Hennessey Upgrade Packages? [Archive] - Cherokee SRT8 Forum

: Hennessey Upgrade Packages?


Limey In FLA
07-25-2009, 04:45 PM
Has anyone pulled the trigger on getting one of the upgrade packages available from Hennessey? They seem fairly pricey but if you had the money would they be the best way to go to improve the jeep overall?

kokanee13
07-25-2009, 04:47 PM
Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!

Limey In FLA
07-25-2009, 05:03 PM
That's a definite no....Why do you say that?

SoonToBeSRT
07-25-2009, 06:55 PM
Hennessey kits are in the air meaning you wont be able to get one a solid answer from a large group of people, its always going to be debatable haha. Their kits have been producing some mean rigs lately and they "seem" to be good, but as many will say Hennessey has a history and like anything, you should do your research before purchasing anything. This upgrade is very expensive (at least for my wallet it would be) so I would spend many days if not more talking to people, looking on the net and getting as much info on not only their kit but other options (which is what you seem to be doing.) So from what I know, its a solid kit, BUT, they have a history and I personally wouldn't do business with them (for undisclosed reasons) That said many have done and been good to go.

For the $, Id have to say as would many others, you can get more performance and reliability. Their kits are designed well and make its effortless to get a F/I install, or w/e it may be and having it installed. Basically its like ordering a bunch of different components for a speaker system and putting it together on your own, or purchasing a pre-made kit that would include an amp/sub and speakers (like Kicker for the Jeeps) The kicker is a great option for some, but for the cost, you could get better (not everyone wants more). Hennessey is in fact THE EXACT same as in my analogy, pre-made good to go, install all taken care of etc etc (you just do the research, make the call and shell out cash) Everything works together an is assembled and ready to go which is why they can charge what they do and have a solid business going, that route is NOT FOR EVERYONE THOGUH (as seen by many custom jobs and high-performance builds that take place here often. Just for reference, there have to be a ton of guys on here running 11s and 12s and that have F/I and not to knock Hennessey, but most are custom jobs and/or are built via many different companies and different parts, (thats just way most gear heads on here are, VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE)

But if you have some knowledge or are looking for some about other components, you can save few bucks and get more imho ;) If you are more specific on exactly what you are looking to get (Turbo/Supercharger/Heads, Cam???) MANY OTHERS, myself included, will be able to assist you down the best path to achieve your desires. GL in your search, should dig up some good stuff ;)

I guess it all comes down to home much $$$ you have, how much time you have, how much knowledge you have and whether or not you want to be involved and/or more into your build. Answer those and you will get a better sense of which route to go.

oman srt8
07-26-2009, 03:25 AM
choose another company``~~!!

pjs1965
07-26-2009, 09:14 AM
IMO, the only drawback on the Hennessey route is that you're paying some $$ for visual mods (seats, headrests, badges etc) which may be something you're interested in. One bonus is they do provide a 1 year warranty so that should offset that extra $$ layout.

If you just looking at performance mods, I think you can get more bang for your buck working with a trusted vendor here like MPH or making a visit to AJ and of course BuilderBill. That said, you're working without any type of warranty encompassing the entire mod package(s) you get installed.

I'd spend some time talking with a local Hennessey dealer to understand how it works. As I understand it, there are some packages that the local dealer installs and others which get the treatment at Hennessey. If there isn't a local dealer -- call Hennessey direct.

YoungMedic23
07-26-2009, 03:08 PM
IMO, the only drawback on the Hennessey route is that you're paying some $$ for visual mods (seats, headrests, badges etc) which may be something you're interested in. One bonus is they do provide a 1 year warranty so that should offset that extra $$ layout.

If you just looking at performance mods, I think you can get more bang for your buck working with a trusted vendor here like MPH or making a visit to AJ and of course BuilderBill. That said, you're working without any type of warranty encompassing the entire mod package(s) you get installed.

I'd spend some time talking with a local Hennessey dealer to understand how it works. As I understand it, there are some packages that the local dealer installs and others which get the treatment at Hennessey. If there isn't a local dealer -- call Hennessey direct.


How does a 1 year warranty offset thousands of dollars???

The parts shouldn't NEED warranty in the first year IMO :rolleyes:

navyavi469
07-26-2009, 05:37 PM
You're buying a name with hennessey, unfortunately that name has been marred with a history of deals gone bad, trucks not working as advertised, and the occasional horror story from out-of-state customers.

Hennessey specifically targets and caters to a market demographic of people who have enough spare cash to not really give a ***c how much it costs, how it works, or what they're buying. They want turn-key lightening-fast trucks with zero hassle or legwork involved on their part; and of cousrse, they're willing to pay for it.

The unfortunate truth to this market segment, and to hennessey's credit, is that he's figured out that if you put an outrageous price on something, people instantly think they're buying the penultimate or ultimate in quality and performance without question. This couldn't be farther from the truth. What you're really getting is a middle-of-the road forced induction kit thats designed to meet Hennessey's bottom line, last for the duration of his 1 year warranty, and provde 80% of his customer base with a satisfactory experience. His tune will come locked from his shop, and should you chose to modify your SRTXXX package from Hennessey, your warranty is void.

