|
Performance Modification |
What
This Modification Does for Performance |
Effective
Results
Note:
Manufacturer Claims of performance gains on aftermarket
performance products almost always are over-rated and
results are not typical. |
|
Air
Filter,
Intake Modifications |
In most cases aftermarket
air filters and air intakes increase air flow
to the engine by reducing restrictions. |
By reducing restrictions on
air flow, this can increase performance by increasing
horsepower. Gains are typically small but
sometimes noticeable. Using a colder spark plug
(colder heat range) could help engine performance if the
air intake modification is used with other
modifications. |
|
Less Restrictive Exhaust Pipes,
Aftermarket high flow Catalytic Converters,
Highflow Performance Mufflers, Cat-back systems, Headers |
Typically improves the volumetric
efficiency of the engine and allows the engine to
"breath" better. |
Typically these types of
improvements will improve horsepower and performance
through less restriction on air flow. Key
points to remember is that the efficiency of air flow is
as good as the most restrictive point in the system.
A complete performance upgrade of all exhaust components
over stock will yield the most gains. Be very
aware of sensors, which must be re-installed or
replaced. Bolt-on cat-back systems typically bolt
on after the catalytic converter(s) and after the
exhaust system's "Y" in the V type engine
configurations. Everything before the "Y" commonly
are the restrictive points, though aftermarket cat-back
systems (mufflers and surrounding pipes after the
catalytic converter) commonly do reduce restrictions
enough to gain some horsepower. Commonly they also
give the feeling of improved performance and horsepower
through LOUDER exhaust. Another net effect of this
is lowered gas mileage, due to a "heavier foot" because
the increased exhaust noise is so cool. |
Performance Chips,
Chip Tuners,
Re-Programmers |
Modifies fuel mixture, ignition timing,
shift points |
These types of modifications
can optimize your engine and transmission for a
specific outcome, i.e. better performance, better
fuel economy, better towing performance, etc. This
is best understood when you consider that OEM tuning is
commonly the best compromise between performance and
fuel economy. Many people say these upgrades are
the best bang for the buck, especially those that are
easily selectable for the desired result. Overall
they can increase horsepower and
performance noticeably. Chips and program
modifications for better horsepower performance can increase
temperatures in the combustion chamber and exhaust.
Using a lower temperature thermostat and cooler spark
plugs could allow better gains in HP tuned performance. |
Cams, Valves,
Timing adjustments,
Duration adjustments |
Improves airflow and the volumetric
efficiency of the engine and allows an increased volume
of air/fuel
mixture to enter the combustion chamber. Also improves
the flow of exhaust gases exiting the combustion
chamber. |
Increased horsepower performance.
Bottom line in this area is to do your research before
making modifications. With so many options, tuning
is not a simple task. Know what you want out of
the engine. |
|
Ignition System Upgrades,
Plugs, wires, Cap, Rotor, Coil, HEI |
Can result in an improved flow
of current resulting in a stronger spark and more
complete burn of fuel. |
Results depend of what
components are replace and what they were upgraded from.
Upgrading from older, worn components will benefit the
most, even if they are replaced with stock components.
Improving to components that are better than stock will
make gains with a crisper spark and more thorough combustion. |
Onboard
Air
Home-built
Serious Skid-Plate protection for the Oil Pan for under 20
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