Engine modifications beyond bolt ons

[csokol83]

I have posted a few threads here lately and I figured I would ask this question now.

I have a 13' completed out with your basic bolt on performance stuff. Listed in my signature is what I have done to this point. What can I do to take this thing further, if anything? Put all money aside and lets discuss the options. All ideas are welcome here!! Also, I have the 8 speed geared at stock I believe with 3.21's. Would it be okay to up this considering I am running a 35" tire currently and going up to a 37" as soon as they're gone?

 

[jlb]

I know there are a couple guys running cams, and there are piston kits available, but you might have to do a lot of work to avoid detonation if you go that route.

Only other major option is forced induction, which may not yet be possible on 13s?

 

[hemidup]

I'd start with gears with them big ole tires.

 

[SIhemi]

I'd start with with a higher stall torque converter and 4.10 gears. That will really make the truck a monster

 

[UNBROKEN]

There are no converters for the 8 speeds.

 

[RLJ10X]

I don't have any experience with the 8 speed, but 3.21s with 35, or 37" tires sounds like a bad combo. I would do at least 4.10s. 4.56s would probably be better, still.

I did 4.10s with 33" tires in an 11 with the 545RFE, and it doesn't feel geared low at all. It feels correct. The tranny works so much better now. I haven't felt the need to do the "Slap Stick" thing at all any more.

Gears are where it's at. I have no clue why these trucks come geared so ridiculously tall.

 

[csokol83]

The 3.21 ratio honestly gives me no problems with 35's. The 8 speed comes factory at 510 lb/ft of torque. I think a 3.92 will be where it ends up before the 37's. dodge oem 4.10's are outrageous in price compared to the 3.92 and its a small percentage of difference.

 

[WhiteSport]

I don't see why the torque capacity of your transmission has to deal with gearing. But he's right. Gears will make the biggest difference. Anything beyond what you want power wise is a cam or forced induction.

 

[csokol83]

The point I was trying to convey is that with the 3.21 ratio and upgrades I have already I'm not noticing anything negative with the stock 3.21's. I'm sure that a 3.92 or 4.10 would work fine as well. because of the gearing in the transmission my first 2 gears are done very quick anyways. The 4.10's are expensive just because it is a popular ratio with Mopar enthusiast's. I would however like to have the 3.92 going up to a 37-38 inch tire.

As far as cams and forced induction are concerned, I have been reading on here and everyone is saying a supercharger will blow out the tranny. I would love a cam but I'm on the fence about which way to go wih the VVT and all. Comp as one as does inertia motor sports. Any feedback on these?

 

[fasthemiram12]

Do a 392 Stroker then...