3 Hacks To Optimize Hemi 5.7 Firing Order

In the automotive world, the Chrysler Hemi engine series stands out for its power, performance, and efficiency. Among the Hemi engines, the 5.7-liter variant is particularly popular, known for its blend of muscle car might and modern engineering. One aspect of the Hemi 5.7 that often comes under scrutiny is its firing order, which can significantly impact engine performance, efficiency, and even longevity. Here are three hacks to optimize the firing order of your Hemi 5.7:

Hack 1: Understand and Validate the Firing Order

Before optimizing, it's critical to ensure you have the correct firing order for your Hemi 5.7. The standard firing order for a Chrysler 5.7 Hemi is 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2:

• 1 - Front passenger side
• 8 - Front driver side
• 4 - Middle passenger side
• 3 - Middle driver side
• 6 - Rear passenger side
• 5 - Rear middle driver side
• 7 - Rear middle passenger side
• 2 - Rear driver side

Steps to Validate Firing Order:

1. Check the Manual: Always refer to your vehicle's service manual for the confirmed firing order.
2. Inspection: Visually inspect the spark plugs and cables for continuity and connection integrity.
3. Listen to the Engine: Start the engine and listen for a smooth operation. Any rough idle or misfire could indicate firing order issues.

<p class="pro-note">🔍 Pro Tip: Use an oscilloscope or a multimeter to test for even firing intervals if you're unsure about the order.</p>

Hack 2: Implement Coil Pack Adjustment for Better Timing

The Hemi 5.7 uses an electronic ignition system with individual coil packs for each cylinder. Adjusting these coils can lead to improved timing and combustion:

• Identify Coil Packs: Each coil pack corresponds to a cylinder. Refer to your manual for the layout.

• Adjust Spacing: Sometimes, the factory preset spacing between the spark plug and coil might not be optimal for all environments or modifications. Adjusting this can improve the spark delivery.

Important Adjustments:

• Check Spacing: Ensure there is proper clearance between the coil and plug to prevent arcing or misfires.
• Upgrade Coils: Consider upgrading to performance coil packs which deliver a more consistent and hotter spark.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: A slight increase in coil gap (0.020" to 0.035") can sometimes yield better performance, but always test for misfires afterward.</p>

Hack 3: Employ Performance Cams and Tunes

Camshafts play a pivotal role in the timing of when valves open and close, thus directly affecting the engine's firing order:

• Choose the Right Cam: Opt for a camshaft designed specifically for the Hemi 5.7. Performance cams can offer better overlap, reducing the time between the exhaust valve closing and the intake valve opening, which can enhance the performance.

Steps for Tuning:

1. Cam Installation: Replace the stock camshaft with a performance cam, ensuring compatibility with the rest of the engine.
2. Tune the ECU: After changing the camshaft, tuning the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is essential to accommodate the new valve timing.
3. Dyno Testing: Post-installation, perform dyno tests to adjust the timing and fuel injection for optimal performance.

<p class="pro-note">🎓 Pro Tip: Always pair cam changes with appropriate intake and exhaust system modifications to realize the full potential of your Hemi 5.7.</p>

In Conclusion

Optimizing the firing order of your Chrysler Hemi 5.7 engine can be a rewarding endeavor for any gearhead or performance enthusiast. By ensuring the firing order is correct, adjusting the coil packs, and tuning with performance cams, you can unlock the potential of this robust engine. Remember, each modification should be carefully planned, and it's beneficial to explore related tutorials to fully understand how to maintain and improve your vehicle's performance.

<p class="pro-note">📌 Pro Tip: Regular maintenance, including checking and adjusting the firing order, can prevent costly repairs and ensure your engine runs at its peak.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can adjusting the firing order void my warranty?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, unauthorized modifications, including changes to the firing order, might void parts or the entire warranty, depending on your manufacturer's policy.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are signs that my Hemi 5.7 needs firing order optimization?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Signs include rough idling, misfires, loss of power, increased fuel consumption, and check engine lights.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Will these modifications increase my engine's horsepower?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Optimizing the firing order, along with other performance enhancements, can lead to better power output, though results vary based on other modifications and engine health.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is it necessary to tune the ECU after changing the camshaft?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, the ECU needs tuning to adjust timing, fuel delivery, and ignition to match the new camshaft's characteristics.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>