Much higher quality, better driving, and extremely more powerful forced induction jeeps can be built for a fraction of the price he's charging. The tradeoff is that it requires some level of knowledge and experience on both the part of the builder(s) and the owener, along with more patience and research. If your'e not made of cash, and you actually want to understand and take an active role in the modified street machine in your garadge, then Hennessey is the last place you want to shop.

SoonToBeSRT
07-26-2009, 05:50 PM
You're buying a name with hennessey, unfortunately that name has been marred with a history of deals gone bad, trucks not working as advertised, and the occasional horror story from out-of-state customers.

Hennessey specifically targets and caters to a market demographic of people who have enough spare cash to not really give a ***c how much it costs, how it works, or what they're buying. They want turn-key lightening-fast trucks with zero hassle or legwork involved on their part; and of cousrse, they're willing to pay for it.

The unfortunate truth to this market segment, and to hennessey's credit, is that he's figured out that if you put an outrageous price on something, people instantly think they're buying the penultimate or ultimate in quality and performance without question. This couldn't be farther from the truth. What you're really getting is a middle-of-the road forced induction kit thats designed to meet Hennessey's bottom line, last for the duration of his 1 year warranty, and provde 80% of his customer base with a satisfactory experience. His tune will come locked from his shop, and should you chose to modify your SRTXXX package from Hennessey, your warranty is void.

Much higher quality, better driving, and extremely more powerful forced induction jeeps can be built for a fraction of the price he's charging. The tradeoff is that it requires some level of knowledge and experience on both the part of the builder(s) and the owener, along with more patience and research. If your'e not made of cash, and you actually want to understand and take an active role in the modified street machine in your garadge, then Hennessey is the last place you want to shop.

If I could have typed what I wanted lol, I would have said the exact same thing. Winston doesn't beat around any bushes, I guess I did. Thats right Spackler, I said it ;) All love though cuz

YoungMedic23
07-26-2009, 07:14 PM
Winston is by 1,000x the best speaker on the forums

Damn Winny can get the point across like no other

That's why he's the go to guy

SoonToBeSRT
07-26-2009, 11:26 PM
Winston is by 1,000x the best speaker on the forums

Damn Winny can get the point across like no other

That's why he's the go to guy

yes sir, Id have to add Sarge is well spoken and obviously very knowledgeable, another go to guy, as is BBill, short spoken, but his products/service speak for themselves. Id have to say this forum is overall, probably some of the best people out there. Successful, intelligent, nice guys (for the most part ;) just all in all, good people. Glad to be here each time I sign on.

pjs1965
07-27-2009, 06:54 AM
How does a 1 year warranty offset thousands of dollars???

The parts shouldn't NEED warranty in the first year IMO :rolleyes:

I used the wrong word -- replace SHOULD with COULD. That was my intention.

I priced out Hennessey packages at a local authorized dealer -- at the end of the day, they were $1000's more than what could be done with information gleaned from this forum and working with trusted vendors here.

The dealer was eager to sell me the SRT500 Package for $9900. I figured for the same price, I could have a much 'beaster' GCSRT8 if I worked through what I've learned here so far.

rwboring
07-27-2009, 10:22 AM
i know it isnt based around the jeep by my opinion is... if you want to get a limited edition something... go get a blackjack mustang... the hennessey jeeps dont really bring big money nor do they mod like they should...

I'm sure some dealers here would take that 10k and make you one hell of a jeep...

navyavi469
07-27-2009, 11:24 AM
I used the wrong word -- replace SHOULD with COULD. That was my intention.

I priced out Hennessey packages at a local authorized dealer -- at the end of the day, they were $1000's more than what could be done with information gleaned from this forum and working with trusted vendors here.

The dealer was eager to sell me the SRT500 Package for $9900. I figured for the same price, I could have a much 'beaster' GCSRT8 if I worked through what I've learned here so far.

$9900 ???!! For only 500 crank horsepower?

Sheesh, for 10 grand you can buy your very own Parmaount Transmission and Vortech Supercharger, running 11.9's till your shorts fall off.

pjs1965
07-27-2009, 11:53 AM
$9900 ???!! For only 500 crank horsepower?

Sheesh, for 10 grand you can buy your very own Parmaount Transmission and Vortech Supercharger, running 11.9's till your shorts fall off.

Exactly. There's better ways to spend your $$ :D

m4xm1l10n
07-27-2009, 12:13 PM
So how much it the HPE475 Package run for ?

Knuckles
07-27-2009, 12:30 PM
So how much it the HPE475 Package run for ?

Not sure but I would not waste my money on that package bro. You would be better off getting the parts your self since you would think they have a good mark up on them.

