Posted on

Upgraded Intercooler – An Overview

An aftermarket upgraded intercooler can improve performance by reducing the temperature of the air entering the engine. There are several types of upgraded intercoolers available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Air-to-Air Intercooler:

Air-to-air intercoolers use ambient air to cool the compressed air from the turbocharger or supercharger. They are the most common type of intercooler and offer good performance gains at a reasonable cost. However, they can be bulky and require sufficient space for installation. There are 2 types of Air-to-Air Intercoolers:

Tube and Fin:

Tube and fin intercoolers consist of a series of tubes and fins that transfer heat from the compressed air to the ambient air. The compressed air flows through the intercooler and comes into contact with the tubes, which transfer the heat to the coolant. The coolant is then cooled by the fins, which are exposed to the ambient air. Tube and fin intercoolers are generally less efficient at transferring heat than bar and plate intercoolers, leading to reduced cooling performance. They are also more prone to damage from debris or other impacts, which can result in leaks or other issues.

Bar and Plate:

Bar and Plate Intercoolers: Bar and plate intercoolers are made up of a series of bars and plates that transfer heat from the compressed air to the ambient air. The compressed air flows through the intercooler and comes into contact with the bars and plates, which transfer the heat to the ambient air. Bar and plate intercoolers are generally more efficient at transferring heat than tube and fin intercoolers, leading to improved cooling performance. They are also more durable and less prone to damage from debris or other impacts.

Water-to-Air Intercooler:

Water-to-air intercoolers use a liquid coolant to cool the compressed air. They are more efficient than air-to-air intercoolers and can provide better cooling performance in hot climates. However, they can be heavier, more expensive and require additional components, such as a water pump (follow this link for a suggested pump), heat exchanger and water tank (link).

Front-Mount Intercooler:

Front-mount intercoolers are mounted in the front of the car, typically behind the front bumper or grille. They offer better airflow and cooling performance compared to top-mount or side-mount intercoolers. They can be more expensive and require more extensive modifications for installation, however they are the most popular type of upgraded intercooler.

Top-Mount Intercooler:

Top-mount intercoolers are mounted on top of the engine and are popular for vehicles with limited space. They offer good cooling performance and are generally less expensive than other types of intercoolers. However, they can be prone to heat soak and may require additional modifications to maintain proper airflow.

Side-Mount Intercooler:

Side-mount intercoolers are mounted on the side of the engine and are popular for vehicles with limited front-end space. They offer good cooling performance and can be less expensive than other types of intercoolers. However, they can be prone to heat soak and may require additional modifications to maintain proper airflow.

In conclusion

Upgrading your car’s intercooler can provide significant performance gains. However, it’s important to choose the right type of intercooler for your vehicle and driving needs. Consider factors such as cost, installation complexity, and cooling performance when choosing an upgraded intercooler. Additionally, it’s recommended that you have the installation done by a professional mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly.

Purchase links:
Tube and Fin front mount intercoolers
Bar and Plate front mount intercoolers
Water to Air intercoolers

Posted on

Aftermarket Exhausts – An Overview

Aftermarket exhausts, or modified exhausts, are a popular choice for car enthusiasts who want to enhance the performance and sound of their vehicles. However, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider before making this upgrade.

Advantages of Aftermarket Exhausts

Improved Performance:

One of the biggest advantages of an aftermarket exhaust is improved performance. By replacing the restrictive stock exhaust system, the flow of exhaust gases can be improved, leading to increased horsepower and torque. This can result in better acceleration and an overall more exciting driving experience.

Better Sound:

Another benefit of an aftermarket exhaust is the sound it produces. A custom exhaust can provide a more aggressive and sporty exhaust note. This can enhance the driving experience, but it’s important to choose a sound that’s appropriate for your driving habits and the environment in which you’ll be driving.

Unique Look:

A modified exhaust can also give your car a unique look. With a wide variety of styles and finishes to choose from, you can customize the appearance of your vehicle to suit your taste.

Disadvantages of Aftermarket Exhausts

Increased Noise:

One of the biggest drawbacks of a modified exhaust is increased noise. Depending on the type of modification you choose, your vehicle may produce a loud exhaust note that could be disruptive to others on the road. It’s important to be mindful of local noise regulations and to choose an exhaust that’s appropriate for your environment.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency:

Some modifications can cause the engine to consume more fuel, which can reduce your vehicle’s overall efficiency. Additionally, if the custom exhaust is heavier than the stock one, it can increase the weight of your vehicle, further reducing fuel efficiency.

