Engine Components

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Engine Components

Most car owners are aware of the presence of aftermarket parts. The simplest definition of aftermarket parts is that they are vehicle accessories that are not manufactured by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Most people prefer them since they tend to be cheaper while matching the quality levels offered by OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. But there is more to aftermarket parts than cheaper alternatives. When you demand more from your vehicle, either as a racer or as someone who enjoys drifting, then you will quickly find out that your original vehicle parts might not be suitable. They were made for ā€˜normal usage’ not for high-performance racing. While there are vehicles that come from the manufacturer already tuned for these high-performance exploits, they tend to be on the higher side of the price range. Replacing some of the engine parts with high-performance aftermarket options can get you a high-performance engine on a budget.

Who needs aftermarket performance parts?

For some people, a vehicle is not just a means to transport yourself from point A to point B; it is a tool which you use to channel your inner petrolhead. Most popular vehicle models are meant for ā€˜normal’ usage which does not involve any high-performance activities. If you take your vehicle, with its stock parts, to a racing meet or out for drifting, you will quickly realize two things. One, you will find out that your car will not perform within the levels that you would expect. Secondly, you will find yourself replacing your car parts more regularly since they are not made to withstand the increased intensity of usage. This is where aftermarket performance parts come in. They will allow your vehicle to reach performance levels that couldn’t be imagined by their original manufacturer. Secondly, they are more resilient to the wear and tear that is involved in high-performance motorsports. Basically, you can turn your everyday car into a high-performance beast by replacing a number of its stock parts with high-performance aftermarket parts. Nowhere is this more important than in the engine.

Why focus on the engine when purchasing after market performance parts?

In any vehicle, the engine is where mechanical energy to propel the car is produced after the combustion of the fuel. This means that it is impossible to improve your vehicle’s performance without factoring in the engine. Most of the other aftermarket modifications carried out in high-performance vehicles are there to stabilize the vehicle, or for aesthetic purposes. True performance changes can only be achieved if you place a higher emphasis on the engine. Whether you are a competitive racer, or if you simply want to increase the overall performance of your vehicle, you will be demanding more from your vehicle’s engine than its stock engine parts can handle. This is why aftermarket engine components can be broadly grouped into two categories. The first categories are the parts that you put into your engine to improve its performance. The second category are parts that you add to the engine to enable it withstand the effects of the increased performance.

High-performance aftermarket engine parts

Some of the aftermarket performance engine components that are available include:

Pistons

The piston is the engine component that is moved up and down in the combustion chamber to create mechanical energy. Most vehicle manufacturers prefer to use cast pistons due to the cost benefits they offer. But high-performance mechanics and enthusiasts prefer to use forged pistons. Forged pistons have a different manufacturing process that ensures they are resilient to the increased demands in high-performance engines. They are also more customizable to meet different aftermarket engine modifications. The increased combustion speed generally wears out stock pistons at a financially unsustainable rate. While most motorsport enthusiasts prefer forged pistons, there are other types of reinforced pistons that can be used, especially if you don’t regularly engage in competitive racing.

Crankshaft

The crankshaft, usually referred to as the crank, is an engine part that connects to the piston to transfer the up and down motion into rotation which is subsequently transferred into the wheels. As with the pistons, most vehicle manufacturers ship their cars with cast crankshafts. But, due to their increased resilience and customizability, high-performance vehicles work best with forged cranks. Contrary to popular sentiment, forged cranks are actually not that expensive if you purchase through the right retailer.

Connecting Rod

The connecting rod, commonly referred to as the conrod, is what connects the piston to the crankshaft. Since they are in constant motion, aftermarket conrods are preferred to handle the increased rpm (rotations per minute) in high-performance engines. As with pistons and crankshafts, forged conrods are the preferred aftermarket option. If you don’t use a forged conrod, then the performance benefits offered by aftermarket piston and crankshaft options would be lost.

Engine/Transmission Mount

The ā€˜mount’ refers to the framework which connects the engine and transmission system to the car’s body. Once you make aftermarket upgrades to your engine, it will behave in a manner that might overwhelm its original mount. This is why you need to change the engine and transmission mount to better support the more robust high-performance engine.

Frequently Asked Questions about Engine Components

Is it worth fitting a performance air filter?

Fitting a performance air filter can offer several benefits:

  • Improved Airflow: Performance air filters are designed to increase airflow to the engine, which can enhance performance.
  • Better Engine Efficiency: With improved airflow, the engine can operate more efficiently, potentially leading to better fuel economy.
  • Enhanced Throttle Response: Many users report a more responsive throttle, which can improve driving experience.
  • Longer Lifespan: Performance filters are often reusable and can last longer than standard filters, reducing replacement costs over time.
  • Potential Power Gains: Some drivers experience a slight increase in horsepower, although this can vary based on the vehicle and filter type.
However, the actual benefits can depend on the specific vehicle and driving conditions.

What does a higher lift camshaft do?

