How To Prepare Your Car For Turbocharging in 5 Key Steps

Looking for a boost? Here’s how to do it right. 

In this episode of Engineering Explained, Jason Fenske is accompanied by Charles from Humble Mechanic to talk about the 5 key steps to prepare your car for turbocharging. Charles has a 1998 Volkswagen GTI with the popular VR6 engine and is currently in the process of turbocharging it. While there are many components needed to make the change from natural aspiration to boost, he and Jason go over 5 critical steps to get you in the right direction.
 

ALSO SEE: Chris Harris Tests the Ferrari GTC4 Lusso

 
1. Turbocharger –  It would be pretty difficult to get a turbocharging project going without the most critical part. They can be purchased by themselves or together with a full turbo kit. There are many different types of turbochargers so it’s best to do your research to see which one fits your particular setup.

2. Fuel Components – When going from NA (Naturally Aspirated) to turbo, at the very minimum, you’re going to want to upgrade some fuel components. Start with switching to larger fuel injectors. With more air being forced into the cylinders, more fuel will be required to run properly. Another recommendation would be to upgrade to a higher volume fuel pump.

3. Engine Management/Monitoring – Any time you make a significant modification to your engine such as turbocharging, having proper engine management is vital to running the appropriate air/fuel ratios.

4. Cooling – Turbocharging generates a lot of heat and adding an intercooler will help cool the air entering the engine. Getting an oil cooler and a larger radiator is also recommended.

5. Other Bits & Bobs – Along with the top 4 components, there are a few other things you should consider when upgrading to a turbo kit. With an increase in power and torque, getting better brakes and tires will help enhance driving performance. Appropriate heat range rated spark plugs and a heavier duty clutch are also suggested items to look into.

So there it is folks! Now that you have the basics down, it’s time to boost your car! Thinking about turbocharging your car? Let us know your plans on the forum!

[Source: Motor Authority]

Matt Eugenio

Longtime auto journalist, editor and photographer Matt Eugenio has contributed news stories, features, reviews, photography and more  to the popular automotive websites Both Hand Drive, DriveTribe, Motor1, and other popular media.

Matt is currently a featured writer for Internet Brands Auto Group's Corvette Forum, Honda-Tech, 6SpeedOnline, and Rennlist, among other auto sites.