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The E-body Mopar cars, particularly the Plymouth Barracuda and Dodge Challenger, have long been celebrated in the world of drag racing. Known for their lightweight design and powerful engines, these vehicles have the potential to achieve impressive performance figures. In this article, we will explore how to boost the performance of E-body Mopar vehicles to over 1,000 horsepower using a twin turbo setup.
Understanding the E-body Mopar Platform
The E-body platform was produced by Chrysler from 1970 to 1974. These cars were designed for speed and agility, making them ideal candidates for drag racing. With their unibody construction and various engine options, E-bodies can be modified to handle high horsepower levels effectively.
Key Components for a Twin Turbo Setup
To achieve over 1,000 horsepower in your E-body Mopar, a well-planned twin turbo setup is essential. Here are the key components you will need:
- Turbochargers: Selecting the right size and type of turbochargers is crucial for achieving the desired power levels.
- Engine Build: A strong engine build with forged internals can handle the increased boost pressure.
- Fuel System: Upgrading the fuel system to support high horsepower is necessary to ensure proper fuel delivery.
- Cooling System: An efficient intercooler and cooling system will help maintain optimal temperatures during operation.
- Exhaust System: A high-flow exhaust system will reduce back pressure and improve turbo efficiency.
Engine Building Considerations
When building an engine for a twin turbo setup, several factors must be considered to ensure reliability and performance:
- Forged Pistons: Opt for forged pistons that can withstand high temperatures and pressures.
- Steel Connecting Rods: Use high-strength steel connecting rods to handle the increased stress from turbocharging.
- Cylinder Head Work: Porting and polishing the cylinder heads can improve airflow and performance.
- Camshaft Selection: A camshaft designed for forced induction will maximize performance.
- Compression Ratio: Maintain a lower compression ratio to accommodate boost levels.
Turbocharger Selection
Choosing the right turbochargers is critical for achieving your horsepower goals. Here are some tips for selecting turbochargers:
- Size: Larger turbos can produce more power, but they may have a higher lag. Balance is key.
- Type: Consider twin-scroll or single-scroll turbos based on your build and performance goals.
- Brand: Choose reputable brands known for reliability and performance.
Fuel System Upgrades
A robust fuel system is essential for high horsepower builds. Here are the necessary upgrades:
- Fuel Pumps: Upgrade to high-flow fuel pumps to meet the increased demand.
- Injectors: Install larger fuel injectors to ensure adequate fuel delivery.
- Fuel Lines: Use larger diameter fuel lines to reduce restrictions.
Cooling System Enhancements
Keeping your engine cool is crucial when running high horsepower. Consider the following upgrades:
- Intercooler: A large front-mount intercooler will help reduce intake temperatures.
- Radiator: Upgrade to a high-performance radiator for better cooling efficiency.
- Cooling Fans: Install electric fans for improved airflow and cooling.
Exhaust System Modifications
A high-flow exhaust system is vital for turbocharged applications. Here are some considerations:
- Headers: Use turbo headers designed for optimal flow and fitment.
- Downpipe: A larger downpipe will reduce back pressure and improve turbo response.
- Muffler: Consider a straight-through muffler for minimal restriction.
Tuning for Performance
After completing your twin turbo setup, proper tuning is essential to maximize performance and reliability:
- ECU Tuning: Use a standalone or reprogrammable ECU to optimize fuel maps and ignition timing.
- Dyno Testing: Conduct dyno testing to fine-tune your setup for peak performance.
- Monitoring: Install gauges to monitor boost, air-fuel ratio, and temperatures during operation.
Conclusion
Boosting the performance of an E-body Mopar to over 1,000 horsepower with a twin turbo setup is an exciting challenge. With the right components and careful planning, you can create a formidable drag racing machine that stands out on the track. Remember to focus on quality parts and proper tuning to ensure your vehicle performs at its best.