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Roll racing has gained popularity among car enthusiasts, particularly those who want to maximize their vehicle’s performance. One of the most significant upgrades that can be made to achieve substantial power gains is the installation of an E85 fuel system. In this article, I will share my experience of how a $2,500 E85 fuel system increased my Mustang’s horsepower by 150.
Understanding E85 Fuel
E85 is a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. This high ethanol content allows for more aggressive tuning compared to traditional gasoline. Ethanol has a higher octane rating, which means it can withstand higher compression ratios and boost levels. This results in more power and efficiency for performance vehicles.
Why Upgrade to an E85 Fuel System?
Upgrading to an E85 fuel system can significantly enhance your vehicle’s performance. Here are some reasons why I decided to make this investment:
- Increased Power: The primary reason for the upgrade was to gain horsepower. E85 allows for more aggressive tuning, leading to substantial power gains.
- Better Cooling: Ethanol has a cooling effect, which can help prevent engine knock and allow for more aggressive timing adjustments.
- Cost-Effective: E85 is generally cheaper than premium gasoline, making it a cost-effective option for high-performance builds.
Installation of the E85 Fuel System
The installation of the E85 fuel system in my Mustang was a detailed process that required careful planning and execution. Here are the key steps involved:
- Fuel Pump Upgrade: The existing fuel pump was replaced with a high-flow pump capable of delivering the necessary fuel volume for E85.
- Fuel Injectors: Larger fuel injectors were installed to accommodate the increased fuel flow required for E85.
- Fuel Lines: Upgraded fuel lines were necessary to handle the corrosive nature of ethanol.
- Tuning: A professional tune was required to optimize the engine’s performance with the new fuel system.
Results After Installation
After completing the installation and tuning process, I was eager to see the results. The dyno numbers were impressive, showing a gain of 150 horsepower over the previous setup. This was a game-changer for my Mustang, enhancing not only its performance but also the overall driving experience.
Before and After Dyno Results
To give you a clearer picture of the power gains, here are the dyno results before and after the E85 fuel system installation:
- Before E85 Upgrade: 400 horsepower
- After E85 Upgrade: 550 horsepower
Driving Experience Improvements
The increase in horsepower transformed my driving experience. The Mustang felt more responsive, with quicker acceleration and improved throttle response. Additionally, the engine’s sound was more aggressive, adding to the overall enjoyment of driving.
Considerations Before Upgrading
While upgrading to an E85 fuel system can provide significant benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Availability: E85 is not available everywhere, so check local fuel availability before making the switch.
- Corrosion: Ethanol can be corrosive to certain materials, so ensure that your fuel system components are compatible.
- Tuning Requirements: A proper tune is essential to maximize the benefits of E85 and avoid potential engine issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading to a $2,500 E85 fuel system was one of the best decisions I made for my Mustang. The 150 horsepower gain significantly enhanced my vehicle’s performance, making it a more enjoyable and thrilling ride. If you are considering a similar upgrade, weigh the benefits against the considerations, and you may find that E85 is the perfect fuel for your high-performance build.