Potential for Damage:

A poorly designed or installed exhaust system can lead to leaks or back pressure, which can harm your engine’s performance. Additionally, increased heat levels under the vehicle from a modified exhaust can potentially damage other nearby components.

Legal Issues:

Modifying your exhaust system can result in legal issues. Many states and countries have laws that limit the amount of noise a vehicle can produce. If your custom exhaust exceeds these legal limits, you could be fined or penalized. It’s also possible that insurance companies may not cover damages or injuries resulting from a modified exhaust system.

In conclusion:

A modified exhaust can offer a range of benefits, including improved performance, better sound, and a unique look. However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider, including increased noise, reduced fuel efficiency, potential for damage, and legal issues. It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable installer who can help you select an exhaust that’s appropriate for your vehicle and driving habits

Aftermarket Exhausts on Amazon

Posted on

Top 10 Modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST

The Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST is a compact hatchback that packs a punch with its 1.6L turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and agile handling. Driving enthusiasts love the Fiesta ST for its performance, but like many cars, it can benefit from modifications to enhance its capabilities. If you’re looking to upgrade your Fiesta ST, here are the Top 10 Modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST that can take your driving experience to the next level:

1. Cold Air Intake

Top 10 Modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST

A cold air intake is an easy and affordable modification that replaces the stock air intake system with a larger, more efficient system. This increased airflow can improve horsepower and torque, making your Fiesta ST even more fun to drive. Mishimoto makes a high quality intake kit with a great sound, click HERE to check it out!

2. Exhaust

Exhaust

Upgrading your Fiesta ST’s exhaust system can improve its performance and give it a more aggressive sound. A high-quality aftermarket exhaust system like this Mishimoto unresonated system can reduce backpressure and increase airflow out of the engine, resulting in improved horsepower and torque.

See our blog post on the advantages and disadvantages of Aftermarket Exhausts

3. Intercooler

Mishimoto Intercooler

Adding an intercooler can help dissipate the heat generated by the turbocharged engine, keeping it running at peak performance. A larger intercooler can also increase power output and improve overall engine efficiency. Mishimoto makes a great intercooler, but be sure to pair your intercooler with a set of charge pipes to get the maximum performance gains!

4. ECU Tune

Top 10 Modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST

An ECU tune can optimize your engine’s performance, resulting in increased horsepower and torque, better throttle response, and improved fuel efficiency. It’s often the most cost-effective way to improve your Fiesta ST’s overall driving experience.

5. Suspension Upgrades

Top 10 Modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST

Upgrading your suspension can improve your car’s handling, reduce body roll, and provide a more stable and predictable driving experience. It’s a popular modification among Fiesta ST enthusiasts, and there are many aftermarket options available. Often lowering springs actually provide a smoother ride than the standard ST suspension, which is known for being quite harsh.

Ford Fiesta Lowering Springs

6. Wheels and Tires

Upgraded Tyres

Upgrading your wheels and tires can improve your car’s performance in several ways, including better traction, improved acceleration, braking, and handling. It can also give your car a more aggressive and sporty look. No Top 10 Modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST list would be complete without including upgraded wheels and tires.

The Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST uses 205/40/17 size tires and it’s best to stick to that.

204/40/17 Tyres

7. Brake Upgrades

If you plan to push your Fiesta ST to its limits, upgrading your brakes is a good idea. Upgraded brake pads, rotors, and calipers can improve stopping power and reduce brake fade during hard driving. We recommend EBC pads for a good mix of stopping power and longevity (available HERE)

8. Short-Throw Shifter

Top 10 Modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST

A short-throw shifter can make your shifts even quicker and more precise, reducing the distance between shifts and making your car more fun to drive. It’s a relatively inexpensive modification that can have a big impact on your driving experience. There are many short shift kits available on Amazon.

9. Lightweight Flywheel

A lightweight flywheel can improve your car’s acceleration and throttle response. By reducing the rotating mass of the engine, it can help it rev more quickly and reduce drivetrain loss, improving overall efficiency.

10. Sound System Upgrades

Upgrading your sound system may not improve your car’s performance, but it can enhance your driving experience. Upgraded speakers, a subwoofer, and a new head unit can provide better sound quality, making your music sound better than ever.

In conclusion, the Mk 7 Ford Fiesta ST is a fun and capable car that can benefit from a few modifications to further enhance its capabilities. Whether you’re looking for more power, better handling, or a more enjoyable driving experience, these Top 10 modifications for a Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST can help take your ride to the next level.