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The quest for more power in turbocharged engines is a journey many automotive enthusiasts embark on. One of the most effective ways to achieve significant power gains is through the use of alternative fuels. In this article, I will share my experience with a $900 GPI E85 kit that added 40 horsepower to my turbocharged engine.
Understanding E85 and Its Benefits
E85 is a fuel blend that consists of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. This unique composition offers several advantages for turbocharged engines:
- Higher octane rating: E85 typically has an octane rating of around 100-105, allowing for more aggressive tuning.
- Cooling properties: Ethanol has a higher heat of vaporization, which helps cool the intake charge and reduces the risk of knock.
- Cost-effectiveness: E85 is often cheaper than premium gasoline, making it an economical choice for performance enthusiasts.
The GPI E85 Kit Overview
The GPI E85 kit is designed to work seamlessly with turbocharged engines, providing all the necessary components for a smooth transition to E85 fuel. The kit includes:
- Fuel injectors: High-flow injectors that can handle the increased fuel demand of E85.
- Fuel pump: An upgraded fuel pump to ensure adequate fuel delivery.
- Flex fuel sensor: A sensor that allows the engine management system to adjust fuel maps based on ethanol content.
Installation Process
Installing the GPI E85 kit is straightforward, especially for those with some mechanical experience. Here’s a brief overview of the installation process:
- Remove the old fuel injectors: Disconnect the fuel rail and replace the stock injectors with the high-flow ones from the kit.
- Install the new fuel pump: Replace the factory fuel pump with the upgraded unit to support the increased flow requirements.
- Set up the flex fuel sensor: Install the sensor in the fuel line to monitor the ethanol content.
- Tune the engine: Reflash the ECU with a custom tune optimized for E85 to take full advantage of the new setup.
Power Gains and Performance Improvements
After completing the installation and tuning, I was eager to see the results. The dyno numbers were impressive, showing a gain of 40 horsepower over the previous setup running on pump gas. The overall performance improvements included:
- Increased throttle response: The engine felt more responsive, with quicker acceleration.
- Improved torque delivery: The torque curve became flatter, providing a more usable power band.
- Enhanced cooling: The intake temperatures were lower, reducing the chances of knock during hard acceleration.
Real-World Driving Experience
Driving the car post-installation was a revelation. The added horsepower translated into a more exhilarating driving experience. Whether on the street or the track, the car felt more alive, and the power delivery was smoother than ever. I noticed significant improvements in:
- Acceleration: The car launched harder and pulled stronger through the gears.
- Responsiveness: The engine reacted more quickly to throttle inputs, making it a joy to drive.
- Fuel economy: While E85 can consume more fuel, the cost savings at the pump balanced out the consumption increase.
Considerations and Conclusion
While the GPI E85 kit provided significant power gains, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Availability of E85: Ensure that E85 is readily available in your area before making the switch.
- Tuning requirements: A proper tune is essential to maximize the benefits of E85 and ensure engine safety.
- Potential for increased wear: Ethanol can be harsher on certain components, so regular maintenance is crucial.
In conclusion, the $900 GPI E85 kit was a worthwhile investment that significantly enhanced my turbocharged engine’s performance. With the added horsepower, improved throttle response, and overall driving enjoyment, I can confidently recommend this upgrade to fellow enthusiasts looking to unlock more power from their setups.