Posted by RDavis on Saturday, October 30, 2004 at 11:57AM :
In Reply to: Pressurizing A Flathead posted by Larry on Saturday, October 30, 2004 at 10:22AM :
Larry,
To accomplish such a task, one must become well learned in in not only the function but,
science of the parts and procedures used to enhance the overall performance of an internal combustion engine.
First you have all the simpler methods for increasing performance such as efficiency.
HP loss due to inefficiency can be retrieved to a fair degree and retrieving it is is important as the upgrades used to retrieve lost hp will aid any aux. items used to increase hp out put. A little here a little there adds up to substantial HP loss for these normally low powered enginges so, consider all the efficiency enhancments that are reasonable and all the known methods or items to eliminate the loss of hp.
The better anything breaths and exhausts, the better it performs, enhance the breathing with a better and more efficient fuel and distibution system such as a custom intake manifold with smoother flow surfaces and try to avoid tight turns which slow the flow! A bigger carb, dual carbs, or if you get serious, triple carbs if you don't mind the sync. and linkage challenge.I guess the ultimate would be a stand-alone electronic fuel-injection system.
Of course headers are universally known to enhance the exhaust flow and if designed just right have a added scavaging effect on the combustion chambers which increases the volumetric efficiency of an eng.
A electronic drop-in replacement for the points and condenser will add the reliable and stronger spark needed for cold weather and performance applications.
The fixed radiator fan can be replaced with a Hi-CFM elect. fan. The existing waterpump could be modified or an existing electric water pump,to free up even more horses.
These are just a few easy external ways to retrieve and/or increase the power output.
Internally, VPW offers a hi-po cam & valve
springs.
Your older auto books show the % of power loss due to certain items such as exhaust, waterpump,rad.fan,etc. to give you an idea of how much might be retrieved and/or gained by these few things mentioned.
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