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If you have to ask Posted by Ari [Email]  (#2847) [Profile/Gallery]
(more from Ari) on Wed, 23 Jun 2004 08:25:55
In Reply to: to Turbo or not to Turbo, Dave, Tue, 22 Jun 2004 13:37:39 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
My stock answer is that if you have to ask, you shouldn't do it. If you were swapping the engine out, that would be one thing. You'd need to swap the engine, plumbing, ECU, wiring harness, etc.
Since you want to keep the same engine, therein lies the rub. The compresssion ratio is lower on a turbo engine, so that it doesn't detonate when boost comes on. So you have the choice of changing over pistons and head of the turbo onto your '86 engine, or run at a higher compression. Some folks have been able to carry this off, but again, that takes a lot of turboing experience. And even then, it's risky. If you have to ask....
It's more than just a turbo. The fuel system has to be changed to deal with increased fuel flow. The turbo as a lot of plumbing - the intercooler, for example. The ECU is different. You need to move over the APC system.
In my opinion, it comes down to two things- if you want a turbo car with the expected factory performance, driveability, and reliablity, get a car that left the factory with the turbo.
If you're looking for a learning experience, and aren't worried about the end result as much as the project, then go for it. No better way to learn. Just don't assume you'll do it cheaper than buying a decent turbo, or end up with as good a product. Folks that do this successfully usually have had lots of experience doing it.
posted by 192.249....
, Wed, 23 Jun 2004 08:25:55 <-- Viewing This Message
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