Introduction

For BRZ enthusiasts seeking a substantial power increase, a supercharger installation is one of the most effective upgrades you can perform. By forcing more air into the engine, a supercharger can transform your car’s naturally aspirated character, delivering usable torque across the rev range and a thrilling top-end pull. However, this is not a simple bolt-on affair. A successful installation demands mechanical skill, patience, and attention to detail. This expanded guide walks you through every phase, from understanding supercharger selection to final tuning, drawing on proven techniques from experienced installers.

Before you begin, assess your own capabilities honestly. While many steps are straightforward, tasks like pulling the intake manifold and aligning the supercharger bracket require precision. If you are not comfortable with engine-bay disassembly or torque wrenches, consider having a professional shop handle the physical installation—at minimum for the supercharger mounting and initial start-up. Done right, the reward is a BRZ that responds more eagerly, accelerates harder, and still offers the balanced chassis you love.

Understanding Supercharger Basics

A supercharger is an air compressor driven directly by the engine’s crankshaft via a belt. Unlike a turbocharger, which spools using exhaust gases, a supercharger provides immediate boost with minimal lag. For the BRZ’s FA20 engine, there are two common supercharger types:

  • Centrifugal superchargers – These use an impeller spinning at high speed to compress air. They deliver a linear, top-end-focused power curve. Kits from manufacturers like Jackson Racing or Vortech are popular choices.
  • Positive-displacement (twin-screw or roots) superchargers – These trap and compress air between rotating lobes or screws. They provide instant boost from idle and a flatter torque curve. Edelbrock’s E-Force kit uses a twin-screw design.

Each type has trade-offs in installation complexity, tuning requirements, and driving feel. For this guide, we assume a typical centrifugal kit that includes an intercooler (air-to-air or water-to-air) and relies on a belt drive. No matter which kit you choose, ensure it includes a properly sized injector upgrade and a fuel pump booster if needed. Most manufacturers include a base tune for the ECU (via an Accessport or similar device), but a custom dyno tune is strongly recommended for reliability and peak output.

Tools and Materials Needed

Having the right tools on hand prevents frustration and delays. Beyond a basic socket set, you will need specialty items. Gather these before you start:

Essential Tools

  • Complete socket set (metric, 6-point preferred) from 8 mm to 19 mm
  • Torque wrench capable of 10–80 ft-lb (and a 1/4″ drive for smaller fasteners)
  • Ratchet with extensions (3″, 6″, and a universal joint)
  • Screwdrivers: flathead and Phillips (magnetic tips help)
  • Combination wrenches: 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 17 mm
  • Pliers (needle-nose and standard)
  • Vacuum hose and assorted clamps (the kit may supply these, but extras are useful)
  • Coolant (OEM Subaru blue or your preferred compatible brand)
  • Supercharger oil (provided with kit; do not substitute)
  • Safety goggles and mechanic’s gloves

Optional but Helpful

  • Battery terminal puller
  • Pickle fork or separator tool for stubborn hose connections
  • Shop vacuum (to clean debris from engine bay)
  • Digital multimeter (for verifying electrical connections)
  • Thread locker (blue Loctite for bracket bolts)
  • Antiseize compound (for exhaust or manifold studs)

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation reduces the chance of mistakes and makes the installation safer and faster.

  1. Secure the vehicle – Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and consider using wheel chocks. If you plan to work under the car (e.g., for intercooler routing), use jack stands rated for the BRZ’s curb weight.
  2. Disconnect the battery – Always disconnect the negative terminal first. This prevents accidental shorts when working near the starter, alternator, or sensors.
  3. Remove engine covers and access panels – Take off the plastic engine cover, air intake tube, and the air filter box. Remove any strut tower brace if it obstructs the supercharger’s path.
  4. Drain coolant if required – Many kits require removing the coolant crossover pipe or water pump pulleys. If the instructions call for coolant removal, drain the system into a clean container for reuse (or replace with fresh coolant).
  5. Label and photograph – Take pictures of the factory belt routing and any wiring connections. Use masking tape to label hoses, vacuum lines, and electrical connectors. This saves hours during reassembly.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Below is a generalized sequence for a centrifugal supercharger kit on a Subaru BRZ (2013–2020). Always defer to your specific kit’s manual for torque values, belt tension, and unique steps.

Step 1: Remove the Intake Manifold

Begin by loosening the intake manifold bolts in a cross-pattern. The manifold is held by eight to ten bolts on the runners. Disconnect the throttle body harness, the idle air control valve, and any vacuum lines attached to the manifold. Carefully lift the manifold away—the gaskets may stick. Set the manifold aside on a clean surface. Cover the intake ports with clean shop towels to prevent debris from falling into the engine.

Step 2: Install the Supercharger Bracket

Most kits include a cast aluminum bracket that replaces the factory alternator mount or attaches to the front of the engine. Clean the mounting surfaces thoroughly. Apply a drop of blue Loctite to the bracket bolts and torque to the manufacturer’s specification (typically 30–40 ft-lb). If the kit uses a separate idler pulley bracket for the belt, install that now. Inspect all bolts for proper length—using bolts that are too long can damage engine castings.

Step 3: Mount the Supercharger

Lift the supercharger unit into position on the bracket. It may be heavy; have a helper or use a transmission jack to ease alignment. Install the mounting bolts lightly by hand, then tighten in stages using a crisscross pattern. Torque to the specified value (often 35–45 ft-lb). Rotate the supercharger pulley by hand to ensure it turns freely without interference. If it binds, check for brackets misaligned or bolts too tight.

