Any 90s fans of the Tim Allen sitcom Home Improvement know it’s all about more power, especially when talking about cars. Still, before installing a 5.7 TBI power package on your ’92 Chevy small block, consider the upgrades that really make a powerful difference. Too many home mechanics spend money on installs and upgrades that make little difference in engine performance. Therefore, before you invest your hard-earned money into upgrades, discover the equipment that will give you the power boost you’re after.
1. Upgrade the Exhaust
To increase your vehicle’s power, you need to ensure air flows quickly and efficiently through the engine. A critical component of air movement is the exhaust. If the exhaust is too small or tight, it is difficult for your engine to take in enough air to improve performance.
A cat-back exhaust upgrade is what you will need to accommodate the other upgrades on this list. The system includes everything after the catalytic converter — resonator, exhaust piping, and muffler. It also includes larger diameter parts to allow for increased air intake.
2. Install a Cold-Air Intake
Besides upgrading the exhaust, you will want to install a new air intake system. Upgrading to a cold-air intake can have dramatic and immediate effects on the horsepower of your vehicle. With a more capable air intake, you’ll receive increased airflow, which signals the car’s computer to inject more fuel, resulting in more power.
The system takes in colder air from outside the engine compartment. The air is more oxygen-rich and denser, allowing for an additional power boost.
3. Clean the Fuel System
Before considering a 292H comp cam shaft, you may think about cleaning the fuel system. Over the years and after so many miles, your vehicle’s engine may accumulate deposits throughout the fuel system. Too much debris and filth can decrease performance and hinder efficiency. You can purchase performance improvers to add to the gas tank that helps clean out the system.
4. Install a Boost Controller
Supercharged or turbocharged engines off the factory floor allow for a preset amount of boost, set according to psi measurements. A boost controller will enable you to adjust the level of boost you get out of your engine; however, it is wise to install a boost gauge and limit your adjustments to no more than 15% or 20% over factory settings.
Increasing boost levels too much can damage your engine, resulting in costly repairs. Before tweaking your system, you might consider talking to a professional mechanic for guidance.
5. Use a Performance Tuner
Some may call them performance chips, but performance tuners are a tool that plugs into your vehicle’s diagnostic port. It modifies timing and fuel maps to improve performance. The primary drawback of using a tuner is it will adversely affect fuel economy.
Improving your vehicle’s power might be as simple as installing a JEGs LS intake, but it all depends on your expectations and budget. Talk to an automotive professional for more advice about increasing vehicle power.
