For an enthusiast, a vehicle fresh off its manufacturer won’t simply make the cut. Their eyes are automatically drawn to the car parts that can be tweaked and improved, no matter how much an engine is advertised as top-notch or high-performance. Whether to gain more power, improve fuel efficiency, or feel a more satisfying rumble, auto enthusiasts always find a purpose for engine modifications.
If you want to unleash the full potential of your car, old or new, here are the best engine modifications to consider:
1. To Improve Horsepower
If you want to increase your car‘s combustion, it needs more fuel space. Installing a supercharger to your engine is the key. It spins at a rate of 50,000 RPM, which is faster than the engine itself. It works by pressurizing the air intake to go above the atmospheric level and as a result, more air would go to the engine, producing greater power once it’s combined with fuel. Overall, your vehicle would gain about 50% more horsepower.
Another way to add horsepower is to upgrade the exhaust system. Don’t confuse this with clamp-on oversize tailpipes; to experience a genuine increase in horsepower and performance, you need a high-quality exhaust system upgrade for your Ford Mustang or any other vehicle. You’d notice an exhaust upgrade from the performance mufflers installed, a common indication that a car has been modified.
2. To Improve Airflow
Improving airflow also means increasing air and fuel efficiency. By installing aftermarket air filters, your engine will be able to repel air contaminants and impurities that badly affect its performance over time. Air filters are also washable and reusable, so consider it a low-maintenance engine modification.
3. To Improve Engine Efficiency
The temperature in the internal combustion engine plays a huge role in engine efficiency. When the engine is warm, cold air gets delivered to regulate its temperature. Since cold air is denser than warm air, it contains more oxygen that’s necessary to make the engine’s combustion more dynamic, and thus more efficient. Cold air intake kits help provide more cold air.
However, if your engine is naturally aspirated or if your fuel is electronically injected, cold air intake kits aren’t recommended. Your horsepower won’t increase and you may risk a potential hydrolock.
4. To Modernize Late Models
If you own a vintage car, chances are it doesn’t possess any computerized controls and indicators. You can install performance chips to modernize your late model automobile.
5. To Reduce Force in the Engine
If your car consists of heavy parts — throughout the engine and the interiors — the engine takes in more force, keeping it from being more aerodynamic. Weight reduction would be recommended if you want your car to be more lightweight and faster. This may involve removing extra seats, replacing glass windows with acrylic or plastic, and switching out the rest of the heavy parts with lighter ones. With less weight, the excessive force would be removed from the engine, enabling you to drive your car faster.
If you’re considering any of these engine modifications, be sure to do your research first and opt for high-quality parts and services. Know your dos and dont’s, and on top of everything else, be a safe and competent driver. A beast of a car would mean nothing if the person behind the wheel doesn’t know what he or she is doing.