Converting Your Dodge Charger: AWD to RWD Guide

If you’ve been thinking about switching your Dodge Charger from all-wheel drive (AWD) to rear-wheel drive (RWD), you’re not alone. Many car enthusiasts want to make this change for various reasons, whether it’s for better handling, performance, or just a different driving experience. This guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step, making it easier to understand how to change AWD to RWD Dodge Charger. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

Understand the key differences between AWD and RWD.
Gather all necessary tools and ensure safety before starting.
Carefully remove AWD components like the driveshaft and transfer case.
Install RWD parts, ensuring everything is securely connected.
Reprogram the vehicle’s electronics for optimal performance.

Table of Contents

Understanding The Differences Between AWD And RWD

Key Features Of AWD

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems are designed to send power to all four wheels of a vehicle. This is usually done automatically, without driver intervention. The main goal? To improve traction, especially in slippery conditions like snow, ice, or even loose gravel. AWD systems can vary quite a bit. Some are full-time, meaning they’re always engaged, while others are part-time and only kick in when the system detects wheel slippage. Think of it as having extra grip when you need it most. It’s not just for bad weather, though. AWD can also improve acceleration and handling on dry pavement, especially in performance cars.

Advantages Of RWD

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) is the classic setup, powering only the rear wheels. One of the biggest advantages of RWD is its simplicity, which can translate to lower weight and fewer parts to maintain. RWD vehicles often have a more balanced feel, which many drivers find more engaging. Plus, RWD is often favored in performance applications because it allows for better weight distribution during acceleration. This can lead to improved handling and a more exciting driving experience. RWD cars are also typically easier to drift, if that’s your thing. The RWD experience is different.

Disadvantages Of AWD

While AWD offers many benefits, it’s not without its drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is increased weight. The extra components needed for AWD add weight to the vehicle, which can negatively impact fuel economy and acceleration. AWD systems are also more complex than RWD, meaning there are more parts that can potentially break down. This can lead to higher maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle. Finally, AWD systems can sometimes mask the feeling of losing traction, which can lead to overconfidence and potentially dangerous situations. Here are some disadvantages:

Increased weight
More complex maintenance
Potential for overconfidence

AWD systems, while great for traction, can sometimes feel a bit numb. You don’t always get the same feedback from the road as you do with RWD, which can make it harder to anticipate when you’re approaching the limits of grip.

Preparing Your Dodge Charger For Conversion

Okay, so you’re serious about turning your AWD Dodge Charger into a RWD beast? Awesome! But before you start tearing things apart, there’s some prep work to do. This isn’t just about grabbing some tools and diving in. It’s about making sure you, your car, and your wallet are ready for the task. Let’s get into it.

Gathering Necessary Tools

First things first, you’ll need the right tools. Don’t skimp here; having the right equipment can make the job way easier and safer. Here’s a basic list to get you started:

Socket set: Metric sizes are a must for your Charger. Get a comprehensive set.
Wrenches: Open-end and box-end wrenches, again in metric sizes.
Torque wrench:Critical for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
Jack and jack stands: You’ll need to lift the car safely and securely. Don’t even think about working under a car supported only by a jack.
Wheel chocks: For extra safety, chock the wheels that aren’t being lifted.
Penetrating oil: To loosen stubborn bolts. Trust me, you’ll need it.
Hammer: For persuasion, but use it gently.
Pry bar: Another tool for persuasion, also to be used with care.
Fluid drain pans: You’ll be draining fluids, so be prepared to catch them.
Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself!
Service manual: A repair manual specific to your Charger model is invaluable. It’ll have torque specs, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.

Safety Precautions

Safety is paramount. Seriously. Working on cars can be dangerous, so take these precautions seriously:

Disconnect the battery: This prevents accidental electrical shocks or shorts. Remove the negative terminal first.
Use jack stands: Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Place the jack stands on a solid, level surface.
Wear safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
Wear gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and chemicals.
Work in a well-ventilated area: Some fluids and chemicals can be harmful to breathe.
Have a fire extinguisher nearby: Just in case.
Know your limits: If you’re not comfortable with a particular task, don’t attempt it. Seek professional help.

