Hellcat Miata – Is Contemplating this Engine Swap Even Worth It?

Undoubtedly, the idea of completing a motor swap with a Hellcat Miata will tempt you if you’ve ever had a car with a weak motor and little power. It’s typically a laborious process, and the outcomes might not always match your expectations. 

 

As a result, only motivated individuals should attempt a motor switch project.

 

However, a motor-swapped car can be a total dream when done right and with all essential chassis changes. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the most popular vehicles for powertrain swaps.

 

If you give it some thought, you can see why. The Miata is the most popular convertible sportscar worldwide, making them cost-effective and widely available. The platform’s longitudinal rear-wheel drive further expands the range of performance motor swap options.

 

The Miata’s chassis has a sizable aftermarket and is also well-developed. This indicates that all of the components close by are accessible and reasonably priced. 

 

Last but not least, a popular criticism of the Miata is that it lacks power. The 1.8-liter BP engine wasn’t made available until much later, and the first Miata only came with a 1.6-liter B6 engine.

 

Owners can approach this in one of two ways, according to this. Either you improve the motor’s performance by adding forced induction, or you may get rid of it and replace it with a bigger, more powerful engine. 

 

As long as you have realistic expectations, the Miata’s motors are surprisingly capable, thus for the majority of people, the former is sufficient.

 

The Hellcat Miata Swaps for Motors 

The latter, though, might be a superior choice for the rest. People have tried everything, from replacing it with another inline-4 to keep the balance to going all out with a V12 engine. Their distant relative’s rotary motors have also made it into the Miata.

 

But if you want to keep the Miata’s balance somewhat intact (like Mazda intended), a V8 is the largest engine you can practically fit in the Miata’s engine bay. And it just so happens to be one of the Miata’s most popular swaps.

 

This is justified by the fact that contemporary V8 motors may be made of lightweight aluminum alloys thanks to advanced production methods. Additionally, some V12 engines have small enough dimensions to fit nicely into the Miata’s small engine compartment.

 

Furthermore, a V8 motor provides a significant performance improvement over the stock inline-4, even if it is naturally aspirated and unaltered. For instance, even a small-block LS truck engine would deliver more than twice as much power and three times as much torque at a lower RPM.

 

Furthermore, having more power doesn’t always mean the car will handle worse. There are Miatas with V8 engines that are designed to compete in time trials. People who routinely take their Miatas to track days are also ones who go to the trouble of upgrading the stock powerplant with a V8.

 

What if you decide against any of that, though? What if you’re simply seeking the most outrageously eye-catching Miata? Perhaps all you want is to enjoy yourself while breathing in a lot of tire smoke. Furthermore, a Hellcat motor is a possibility.

 

 

The Hellcat Miata: What Is It? 

Anyone who enjoys automobiles is aware of what the Hellcat nameplate means. Dodge produces a line-up of high-performance vehicles that are propelled by the 6.2-liter Hellcat HEMI V8 engine.

 

The third-generation HEMI motors, which are current, include the Hellcat. However, the new, revived HEMIs have pent-roof combustion chambers rather than hemispherical ones, so they are merely HEMI by name.

 

Dodge initially exclusively equipped the Charger and Challenger models with the Hellcat engine. Since then, it has appeared in numerous Dodges and other domestic models manufactured by Stellantis. such as the RAM 1500 TRX and Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.

 

The Hellcat engine is now even available from Dodge as a crate motor. This implies that anyone with sufficient funds can place a direct order with Mopar for a brand-new Hellcat motor.

 

This made some enthusiasts wonder what would happen if the Hellcat motor was installed in a Miata. It would unquestionably make a fantastic convertible sports car.

 

Even though it seems like an utterly impossible task, all it takes is for one pioneer to take the plunge and sort things out as they go. Thank goodness, someone did, and the results are nothing short of amazing.

 

The Hellcat Miata Hellkitty 

You may be familiar with this. A well-known Miata that appears in numerous publications and movies is called The Hellkitty. It’s a second-generation NB Miata with a Hellcat engine, and it looks as absurd as it sounds.

 

The short answer is no if you’re wondering if the Hellcat motor will even fit inside the Miata. The HEMI isn’t particularly large by itself. But it becomes stratospheric when you include the monstrous 2.4-liter Hellcat supercharger.

 

Because of this, the NB Miata’s hood had to have a substantial piece removed by the project builder known as KARR for it to close.

