How to Get More Horsepower Out of an Old Car
Old cars are frequently lacking in performance, particularly in the horsepower department. Fortunately, it's relatively easy to add horsepower to an older engine and upgrade the vehicle's performance. Plus, the laws and restrictions for modifying older vehicles tend to be more lenient.
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Instructions
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Perform a basic tuneup. Make sure the engine is running properly before performing any major modifications. Remove and check the spark plugs to make sure they are not fouled. If the tips look sooty or oily, replace them. Check that the plug wires are not cracked or torn. Also check the points in the distributor to make sure they are not burned. Replace them if necessary.
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Install a more free-flow exhaust system. Most cars can benefit from a larger diameter exhaust system. Stock exhausts are usually smaller than optimal in diameter. A larger diameter exhaust and performance muffler will allow the motor to run more efficiently and produce more power. Exhaust installation usually requires the use of a lift and special welding and cutting tools and should be done by a professional exhaust shop.
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Replace the manifolds with tubular headers. This is a great complement to a larger diameter exhaust system. Stock manifolds have smaller internal passages for gasses to travel through and are rough cast, so the flow of air is interrupted. Tubular headers feature smoother internal walls, less bends and are larger diameter. Unbolt the existing manifold from the head and the exhaust. Bolt on the new header with a new gasket.
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Upgrade the ignition system. The ignition systems on old cars are usually pretty antiquated. If the car has points, replace them with an electronic ignition. Also install modern spark plugs that will burn more efficiently and larger diameter spark plug wires that send more spark to the engine.
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Replace the stock flywheel with a lighter one. Stock flywheels are usually pretty heavy and since they are bolted to the end of the crankshaft, they rob power from the motor, since the crankshaft has to work that much harder to turn. Installing a lighter flywheel will allow the crank to spin more efficiently and the motor to produce more power.
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References
- Photo Credit old car image by pearlguy from Fotolia.com