Jose

m4xm1l10n
07-27-2009, 03:10 PM
Not sure but I would not waste my money on that package bro. You would be better off getting the parts your self since you would think they have a good mark up on them.

Jose
I was just curious .

pjs1965
07-27-2009, 03:16 PM
So how much it the HPE475 Package run for ?

They don't list a 475 package in their price list.
It goes:

HPE500 500HP 12,500 installed
HPE530 530HP 15,900 (installed)
HPE575 575HP 24,500 (installed)[426 motor]
HPE600 600HP 19,950 (installed)[supercharged]
HPE600 620HP 29,950 (installed)[turbo]
HPE650 650HP 35,000 (installed)[SC 426]
HPE700 700HP 45,000 (installed)[Turbo 426]
HPE800 800HP 59,500 (installed)[TT 426]


Of course add the price of your GCSRT8 to get the total price. Let's say for the HPE700, you're paying 2x the price of a new GCSRT8.

YoungMedic23
07-27-2009, 03:21 PM
They don't list a 475 package in their price list.
It goes:
HPE500 500HP 10,500 (parts) 12,500 installed
HPE530 530HP 13,900 15,900
HPE575 575HP 24,500 [426 motor]
HPE600 600HP 16,500 19,950 [supercharged]
HPE600 620HP 29,950 [turbo]
HPE650 650HP 35,000 [SC 426]
HPE700 700HP 45,000 [Turbo 426]
HPE800 800HP 59,500 [TT 426]

Of course add the price of your GCSRT8 to get the total price. Let's say for the HPE700, you're paying 2x the price of a new GCSRT8.

LOL the $59k TT 426 package is the only one i have seen run faster than my best time!

Do these packaged even include upgraded transmissions??? I doubt it!

So for the $16k supercharged package where does the extra $12k come from on top of the $7k blower?

1BAMFR
07-27-2009, 04:43 PM
If Winston and Sarge are the good speakers and BB is short and sweet....

What am I? The goofball?

pjs1965
07-27-2009, 04:48 PM
LOL the $59k TT 426 package is the only one i have seen run faster than my best time!

Do these packaged even include upgraded transmissions??? I doubt it!

So for the $16k supercharged package where does the extra $12k come from on top of the $7k blower?

The HPE600 package which is $16,500 mail order -> 19,500 installed includes:

Polished Supercharger System with Aluminum Brackets, Air-to-Water Intercooler, Polished Inlet Tube w/Silicone Hose
External Blow-off Valve & High flow air filter,
Dual Stainless Steel 3" Cat-back Exhaust
Dual Polished Stainless Steel Exhaust Tips
Upgraded Fuel Injectors & Fuel System
Upgraded Engine Management System
HPE600 Exterior Badges
HPE600 Premium Floor Mats
HPE600 SUPERCHARGED red valve covers
Interior Dash Plaque w/Serial Number
All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
Chassis Dyno & Road Testing
One Year Limited Warranty


Nothing about tranny or drivetrain components in any of their packages. You're right -- I don't see much of a value here in terms of bang for your buck.

RuffRyder
07-27-2009, 05:01 PM
so really what would you consider to be a good place to get a upgrade from then? you know a twin turbo upgrade?

navyavi469
07-27-2009, 05:53 PM
I'm opening my own business and going to compete with Hennessey, lfmao... for 60,000 I could build amazing things :D

BuilderBill
07-27-2009, 07:26 PM
If Winston and Sarge are the good speakers and BB is short and sweet....

What am I? The goofball?
Nope....
Just a FUN guy we all enjoy!:)
I say that from personal experience here in Charlotte.
Got to cut it short.;)
Bill

pjs1965
07-27-2009, 07:55 PM
I'm opening my own business and going to compete with Hennessey, lfmao... for 60,000 I could build amazing things :D

You're not kidding.

YoungMedic23
07-27-2009, 10:01 PM
HPE600 Exterior Badges
HPE600 Premium Floor Mats
HPE600 SUPERCHARGED red valve covers
Interior Dash Plaque w/Serial Number
All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
Chassis Dyno & Road Testing


The MEAT of the $16k extra

grocery gtr
07-27-2009, 10:14 PM
Sell Your Jeep And Buy Winstons And You Will Be Fast Enough.....

SoonToBeSRT
07-28-2009, 01:41 PM
LOL the $59k TT 426 package is the only one i have seen run faster than my best time!

Do these packaged even include upgraded transmissions??? I doubt it!

So for the $16k supercharged package where does the extra $12k come from on top of the $7k blower?

HAHAHAHAHAHAH THIS SAYS IT ALL!!!! If anyone ever asks about Hennesey ever again, I am referring them to this thread and this comment lol. It speaks for itself!

navyavi469
07-28-2009, 01:52 PM
Yes Paulie they include Bill's full drivetrain upgrades. Of course, they're "Hennessey transmission, Hennessey transfer cases, and Hennessey axles"...

L M A O

JJJ93z
07-28-2009, 01:53 PM
http://12angrymen.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/money-toilet.jpg