DIY Network

SRT-4 Engine Management System: Overview and System Components Computerized Engine-Control Module, Part 1 of 4 From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-308

The project car: 2003 Dodge SRT-4

If you think engine management systems limit the possibilities for modern hot rods, here's a performance upgrade that may change your mind. In this project, Tricked Out host Andrew Totolos modifies a turbocharged Dodge SRT-4, adding an electronic engine control module that results in some serious horsepower gains.

The computerized engine management system will help fine tune performance by custom matching fuel and boost levels to the extensive mods already in place on this SRT-4's engine.

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	Ancillary components for the engine management upgrade include load sensor, MAP sensor, boost control solenoid, knock sensor light, and control module for the wideband oxygen sensor.
	The interface for the computerized engine management system utilizes a portable gaming system display.

Project Overview

First, control modules and system interface are mounted inside the vehicle, and the wires from the control unit are run from inside to the engine bay. The control unit is wired into the ECU, and the boost controller and a new map sensor are wired into the system. A wideband oxygen sensor compliments the factory sensor for a wider range of ratios, and the new sensors get calibrated to the new system.

After the installation, the car is tested on a DYNO to make sure that it is operating at optimum level with the new controls.

Materials/tools for all modifications in this project:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, cordless drill, torque wrench, etc.), tools and materials used to complete this entire project include:

DTEC computer
knock sensor light
wideband tuner
portable gaming system display
alcohol and cleaning rags
industrial strength hook-and-loop tape
silicone tubing
electrical supplies
electrical tape
scissors
safety glasses
soldering kit
split loom
jack stands or lift
wire ties
lubricant
wire coat hanger

DIY Difficulty Rating for This Project: We gave this a difficulty rating of 4 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. There are some new engine sensors to mount around and under the engine, and lots of soldering to get the control unit wired in, so some time and patience will be required to get it all done.

The Project Car: 2003 Dodge SRT-4

When Mopar puts an "SRT" badge on a car, you know it's packing some heat, and the SRT-4 is no exception. It's one of the best bang-for-your-buck sport compacts available. This particular SRT-4 was the subject of some of our earlier modifications--a show-car engine upgrdade--detailed in Tricked Out episode 306.

Engine mods added earlier in the show-engine upgrade project.

The oil catch can

In addition to those engine mods, the Dodge features screaming yellow factory paint, matching yellow eyelids and a rolled rear bumper. Behind the factory alloys, drilled and slotted rotors prevent brake fade, while performance lowering springs provide tight cornering characteristics and an aggressive stance.

Inside, updated gauges show how the short-throw shifter pushes through the gears and a turbo timer helps to make sure that the engine receives a proper cool down after a hard run.

Under the hood, the engine keeps pace with a 3" short-ram intake feeding through a high-capacity aluminum intercooler to an upgraded T3/T4 turbo. From there the charged air runs through a 60mm throttle body into a ported intake manifold, where intake air is met with a fuel charge from the 650 cc injectors inside a ported and polished head. A tubular turbo header routes exhaust through a 3" custom exhaust system to the rear through a single-tip conversion exhaust.

Want to see "round 2" of our performance enhancements on this SRT-4? Read on.

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