This may be dumb, but do I really need an intercooler? I know they are better because most people use them, but so many prefab kits such as greddy and what not dont even have them. Will I lose a ton of power without one.

 

I know everyone uses one, so I figure they are needed I was just wondering how crucial they are for a low budget setup.

 

do you: no.

Should you: definitely

Power loss: No, an intercooler gains power. I went from a 13.8 non intercooled to a 13.4 with a Greddy Type 24.

 

Yeah, I meant power loss without one compared to using one on the same setup. It jsut adds alot to the cost and complexity, so I wondering if it was really worth it for the results I am trying to achieve.

 

If you want 200hp than yes. Intecoolers prevent detonation and also on a D-Series you need every advantage you can get to make power. Don't go cheap, do it once do it right

 

Yeah, 200hp was just a goal I set, not gonna trip on numbers though. Thanks again for your help. I will most likely suck it up and get one.

 

it also is a small safeguard against detonation too. basically, detonation is where the air just kinda blows up because its too hot from being compressed by the turbo, then compressed again by your engine. if you cool down your charge temp. before it gets to your engine, it will be *Slightly* less prone to detonation.

NOTE: this doesn't mean that just because you have a huge *** intercooler, your ---- won't detonate.

 

It also makes it that much safer to turn the boost up a bit which means more power.
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personally i wouldnt boost without one. but thats me, and i dont really count

 

how much do they actually cool the charge temp. I realize it depends on the IC itself, but as a ballpark, how many degrees are we talking 10+?