 

So why would someone attempt this whole thing? It’s for the Internet, to put it simply. They began by considering what outrageous build would draw spectators, and the Hellcat Miata made sense.

 

It took 2.5 months to finish the entire process. What they ended up with is a Miata with a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed transmission and a 6.2-liter Hellcat engine tuned by HPTuners.

 

With a chassis nearly 2,000 lbs less than the Hellcat Challenger, it possesses Hellcat power. It has a full set of V8Roadsters coil overs, an 8.8 Cobra 3.73 rear differential, modified drive axles, and upgraded brakes in addition to running race slicks all around.

 

The Hellcat Maita Engine Swap List of Parts Required

You’ll be happy to know that they went through the trouble of filming the entire process if you’re interested in performing this exchange on your own.

 

A Hellcrate Hellcat crate motor, which costs around $20,000 from Mopar, is first required. For an extra $5,250, you may get the TR-6060 from them as well. You get 650 lb-ft of torque and 700 horsepower as a result.

 

Of course, you can source your transmission as well. Someone with a built-in T-56 Magnum might be required if they want to get even more power. The 8-speed automatic ZF 8HP90 is another choice.

 

If you’re crazy enough and want to turn it up even more, Mopar manufactures upgraded Redeye Hellcrates that have 700 lb-ft of torque and over 800 horsepower.

 

You should probably get the Engine Kit unless you’re willing to perform a lot of wiring and choose a solo motor management unit. This contains every wiring harness required to start and operate the motor.

 

You’ll also require an instrument display that can read the OBD2 CAN BUS from the ECU if you use the standard ECU. However, almost every display should be able to be made operational by an independent management unit.

 

In addition, the front-end accessory drive (FEAD) kit is crucial since it includes the alternator and all of the driving pulleys.

 

 

What More Do You Need?

You might potentially find a wrecked Hellcat that can serve as a donor vehicle. The path taken by KARR resulted in a destroyed Hellcat with a largely unharmed drivetrain. By choosing a used motor in this situation, you can save some money.

 

Not only that, but you’ll also require a front subframe customized for the swap. The front tubular subframe kit from V8Roadsters was chosen by KARR. This helps you cut down on your fabrication time.

 

A rear sump oil pan is another essential component because of clearance concerns with the subframe and steering rack. Going with a dry-sump system, which will lower the motor’s mounting height, is an intriguing possibility. STEF’S Hellcat rear sump pan was chosen by KARR.

 

The rear sump pan then needs to be further modified to provide adequate clearance. So that the front of the sump can slant even more inward, a portion of the sump needs to be removed. A skilled welding or engineering shop should be able to figure this out.

 

Since the Hellcat’s supercharger is water-cooled, a second heat exchanger, similar to the factory Hellcat low-temperature radiator, will be required to run the auxiliary water lines. A Frozen Boost heat exchanger was chosen by KARR.

 

KARR chose a manual steering rack from Ben’s Used Miata Parts to avoid the hassle of having to work out all the pump mounting, hydraulic hose routing, and adaptation.

 

What Further Parts are Required for the Hellcat Maita Engine Swap? 

You’re going to locate a differential on your own that can manage the torque. Custom-fit drive axles for the Ford 8.8 differential in the Miata application are made and sold by V8Roadsters. In this instance, KARR chose the Cobra 8.8 with a 3.73 final drive.

 

You’ll also require the Ford 8.8 differential mount in addition to that. One is produced by V8Roadsters, and it requires only a little welding to mount directly to the subframe.

 

It might not be evident, but you need a stronger chassis, revised suspension, and bigger brakes if you’re going to give the Miata seven times as much power and more than six times as much torque.

 

Larger brakes, tubular control arms, weld-on frame rails, and other improvements are available for purchase from V8Roadsters to manage the additional power and torque that a V8 powerplant produces. This was the path taken by KARR.

 

The Hellcat powertrain is twice as heavy as the basic 1.8-liter BP motor in the Miata, so coil overs with higher spring rates are recommended.

 

Additionally, you need to figure out how to connect the differential and transmission of the Hellcat. It would be difficult to modify the original two-piece driveline for the Miata.

 

More Parts

The classic one-piece U-joint driveshafts can be used with the Sonnax 6-bolt driveshaft flange that KARR chose. In addition, it is much easier to install than the conventional Ford 8.8 installation technique.

