Supporting Modifications You Should Factor Into Your Budget Before Installing A Big Turbo Kit

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Full turbo kits that utilize large-diameter turbochargers are the ultimate modification when it comes to making huge horsepower gains. However, turbochargers also put a lot of extra stress on your engine's internal components as they force pressurized air into the cylinders.

Additionally, as with every horsepower modification, increased engine torque output means increased stress on your transmission and other drivetrain components. Before you jump the gun and buy a big turbo kit for your ride, you should factor in all of the supporting modifications that will be necessary to keep your car running smoothly and reliably.

Also, keep in mind that modifying and installing internal engine components requires advanced mechanical expertise and a slew of specialized tools. To make sure everything bolts together properly, you'll want to have your turbocharged engine built by a reputable auto service shop.

Upgraded Pistons and Rings

You should first turn your attention to your pistons. They're responsible for compressing air and fuel in your engine while creating an airtight seal in the chamber. Once you start ramming pressurized air into the cylinder with a big turbocharger, your pistons are going to be the first component subjected to increased stress.

At the very least, you'll likely want to swap out your stock piston rings for a new aftermarket set that is designed to withstand increased pressure and heat. That will help ensure your pistons are able to maintain compression reliably.

To take it one step further, you'll want to consider upgraded pistons as well. A set of forged pistons are much stronger than stock ceramic units, meaning they'll be less prone to cracking under increased loads. Also consider switching to a set of low-compression pistons so that you can take full advantage of the big boost output offered by your large-diameter turbocharger without over-pressurizing the cylinder chambers.

Other Engine Internal Upgrades

Depending on your engine, you'll also want to consider upgrading your rods and crank bearings to forged units that are much stronger than your stock components. Nothing is worse than getting your new turbo kit all set up only to snap a rod in half and have it punch a hole in your engine block. That will require you to put in an entirely new engine and start from square one. Finally, consider upgrading the crankshaft itself to a forged unit to avoid warping and cracking under the increased loads created by your new turbocharger.

Transmission Upgrades

All of that power is useless if you can't transfer it to the wheels. That's what your transmission is responsible for. However, your stock transmission is designed to work with your engine's stock torque output. Massively increasing your torque numbers with a turbo can easily lead to a slipping clutch or torque converter, stripped transmission gears, and blown gaskets.

To avoid these issues, have your transmission inspected by a reputable transmission shop. They'll be able to inspect and recondition your transmission components to ensure they are running in tip-top condition. You can also go all out and have your transmission totally rebuilt with forged gears or straight-tooth racing gears. That will let you make huge power gains without worrying about gear stripping and grinding.

18 July 2019