Step 4: Install the Intercooler and Piping

For air-to-air intercooler kits, the charge pipe runs from the supercharger outlet to the intercooler (typically mounted in front of the radiator), and then to the throttle body. Route the piping carefully, avoiding contact with sharp edges or moving parts. Use silicone couplers and T-bolt clamps. For water-to-air kits, install the heat exchanger and the coolant pump per the instructions. Fill the intercooler system with a 50/50 water-ethylene glycol mix and bleed air from the lines.

Step 5: Connect the Intake, Exhaust, and Vacuum Lines

Attach the intake pipe (with the MAF sensor) to the supercharger inlet. Ensure the air filter is securely clamped and positioned away from heat sources. Connect the supercharger outlet to the intercooler inlet. Then, connect the supercharger’s blow-off valve (if equipped) and any boost reference lines. Use small zip ties to secure vacuum lines from heat and vibration. Do not overtighten plastic hose barb fittings.

Step 6: Reinstall the Intake Manifold

Before reinstalling the intake manifold, inspect the gaskets—replace them if they are damaged or compressed unevenly. Lower the manifold into place, ensuring the throttle body clears the new supercharger piping. Tighten the bolts in the factory sequence and torque pattern (typically 15–18 ft-lb). Reconnect the throttle body harness, idle air control, and any vacuum lines that were removed.

Step 7: Add Coolant and Oil

If you drained the engine coolant, refill the system with the recommended coolant type. Fill the supercharger oil reservoir with the specific oil provided. Most centrifugal superchargers have a separate oil supply; do not simply pour engine oil in. Check the kit manual for the correct fill level (often a sight glass or dipstick). Spin the supercharger pulley by hand a few revolutions to distribute oil inside.

Step 8: Reinstall Belts and Refit Accessories

Install the new drive belt that came with the kit. Follow the belt routing diagram carefully—the supercharger pulley replaces a factory pulley or idler. Tension the belt using the adjustable idler or the supercharger bracket. A belt tension gauge is recommended; many kits specify 90–110 lb of tension for a new belt. Reinstall any removed components: engine covers, strut brace, and air box (if not replaced by kit). Double-check that no tools or rags are left in the engine bay.

Step 9: Reconnect the Battery and Perform Leak Check

Reconnect the battery positive terminal, then the negative. Before starting, perform a visual inspection of all hose clamps, fittings, and bolts. Use a soap-and-water spray to test for compressor outlet and intercooler pipe leaks at idle. Turn the ignition to the ON position (without starting) to prime the fuel system and let the electric coolant pump (if equipped) run.

Step 10: Start the Engine and Initial Checks

Start the engine and let it idle. Listen for unusual whining (normal for superchargers) vs. scraping or knocking (indicates contact). Check for coolant leaks at the thermostat housing and water pump, and for oil leaks from the supercharger supply. Monitor the boost gauge (if installed) or use a scan tool to verify that MAP sensor readings match atmospheric at idle. Let the engine reach operating temperature, then shut it off. Recheck coolant and oil levels.

Post-Installation Tips

Installation is only half the story. Optimizing and maintaining your forced-induction BRZ requires careful follow-up.

  • Professional tuning – The base tune provided with the kit is a safe baseline, but a custom tune on a dyno maximizes power and ensures a safe air-fuel ratio. Find a tuner experienced with the BRZ platform and with the specific ECU calibration tool (e.g., EcuTek or Cobb Accessport).
  • Monitor boost levels – Install a quality boost gauge or use data logging. Keep boost within the kit’s recommended range (typically 7–9 psi for stock internals). Exceeding this can cause engine damage.
  • Regular oil changes – Superchargers place additional heat and load on the engine oil. Change engine oil more frequently (every 3,000–4,000 miles) and use a high-quality synthetic that meets Subaru specs.
  • Supercharger oil level – Check the supercharger oil level every oil change. Low oil can cause premature bearing wear.
  • Belt inspection – Check belt condition and tension every 5,000 miles. A loose belt can slip and reduce boost, while an overtightened belt can damage bearings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced mechanics can stumble on these pitfalls:

  • Ignoring torque specs – Over-tightening bracket bolts can crack the supercharger housing or strip threads on the engine. Use a torque wrench for every critical fastener.
  • Skipping the cooling system – A supercharger generates extra heat. If your kit includes a secondary coolant loop (water-to-air intercooler), bleed the system thoroughly. Air pockets cause uneven cooling and potential overheating.
  • Rushing the initial start – Always prime the oil system by cranking the engine with the fuel pump relay disabled for a few seconds, or by pressing the gas pedal to the floor (clear flood mode) if the ECU supports it. This avoids dry starts.
  • Not refreshing coolant and oil – Using old coolant or neglecting to change the engine oil before installation can lead to contamination. A full fluid service is cheap insurance.

Conclusion

Installing a supercharger on your BRZ is a rewarding project that breathes new life into the car. By following these detailed steps, using the correct tools, and respecting the tuning required, you can achieve a reliable, powerful setup that enhances every drive. Remember that the key to longevity lies in careful installation, calibrated boost levels, and disciplined maintenance. For further reading, consult dedicated forums like FT86 Club where BRZ and FR-S owners share real-world installation experiences and dyno charts. And if you are sourcing a kit, compare options from reputable suppliers such as Edelbrock or Jackson Racing. With patience and precision, your BRZ will reward you with the power it always deserved.