Lecture Notes: Helicopter Swap of a Honda Accord with a Hellcat Engine

Introduction

• Discussion on swapping a Honda Accord engine with a Hellcat engine.
• Overview of the process and costs involved.

Acquiring a Hellcat Engine

• Option 1: Buy a wrecked Hellcat from an auction.
• Option 2: Purchase crate engines or engine and transmissions separately.
• Important to get not just the engine but also radiator, drivetrain, axles, rear diff, and other components.

Cost Breakdown

• Parts Alone: Estimated $25,000 to $30,000.
  • Author bought a wrecked Hellcat for $20,000 in 2022.
  • Hellcat prices have increased since the announcement of discontinuing the Hemi engine.
• Overall Build Estimate: $50,000 to $75,000.
  • Author's specific build cost around $40,000 to $50,000.

Steps for the Swap

1. **Gutting the Car: **
   • Remove seats, engine, transmission, etc.
   • Strip the car to bare bones.
2. Installing New Components:
   • Drop in the new engine, transmission, and other parts.
3. Wiring and Programming:
   • Essential for ensuring everything works correctly.
   • Time-consuming and may take months.
4. Testing:
   • Multiple tests required to ensure all systems work.
   • Potential to save time if the systems work correctly on the first try.

Time Frame

• Minimum of 3 to 6 months to complete the swap.
• Could vary based on complexity and testing.
• Author's specific swap took a few months but was shorter than expected.

Custom Work

• Depending on the car, custom work may be required (e.g., extending the frame).
• Example given: theoretically possible to put a Hellcat engine in a smart car but would be on the higher end of cost and work estimates.

Conclusion

• Overall cost and time are significant factors in a Hellcat engine swap.
• Potential for higher costs than purchasing an actual Hellcat.
• Encouragement to share successful builds.
• For more details, viewers are directed to watch a video showcasing the build.

Q&A

• Open invitation for questions in the comments section of the video.