Unlock the Full Potential of Your Nissan 370Z

The Nissan 370Z has long been a cornerstone of accessible rear‑wheel‑drive performance. Its naturally aspirated 3.7‑liter VQ37VHR V6 delivers a satisfying 332 horsepower and 270 lb‑ft of torque, but many owners quickly crave more. A supercharger kit is one of the most effective ways to add substantial power, and the RIPP Supercharger Kit at 7 psi of boost has earned a reputation for delivering reliable, street‑friendly gains. This guide details everything you need to know about upgrading your 370Z with this kit — from performance expectations to installation essentials and long‑term considerations.

How Supercharging Works on the VQ37VHR

Supercharging is a form of forced induction that mechanically compresses air before it enters the engine. Unlike a turbocharger, which relies on exhaust gases, a supercharger is belt‑driven off the crankshaft. This means there is no lag — boost is available immediately as engine speed rises. For the 370Z’s VQ37VHR — an engine already praised for its high‑revving nature — adding a supercharger allows it to breathe far beyond its factory limitations.

At 7 psi (roughly 0.48 bar) of boost, the engine receives a denser air charge. Combined with additional fuel, this produces a much more powerful combustion event. The RIPP kit is specifically engineered for the VQ37’s intake and exhaust geometry, ensuring the air/fuel mixture remains consistent across the rev range. With proper tuning, the result is not just peak power gains but an entirely transformed driving experience.

Why 7 PSI is the Sweet Spot

Boost pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). While higher boost levels (10–12 psi) can yield more power, they also place greater stress on the engine’s internals. The 7 psi level is considered a “safe” medium boost that works with the stock engine block, pistons, and connecting rods — provided the vehicle is kept in good mechanical condition. It offers a substantial performance increase without requiring forged internals or extensive fuel system upgrades. For most daily‑driven 370Zs, this is the ideal entry point into forced induction.

Benefits of the 7 PSI RIPP Supercharger Kit

The RIPP kit is not just about bolting on a blower; it’s a comprehensive system designed for reliability and performance. Here are the key advantages:

  • Significant Horsepower Gains: Owners typically see an increase of 100–120 wheel horsepower on a properly tuned setup. That pushes the 370Z from the low‑300s to well over 400 horsepower at the wheels.
  • Improved Torque Curve: Torque becomes available much earlier and holds longer. Instead of waiting for the high‑rev range, the car pulls hard from 2,500 rpm onward, making everyday driving far more responsive.
  • Belt‑Driven Linearity: Because the supercharger runs off the engine’s rotation, there is no spool time. Throttle response remains crisp, and power delivery feels as natural as a larger naturally aspirated engine.
  • Enhanced Engine Efficiency: The kit includes an integrated heat exchanger and a high‑flow intake system that keeps intake air temperatures lower than many other centrifrugal kits. Cooler air means less risk of detonation and timing pull.
  • Reliability Through Design: RIPP uses a twin‑screw style supercharger known for its durability and consistent boost. The brackets, pulleys, and tensioners are CNC‑machined to exact tolerances, reducing the chance of belt slip or premature wear.

Installation Overview

Installing the RIPP Supercharger Kit is a weekend‑friendly project for a mechanically inclined owner, but it does require patience and attention to detail. Below is a step‑by‑step look at the process. Always refer to the manufacturer’s included manual for torque specs and specific fastener requirements.

Preparation and Required Tools

Before starting, gather a full socket set (metric), a torque wrench, screwdrivers, pliers, a coolant drain pan, and a jack with jack stands. The kit itself comes with the supercharger unit, intake tubing, an intercooler heat exchanger, a belt, hoses, clamps, brackets, and an ECU tune file or programmer. It is strongly recommended to perform an oil change and replace spark plugs before installation if they are due for service.

Removal of Factory Components

Begin by disconnecting the battery and draining the engine coolant. Remove the factory intake air duct, air filter housing, and the stock throttle body tube. The front bumper cover must be removed to allow access to the lower grille area where the heat exchanger mounts. Also unbolt the factory alternator and power steering pump brackets; the kit will replace these with supercharger‑specific brackets.

Mounting the Supercharger

The supercharger mounts in place of the factory intake manifold. A new manifold adapter plate is provided in the kit. Carefully position the supercharger onto the adapter, torque the mounting bolts to the specified value, and then attach the belt tensioner. Route the new drive belt around the supercharger pulley, alternator, and crankshaft. Tension the belt according to the supplied instructions; an overly tight belt can damage the supercharger bearings.

Cooling System and Hoses

Install the heat exchanger in the front bumper opening. Connect the supplied hoses from the heat exchanger to the supercharger’s internal cooling passages. Use the provided clamps and ensure no kinks exist in the hose routing. Refill the cooling system with fresh coolant after completing all hose connections.

Intake and Air Filter

Attach the high‑flow intake tube to the supercharger inlet, and position the cone filter in an area protected from hot engine air. The kit typically includes a heat shield to separate the filter from the radiator fans. Secure all mounting points.

Reassembly and ECU Tuning

Reinstall the front bumper cover, reconnect the battery, and double‑check all fasteners and hose connections. The final and most critical step is uploading the provided tune file to the vehicle’s ECU. This tune adjusts fuel maps, ignition timing, and throttle tables for the 7 psi boost level. Without a proper tune, the engine will run dangerously lean and may be damaged. The RIPP kit includes a handheld programmer or a file for use with popular tuning platforms like EcuTek or UpRev.

