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I have done some research into the idea of converting from carbs to fuel injection on other cars that I have owned. It is a daunting task for several reasons.
Here's my list of options:
1. K, CIS, MPC, AFC, D, L, & LH Bosch systems from the junk bin would probably cost under $1000 to install, but may be very difficult to tune to a different engine than they were intended to be used with. A performance cam may not cooperate with these mild to lo end performance type FI systems. The mechanical operated K and CIS might be a bit easier, but with less gain due to that flow inhibiting flapper fuel regulator system. MPC and D need a special distributor and they just don't sound like the most accurate systems. L and AFC usually have an analog electronics control system ( ie: you might be able to adjust it), but still has a flapper type air measuring system. LH has no flapper, but reprogramming the digital control unit is way beyond the scope of all but the most advanced enthusiasts. I guess you could start over with a homebrew ECU.
You would have to fabricate an intake manifold and maybe a fuel rail depending on the system, somehow install the high pressure fuel pump and fuel lines, throttle mechanism, and then squeeze the rest of the widgets under the hood. And then you have to modify ECU inputs and innards, fuel pressure, and maybe change injectors to get it to run right. 10 years later you've got your extra 5 HP and good cold and hot starting that your carb lacked...
2. Aftermarket programmable throttle body type system. It'll probably be in the $2k-$3k when your done and you are left with a somewhat inefficient throttle body system when you are done. Great for monster V8s which can afford to loose a few HP here and there, but not good on a 4 cyl where every HP counts. It would probably be the easiest to install and set up if you can find an aftermarket intake manifold.
3. Aftermarket programmable port FI systems. These are expensive, but highly versatile. They usually allow you to even program the ignition system for truly high end performance. They look pretty easy to program. $2k is the starting point and $3k-4k is probably about the ultimate cost. Still need to fab an intake manifold and perhaps a timing reference. Not easy or cheap, but it seems like the best option to me.
The question is, is the car worth more when you go to sell it? Will anyone want to buy this half rigged up mass of electronics and widgets? Right about now I'd say that a carb sounds pretty enticing doesn't it??!!
Like I said, this is only research, I haven't done any of this stuff yet so I could well be wrong on some of these points.
posted by 12.30.3...
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