I was considering installing the Turbo with a friend.He knows about Turbos but not sure if i will run into problems if we decide to preform this task on our own.Its a good way to save $1500 just on install,but at the same time if something goes wrong then ill probably pay the price(Double that is)
Random did you do the install it yourself?

 

Alpine did the install. I foolishly figured that they would be the best people to install their own turbo. (BIG MISTAKE!)

As long as you can afford for your car to be down for a week or two (in case you need to wait for parts)...you should be able to do it yourself with little problem.

I can provide you with a "what's changed" photos off my engine.

 

I installed the Alpine kit with the help of a good and experienced mechanic. It is no big deal if it is a kit. Pay special attention to lubrication, cooling and possible leaks (loss of pressure in the pipes). If it is not a kit you will need a lot more patience and expertise. The tunning you need to pay a LOT of attention. The real trick of it all comes down to the air fuel tunning. If you have a A/F meter, an ECU (or similar) with tunning access you can tune it yourself. Be careful if your mix goes lean, stop adjust and try again until you are operating at the right mix throughout the operating range. Right mix? around 12.5 to 1 or a bit higher is where the power is. A lean condition can REALLY hurt your engine!!


UPS! One more thing, make sure your wastegate is working properly so you do not go wild on your boost and convert your car into a car bomb. You know what I mean!!

[ December 04, 2001: Message edited by: Mario ]

 

Best thing for tuning, ALWAYS dump more fuel than you think it will ever need. If you are running too rich, the worst you can do is burn your catalyst and/or your O2 sensors. If you're running too lean, the worst you can do is replace the entire engine...

I think I'd rather replace a catalyst and perhaps an O2 sensor rather than rebuild a block

Once you know it's ALWAYS pig-rich under any circumstances, then start backing the fuel out until you start to see the A/FR meter back off that very last green light. Whenever your foot is 100% on the floor, the last green A/FR light should be lit for safety's sake.

-Red-

 

Guys thanks for your help.
After the install i will defently take it to the Dyno and tune it.
Mario,
I currently have an EGT,A/F,Boost Gauge,Oil Gauge and S-AFC so the tunning will defently take place at the Dyno shop.
My current plan is to install the whole kit plus the 440cc RC injectors i have.This will be easy to install.Now i also have external parts like a BOV,Turbo Timer,Boost Controller.
Since the turbo has a waste gate can i install my manuel bost controller.
I also have to get custom fittings made for the BOV?
How much should this cost!!!!

Thanks again Guys smile.gif smile.gif

 

I forgot to mention that i also have the MSD ignition installed