A higher lift camshaft increases the amount of valve lift, allowing the engine to draw in more air and fuel during the intake stroke. This can lead to improved engine performance in several ways:

  • Increased Airflow: More air entering the combustion chamber can enhance combustion efficiency.
  • Higher Power Output: With better airflow, the engine can produce more power, especially at higher RPMs.
  • Improved Torque: A higher lift can also contribute to increased torque, particularly in performance applications.
  • Enhanced Throttle Response: The engine may respond more quickly to throttle inputs due to improved airflow dynamics.
However, it is important to consider that a higher lift camshaft may require additional modifications to the engine, such as upgraded valve springs and potentially changes to the engine's tuning.

What makes a cam aggressive?

An aggressive camshaft is characterised by several key features that enhance engine performance. These include:

  • Increased Lift: Higher lift allows the engine to draw in more air and fuel, improving combustion efficiency.
  • Longer Duration: A longer duration keeps the intake and exhaust valves open for a greater portion of the engine cycle, allowing for better airflow.
  • Steeper Ramp Rates: Faster opening and closing of the valves can lead to more power at higher RPMs.
  • Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can enhance performance by improving scavenging of exhaust gases.
  • Profile Shape: The specific shape of the cam lobes can influence how the engine responds at different RPMs, with aggressive profiles typically favouring high RPM performance.
These characteristics contribute to a camshaft that provides more power and responsiveness, particularly in performance-oriented applications.

What are the cons of camming your car?

Camming your car can enhance performance, but it also comes with several drawbacks:

  • Increased Engine Wear: A camshaft can put additional stress on engine components, leading to faster wear and potential failure.
  • Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Performance cams often result in lower fuel economy due to altered air-fuel mixtures.
  • Compromised Driveability: Cams can affect low-end torque, making the car less responsive at lower RPMs.
  • Noise Levels: Performance cams can increase engine noise, which may not be desirable for all drivers.
  • Potential Emissions Issues: Altered engine performance can lead to higher emissions, potentially causing issues with regulations.
  • Cost of Installation: Upgrading to a performance camshaft can be expensive, including parts and labour.
  • Compatibility Issues: Not all engines are compatible with aftermarket cams, which can limit options.

Do camshafts change engine sound?

Yes, camshafts can change the engine sound. The design and specifications of a camshaft influence the timing and duration of valve openings, which affects the engine's performance and acoustics. Factors that contribute to changes in engine sound include:

  • Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can create a more aggressive sound.
  • Profile: Different camshaft profiles can alter the exhaust note.
  • Engine RPM: Camshafts designed for higher RPMs may produce a different sound compared to those for lower RPMs.
  • Engine Type: The overall engine configuration (e.g., V8, inline) also affects how camshaft changes impact sound.

Why do cammed cars sound choppy?

Cammed cars sound choppy primarily due to the characteristics of the camshaft profile. Here are the main reasons:

  • Lift and Duration: A camshaft with higher lift and longer duration allows more air and fuel into the engine, creating a more aggressive sound.
  • Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can lead to a rougher idle, contributing to the choppy sound.
  • Idle Speed: Cams designed for performance often require a higher idle speed, which can accentuate the choppy noise.
  • Exhaust Note: The changes in exhaust flow dynamics due to the cam profile can alter the exhaust note, making it sound more aggressive and choppy.

Does camshaft affect acceleration?

Yes, the camshaft does affect acceleration. The camshaft controls the timing and duration of the engine's valve openings, which directly influences engine performance. Key factors include:

  • Valve Timing: Proper timing allows for optimal air-fuel mixture intake and exhaust gas expulsion, enhancing engine efficiency.
  • Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can improve power output at higher RPMs, which can lead to better acceleration.
  • Engine Tuning: A camshaft designed for performance can shift the power band, affecting how quickly the engine accelerates.
In summary, the design and specifications of the camshaft play a crucial role in determining how effectively an engine can accelerate.

Does camming a car make it louder?

Camming a car typically involves installing a performance camshaft, which can indeed make the engine louder. This increase in noise is due to several factors:

  • Increased Airflow: A performance camshaft allows for greater airflow into and out of the engine, which can enhance the exhaust note.
  • Higher RPMs: Cams designed for performance often operate at higher RPMs, producing a more aggressive sound.
  • Exhaust System Interaction: The camshaft can change the way exhaust gases exit the engine, potentially amplifying the sound through the exhaust system.
Overall, while camming a car can lead to a louder engine sound, the extent of the increase will depend on the specific camshaft used and the overall setup of the vehicle.

How much does it cost to replace a camshaft?

The cost to replace a camshaft can vary significantly based on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, labour costs, and whether you choose an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket part. Typical costs include:

  • Parts: Ā£200 to Ā£1,000
  • Labour: Ā£300 to Ā£800
Overall, the total cost for camshaft replacement can range from approximately Ā£500 to Ā£1,800. Always consult with a mechanic for a precise estimate based on your specific vehicle.

Do camshafts increase horsepower?

Yes, camshafts can increase horsepower. They play a crucial role in controlling the timing and duration of the engine's intake and exhaust valves. Upgrading to a performance camshaft can enhance airflow, improve engine efficiency, and increase power output. Benefits of a performance camshaft include:

  • Improved airflow into and out of the engine
  • Increased torque and horsepower at higher RPMs
  • Better throttle response
  • Optimised engine performance for specific driving conditions
However, the extent of the horsepower increase depends on various factors, including the engine type, other modifications, and tuning.

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