Advice On How To Harvest HP From A Dodge Ram 3.7L V6
posted on 11/19/2009
When I was looking to purchase a new vehicle, I took into account several factors that played into my final decision. Price, performance, and utility were the things I wanted to consider and address in my selection. Ultimately I chose a regular cab 08 Dodge Ram ST, that came with a 3.7L V6.
I chose this vehicle because it was a $13,000 NEW truck. What a price for a brand new truck in a bad economy! Also, since it came with a smaller V6 rather than the big V8 hemi, I was also making an economical decision about fuel economy. Since it's a pick up, I can haul anything anywhere I would like. Lastly, I get a great insurance rate because it is a regular cab two seater with no 4x4. Performance, however, is lacking. Here's why.
Dodge had good intentions when putting their V6 into a FULL SIZE ram pick up truck. As the gross vehicle weight is 5000lbs, and since the tow rating is at 5000lbs, to pull a load at 10,000 lbs is just a little much for the little motor. At 215 hp, you have a decent amount of power, but with these following tips, you can unlock the beast within, bringing up rear wheel HP to a respectable 240+ HP, equal to the early Dodge V8s in power!
There are 5 easy and affordable modifications that one can do to help with the lack of power. First, focus on the air induction system from the factory. Opening up stock aspiration issues is the first step to increasing horsepower. With a K&N air intake (10 HP +, $150), JBA exhaust headers (10 HP+, $200), a 70mm fastman throttle body (6HP+, $150), flowmaster 3in pipes and 50 series muffler (10 HP+, $300), and lastly an air ram power wire (10HP+, $50), That's a total of $850 for 46 HP. Obviously, that's a little pricey, but the additional fuel economy and horsepower make it a must. Consider this: for $850 more, you're V6 is now at 261 HP (actual rear wheel HP will be a little less due to engine power requirements), equivalent to the 4.7L V8 upgraded motor from dodge that would cost $1500 from the dealer. Savings? $650!! Check out airram.com for all your performance Dodge truck needs.
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