Quote:
Originally Posted by AlmostThere
Hi Guys,
I am very new to the site but hope to get some help from the veterans here. I am 28 and I'm looking to get a Backdraft Cobra. Because I'm not a purist like many of you might be, I was looking to turbocharge my Cobra. Jay at Vintage Motorsports has been extremely helpful is telling what I need for this project.
First I need you guys to give me the cons and pros on turbocharging an american V8 such as a 427...402 or a 351 engine. Jay mentioned that the compression ratio for a turbo needs to be 8:1 so most engines are out of the question as they all put out 10:1 ratios. If anyone thinks that I have wrong info please let me know. So please advise as to what engine would best pair up with a singe or twin turbo set up. I am leaning towards Garrett twin or single turbo systems.
Second...please advise if there will be much turbo lag with a V8 or should I just simply get a supercharger instead. I want the torque to be available at all times so If I'm going 65 I want to be able to shoot to 100 quickly.
Last thing..please let me know if you think the car will look good in a matte black satin finish. Its a rare combo I know but I have seen it on Lambos and such and it looks so cool. Wonder if it will look cool with PowderCoated side pipes...
This is where I got an inspiration for a turbocharged cobra...
http://www.hermanndesign.com/cb1project/cb1Cached.html
Anyway...please help as I am ready to order this insane car but the heart of the snake is still confusing to me. I would appreciate all comments good or bad and please let me know what you think
Thanks a lot guys,
Max |
Max,
The two biggest issues that you're going to face if you go the turbo route is exhaust routing (especially if you want to run sidepipes) and underhood heat. You might want to consider a centrifical supercharger. This approach would eliminate both of these issues and would produce instant torque when you apply the throttle. This is also a bit more original setup as some of the 60's era HP fords used a similar setup based upon Paxton Centrifical Supercharges. This is would be a greate way to go with a 351 or perhaps a stroked 351. You would easily get in the range of torque output that would be equivalend to a naturally aspirated BBF.
On the subject of compression ratios, its not always best to go with really low compresson on a street motor. I'm running a 6-71 roots supercharge with 9 lbs of boost with 9.2:1 static CR on pump gas. This kind of setup results in better low-end torque and drivability. The low compression setup with optimize high RPM horsepower better. The key to this sort of combination is selecting the proper camshaft to keep the cylinder pressures under control. A set up aluminum which are free flowing is also a good idea as the reduced intake pressures will result in less heading from the turbocharger or supercharger. If you're going to do a project like this, its best to work with someone with considerable forced induction experience as such a builder will have tested many combinations and will know what works.
Hope this helps,
- Fred