Supercharger

[Russ Stankina]

Snake lovers-

I need some help...

I have an 97 FFR with a basically stock 302/5 speed from an 89 GT with 100,000+ miles on it. I drive it almost daily (weather permitting) and the engine has never been "abused." It runs really strong. Short of changing the engine, I'm looking for some additional horsepower without sacraficing dependability. I want to install either a Powerdyne or a Vortech and I'm looking for some advice.

Has anyone out there done one of these installs:
What problems were encountered with the install?
What problems were encountered with driving?
Did the unit provide the expected performance?
Any suggestions/recommendations in general?

Appreciate any experiences or advice.

[750hp]

Russ, while I can't help you specifically any installation hints - I really just want to say that I would go with the Vortech before the Powerdyne. Vortech's a little more money, but if you do a search through www.corral.net you'll find that Powerdyne aren't very highly regarded. Here's an example: http://www.corral.net/forums/showthr...hreadid=160205

As far as I've seen, the install into a FFR is very simple. I've had a bit to do with Vortech blowers, and I've never seen one fail. The driveability of the cars fitted with them is not compromised in any way. Horsepower is WAY up after fitment. You will not regret fitting a Vortech.

MikieF hasn't been on CC lately, but his FFR has a Vortech fitted. It's a whole lot of fun to be in when Mikie hits the loud pedal. Tires hazing at 100mph is always good fun!

[Jeff Frigo]

At 100k miles, I would be a little hesitant. At least freshen it up first with new rings, bearings, and a valve job.

[Harris]

Russ,
I agree with Jeff completely. Even if your engine appears strong with that many miles I think you are in for a big disappointment if you don't freshen the engine.

With the new horsepower you are going to want to get into it. It might run strong for a while but its just a matter of time.

mho

Harris

[superskippy]

Russ,
I put a Vortech in my FFR. Installation is a bit trickey, but do-able. The performance gains are great. If you do it correctly, you can still put a supercharger on a high mile motor. My motor has quite a few miles on it, and its still together, even with the blower. The worst thing could be....You might need a new motor, one that makes more power, looks great and has new parts.


Just do it and drive it till it blows! That's what I am doing. The supercharger can always be put on another engine.

[Wade Chamberlain]

that 302 has another 100k in it easy! Put the blower on and have fun. I have a vortech on mine and LOVE it!

When I first built the Cobra, I didn't have any money (still don't) so I gave the donor engine a Krylon rebuild and threw it in with 143,000 miles on the ticker! The idea was that I'd build another engine as time/money allowed. It ran great, oil pressure was good, and compression was good. It wasn't long before I wanted more power, so I put a Vortech on. I also started building a new engine, since I was sure the old one wouldn't live long. WRONG I finally just replaced the donor engine w/ a new 306/Tremec combo.

I ran it VERY hard for 22,000 miles, about 15,000 of those were supercharged. It still ran like a top when I took it out.

The key is to avoid detonation. Regardless of what Vortech or Powerdyne says, you WILL need to upgrade your fuel pump (GS340 in-tank pump works great), injectors, and mass-air meter. I would also recommend a good aftermarket ignition with boost retard. MSD and Crane both make nice units.

Be careful though, boost is like crack! Once you get a taste, you want more and more and MORE.