How to Modify a Naturally Aspirated Engine to Increase Power?
2 Answers
Use the following methods to modify a naturally aspirated engine to increase power: 1. Cylinder Block Material: Engine materials are typically cast iron and aluminum alloy, produced using casting technology, which does not offer very high strength. If you want the car to achieve greater power, the engine must also withstand the impact of the increased power. Therefore, you can replace the cylinder block material with fully forged aluminum alloy and upgrade to forged reinforced pistons and connecting rods. 2. Engine Displacement: The larger the engine displacement, the higher the car's power output. Therefore, you can modify the engine by boring the cylinders to increase the displacement, thereby obtaining greater power. 3. Intake and Exhaust: You can replace the intake and exhaust systems to make the engine's power output more efficient while also altering the car's exhaust note. 4. Spark Plugs: Upgrading to higher-quality spark plugs can enhance the car's ignition capability, allowing fuel to burn faster. 5. ECU: You can reflash the car's ECU to bypass the computer's limitations, enabling the car to unleash more power.
To boost the power of a naturally aspirated car, I suggest taking it step by step. Start with the basics: upgrade to a high-flow air filter and a full exhaust system, which can help the engine breathe more smoothly, gaining roughly 5-10 horsepower. Next, flash an ECU tune to optimize ignition timing and fuel injection—make sure to have a professional shop read the factory data before fine-tuning. For more advanced upgrades, install high-lift camshafts paired with reinforced valve springs to make valve operation more aggressive. Lightweight and balanced crankshaft treatment is also crucial, reducing rotational inertia and improving responsiveness. Lastly, consider a lightweight flywheel, which noticeably speeds up engine revving. However, these modifications need to work together—isolated upgrades have limited effects. I know a friend who modified his old Honda this way, and his 1.6L naturally aspirated engine jumped from 125 hp to nearly 150 hp.
