A Comparison Between Mechanical and Electronic Boost Controllers
People who own cars with turbochargers or superchargers need to install boost controllers in order to regulate the amount of pressurised air that enters the engine from the turbocharger/supercharger. This article discusses the two kinds of boost controllers that are available on the market. Use this information to help you to make an informed decision as you select the most appropriate type of boost controller for your needs.
Mechanical Boost Controllers
Mechanical boost controllers are also called manual boost controllers. This controller allows the vehicle owner to turn a dial on the controller in order to select the magnitude of the boost (pressurised air) that should be channeled into the combustion chambers of the engine. The turbocharger/supercharger will maintain that level of boost until you access the controller and change its settings.
This type of boost controller is easy to install. This ease stems from the simplicity of the components that have to be installed. It is also easy to maintain. However, manual boost controllers may not be suitable for some performance cars because the boost controller doesn't vary the amount of boost in accordance with the environmental or driving conditions. For example, more boost may be needed at higher rpm (revolutions per minute) when compared to the amount of boost needed at lower rpm. The mechanical boost controller doesn't recognise those differences. This attribute makes manual boost controllers best suited to street driving.
Electronic Boost Controllers
Electronic boost controllers rely on a computer system to determine how much boost to avail during different driving conditions. Some of these boost controllers feature an interface on the dashboard that allows drivers to select the desired boost level without leaving their seats. That selection provides the threshold from which the computer adjusts the settings.
However, this type of boost controller has some shortcomings. First, the installation process is complex due to the extra wiring that is needed to connect the boost controller to the electrical system of the vehicle. These controllers are also more expensive to buy and maintain when compared to mechanical boost controllers.
Both types of boost controllers can be used for most applications. However, the specific requirements of a vehicle owner can make one variety a better choice when compared to the other option. For example, if your main interest is in getting optimum performance, then an electronic boost controller is the better choice. Discuss the different variables of concern with a company like Denco Diesel & Turbo so that you can be helped to select the best boost controller that will address those needs.