Supercharger

A supercharger is an air compressor that increases the density or pressure of air supplied to an ICE (internal combustion engine). Power for the supercharger can be provided mechanically by means of a chain, shaft, gear, or belt connected to the engine’s crankshaft. Sometimes power can be provided by a turbine powered by exhaust gas, however, which is called a turbosupercharger. The world’s first functional and tested supercharged was made in 1878 by a man named Dugald Clerk.

Brands

Picking the right supercharger kit is essential to obtaining optimal engine performance. Every supercharger kit comes fully stocked with everything you need in one easy package, and each kit is typically custom-made to fit your car. Edelbrock is one of the most popular brands of superchargers, providing some of the best torque and horsepower on the market. People who want the best horsepower and torque, however, should check out Magna Charger, who construct the most complete supercharger kits on the market.

Safety

For the most part, adding a supercharger to your engine is safe. Unlike turbochargers, superchargers do not create lag, which refers to the time that elapses from when the driver hits the gas pedal to the engine’s response. This is a big safety bonus, as it allows drivers to react to sudden hazards or obstacles on the road without delay. Superchargers do put stress on the engine, however, so there is a possibility that your engine could break down while you are driving, which is a safety hazard. Proper and routine maintenance can help prevent this.

Benefits

The biggest advantage of using a supercharger is the significant increase you get in horsepower. Attaching a supercharger to a normal vehicle makes it act like a vehicle with a much more powerful engine. Unlike turbochargers, superchargers do not suffer lag (which is the time that passes between the driver hitting the gas pedal and the engine’s response). This is because superchargers are driven directly by the crankshaft. Superchargers can also be bolted to the side or top of the engine, which makes them much cheaper to install and easier to maintain and service.

Drawbacks

The biggest disadvantage of superchargers is the crankshaft drive. While the crankshaft drive prevents lag, it requires horsepower. A supercharger may use as much as 20% of an engine’s output. This can be countered, however, as a supercharger can generate as much as 46% additional horsepower. Superchargers also put significant strain on the engine, which needs to be strong enough to handle the bigger explosions and extra boost. They also cost a fair bit to maintain.

Cost

The cost of a supercharger varies depending on the model of supercharger and car. Some supercharger kits can run as high as $4,000, although certain kits can be bought for half of that. Websites such as eBay, however, are perfect places to find discounts and deals. You may be able to find a supercharger kit for less than $1,000. It is important to make sure the supercharger is a fit for your engine and car, however, and also meets your own personal requirements.