It’s always a good idea to have a friend or family member nearby while you’re working on your car. That way, if something goes wrong, you have someone who can help or call for assistance.

Assessing Vehicle Condition

Before you start ripping things apart, take a good look at your Charger. This will help you identify any potential problems and ensure that the conversion goes smoothly. Check these things:

Check for rust: Pay close attention to the undercarriage, especially around the suspension components and rear end swap. Rust can make bolts difficult to remove and can weaken structural parts.
Inspect the suspension: Look for worn bushings, ball joints, and shocks. Replacing these now can save you time and money later.
Check the brakes: Make sure the brake pads and rotors are in good condition. Now’s a good time to replace them if they’re worn.
Inspect the tires: Check the tire tread and sidewalls for damage. Make sure the tires are properly inflated.
Check the fluids: Check the engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid levels. Top them off if necessary.
Look for leaks: Inspect the engine, transmission, and differential for leaks. Address any leaks before starting the conversion.

By taking the time to prepare your Dodge Charger properly, you’ll increase your chances of a successful and safe conversion. Good luck!

Removing The AWD Components

Okay, so you’re ready to get your hands dirty. This is where the real transformation begins. We’re going to systematically remove the parts that make your Charger an AWD vehicle. Take your time, be organized, and double-check everything as you go. It’s a good idea to have some containers handy to keep all the nuts, bolts, and smaller parts organized. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to put everything back together (or rather, put the new stuff in).

Disconnecting The Driveshaft

First up is the driveshaft. This is a critical step, so make sure the vehicle is properly secured on jack stands before you start. You’ll need to locate the driveshaft connecting the transfer case to the front differential.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Loosen the bolts connecting the driveshaft to the transfer case flange.
Loosen the bolts connecting the driveshaft to the front differential flange.
Carefully remove the driveshaft. It might be a bit heavy, so have a good grip.
Store the driveshaft in a safe place; you won’t need it anymore, but you might want to keep it around.

Removing The Transfer Case

Next, we tackle the transfer case. This is the unit that splits power between the front and rear axles in an AWD system. Getting rid of this is key to converting to RWD. You might need a transmission jack to support the transfer case during removal, as it can be quite heavy. It’s also a good idea to have a buddy help you out with this step.

Here’s what you need to do:

Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the transfer case.
Remove the bolts securing the transfer case to the transmission.
Carefully lower the transfer case using the transmission jack.
Store the transfer case safely. You won’t be needing it after the conversion.

Detaching The Front Differential

Finally, we’re going to remove the front differential. This is what sends power to the front wheels in an AWD setup. Removing it will complete the mechanical conversion to RWD. This is another component that can be heavy and awkward to handle, so proceed with caution.

Here’s the process:

Disconnect any electrical connectors or vacuum lines attached to the front differential.
Remove the bolts securing the front differential to the vehicle’s frame.
Carefully lower the front differential. Again, a jack can be helpful here.
Store the front differential. You won’t need it after the conversion. Consider selling it to recoup some of the costs of the engine swaps.

Remember to label and organize all the bolts and hardware you remove. This will make reassembly (or rather, the installation of the RWD components) much easier. Taking pictures as you go can also be a lifesaver if you get confused about where something goes.

Installing RWD Components

Installing The RWD Driveshaft

Okay, so you’ve ripped out all the AWD stuff. Now comes the fun part: bolting in the RWD components. First up is the driveshaft. Make sure you’ve got the right one – it’s gotta be specifically for a RWD Charger. The length and the connections are different, so don’t try to force it.

Clean the mating surfaces on the transmission and differential.
Apply a small amount of grease to the splines of the driveshaft.
Carefully align the driveshaft and bolt it in place. Torque specs are important here, so check your service manual.

Mounting The Rear Differential

Next, we’re tackling the rear differential. This is a heavy piece, so get a buddy to help you out. You’ll need to make sure it’s properly aligned and secured to the chassis. It’s not a bad idea to replace the differential bushings while you’re at it – old ones can cause vibrations and noise. You might want to consider a LSD swap for better performance.

