Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Forced Induction intercooler vs. more boost

There really isn't a more effective way.

What do you think really?

Water injection? Its a bandaid mostly and the water takes up room in the combustion chamber that could be filled with air and fuel. Combustion temps are also down and that helps to a large degree for detonation but less temp means less power. It still doesn't really increase the density of the air charge that much either. Less power, but safer than stock.

Well I can always pull more timing...
well yes you can but that causes exhaust temps to go up which heat the compressor side more which causes you to pull more timing...etc. Vicious little circle and it LOSES power everytime you pull it. Whats the gain there? Better to run less boost and more timing for a more responsive, powerful and fuel efficient motor.


Here's the secret to power -> MAX air and FUEL!!!
That leaves you with only two options:
1.) raise the boost to force more in -> Good if you intercool it to keep charge density up and detonation down.
2.) raise the amount of air going in at the same pressure -> this basically means to open up the size of the intake passages and exhaust; raise displacement or a combination of all three.

#2 is the best way but costs the most. Much more than an $800+ intecooler system.

#1 is good if the efficiency range of the turbo is observed.

#1 and #2 is great if you observe all factors.

So how is $800 too expensive? With a turbo it can net you anywhere from 20 to 50 more HP! That is the best bang for the buck mod if you are already turbocharged. Hell, a good set of headers and exhaust on our cars MIGHT make 20-30HP or so... For about the same price if not more, + labor is more for the headers.

Ok, I've said my piece.

Tom