In 1974, Direct Connection officially launched as the exclusive source for performance parts that were backed by the factory warranty, straight from the manufacturer. While the majority of their new performance parts are aimed at newer Dodge Challengers and Chargers, Direct Connection also has crate engines to speed up most classics.
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The new Direct Connection performance parts catalog will be available as an e-catalog that can be downloaded at Dodge.com/dodge-muscle or it can be ordered as a real printed catalog. It will be filled with parts information and pricing on the new Direct Connection lineup. Most of the catalog is dedicated to Modern Performance parts that are available for newer Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT models. However, the catalog will also feature information on Crate Engines and Vintage Muscle parts. According to Dodge, the five different crate engines “allow customers to turn any pre-1976 classic ride into a beast on the strip.”
Direct Connection Crate Engines
As part of the Direct Connection, Dodge will offer five popular existing crate engines. The different HEMI engines will deliver anywhere from 383 horsepower to an astounding 1000 horsepower. It is all up to the customer to decide what best suits their lifestyle and needs.
Dodge’s Five Performance HEMI Crate Engines
- 345 Crate HEMI Engine 5.7L HEMI engine delivers 383 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque.
- 392 Crate HEMI Engine 6.4L HEMI reaches 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Hellcrate 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Engine 6.2L supercharged HEMI pumps out 717 horsepower and 656 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Hellcrate Redeye 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Engine High-output 6.2L supercharged HEMI hits 807 horsepower and 717 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Hellephant 426 cu.-in. Supercharged Crate HEMI Engine 426 cu.-in. supercharged HEMI “beast” boasts 1,000 horsepower and 950 lb.-ft. of torque. The Hellephant is obviously the elephant in the room. It will be hard for any potential racer to not consider buying one. However, choosing to buy one depends on if it will fit in your race car and if it is allowed in the category you hope to race in.
According to Dodge, “Direct Connection crate engines will offer a three-year/100,000-mile parts warranty (crate engine controller kit must be purchased on the same invoice and proof of the installation on the engine to qualify). Parts and labor are covered under warranty for Direct Connection performance kits, and for most Direct Connection crate engines, when installed by an authorized dealer.”
Performance Experts at your Fingertips
Whether you are looking to outfit a new vehicle or a classic with race ready performance parts, Dodge is making experts available to provide help. The Direction Connection hotline will give customers technical support straight from the performance experts via phone toll free at (800) 998-1110. The hotline will be available six days a week: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. ET; and Saturday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET. The experts will give technical advice on performance parts installation, service and technical issues, motorsports programs, crate engines and restoration performance.
Dodge Power Brokers Dealer Network
The new Dodge Power Brokers program will serve as the exclusive source for all new Direct Connection performance parts. The staff will be specially trained to deliver a performance-focused customer service experience. A complete list of Dodge Power Brokers dealers is expected to be available by March of 2022 at Dodge.com. Personnel at Dodge Power Brokers dealerships will have the knowledge to walk customers through Dodge vehicle performance features and available Direct Connection upgrades. It is unclear at this point if the Power Brokers would be able to install a Crate Engine in a classic vehicle, or if the staff will only focus on newer vehicles. Regardless of who installs the crate engine, it should be a remarkable upgrade at the track!
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