 

Additionally, since the stock transmission has a shifter extender, the shifter needs to be moved. This is because a conventional Dodge has the powerplant further forward. In a Miata, an extension is not required.

 

One of the few companies that make a short-throw shifter kit, for this reason, is SilverSport Transmissions. The TR6060 gets rid of the rear mount shifter. It’s also the answer that KARR chose.

 

The Schwartz Performance Hellcat Supercharger Intercooler Manifold Adapters is another well-liked component for the majority of Hellcat swaps. The intercooler, which protrudes from the firewall, is cooled by coolant that flows through a large cast manifold on the standard blower.

 

This adapter will give the firewall area the extra clearance that is desperately needed. Additionally, it is completely billet and supports both unique hose routing and the use of AN fittings.

 

For the Miata, you’ll need an oil cooler, a gearbox cooler, and a powerful radiator that can also cool the Hellcat engine.

 

 

How to Conduct the Hellcat Miata Engine Swap? 

After placing your orders for all of the necessary items, you can finally complete the exchange. Start by removing everything but the shell from your Miata. To determine how components will mount to the chassis, nearly everything must be removed.

 

The stock motor should be removed, along with the entire front and back subframes. The PPF also has to be removed. For the conversion process, pretty much everything related to the drivetrain must be removed. The tubular subframe from the V8Roadsters allows you to do away with the front subframe.

 

To see how the Hellcat motor will fit inside your Miata, test-fit it first. This helps you determine how much of the firewall you’ll need to remove to accommodate the motor.

 

The TR6060 should then be directed into the transmission tunnel. You’ll probably need to remove a sizable portion of the tunnel because it is a much larger transmission than the Miata’s.

 

If the motor is on a stand, it would also be a good idea to attach the oil sump before test-fitting it. By doing this, you may test-fit the motor without having to deal with the inconvenience of working underneath it.

 

The motor and transmission can be bolted back together for a test fit within the Miata’s engine bay once you’ve made enough room for them both.

 

Install the V8Roadsters subframe and determine the motor mount’s dimensions after you’ve set the motor’s position. The subframe is then removed, the mount is made, the subframe is mounted again, and the mountings are tested.

 

The Next Steps

Make sure the motor is placed precisely where you want it. It must therefore be level, straight, and the appropriate height. Measure twice and only once is made.

 

Making sure there is enough room for the clutch master cylinder, brake booster, and master cylinder is also crucial. Keep in mind that you’ll likely be removing most of the firewall and transmission tunnel when planning the motor position.

 

It’s a good opportunity to install the Miata frame rails if you, like KARR, purchased them. They provide additional chassis stiffening and are positioned above the original frame rails.

 

To install the transmission, you’ll need to create a unique transmission cross member. By mounting the cross member to the frame rail, KARR made advantage of the frame rail. As the stock Miata lacks a cross-member due to the PPF, it is the only option.

 

It makes sense to take out the stock Miata differential and put it in the new one once you have your motor and transmission in place. With the V8Roadsters Ford 8.8 kit, the mounting is bolted in from the back while the front requires welding.

 

Make the driveshaft measurements after installing the differential and replacing the rear subframe. To have a custom driveshaft for your application, you’ll need to hire a driveshaft fabricator. Drive Line Service is where KARR placed the order, therefore they know the Hellcat Miata conversion.

 

 

Further Steps of the Swap

It’s important to note that the water pump is a frequent source of failure for HEMI motors. If you have a used motor, it’s a good idea to replace it while you have access to it. You can also switch to an electric water pump arrangement if your budget permits. However, the entire package is expensive.

 

The major assemblies are then put into the automobile after that. The radiator, additional coolers, and the heat exchanger for the intercooler are among the items that still need to be mounted. 

 

Remember that the electronic throttle pedal from the Hellcat must be used in place of the stock Miata throttle pedal.

 

The wiring and fueling for the motor must be figured out at this point. You’ll undoubtedly replace the outdated Miata pump with a high-flow one. KARR just switched to the OEM Hellcat pump, which will provide sufficient flow.

 

The usage of AN fittings whenever possible is a significant aspect of KARR’s Hellcat switch. When installed properly, it looks excellent and presents less potential for error, but it requires more time and money.

 

Make sure to fill up any obvious gaps you may have created when making room for the motor and transmission. The dashboard can then be installed again and the interior components can be put back together.

