CHARGER PARTS
In 1964 the first concept of Dodge’s American muscle car the charger was born. This concept model based off a Dodge Polara was shown at car shows across America. With a 426 Hemi engine you can imagine the popularity and anticipation this car was creating. However, this car wasn’t produced until 1966 and was released on New Years day. The 1966 model came stock with 318 V-8. Also other engine options were a 2bbl 361 and a 4bbl 383. As for the transmission the charger had a few different options. The stock transmission was a 3-speed manual on the floor. However, a 4-speed manual and a Torqueflite automatic were also available. With great features and charger parts like a fold down back seat that created a 7-foot cargo area and an available towing package the dodge charger really made a statement in the beginning of 1966. Also other features and charger parts included concealed headlamps and turn signals, backup lights, center console, lighting package, front and rear bucket seats, security panel (to cover the trunk contents), lap belts for four people, self-adjusting brakes, front sway bar, internal hood release handle, tachometer, oil pressure gauge, and tinted rear window. Options included air conditioning, remote controlled rear-view mirrors, electric windows, trunk light, and other common items.
It didn’t take long for the 1967 to replace the 1966 and the 1967 didn’t change much from the 1966. In 1967 the dodge charger lost 55 pounds and looked basically the same with all the same features. One big difference is that a two barrel 383 replaced the 361 from the 1966 charger. Also, the new 440 Magnum and hemi engines became available making the new chargers very dominant in the race scene of the late 60’s. New features and charger parts included front sway bar and internal hood release handle. With little change in the first two years of this American legend it was time for some big changes in 1968.
The new charger rolled of the line in 1968 and in the hearts of America in no time. Nicknamed with the “coke bottle” look this new line of cars were ready for some big changes. The charger line expanded in 1968 with the introduction of the R/T or road and track model, which was equipped with a 440 Magnum, heavy-duty suspension and brakes, and the bulletproof Torqueflite 3 speed automatic with a 4-speed manual optional. With little changes to the stock options and charger parts for the base model in 1968 sales went very good in comparison with the previous two years.
With better sales in 1968 it was charger’s turn to make a statement in the world of American muscle. They built the charger 500 and the famous charger Daytona in 1969. The charger Daytona was made famous quickly because of the huge spoiler it offered as a way to increase aerodynamics on the racetrack to try and compete with the ford dominated track of the 60’s.Trying not to ruin a good thing little was changed from the 68 body and options in 1969. The most noticeable change was a chrome plate that spilt the grill for a classier look.
As for the early 70’s the dodge charger made little changes in motors and transmission and instead started to make the body a little longer like most muscle cars of the early 70’s. A new little something they offered was the charger SE a luxury package and had leather and vinyl front bucket seats, a simulated walnut steering wheel, pedal dress-up, lighting group, deep-dish wheel covers, simulated walnut instrument panel, and vinyl map pockets. Making a charger one of the most wanted cars of the early 70’s. After 1970 it was time for something really special in 1971. The first Super Bee was made and charger’s first race and show only car was born. It was equipped with a 440 magnum, ram charger hood, and offered a 426 hemi as an option. Now the dodge charger with all of new innovations and charger parts unique to it charger was ready to be an American classic that everyone could love.