Simple Supercharger Maintenance Tips
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Superchargers are performance-enhancing, precision-engineered mechanical contraptions. They are attached to an internal combustion engine by the OEM or retrofitted by automobile enthusiasts at tune-up shops!
These are self-contained systems that are continuously exposed to immense friction and astronomical temperatures. Hence, supercharged OEM vehicles or tuner vehicles with retrofitted superchargers require considerable care to function as intended for years to come.
What’s The Function Of A Supercharger?
The function of a supercharger is to provide an internal combustion engine with an excess of air (charge). The outcome is that the engine then has an excess of oxygen-rich air-fuel mixture in its combustion chamber. The outcome is that the engine would then produce additional power.
Simple Supercharger Maintenance Tips
A supercharger needs additional maintenance, but one doesn’t need to break a sweat, as preventative supercharger maintenance can be carried out in a few simple steps.
Always Pour Synthetic Engine Oil In Supercharged Engines
Forced-induction engines are subjected to high stress and temperatures. It is mandatory for them to be lubricated with synthetic engine oil.
Why synthetic engine oil, you ask?
Well, compared to the run-of-the-mill engine oil, synthetic engine lubrication oil adheres better to all the moving parts inside an engine. Furthermore, compared to regular engine oil, synthetic engine oil retains its operational functions even when subjected to extreme temperatures.
You can use the service history tracker section in the accompanying apps of the latest OBD2 GPS trackers. This will help ensure that you never forget to change the lubricating oil of your supercharged car’s engine on time!
Closely Watch The Intercooler System
If your supercharged vehicle has an intercooler, then you need to regularly inspect the coolant levels and coolant integrity. You also need to ensure that the hoses of the intercooler system are free from leaks. On top of this, while topping up, always mix 50 percent coolant with 50 percent distilled water-this is the best water-to-coolant ratio when it comes to preventing the coolant inside the intercooler system from freezing when the ambient temperature drops, as well as protecting the intercooler system from corrosion.
What is the function of an intercooler?
Well, the intercooler system cools the compressed air before it enters the engine.
Why is cooling the charge (air entering through the intake manifold of the engine) important?
Because cold air is denser compared to warm air, dense air contains more oxygen molecules. Additional oxygen means the combustion quality will be high and the engine will produce more power.
Keep An Eye On The Supercharger Belt, Belt Tensioner, & Idler Pulleys
Ensure that the belt that drives the supercharger is not fraying, cracking, or glazing when subjected to light. These are signs of a worn belt, which will slip and result in boost loss. You also need to ensure that the belt tensioner is as per OEM specifications in a bid to keep instances of premature belt wear or failure at bay! You also need to keep a close watch on all idler pulleys that you can find on the accessory drive system of the supercharger in a bid to ensure the piece of machinery remains smooth and stable at all RPMs.
Ensure There Aren’t Boost Leaks
Keep a close eye on all seals, fittings, and couplings you can find in the intake system to ensure they are free from leaks in a bid to ascertain that boost pressure is not lost. This is the best way to keep the performance of the supercharger on par with your expectations!
What Are The Warning Signs Of A Failing Supercharger?
A failing supercharger will show the following signs –
- A bunch of unusual noises that resemble loud grinding or scraping noises stemming from internal bearings or gears that are on their last leg of operational life.
- Sluggish acceleration, even from a supercharged engine, could indicate the supercharger has lubrication issues or is leaking boost pressure
- A failing supercharger may also emit a burning oil smell, signaling it has either cooling or lubrication issues!
Follow The Owner’s Manual Instructions Diligently!
It is apparent by now that superchargers, although robust pieces of automobile equipment, do need some care and maintenance. And the best way to do that is to follow the tips shared in this blog alongside following the explicit instructions mentioned in the owner’s manual of your supercharged vehicle.