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Checking an engine prior to going FI
Thread Starter
Former Vendor
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 8,995
Likes: 2
From: Spring Texas
St. Jude Donor '08
Checking an engine prior to going FI
Other than a standard compression test, is there any way to check out an older engine to see how strong it it for taking boost? My 97 130K LS1 hasn't displayed any problems since I've had it, but I'd like to have a little more confidence in my engine. before i go and throw a supercharger at it.
Tech Contributor
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 10,924
Likes: 78
From: Forney Texas
Another test to run is leakdown. This will pressurize the cylinder with the valves closed and measure leakage as a %. Even if the leakdown test shows a good cylinder seal, the weak link in the engine is the ring lands. That won't show itself until it's too late. Do the leakdown and then try enjoying low boost on a conservative tune. ~550rwhp is a reasonable goal where you won't suffer from reliability concerns so much. Tuning is the key. I would rather more boost on a conservative tune than less boost on an aggressive one.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 6,080
Likes: 0
From: Houston TX
Leak down test. Compression test. Reality test is the biggest one.
Be real with what you want to achieve then up the goal to the next level. if you still think the motor and other supporting parts are still within that goal, go for it.
Quote (Brett): "I would rather more boost on a conservative tune than less boost on an aggressive one."
True story!!!
Be real with what you want to achieve then up the goal to the next level. if you still think the motor and other supporting parts are still within that goal, go for it.
Quote (Brett): "I would rather more boost on a conservative tune than less boost on an aggressive one."
True story!!!
Thread Starter
Former Vendor
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 8,995
Likes: 2
From: Spring Texas
St. Jude Donor '08
Another test to run is leakdown. This will pressurize the cylinder with the valves closed and measure leakage as a %. Even if the leakdown test shows a good cylinder seal, the weak link in the engine is the ring lands. That won't show itself until it's too late. Do the leakdown and then try enjoying low boost on a conservative tune. ~550rwhp is a reasonable goal where you won't suffer from reliability concerns so much. Tuning is the key. I would rather more boost on a conservative tune than less boost on an aggressive one.
Aside from price, is there any downside to FI?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 892
Likes: 1
From: Pittsburgh PA
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