FNL Video: “Bitchin’ Banana Stage 1 Mods

The “Detonator Yellow” Challenger R/T, affectionately named the Bitchin’ Banana, is the star in a series of videos that will outline the transformation from “meh” to muscle. Gen III/IV Hemi Challengers have been upgraded hundreds of times over, and it’s not hard to find videos of great variety on YouTube, but you don’t often see a “budget build”.

That’s what we’re intending to do with the Faster N’ Louder 2010 Challenger R/T Classic. How does one do a budget build on a late model Hemi? It turns out it may be a simple answer, albeit in three parts:

1. We will do the work ourselves. I, the owner (Dan), Randy (little brother), and Ivan (step-dad, father, support truck driver, head mechanic, etc) have enough combined knowledge, tools, and the place to work on it to feel comfortable taking on such a project. It’s not for everyone, but if you want to save some serious money, consider doing the work yourself if you can.

2. Buy used parts when you can. This video touches on some of the things considered for “Stage 1” upgrades, such as money invested. It was not difficult to find quality used parts that in the end will create the same outcome as new parts–for only a fraction of the price. Don’t be fooled into thinking only new parts will make horsepower.

3. Be realistic about your goals, and stick to the plan. From the beginning, it was decided that the build wouldn’t be crazy. No forced induction, no stroker motor, or any other major overhaul. Just bolt-on power modifications. It’s too easy to get carried away with expensive upgrades, and after all–this is a daily driver.

With that, we hope you enjoy watching the build! We’re very excited to go on this journey with the Bitchin’ Banana and see where it takes us! Please subscribe to our YouTube channel to make sure you’re notified about future videos!