An intercooler is a mechanical upgrade that means business, especially if you’re looking for significant boosts in performance and power.
Here at 4×4 Works, we stock high performance intercoolers for a range of vehicle makes and models, but how do they work and are they really that effective? Read on to discover the answers to those very questions, plus uncover the intercoolers that deserve your attention.
How does a high performance intercooler work?
Put simply, an intercooler is a heat exchanger that effectively cools air that has been compressed by a turbocharger or supercharger before it enters the engine. As we’ve discussed in previous blogs, hot air is bad news for engines. Yet, with the cooler, denser air made possible via the use of an intercooler, you can unlock several advantages for efficiency and power – but more on that later!
There are two types of intercoolers to explore – air-to-air and air-to-water. Here MotorTrend explains the difference:
“Intercoolers use fins and tubes to remove heat from the compressed air, though the exact heat dissipation process can vary between devices. In an air-to-air intercooler, outside air flows over the fins and absorbs heat from the compressed air passing through the tubes they’re connected to. Air-to-water intercoolers, in contrast, use water to carry heat away from the tubes.”
What benefits can be unlocked through intercooler use?
By cooling the compressed air and increasing its density in the process with an intercooler, there’s more oxygen for combustion available to your engine. This can help to harness a range of advantages.
Fuel is essentially burnt and used more efficiently, which generates power, ensures better performance and even reduces emissions. The power gains made are more stable too, boosting the safety and competence of turbocharged or supercharged setups.
The reliability of your engine system is also improved. Without an intercooler, you run the risk of exposing your engine and its components to excessive heat. Overheating and subsequent engine knocking can cause damage that diminishes engine life and reliability.
Which intercooler should I buy for my vehicle?
Our PWR intercoolers are high performance by name and nature. Available in polished and black, these intercoolers come to you from a world famous brand that’s more synonymous with F1 and motorsport. With PWR’s ultimate performance automotive upgrades, your vehicle is in the right hands.
Their intercoolers have been CAD designed and manufactured in-house using first-class TIG welding processes. The result is a high-grade aluminium construction, unique wider tube configuration and revolutionary louvre fin design that enhances cooling efficiency by up to 30%. The design also offers improved wall thickness for better durability.
Our fully pressure tested, direct replacement PWR intercoolers even guarantee high performance in the most extreme conditions, keeping your engine cool, efficient and powerful whatever the challenges.
We stock PWR Performance Intercoolers for a selection of vehicles, including the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200, Land Rover Defender and Isuzu D-Max. Explore our full range for further details.