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The Subaru BRZ is a popular choice among car enthusiasts for its lightweight design and agile handling. However, to unlock its full potential, tuning modifications are essential. One of the most effective upgrades is the installation of an air to water intercooler, which can lead to significant horsepower gains. This article will delve into the process of tuning an air to water intercooler on a Subaru BRZ to achieve an impressive 120 horsepower increase.
Understanding Intercoolers
Intercoolers play a crucial role in forced induction systems by cooling the air entering the engine. Cooler air is denser, allowing for more oxygen and ultimately more power. There are two main types of intercoolers: air to air and air to water. While air to air intercoolers are common, air to water intercoolers offer superior cooling efficiency, especially in high-performance applications.
Benefits of Air to Water Intercoolers
- Improved cooling efficiency
- Consistent performance under various conditions
- Compact design for easier installation
- Better control of intake air temperatures
Preparation for Installation
Before diving into the installation of an air to water intercooler, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and components. Here’s a checklist of what you will need:
- Air to water intercooler kit
- Water reservoir
- Water pump
- Hoses and clamps
- Basic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, etc.)
- Performance tuning software
Installation Steps
Removing the Stock Intercooler
The first step in the installation process is to remove the stock intercooler. This involves:
- Disconnecting the battery
- Removing the intake piping
- Unbolting the stock intercooler from its mounting points
- Carefully lifting the intercooler out of the engine bay
Installing the Air to Water Intercooler
With the stock intercooler removed, you can now install the air to water intercooler. Follow these steps:
- Position the new intercooler in the engine bay and secure it with the provided mounting hardware.
- Connect the intake piping to the intercooler, ensuring a tight fit.
- Install the water reservoir in a suitable location, ensuring it is easily accessible for refilling.
- Connect the water pump to the reservoir and intercooler, ensuring all hoses are secured with clamps.
Wiring and Final Checks
After the physical installation, you must wire the water pump to the vehicle’s electrical system. Ensure all connections are secure and that the pump operates correctly. Once everything is in place, perform a final check:
- Check for any leaks in the coolant system.
- Ensure all hoses and clamps are tight.
- Double-check the intake piping connections.
Tuning the Engine
With the intercooler installed, the next step is to tune the engine for optimal performance. This is crucial to achieve the desired 120 horsepower gain. Follow these guidelines:
- Use performance tuning software compatible with the Subaru BRZ.
- Adjust fuel maps to accommodate the cooler intake temperatures.
- Optimize ignition timing for maximum efficiency.
- Monitor air-fuel ratios to ensure proper combustion.
Testing and Validation
After tuning the engine, it’s essential to conduct testing to validate the performance gains. This can be done through:
- Dyno testing to measure horsepower and torque outputs.
- Road testing to evaluate throttle response and overall drivability.
- Monitoring engine temperatures to ensure the intercooler is functioning correctly.
Conclusion
Tuning an air to water intercooler on a Subaru BRZ can yield significant horsepower gains, enhancing the overall driving experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, car enthusiasts can achieve peak performance and enjoy the benefits of improved cooling efficiency. With proper installation and tuning, your Subaru BRZ can reach new heights in performance, making it a thrilling ride on both the street and the track.