KKK Turbo Kits: Issues When Installing Any Turbocharger
Taking a car from naturally aspirated to turbocharged is not always easy. Maybe you fancy this KKK turbo on eBay. Maybe you already have a stock turbocharged car, looking for a better turbo. Big power is around the corner, right?
I won’t say that it is not possible, quite the opposite, you just have know exactly what to do and especially how to do it.
How Turbochargers Work
The first thing to know is the function of a turbo. Basically, it sends a larger load of air into the cylinders, thus increasing the amount of gasoline that can be injected into the combustion chamber.
The consequence is a sharp increase of combustion chamber’s internal temperature. On the one hand the air is compressed while its temperature increases and on the other, more burning gasoline produces more heat.
Planning For Changes
So the first issue you encounter is whether your piston will withstand this temperature (which I highly doubt). Many of the stock turbocharged gasoline engines spray a stream of oil around the bottom of the piston to assist in the cooling.
Then you will have a problem of self-burning gasoline with a high compression ratio (about 11:1). Either you use a gasoline with 110 octane or you will need to reduce this ratio below 9:1 by increasing the thickness of the head gasket, for example.
You can’t ignore the heat issue for too long. Otherwise, your beautiful K04 turbine will blow up at 2 bar with the rods planted in the ground, right from the start. You will also need to work the management of injection, since the current settings won’t be compatible with a turbo.
Another thing you should plan to change: the camshafts. The phasing and time of initiation of the stock engine might not be compatible with a turbo.
Only once you have evaluated all these points can you look at the practical stuff: how to install a turbo on your block. The installation can be rather complicated, since you will need to at least provide lubrication for the turbo. Consider changing your stock intake/exhaust manifolds.
Final Thoughts
When everything is finished, consider the compromised reliability of the clutch assembly. I know from experience that the Renault Sport range doesn’t tolerate the steep increase in power. Increasing the torque could give you some unpleasant surprises (see clutch replacement cost A4).
If you do everything yourself, you might end up with a blown engine. Also add the labor to assemble the whole (and depending on your model, invent parts that do not exist). Consider buying a turbo kit, do a bit of research and work with professionals if you’re not 100% sure.
Sorry if I was too honest, but you better know what awaits before you start.
