Swap School

LESSON 4: Exhausting the Mystery—Manifolds, Headers, and Hemi Sounds

In this lesson of Swap School, Blake Anderman breaks down the third tier of the Gen 3 Hemi swap: the exhaust system. Whether you are building a budget-friendly cruiser, a show-quality masterpiece, or an all-out performance machine, your exhaust strategy starts from the engine and works its way back. Blake clarifies the technical differences between cast manifolds and fabricated headers, helping you choose the right path based on your goals for performance, aesthetics, and cost. What you’ll learn in this episode: * The Gold Standard of Budget Swaps: Why the 2005–2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee manifolds are the "holy grail" for tight-fitting, economic builds. * Headers vs. Manifolds: A deep dive into the performance gains of long-tube headers versus the durability and simplicity of cast iron. * Managing Emissions and Sound: How to navigate state-specific catalytic converter laws and use resonators and mufflers to eliminate "rasp" and "drone". * Real-World Case Studies: Blake walks through the exhaust setups for two 6.4L Hemi-swapped Dodge Dakotas—one built for daily drivability and one built to "party" on the street. ---------------------------------------- Sponsored by: Sublime Technologies—Gen 3 Hemi swap components built by people who actually do the swaps. Connect with us: Have questions about your build? Email Blake at blake@sublimeparts.com [blake@sublimeparts.com].

Lesson 3: Engine & Transmission Selection

In this episode of Swap School, Blake Andermann breaks down Tier 1 of the Hemi swap process—choosing the right engine and transmission—and explains why this decision sets the foundation for your entire build. We explore the two main swap categories: modern vehicles (2000+) and vintage platforms, and how each approach dramatically changes your strategy. From CAN bus communication, module integration, and ECM compatibility in modern swaps to the simpler, fitment-focused mindset of classic builds, this episode gives you a clear roadmap for making the right call. Blake also dives into real-world examples, common pitfalls, and the importance of avoiding emotionally driven decisions—like jumping on a “good deal” or chasing big horsepower—without considering long-term cost, complexity, and compatibility.

LESSON 2: Hemi Swap 101 - The 6-Tier System

Thinking about doing a Gen 3 Hemi swap but not sure where to start? In this episode of Swap School, Blake Andermann breaks down the process into a simple 6-tier system designed to eliminate confusion and help builders stay focused. Instead of getting overwhelmed by endless decisions, Blake explains how every Hemi swap can be organized into six core systems: Engine & Transmission Selection, Mounting & Oiling, Exhaust, Fuel System, Electrical & Tuning, and Accessories & Driveline. This high-level overview introduces the blueprint that professional builders use to plan successful swaps and avoid common pitfalls that stall projects. If you’ve ever wondered “Where do I even start?”, this episode will give you the roadmap. Class is in session.

LESSON 1: Meet The Teacher

Episode 1: Meet the Teacher In the debut episode of Swap School, host Blake Anderman strips away the intimidation factor of Gen 3 Hemi swaps. This isn't just a technical manual in audio form; it’s a masterclass rooted in a lifelong obsession with Mopar and a mission to end "information gatekeeping" in the automotive community. THE BACKSTORY Blake shares his deeply personal journey, from finding solace in model car kits as a young patient at St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital to grinding through eight years of mechanical engineering at LSU. Despite being told the automotive trade was for "grease monkeys" of lesser intelligence, Blake leaned into his grit—working everything from government labs to bartending—to earn his stripes. FROM APARTMENT FLOOR TO INDUSTRY LEADER The Hemi journey began in a one-bedroom apartment, where Blake spent his nights decoding Chrysler engineering diagrams. What started as a personal quest to build a modern-powered Plymouth Barracuda evolved into DIY Hemi, a grassroots movement to share swap knowledge. When the U.S. Patent Office threw a wrench in the works (declining the "Hemi" name), Sublime Technologies was born—a brand synonymous with excellence, bold "Sublime Green" energy, and legitimate, trademarked engineering. ---------------------------------------- WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SWAP SCHOOL Blake outlines a curriculum designed for everyone from "grease monkeys" to absolute novices: * Step-by-Step Lessons: Breaking down wiring, tuning, and accessories without the headaches. * Industry Experts: Interviews with Mopar leaders and product innovators. * The "Newbie" Seat: Bringing beginners onto the show to help them navigate their first swap from start to finish. * No Gatekeeping: A commitment to transparency, sharing the secrets that others keep hidden. > "Class is in session. No fluff, just the truth, and an education you won't get anywhere else." ---------------------------------------- UP NEXT... Lesson 2: HemiSwap 101 Get ready to break the project down into its bare-bones essentials. Blake will cover the individual "columns" of a swap, organizing the chaos into a concise, manageable roadmap.