Position the differential in its mounting location.
Use a jack to support the differential while you align the mounting bolts.
Torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Connecting The Rear Axles

Alright, almost there! Now it’s time to connect the rear axles. These transfer power from the differential to the wheels. Make sure the axle splines are clean and greased before you slide them into the differential and the wheel hubs. Double-check that the axle nuts are tightened to the correct torque. Proper torque is key to avoid issues down the road.

Slide the axle splines into the differential.
Connect the outer end of the axle to the wheel hub.
Tighten the axle nuts to the specified torque. Use a new nut if the old one is a locking nut.

Reconfiguring The Vehicle’s Electronics

Okay, so you’ve ripped out all the AWD stuff and bolted in the RWD components. Now comes the part that might seem like actual magic to some of us: getting the car’s computer to understand what’s going on. It’s not quite magic, but it does involve some software and potentially some head-scratching.

Updating The ECU Settings

The Engine Control Unit (ECU) is basically the brain of your Charger. It needs to know that it’s no longer dealing with an AWD system. This usually means flashing the ECU with new software. You’ve got a couple of options here. You could go to a dealership, but they might not be thrilled about what you’ve done. The other option is to use an aftermarket tuner. Products like the Z Automotive Tazer or DiabloSport inTune i3 Platinum Computer Programmers can help you modify the ECU settings. Make sure you get a tune that’s specifically designed for RWD Chargers.

Reprogramming The Transmission

The transmission also needs to be told about the change. With AWD gone, the transmission’s shift points might be off. Some tuners, like the ones mentioned above, can also adjust transmission settings. If not, you might need a separate transmission tune. It’s all about making sure the transmission knows it only needs to send power to the rear wheels now.

Testing The New Setup

After you’ve flashed the ECU and potentially tweaked the transmission settings, it’s time to test things out. Don’t just go flooring it right away. Start with some gentle driving to see how the car feels. Pay attention to:

How the engine idles
How smoothly the transmission shifts
Whether there are any warning lights on the dashboard

If anything feels off, don’t ignore it. It’s better to troubleshoot now than to end up stranded on the side of the road later. You might need to datalog with your tuner to see what’s going on under the hood. This involves recording various engine parameters while driving and then analyzing the data to identify any issues.

Final Adjustments And Testing

Alright, so you’ve ripped out the AWD and slapped in the RWD components. Now comes the moment of truth. This part is all about making sure everything is running smoothly and safely. Don’t skip these steps, or you might end up with a very expensive paperweight.

Checking Fluid Levels

First things first, fluids. You absolutely need to double, triple, and quadruple-check all your fluid levels. We’re talking about your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and most importantly, the differential fluid. Make sure they’re all at the correct levels and that there aren’t any leaks. Low fluid levels can cause serious damage, especially to that new rear differential you just installed. Nobody wants that!

Performing A Test Drive

Okay, fluids are good? Great. Now for the fun part: the test drive. But hold your horses, don’t go racing just yet. Start slow. Like, really slow. Listen for any weird noises – clunks, whines, or anything that sounds out of the ordinary. Pay attention to how the car feels. Is it pulling to one side? Is the steering wheel vibrating? Does the Charger EV feel stable? If anything feels off, pull over immediately and investigate. Gradually increase your speed and test the brakes. Make sure they’re working properly and that the car stops straight.

Making Necessary Adjustments

After your initial test drive, it’s time to make any necessary adjustments. This could involve anything from tightening bolts to adjusting the suspension. If you noticed any vibrations, try to pinpoint the source and address it. It might be something as simple as a loose bolt or something more complex like an alignment issue. If you’re not comfortable making these adjustments yourself, take the car to a qualified mechanic. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Remember those torque specs? Torque caliper bracket bolts to 70 foot pounds.

Don’t rush this step. Take your time, be thorough, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Converting your Dodge Charger from AWD to RWD is a big project, and it’s important to get it right. A little extra effort now can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road.

Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind:

Check all fluid levels again after the test drive.
Inspect for any leaks.
Re-torque all bolts.
Get a wheel alignment.

Maintenance Tips After Conversion

So, you’ve successfully converted your Dodge Charger from AWD to RWD. Congrats! But the job isn’t quite over. Now comes the important part: keeping everything running smoothly. Think of it like this: you’ve just run a marathon; now you need to stretch, hydrate, and take care of your body. Same goes for your car. Here’s what you need to do to keep your newly RWD Charger in top shape.

Regular Inspections

Check for leaks: Keep an eye out for any fluid leaks, especially around the differential and driveshaft. A small puddle can quickly turn into a big problem. It’s a good idea to slide a piece of cardboard under the car overnight to easily spot any drips.
Inspect the undercarriage: Regularly check the condition of the undercarriage, looking for any signs of damage, rust, or loose components. Road debris and weather can take a toll, so a quick visual inspection every few weeks can save you headaches down the road. Consider using a community forum to share tips and tricks.
Listen for unusual noises: Pay attention to any new or unusual sounds coming from the drivetrain. Clunking, grinding, or whining noises could indicate a problem with the differential, axles, or driveshaft. Don’t ignore these sounds; investigate them promptly.

Fluid Changes

Differential fluid: The differential fluid is crucial for lubricating the gears and preventing wear. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended fluid type and change interval. Typically, you’ll want to change it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but more frequent changes may be necessary if you do a lot of hard driving or towing.
Transmission fluid: Even though you may have reprogrammed the transmission, it’s still a good idea to keep up with regular transmission fluid changes. This will help ensure smooth shifting and prevent premature wear on the transmission components. Again, consult your owner’s manual for the recommended fluid type and change interval.
Brake fluid: Don’t forget about your brakes! Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce its effectiveness and lead to corrosion. Flush and replace your brake fluid every two years, or as recommended by your mechanic.

Monitoring Performance

Keep an eye on fuel economy: After the conversion, monitor your fuel economy to see if there are any significant changes. A sudden drop in fuel economy could indicate a problem with the engine, drivetrain, or tires.
Check tire wear: RWD vehicles tend to wear the rear tires faster than the front tires. Regularly check your tire pressure and tread depth, and rotate your tires as needed to ensure even wear. Uneven tire wear can affect handling and safety.
Pay attention to handling: Be aware of how the car feels and handles. If you notice any changes in steering, braking, or acceleration, have it checked out by a qualified mechanic. Changes in handling could indicate a problem with the suspension, steering, or brakes.

After converting to RWD, it’s important to drive cautiously at first to get a feel for the new handling characteristics. RWD vehicles can be more prone to oversteer, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Take some time to practice in a safe environment to become comfortable with the new driving dynamics.

By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your converted Dodge Charger remains a reliable and enjoyable ride for years to come. Regular maintenance is key to preventing problems and keeping your car running at its best.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it! Changing your Dodge Charger from AWD to RWD isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but with some patience and the right tools, you can definitely pull it off. Just remember to take your time, double-check everything, and maybe have a buddy help out if you can. It’s a big job, but once you get it done, you’ll be cruising in style. If you run into any hiccups, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Charger community for tips. Good luck, and enjoy your ride!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Dodge Charger from AWD to RWD myself?

Yes, you can change your Dodge Charger from AWD to RWD by following the right steps. However, it requires some mechanical skills and tools.

What tools do I need for the conversion?

You will need basic hand tools like wrenches, sockets, and screwdrivers, as well as a jack and jack stands to lift the car safely.

Will changing to RWD affect my car’s performance?

Yes, switching to RWD can change how your car handles and accelerates. RWD often provides better balance and handling.

Do I need to change the car’s computer settings after the conversion?

Yes, you will need to update the ECU settings to ensure the car runs properly with the new RWD setup.

Is it necessary to test drive the car after the conversion?

Absolutely! A test drive is important to check if everything is working correctly and to make any adjustments if needed.

What maintenance should I do after converting to RWD?

After the conversion, regularly check fluid levels, inspect the new parts, and keep an eye on how the car performs.