How to Use an Air Regulator From a Compressor for Boost Control

You can increase your engine's turbo boost with a common air pressure regulator.

The waste gate on a typical turbocharger installation references intake manifold pressure against atmospheric pressure to regulate maximum boost pressure. A common air pressure regulator can be used to fool the waste gate by providing a lower reference pressure than the actual manifold pressure. This method allows for boost levels beyond the waste gate's factory set specification, but does not allow for a maximum setting lower than that set at the factory. In any case, the maximum amount of boost attainable is ultimately a function of turbocharger size.

Things You'll Need

• Air pressure regulator
• 2 barbed nipples, ¼ npt by ¼ inch
• Thread sealant
• 2 hose clamps, #5
• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Knife

Instructions

1. Cut the boost pressure reference line. This is a hose that goes from the turbocharger's waste gate, to the intake manifold. Use the knife to cut the line in a convenient place for installing the air pressure regulator.

2. Install the barbed nipples on the air pressure regulator. Apply thread sealant to the threads on the nipples and thread the nipples into the inlet and outlet fittings on the regulator. Tighten finger-tight plus one-half turn.

3. Install the air pressure regulator into the pressure reference line. Attach the cut hose from the intake manifold to the inlet fitting on the regulator. Attach the hose from the waste gate to the outlet hose on the regulator. Slide the hoses over the barbed nipples on the regulator and secure in place using the hose clamps.

Tips & Warnings

• By using a longer section of hose to connect the regulator, you can put the regulator within reach of the driver.

• Increasing boost pressure beyond the factory settings can lead to engine damage. Make this modification at your own risk.

References

• Autospeed: DIY Boost Control
• GTQuattro:Turbo Boost Mods