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When it comes to enhancing the performance of street cars, the FlexFuel Kit from FuelTech has garnered attention for its potential to optimize fuel usage and increase horsepower. In this article, we will explore the real-world results of testing the FlexFuel Kit on a 400hp street car, diving into the specifics of installation, performance gains, and overall driving experience.
Understanding FlexFuel Technology
FlexFuel technology allows vehicles to run on a blend of gasoline and ethanol, which can have significant benefits for performance and efficiency. Ethanol has a higher octane rating than gasoline, allowing for more aggressive tuning and potentially higher horsepower outputs.
What is the FlexFuel Kit?
The FlexFuel Kit from FuelTech is designed to enable vehicles to easily switch between different fuel types. By using a flex fuel sensor, the kit can automatically adjust the engine’s fuel maps based on the ethanol content of the fuel being used.
Installation Process
Installing the FlexFuel Kit involves several steps, which include connecting the sensor, wiring, and configuring the FuelTech ECU. Below are the key steps involved in the installation process:
- Disconnect the battery to ensure safety during installation.
- Mount the flex fuel sensor in the fuel line.
- Connect the wiring harness to the sensor and ECU.
- Configure the ECU settings to recognize the flex fuel sensor.
- Reconnect the battery and perform a test run.
Performance Testing
After installation, the next step is to evaluate the performance gains. The testing was conducted on a 400hp street car, and several metrics were analyzed, including horsepower, torque, and throttle response.
Baseline Performance
Before installing the FlexFuel Kit, the car was tested on a dynamometer to establish baseline performance metrics. The results showed:
- Horsepower: 400hp
- Torque: 350 lb-ft
- Throttle response: Standard
Performance After Installation
After the installation of the FlexFuel Kit and running on E85 fuel, the car was retested on the dynamometer. The results were impressive:
- Horsepower: 450hp
- Torque: 380 lb-ft
- Throttle response: Significantly improved
Driving Experience
The driving experience with the FlexFuel Kit installed was noticeably different. The car felt more responsive, and the increased horsepower made acceleration much more exhilarating. Here are some notable observations:
- Smoother acceleration throughout the power band.
- Improved fuel efficiency when running on E85 compared to traditional gasoline.
- Enhanced engine sound and performance feedback.
Considerations and Recommendations
While the FlexFuel Kit offers many benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Availability of E85 fuel in your area.
- Potential need for additional tuning to maximize performance.
- Understanding the impact of ethanol on engine components over time.
Conclusion
Testing the FlexFuel Kit from FuelTech on a 400hp street car has demonstrated significant performance gains and an enhanced driving experience. With proper installation and tuning, this kit can be a valuable addition for those looking to optimize their vehicle’s performance while enjoying the benefits of flex fuel technology.