Challenger Mod Blog
Expert guides, safety tips, and build advice for your 2022 Dodge Challenger.
Buyer's Guide
HEMI Tick: What It Is, What Causes It, and How to Prevent It
The HEMI tick is one of the most discussed topics on Challenger forums — and one of the most misunderstood. Here's what it actually means, which type you need to worry about, and exactly how to protect your engine.
Apr 18, 2026
HEMI tick, lifter failure
Comparison
5.7 HEMI vs 6.4 HEMI: Which Engine is Better for Mods?
R/T or Scat Pack? The 5.7 and 6.4 HEMI share a family resemblance but are very different engines when it comes to modifications. Here's an honest breakdown of both — performance, reliability, and mod potential.
Apr 18, 2026
5.7 HEMI, 6.4 HEMI
How-To
Best Oil for the 2022 Dodge Challenger: 5.7, 6.4, and V6 Guide
Not all oil is created equal — and the wrong choice on a HEMI can lead to the dreaded lifter tick. Here's exactly which oil to use in every Challenger engine, and why it matters more than most people think.
Apr 18, 2026
engine oil, oil change
Buyer's Guide
Detonation and Knock: What It Is and How to Prevent It in Your HEMI
Detonation is one of the fastest ways to destroy a HEMI engine — but it's also preventable. Here's what knock actually is, what causes it in the Challenger, and how to protect your engine whether you're stock or built.
Apr 18, 2026
detonation, knock
Buyer's Guide
HP vs Torque: Which Matters More for the Street?
You'll hear debates about horsepower vs torque all day on forums. Here's the actual answer — what each number measures, which one you actually feel on the street, and what your HEMI numbers mean for real-world performance.
Apr 18, 2026
horsepower, torque
Buyer's Guide
Hellcat Oil Pump Upgrade: Does It Actually Help Prevent HEMI Tick?
The Hellcat oil pump as a preventive mod for the 5.7 and 6.4 HEMI is a popular recommendation on forums. Here's what it actually does, how much oil flow it adds, and whether it's worth the installation effort.
Apr 18, 2026
oil pump, Hellcat
How-To
How to Break In a New or Rebuilt HEMI Engine
Breaking in a new or rebuilt engine properly is one of the most important things you can do for long-term engine life. Here's the correct process for the Gen III HEMI — including what conventional wisdom gets wrong.
Apr 18, 2026
engine break-in, rebuilt engine
Buyer's Guide
Common Smog and Emissions Failures for Modified Challengers
In states with emissions testing, aftermarket exhaust, tunes, and O2 sensor changes can cause your Challenger to fail inspection. Here's what triggers failures and how to keep your build road-legal.
Apr 18, 2026
emissions, smog test
Buyer's Guide
How Long Does a HEMI Last? Expected Lifespan Guide
The Gen III HEMI has a reputation for durability — but how many miles can you realistically expect from a 5.7 or 6.4? Here's what the data from high-mileage HEMI owners actually shows.
Apr 18, 2026
engine lifespan, reliability
Buyer's Guide
Cold Air Intake Buyer's Guide: The Best CAI for Your 2022 Dodge Challenger
Cold air intakes are the #1 first mod for a reason. This guide covers what to look for, which brands deliver real gains, and how your engine size changes your options.
Apr 18, 2026
cold-air-intake, CAI
Buyer's Guide
Camshaft Upgrade Guide: Everything You Need to Know About HEMI Cam Swaps
A camshaft swap is one of the most transformative naturally aspirated mods for the HEMI — but it requires a full master kit of supporting parts or your engine will fail. Here's everything you need to know.
Apr 18, 2026
camshaft, cam-swap
Buyer's Guide
Variable Valve Timing on the 6.4L HEMI: How VVT Works and When It Matters
The 6.4L Apache HEMI uses Variable Valve Timing — here's how it works, what it does for power, and how mods interact with it.
Apr 18, 2026
6.4L, VVT