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- Mitsubishi Evo X Turbo and Clutch Upgrades
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- APR Stage I Software Installation
“Powerrrrr!”
Jeremy Clarkson
We’re dedicating this final installment to the Track Day Essentials series to address what’s needed to get more straight line speed at the race track. We decided to leave it to the end on purpose because this is the first area of the car most new track day enthusiasts invest their money when building a track day car. While not a bad idea, we believe in the notion that you need to learn how walk before you can run (race). The road to a more powerful engine has many turns. There are plenty of options but you must choose wisely. Cars with turbocharged engines enjoy the advantage of increasing horsepower with a simple software upgrade. There are different stages of power increase you can opt for turbocharged engines. It needs to be noted that with turbocharged engines, higher engine tunes also means higher under the hood temperatures. This is why we recommend upgrading the intercooler, radiator and all piping related to the turbo system. On the other side of the spectrum, natural aspirated engines will benefit from a software upgrade but the power increase will not be as dramatic as on a turbocharged engine. This shouldn’t be taken as less chances of a powerful motor at the track. There are plenty of performance upgrades we can recommend and install for your NA engine here at Velocity Factor. From aggressive profile camshafts, to higher capacity fuel injector, the list is extensive. We can also just bolt a turbocharger kit to your NA engine.
With your engine tuned, you need to be able to access this extra power with efficiency. Your car’s drivetrain components can handle what’s known as a Stage 1 tune. Stage 1 engine tunes are usually designed to work with factory stock components on the rest of the vehicle. Once your engine starts making a considerable amount of additional horsepower, parts like clutch (on manual transmission equipped cars), flywheels and in some cases, the differential, need to be upgraded accordingly. We can assist with this as well and can guide you in making the right choice.
More horsepower will grant you that extra 10 mph on the back straight at Palm Beach International Raceway. Aerodynamics will keep your car going straight. At Velocity Factor we are an authorized dealer and installer of many aftermarket aero upgrades that will make your car look more purposeful and will enhance your driving experience at the track. We can install wide body kits, rear mounted wings, front splitters, rear diffuser and front bumper canards. We also install carbon fiber hoods. Horsepower + Downforce = great fun.
To recap on this Track Day Essentials guide, a dedicated track day car must be looked at from all angles. Our recommendations are based on our own experience at the local race tracks in South Florida. We can’t stress enough the importance of making these events safe for you and for others at the track. Your car doesn’t need to have a racing pedigree to be competitive at the track. Just remember the essentials. Braking, Suspension, Tires, Engine, Drivetrain and Aerodynamics. All need to be addressed before hitting the track.
At Velocity Factor, we take reliable automotive performance very seriously. If you are interested in improving your car’s appearance or performance, please give us a call. We are always happy to provide free advice and support over the phone. Our number is 561-395-5700. We are open Mondays to Fridays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm EST, and Saturday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm EST.
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