How to Replace the Supercharger Bearings on a Dodge Hellcat

Introduction to Replacing Hellcat Supercharger Bearings

The supercharged 6.2L V8 Hemi engine that powers the Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcat models is an incredible feat of automotive engineering. Pumping out 707 horsepower in stock form, the Hellcat engine transforms these full-size sedans and coupes into tire-shredding muscle cars. However, all that power takes a toll on components like the supercharger bearings.

Eventually, the factory supercharger bearings will need to be replaced - sometimes well under 100,000 miles. Replacing the bearings is crucial to avoid catastrophic failure that can send metal shards through the engine. Thankfully, the job is straightforward for experienced mechanics.

When Do the Hellcat Supercharger Bearings Need Replacement?

The supercharger bearings typically last around 60,000 to 80,000 miles in a stock Hellcat. More modified versions make boost more aggressively, further accelerating bearing wear. Listen for a whining noise that changes with engine rpm - a key sign of failing bearings.

Don't delay replacement. If the bearings completely fail, they can send metal debris into the engine, requiring a full rebuild. Replace them at the first signs of noise or play.

What Parts Are Needed?

You'll need a supercharger bearing rebuild kit designed specifically for the Hellcat. Choose a high-quality kit from a reputable brand like ATI or Induction Solutions that includes the bearings, collars, seals, o-rings, and retaining clips.

You'll also need basic hand tools, torque wrenches, CRC bearing grease, a socket set, clean rags, and an air compressor. Allow 4-6 hours for DIY installation.

How to Replace Hellcat Supercharger Bearings:

Here are the key steps involved:

1. Disconnect the battery and relieve fuel system pressure.
2. Remove the airbox, induction tubes, and supercharger belt.
3. Remove the tensioner, idler pulley, and crank pulley.
4. Mark the supercharger pulley's position and remove it.
5. Remove the front cover, nose seal, and bearing retainer clips.
6. Press the old bearings out and thoroughly clean the housing.
7. Carefully press the new bearings in until fully seated.
8. Reinstall the collars, seals, o-rings, retainers, and nose seal.
9. Reinstall the pulley, crank pulley, and belt. Torque properly.
10. Reconnect induction tubes, airbox, and battery. Refill fluids.
11. Start engine and check for leaks and proper supercharger operation.

Take care when pressing the new bearings in and torquing the pulley bolts to spec. Don't take shortcuts - a proper job will give you another 60k+ miles of dependable boosted V8 power.

What is the Hellcat Supercharger?

The supercharger is the heart of the Hellcat V8 engine. Manufactured by IHI in Japan, it's a positive-displacement Roots-type supercharger with twin four-lobe rotors.

It draws air in through a large inlet, compresses it, and forces it into the engine. The result is over 11 pounds of boost pressure supplying cool, dense air to the engine for tremendous power output.

Key Supercharger Specs:

• 2.4-liter capacity
• Twin four-lobe rotors
• 10.8:1 compression ratio
• Rotor coating for temperature and friction reduction
• 15,000 rpm max rotor speed
• 11.6 psi max boost pressure
• 5600cfm airflow rate

This specialized supercharger helps the 6.2L Hemi generate 707 hp and 650 lb-ft torque while remaining street-driveable on 91 octane fuel. Replacing the bearings maintains its efficiency and reliability.

Modifying the Hellcat Supercharger

Many Hellcat owners choose to modify their supercharger to dramatically increase power output. Here are some popular mods:

Pulley Upgrade

A smaller crankshaft pulley creates higher supercharger rpm for more boost. Reduce diameter 2-3mm for 50-100hp gains.

Porting

Carefully enlarging the inlet/outlet ports improves airflow. Around 80hp can be gained from quality porting.

Larger Inlet

Opening up the inlet hole and smoothing transitions allows denser cold air charge for the rotors to work with.

Tune

A custom performance tune optimizes timing, fueling, boost, and other parameters to work best with mods making over 800hp possible.

Such extreme mods require forged internals and upgraded drivetrain components to handle the power. But 800-1000hp Hellcats can be daily driven with care and attention.

Maintaining Your Hellcat Supercharger

Here are some tips for getting the most from your Hellcat supercharger:

• Change the oil every 5,000 miles to flush contaminants.
• Inspect pulleys and belts for wear and retension regularly.
• Clean the MAF sensor and inlet tubes to prevent restriction.
• Consider an oil catch can to reduce crankcase blowby.
• Check plugs and fill the supercharger with the specified oil quantity.
• Monitor boost levels and remember heat is the supercharger's worst enemy.

With proper care and maintenance, including regular bearing replacements, the stock Hellcat supercharger can deliver thousands of miles of reliable high-performance driving.

Modifying and upgrading adds expense but unlocks the engine's true potential for four-digit horsepower figures at the wheels.

FAQs

How often do the bearings need replacing?

Typically every 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Listen for whining noises from the supercharger.

Can I drive with bad supercharger bearings?

It's not recommended. Bad bearings can fail completely and send debris through the engine, requiring a full rebuild.

What tools do I need for the job?

Basic hand tools, torque wrenches, bearing grease, a socket set, rags, and an air compressor will get the job done.

Is this a job I can do myself?

With proper skills and tools, an experienced mechanic can replace the bearings in 4-6 hours.

Will upgraded bearings handle more power?

Yes, choose a high-quality bearing kit designed for performance applications if modifying the supercharger.