Powering Up: Understanding the Fundamentals
Understanding the Turbocharger and Its Components
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. For many, it’s more than just a car; it’s a symbol of performance, a testament to engineering prowess, and a pure driving machine. The Evo X arrived on the scene as a force to be reckoned with, boasting a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and a pedigree steeped in rally racing. But for those who crave even more excitement, a deeper level of performance, and a more aggressive driving experience, there’s a world of potential waiting to be unlocked. One of the most popular and effective paths to extreme power for the Evo X is through the installation of a top mount turbo kit. This article delves into the intricacies of Evo X top mount turbo kits, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding their function, benefits, considerations, and key aspects to help you decide if it’s the right upgrade for your Evo X.
At the heart of the Evo X’s performance lies its turbocharged engine. A turbocharger, in simple terms, is an air compressor driven by the engine’s exhaust gases. It forces more air into the engine’s cylinders, which in turn allows for more fuel to be burned, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. The standard turbo setup on the Evo X (and most factory-installed setups) is typically a more integrated design. A top mount turbo kit, however, changes the game.
A top mount turbo kit typically involves replacing the factory turbo setup with a completely new system. The most noticeable change is the position of the turbocharger itself. Instead of being integrated into the engine bay in a somewhat tucked-away configuration, a top mount turbo is situated, as the name suggests, higher up in the engine compartment, often near the top of the engine or easily visible from the top.
A typical top mount turbo kit comprises several key components. The turbocharger itself, which is the heart of the system, will be a larger unit than the factory turbo, capable of flowing more air. A specially designed exhaust manifold is installed to connect the turbo to the engine. This manifold directs exhaust gases to the turbine side of the turbocharger, spinning it and generating boost. The kit also includes a wastegate, which controls the amount of boost pressure produced by the turbo. The wastegate can be internal (integrated into the turbo housing) or external, offering more precise boost control. A downpipe, connected to the turbo’s exhaust outlet, channels the exhaust gases away from the turbo and towards the rest of the exhaust system.
Intercoolers and their associated piping are crucial to cooling the compressed air. Turbocharged engines compress air, and compression generates heat. The intercooler is tasked with reducing the temperature of this compressed air before it enters the engine, leading to denser air and more efficient combustion. The kit may require a larger intercooler to handle the increased airflow, along with new piping to route the air to and from the intercooler. Oil lines and fittings are used to supply the turbocharger with oil for lubrication and cooling, and coolant lines and fittings help remove heat from the turbocharger’s core. Finally, an air filter is installed to protect the turbo from debris.
Unleashing the Potential: Advantages of a Top Mount Transformation
Performance Gains and Driving Dynamics
Choosing a top mount turbo kit unlocks a wealth of advantages, significantly improving your Evo X’s performance and driving experience. The primary benefit is a substantial increase in horsepower and torque. With a larger turbocharger, improved airflow, and optimized tuning, Evo X owners can expect significant gains over the stock power output. The specific power figures depend on the size and specifications of the chosen turbocharger and the supporting modifications, but often see substantial gains. Imagine quicker acceleration, more responsive throttle response, and the sheer thrill of being pushed back in your seat.
Another key advantage is the potential for improved turbo spool-up. The spool-up time refers to the time it takes for the turbocharger to reach its maximum boost pressure. While the stock turbo provides a decent response, many top mount turbo kits, thanks to their designs, can provide a quicker spool. This means you’ll experience more immediate power delivery, making the car feel more dynamic and responsive in a wider range of driving conditions.
Maintenance and Customization
Beyond raw power, a top mount setup can simplify maintenance to an extent. With the turbocharger more accessible in the engine bay, maintenance tasks, such as inspection, replacement of parts, or troubleshooting, are generally simpler and less time-consuming compared to the more integrated factory setup.
Finally, the world of top mount turbo kits opens doors to customization. The aftermarket offers a wide array of turbocharger options, manifolds, and supporting components. This allows you to fine-tune the system to meet your specific power goals, driving style, and even aesthetic preferences.
Critical Steps: Before You Take the Plunge
Engine Modifications and Supporting Upgrades
Before committing to a top mount turbo kit, careful consideration and planning are absolutely necessary to make the process safe and ensure maximum results. The most important considerations are often overlooked, and can affect the project’s success.
Firstly, the factory engine components are typically not designed to handle the increased power generated by a top mount turbo kit. Supporting modifications will likely be required. The most crucial upgrades often include upgraded fuel injectors and a high-flow fuel pump. These components ensure that the engine receives enough fuel to match the increased airflow provided by the turbocharger, preventing a lean condition, which can damage the engine.
In addition, serious power goals will require upgrading the internal components of the engine. This might involve strengthening the connecting rods, pistons, and valves. Engine internals must be robust enough to withstand the increased cylinder pressures caused by higher boost levels.
