There are two main benefits in this a/w setup over a/a for a street car. 1st off is the flow path is 5 times shorter so throttle response is better with the a/w. Second is the cooler works straight off the line and is effectively dumping heat while stationary.
At the end of the day though it all comes down to the hp you are looking for. The a/w will handle the heat generated by 19psi OK with the CT26 so a bigger more efficient compressor will be no probs at all. Once you start generating really big flow though i have found the intake charge passes thru the IC so quickly it doesn't get the chance to cool. This was with the much larger and better flowing 205 IC though so probably won't effect the 185 one as badly. I use an ERL WI kit to supplement the IC.
To fit tou will need the brackets as well as they are different on the non GrpA. Run the pump all the time, very noticeable benefits in cooling. Sheild the thing as best you can from heat sink in the engine bay. Wrap the sides and base with thermo tec adhesive tape and see if someone can make you up an alloy heat sheild to sit between the engine and IC.
A big well designed frontmount is the ultimate but the a/w is generally good enough and easily supplemented with WI if required.
Tue, 25 November 2003 02:39
