Two catalytic converters. The Charger R/T with the 5.7-liter Hemi typically uses one catalytic converter on each bank of the V8, for a total of two.
Overview of the Charger RT exhaust system
The Dodge Charger R/T is equipped with a V8 powertrain and a dual-exhaust layout that channels exhaust from both banks of the engine. The standard factory setup places one catalytic converter on each side of the exhaust system, matching the V8’s left and right banks. This arrangement helps meet emissions standards while preserving performance characteristics.
Where the catalytic converters sit
In a typical Charger RT with the 5.7L Hemi, you will find two primary catalytic converters mounted along the exhaust path, usually located under the vehicle near the center or slightly toward each side. Each converter is paired with sensors to monitor exhaust composition as it leaves the engine and after treatment.
Key facts about the standard catalytic converter arrangement in the Charger RT include:
- Two catalytic converters, one on each exhaust bank (left and right) of the V8 engine.
- Each converter is monitored by upstream and downstream oxygen sensors to manage emissions and fuel economy.
- Factory configurations for the Charger RT (with 5.7L Hemi) commonly follow this two-cat layout across model years, though aftermarket or non-U.S. specifications can differ.
Concluding takeaway: The stock Charger RT normally has two catalytic converters, with their placement corresponding to the engine’s two banks and supported by a sensor setup that continuously monitors exhaust flow and emissions.
Variations by engine and year
While the two-cat arrangement is standard, certain model years, emission specifications, or aftermarket exhaust systems can alter the count or arrangement. For reference:
- 5.7L Hemi R/T: typically two catalytic converters (one per bank).
- 392 Hemi (e.g., higher-performance variants) may also use a two-cat setup, though some emissions configurations differ by market or model year.
- Aftermarket exhaust modifications or alternative emissions packages can change the number or placement of catalytic converters.
In practice, most Dodge Charger RTs built for U.S. street use in recent decades maintain two catalytic converters as the standard configuration.
Summary
For the Dodge Charger R/T, the typical factory setup includes two catalytic converters—one on each bank of the V8 engine. This two-cat arrangement is standard across common model years and is complemented by oxygen sensors that monitor performance and emissions. Always verify your specific VIN and model year if you’re inspecting or replacing exhaust components, as there can be exceptions in certain markets or special editions.