Initial Start‑Up and Testing

Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes while checking for coolant or oil leaks. Monitor coolant temperature and intake air temperature via a scan tool. Let the engine reach operating temperature, then drive gently for about 10 miles. Gradually increase throttle load to verify smooth boost delivery. Listen for any unusual noises such as belt squeal or supercharger whine (some whine is normal and even desired by many owners). If everything checks out, the car is ready for more spirited driving.

Performance Expectations and Dyno Results

Every vehicle and tuning setup yields slightly different numbers, but real‑world results from owners show consistent gains. A bone‑stock 370Z typically puts down around 280–290 wheel horsepower on a Dynojet dyno. After installing the RIPP 7 psi kit and a proper tune, that number jumps to 390–410 wheel horsepower. Torque increases from roughly 250 lb‑ft to 340–360 lb‑ft at the wheels.

These gains translate to a significantly quicker car in both straight‑line and rolling acceleration. Quarter‑mile times drop from the mid‑13‑second range to the mid‑12‑second range with a good launch and traction. The improved low‑end torque also makes the car much more enjoyable on canyon roads, as you can exit corners with authority without needing to rev the engine to 7,000 rpm.

Dyno Chart Interpretation

Looking at a typical dyno plot, you’ll see the power curve rise steeply from 3,000 rpm and maintain a broad plateau until redline. The torque curve is flat and fat, often peaking around 4,500–5,000 rpm and staying within 20 lb‑ft of that peak all the way to 7,000 rpm. This wide powerband is one of the key benefits of a twin‑screw supercharger over a centrifugal type, which tends to build boost only near the top of the rev range.

Supporting Modifications for Optimal Performance

While the RIPP kit works well on an otherwise stock 370Z, certain supporting upgrades maximize reliability and power output. Consider these modifications before or alongside the supercharger installation.

  • Exhaust System: A high‑flow cat‑back exhaust reduces backpressure, allowing the engine to exhale more freely. Gains of 10–15 horsepower are common when paired with forced induction. Look for a system with 2.5‑ to 3‑inch piping.
  • Fuel System Upgrades: The stock fuel pump and injectors are adequate for 7 psi on most vehicles, but if you plan to push higher boost later, upgrading to a higher‑flow fuel pump and 550cc or larger injectors is wise.
  • Oil Cooler: Forced induction increases engine temperatures, especially during sustained hard driving. An aftermarket oil cooler with a thermostat helps keep oil temperatures in the safe zone (below 250°F).
  • High‑Octane Fuel: The kit is typically tuned for 91 octane pump gas (or 93 where available). Using fuel with a higher octane rating (such as 100 octane race gas or ethanol blends) allows for more aggressive timing and can yield additional power.
  • Clutch Upgrade: On manual transmission models, the stock clutch may begin to slip once torque exceeds 350 lb‑ft. A stage 2 or stage 3 clutch kit will handle the increased power without chatter issues.

Pros and Cons of the RIPP 7 PSI Kit

As with any modification, there are trade‑offs. Weigh these before committing to the purchase.

Pros

  • Plug‑and‑play design with no permanent modifications required; the kit can be returned to stock if desired.
  • Immediate, linear power delivery — no lag, no surprises.
  • Solid reliability record when installed correctly and tuned properly.
  • Comprehensive kit includes all necessary hardware and a base tune.
  • Customer support from RIPP is known to be responsive and knowledgeable.

Cons

  • Higher initial cost compared to some centrifugal kits (but the quality justifies the price).
  • Installation is labor‑intensive; expect to spend 8–12 hours if working alone.
  • Supercharger whine is audible — some love it, others find it intrusive. It can be mitigated with sound deadening.
  • The additional power may reveal weaknesses in other driveline components, such as axles or differential mounts.
  • Emissions: In some jurisdictions, a supercharger may cause the vehicle to fail a visual inspection. Check local laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to upgrade the radiator or intercooler?

The RIPP kit includes a front‑mount heat exchanger that acts as an air‑to‑water intercooler. For street use and occasional track days, this is sufficient. If you plan to compete in endurance events or live in a hot climate, an upgraded heat exchanger or a larger auxiliary radiator can help.

Will the kit fit a manual transmission or an automatic?

Yes, the same kit fits both the 6‑speed manual and 7‑speed automatic 370Z models. The tuning parameters are different between the two, but the hardware is identical.

What kind of maintenance does the supercharger require?

Minimal. The supercharger has sealed bearings that require no lubrication. Keep the belt properly tensioned and inspect the air filter regularly. Change the engine oil at shorter intervals (every 3,000–5,000 miles) because forced induction tends to contaminate oil faster.

Can I run more than 7 PSI later?

Yes, but you will need to upgrade the supercharger pulley, add larger fuel injectors, and install a more capable tune. At boost levels above 10 psi, internal engine upgrades (forged pistons, rods) become strongly recommended to prevent failure.

Final Considerations

Adding a 7 psi RIPP Supercharger Kit to your Nissan 370Z is one of the most rewarding performance upgrades you can make. The increase in horsepower and torque is transformative, yet the kit is designed to work with the car’s existing architecture without sacrificing daily drivability. As with any forced induction project, careful installation and a quality tune are non‑negotiable. If you take the time to do it right, your 370Z will deliver a driving experience that rivals much more expensive sports cars.

For further reading on forced induction principles and specific VQ37 tuning strategies, check out the technical resources available from RIPP Superchargers and the dedicated 370Z forum at The370Z.com. For an in‑depth look at the VQ37VHR engine architecture, this Wikipedia overview provides a solid background. With the right parts and preparation, your 370Z will be ready to take on any road.