 

You are almost ready to restart your Miata if you have all the suspension components available. Reinstall the drive axles, the custom driveshaft, and all of the suspension parts.

 

If you are at this stage, you are prepared to organize and connect all of the wire harnesses. Finding locations to attach the control modules and plugging everything in should be quite simple if you have the Hellcat engine kit.

 

The Final Steps of the Swap

If you chose a solo ECU, though, things get a little trickier. A unique motor harness will need to be arranged. Information about properly converting the Hellcat to an independent management system is still largely lacking at this time. However, others have already done it.

 

You can start the car once all of the wiring has been completed. Make sure all of the fluids are in place, and that all of the important parts are mounted and organized. review a startup checklist.

 

As soon as you have it going, pay close attention to the gauges to ensure that all of the pressure and temperature readings are accurate. You’ve installed a Hellcat engine in your Miata, congrats!

 

However, the exhaust header is a crucial component of the construction. This should be rather simple for you if you’re skilled at welding and creating exhausts. 

 

If not, you may always hire someone else to do it. Depending on the type of exhaust arrangement you want, KARR chose a simple bumper exhaust discharge.

 

All that’s left to do is attach the wheels and get ready for the first test drive. Check the brake and clutch function in advance, and keep an eye on the motor operation to make sure it is functioning properly.

 

A Summary of All You Need to Know About the Hellcat-Powered Mazda Miata 

A 1999 Mazda Miata with a 6.2-liter V-8 Dodge Hellcat engine from Barrett-Jackson auctions sells for $36,300.

 

The second-generation Mazda Miata retains the original NA series’ compact dimensions and lightweight while gaining practical upgrades that enhance handling, internal space, and design elements.

 

The NB Miata comes with a little amount of increased power, but the builder of this 1999 model wanted more and therefore installed a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 Dodge Hellcat engine, which was dyno-tuned to produce 683 horsepower and 647 lb-ft of torque.

 

 

The vehicle has upgraded Wilwood brakes, a front-exit exhaust system, Hoosier R7 racing tires on aftermarket rims, a Sparco steering wheel and race seats, V8 Roadster suspension adjustments, and an interior stripped down to the aluminum door panels.

 

This monster Miata is equipped with steel braided lines, a powerful cooling system, and a welded 3.07 differential, making it suitable for abuse at high speeds.

 

For safety, a crucial BSI Racing roll bar is incorporated.

 

The car’s creator claimed it should be able to reach 175 mph in fifth gear and publicly displayed the vehicle on YouTube.

 

For a little over $82,000, Flyin’ Miata can construct a 6.2-liter Chevy LS3 V-8-powered ND-series car with 525 horsepower, but that car is more recent, comes with a full interior, and probably comes with some sort of warranty.

 

The vehicle was offered with no reserve at the 2019 Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas auction, and the future owner would likely consider every penny well spent.

 

On October 3–5, 2019, Motor Trend Network would broadcast live coverage of Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas, when the fate of the car would be decided.

 

Is It Worth Performing a Hellcat Miata Engine Swap?

If you’ve followed the Hellkitty’s development, from its initial appearance at the Cleetus and Cars 2019 show to its inclusion in Hoonigan and Gas Monkey Garage’s features, you know how fast it came to be. 

 

In America’s auto industry, it was making news. After being sold by KARR at an auction, its new owner crashed it while it was leaving a car exhibition.

 

But the Hellkitty did a great job as far as attention-grabbing inventive motor swaps go. A Hellcat swap makes sense, as it did for KARR if you want a Miata that is primarily constructed for burnouts and shows.

 

For a useful everyday driver, though? Afterward, perhaps not so much. Although KARR would say it’s quite drivable even over long distances, it’s not uncontrolled. 

 

It is, however, unquestionably too powerful for the Miata chassis. It is a roadster that weighs far below 3000 lbs and has 650 horsepower and 635 ft-lbs of torque.

 

To drive it properly, you must pay close attention, and KARR was using Hoosier slick tires on all four sides. And even with a huge blower cutout, it won’t fit underneath the Miata’s hood.

 

So a Hellcat swap might be unnecessary if all you want is more power in your Miata. However, for creating smoke and having fun? Then, many worse things can be done than this. 

 

If you’re interested, you should visit KARR’s Youtube channel, where the entire build is meticulously recorded. They should be commended for going through and executing a novel motor change.

 

 

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