Can a Naturally Aspirated Engine Be Converted to Turbocharged?
1 Answers
Naturally aspirated engines can be converted to turbocharged. Installing a turbocharger can increase power output by 20%-30%. However, turbocharging modification is considered an engine alteration, which will fail the annual vehicle inspection. Additionally, it can easily damage the engine, increase engine load, and reduce the engine's lifespan. When adding a turbocharger to a high-compression-ratio naturally aspirated engine, the original compression ratio must be reduced to accommodate the turbocharger and prevent detonation caused by excessive compression ratio. This typically involves machining the pistons and combustion chamber tops, as well as reforging the crankshaft and connecting rod mechanism. Otherwise, forcibly installing a turbocharger will yield very limited performance gains, accompanied by exponentially increased risks of detonation and cylinder scoring. The Road Traffic Safety Law clearly stipulates: Unauthorized modification of a vehicle's engine without approval from traffic management authorities is illegal. Any changes to the color, model, performance, purpose, or structure of a licensed motor vehicle, including replacement of the frame, body, or engine, must be reported to the vehicle management office for registration. Therefore, after converting to turbocharging, the modification must be registered with the vehicle management office.