2024 Dodge Direct Connection Grudge Race Lineup Preview

The fourth annual Direct Connection Grudge Race, a highlight of Roadkill Nights Presented by Dodge, is set to showcase an impressive lineup of automotive enthusiasts and their twin-turbocharged HurriCrate-powered machines.

This year’s event at M1 Concourse, which has been moved from the iconic Woodward Avenue to a new location within M1 Concourse, promises even more intense competition and eye-catching vehicles. The relocation was prompted by recent changes to the road, specifically the shutdown area of the previous Woodward track setup, which necessitated a safer and more efficient racing environment.

The new track layout offers improved viewing opportunities for spectators, ensuring they have a closer and more immersive experience. Additionally, the event will feature a new interactive pit area, similar to what you might find at an NHRA event, allowing fans to get up close to the action and engage with the teams as they prepare their vehicles.

Here’s a detailed look at the seven racers and their unique rides for the 2024 Grudge Race…

Tom Bailey – 

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Tom Bailey (@sickseconds), known for his “Sick” media franchise and a staple in drag racing circles, returns to the Grudge Race with a distinctive entry. Bailey is bringing a 2001 Dodge Ramcharger, a model not available in the U.S. but based on the Dodge Ram 1500 platform.

His Ramcharger is powered by the new twin-turbo 3.0-liter HurriCrate engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The truck features a custom cooling system, including a Be Cool radiator with an integrated intercooler, and is equipped with Redhorse lines and XS Power lithium batteries. The chassis is fitted with custom suspension components and Billet Specialties wheels wrapped in Mickey Thompson tires, showcasing Bailey’s commitment to performance and originality.

Westen Champlin – 

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Westen Champlin (@westengw), a familiar face from past Grudge Races, is competing in a 1970 Plymouth Road Runner. This classic Mopar muscle car, modified with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter HurriCrate engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, blends old-school charm with modern power. The Road Runner retains its classic look but is updated with modern suspension components, including super stock springs and 90/10 shocks. It rolls on Mickey Thompson drag slicks, and the interior is stripped down for weight reduction and fitted with a roll bar, making it a prime contender in the classic muscle category.

Morgan Evans –

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Morgan Evans (@merganevans), a newcomer to the Grudge Race, is showcasing a 1987 Dodge D150 pickup truck. This classic truck, found on a farm in Georgia with only 79,000 miles, now sports the twin-turbo 3.0-liter HurriCrate engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The D150 is designed for both street and track use, featuring Viking coilovers, Calvert Racing split mono-leaf springs, and Wilwood brakes. The truck’s classic appearance is enhanced with JEGS wheels and Mickey Thompson tires, while a safety cage and racing seats underscore its readiness for competitive drag racing.

Allison Kovalik – 

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Allison Kovalik (@allison.kovalik), known for her expertise in building drag cars, is bringing a 1999 Dodge Dakota to the Grudge Race. This purpose-built race truck, previously a drag racing roller, now features the twin-turbo 3.0-liter HurriCrate engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Kovalik’s Dakota has QA1 adjustable shocks, RC Components wheels, and Mickey Thompson tires. The truck’s rear is equipped with a Tin Soldiers 9-inch differential and Strange 35-spline axles, ensuring it can handle the power from the Hurricane engine. Various components from Mancini Racing, Summit Racing, and Holley complement the build.

Garrett Reed – 

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Garrett Reed (@garrettisthename) is competing in a 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, a vehicle previously known for its impressive performance. The Demon has been transformed with the twin-turbo 3.0-liter HurriCrate engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Reed’s team has integrated HPT turbochargers and used TiSS Fabrications and Pure Drivetrain Solutions components to enhance the car’s performance. The Challenger is lightened with carbon fiber parts from Anderson Composites and features an AEM digital dash, making it a formidable entry with a blend of modern and classic performance.

Herman Young – 

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Herman Young, also known as “Demonology,” returns with a unique Dodge Challenger, originally a drift car. His entry features the twin-turbo 3.0-liter HurriCrate engine with upgraded turbos and is equipped with Nitrous Outlet bottles for additional power. The Challenger’s lightweight build is achieved through a gutted exterior and custom suspension components, including a custom driveshaft and OS Giken LSD. This setup, combined with the Holley Smartwire system and AEM dash, makes Young’s Challenger a powerful contender with a distinct approach to drag racing.

Mike Musto – 

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Mike Musto (@mike_musto), making his debut at Roadkill Nights, brings a 2023 Dodge Hornet GT, uniquely fitted with the HurriCrate engine. The Hornet has undergone extensive modifications, including a widebody conversion and re-engineering of the engine bay and transmission tunnel. The compact SUV now houses the twin-turbo Hurricane engine and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The build, collaborating with Unique Fabrications and designer Neil Tjin (@TjinEdition), showcases Musto’s innovative approach to integrating high-performance components into a modern vehicle.

It will be exciting to see how the HurriCrate engine compares to last year’s HELLCrate Redeye-powered vehicles. Stay tuned for the full results as these competitors test the new powerplant.