Transmission, Tuning, and Installation
If you’re running a manual transmission, it’s often advisable to upgrade the clutch. The stock clutch might struggle to handle the increased torque, leading to slippage and premature wear. Consider a high-performance clutch that can handle the added power. In certain cases, particularly for very high power builds, transmission upgrades may be necessary.
No matter how well you’ve installed the components, an Evo X will not realize the full potential of its top mount turbo kit without precise ECU tuning. Tuning optimizes the engine’s fuel delivery, ignition timing, and boost control to maximize power and reliability. This is an absolutely critical step. Without it, you risk severe engine damage. A standalone ECU or a piggyback tuning system, combined with professional tuning from a reputable tuner, is usually necessary. This allows for precise control over the engine’s parameters, tailored to the specific turbo kit and any other modifications. Never underestimate the importance of tuning.
Finally, installation should be done with professional help. Although experienced DIY enthusiasts can successfully install a top mount turbo kit, the complexity of these systems and the critical nature of the supporting modifications and tuning warrant professional installation. An experienced mechanic will have the knowledge, tools, and expertise to ensure a proper installation, minimizing the risk of errors and maximizing the performance potential.
The Landscape: Selecting the Right Kit
Kit Selection and Brand Options
The aftermarket offers a range of top mount turbo kit options for the Evo X. Understanding the available options and choosing a kit that aligns with your goals is crucial.
Different brands offer a wide range of kits, each with unique features and power potential. Some of the more well-known brands in the Evo X top mount turbo kit space include ETS (Extreme Turbo Systems), AMS Performance, Forced Performance, and MAPerformance. Each brand has its own signature features and design philosophies.
Consider kits designed for street driving which strike a balance between power and drivability. Kits designed for track use may have a more aggressive power delivery, better suited for competitive driving.
Turbocharger Sizing and Powerband Characteristics
Selecting the right turbocharger size is critical. Different turbocharger sizes cater to different power goals and driving styles. Larger turbos typically offer greater top-end power but may sacrifice some low-end response. Smaller turbos generally provide better spool-up and a more responsive feel but may have a limited top-end potential. Consider the powerband characteristics. A larger turbo may have a later powerband, where the power comes on higher in the rev range, while a smaller turbo may provide more power throughout the rev range, and be easier to drive on the street.
The Installation: A General Overview
Preparation and Component Installation
While a complete installation guide is beyond the scope of this article, a basic overview of the process is helpful. The first step is vehicle preparation. It is important to gather all the required tools and parts, ensuring you have everything you need before starting. Draining fluids, disconnecting the battery, and safely preparing the engine bay are critical for a safe installation.
The next step is removing the existing factory components. This involves carefully removing the factory turbocharger, exhaust manifold, downpipe, and intercooler components. Labeling components and taking detailed photos during disassembly can greatly help during reassembly.
The installation of the top mount turbo kit itself involves several key steps, including installing the new exhaust manifold and mounting the turbocharger. Connecting the wastegate and downpipe, along with running the new oil and coolant lines, is next. The installation of the intercooler and piping is usually another significant task.
The final steps are making the electrical connections, and carefully reassembling other engine bay components that were removed.
Maintaining the Beast: Care and Upkeep
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Once your top mount turbo kit is installed, regular maintenance is crucial for its longevity and optimal performance. Regular oil changes are especially important. Use high-quality oil specifically designed for turbocharged engines and stick to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals.
Regularly check the system for leaks. Inspect oil and coolant lines for any signs of leakage. Boost leaks can rob your engine of power and create driveability problems. Inspect all connections and hoses for signs of wear and tear. Maintaining the cooling system is very important for the turbo. Ensure the cooling system is functioning properly, with fresh coolant and a working water pump.
Clean or replace the air filter regularly. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing performance.
The Investment: Budgeting and Cost Considerations
Cost Analysis and Budgeting Strategies
Installing a top mount turbo kit is an investment. You need to carefully consider the overall cost. The main cost is the turbo kit itself. Depending on the brand, turbo size, and included components, the kit price will vary. The supporting modifications will also add to the final cost. Tuning is also a significant expense. Installation costs, if you choose to have the kit installed by a professional, will also need to be factored in.
Set a budget before you start and stick to it. Research the costs of each component and service to plan ahead. Consider a staged approach where you can upgrade incrementally, spreading out the cost over time.
Final Thoughts
An Evo X top mount turbo kit is a serious performance upgrade that can transform your car into a true powerhouse. It’s an exciting path to dramatically enhance power and driving dynamics. But before you dive in, be sure to thoroughly research the options, understand the necessary supporting modifications, and make an informed decision.
Remember that the key to a successful top mount turbo kit installation is careful planning, professional installation, and precise tuning. The results of a well-executed project can be absolutely exhilarating. If you’re ready to elevate your driving experience, it’s a journey well worth undertaking.
For further information, consult with experienced tuners, mechanics, and other Evo X enthusiasts. The more you learn, the better prepared you’ll be to unleash the beast within your Evo X.
