shedding the Viper’s V10. To push the boundaries, the ScrappedLifeLee crew outfitted the Ram SRT with a 6.2-liter Hellcat HEMI V8, complete with a stock IHI 2.7L twin-screw supercharger. The combination of boosted power and a three-stage nitrous setup propelled the truck to an impressive 9.90 seconds by the end of the 2024 racing season. However, the Demon’s 9.65-second record remained just out of reach.
Winter Upgrades and Enhancements
During the winter, the team focused on increasing power without modifying the chassis or even changing the oil. The IHI supercharger was upgraded to a Kong Performance 2650, paired with an innovative setup that integrates the VMP 108 mm throttle body with a custom nitrous plate. This transformation was pivotal in enhancing the vehicle’s performance metrics.
Fine-Tuning the Beast
Experimenting with different pulley configurations, the team settled on a 2.75-inch setup, pushing 22 psi boost pressure. The modifications resulted in the truck generating a remarkable 986 horsepower at the wheels, all while handling the extreme conditions of a 200-degree Fahrenheit dyno run. This feat relied on superior components, such as E85-compatible injector O-rings and efficient heat exchangers, coupled with a healthy dose of daring optimism.
Pushing the Limits: Nitrous Meets Boost
Next on the agenda was integrating a blend of nitrous with the boosted setup, aiming to finally surpass the Demon’s time. By combining the supercharger’s power with an additional 100-150 shot of nitrous, the team hoped to achieve a new milestone—despite the risk to the engine.
Conclusion: A Thrilling Chase
In the relentless pursuit of speed, the ScrappedLifeLee team showcases their mechanical prowess, pushing the boundaries of innovation and bravery. Whether the Ram SRT surpasses the Demon or not, the journey promises adrenaline and spectacle.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi