Supercharger Tech Articles
16 / May / 2022
Supercharger Oil Change Instructions For Eaton/Magnuson with Standard Nose Cover / Snout, M45/M62/M90/M112/M122
These instructions will show you how to perform the oil change on your vehicle’s S/C unit. This can be performed on the vehicle, but it is recommended to remove the S/C from the vehicle and to perform these steps on a workbench (as shown in these instructions). Oil Draining Procedure: 1– There are two ways […]
24 / Jun / 2022
EATON Supercharger Maintenance, what to look for during your scheduled / routine maintenance.
In today’s busy world it is easy to unintentionally neglect the maintenance on your vehicle, and even easier to overlook your superchargers maintenance. While all EATON based superchargers are relatively maintenance free, there are some things you should keep an eye out for when performing routine maintenance on your vehicle. Below are some pointers […]
31 / Aug / 2021
Eaton Supercharger Oil Chart
Oil Chart for OEM applications with Eaton Superchargers Here is a list of how much oil is required for an Eaton Supercharger on OEM vehicles. Only use the special supercharger oil that is made for the supercharger or you can cause damage to the supercharger. OEM Application Rotor Type Oil Fill (fl oz) Audi A6/S4 […]
01 / May / 2020
How to replace the coupler on a TRD/Magnuson Supercharger for the 5.7L Toyota Tundra
This article is a step-by-step guide from our friends at Magnuson Superchargers on how to replace the coupler in your Toyota Tundra 5.7L supercharger. If you have a Magnuson or TRD supercharger for the 5.7L V8 (3UR-FE), this will guide you through removing the drive cover and replacing the coupler. This kit from SCOL includes […]
03 / Feb / 2012
What is the difference between a Vortech V-1, V-2, V-3 Trim?
At SuperchargersOnline we get tons of questions on what is thedifference between a Vortech V-1, V-2, V-3 Trim, etc… Whatdoes it all mean? Vortech superchargers label their compressors in names such as V-1 Si-Trim, V-3 Si-Trim, V-2 Si-trim, or V-1 T-Trim. The first half in which Vortech labels their compressors tells you the type of […]
22 / Sep / 2011
Vumaxx Gauge Pod
(Universal Gauge Pod Mount show in picture above PN: VX-CD-1400) Over the many years in which we have been specializing in superchargers, we have seen a lack of mounting options for gauges. And lets face it, gauges not only allow you to monitor performance, collect data to troubleshoot or make performance adjustments, […]
01 / Sep / 2011
Vortech Replacement Part List
There are many assemblies that make up a complete supercharger systems. Here is a Vortech Supercharger Parts list to help you find what you are looking for. Vortech replacement parts for Ford Mustang 1983-1996 Ford Mustang 1994-1995 Ford Mustang 1996-2004 Ford Mustang 2005-2010 Ford Mustang 1996-2004 Ford Mustang Cobra 2003-2004 Ford Mustang Mach 1 […]
31 / Aug / 2011
How to replace an Eaton Supercharger Coupler
Does your EATON supercharger make a rattling sound, sort of like rocks rattling around? Is the noise very distinct during idle or low speeds and then soften up as you drive your vehicle? As long as your supercharger is not leaking oil the chances are your coupler is worn and needs to be replaced. Since […]
29 / Aug / 2011
What is a MagnaCharger TVS?
Twin Vortices Series (MagnaCharger TVS) The Eaton Twin Vortices Series or Eaton TVS is a patented supercharger design that features twin four-lobe rotors, twisted 160 degrees. By comparison, the original Eaton supercharger features three lobes twisted 60 degrees. The fourth lobe and added twist, when combined with redesigned air […]
28 / Aug / 2011
Vortech V-3 Oil Change
How to change the oil in a Vortech V-3 Supercharger The Vortech V-3 superchargers feature an internally lubricated transmission. This design allows for the supercharger installation and operation without oil lines. The Vortech V-3 Supercharger requires a special blend of synthetic oil in which needs to be checked every 2,500 miles and must be changed […]
22 / Aug / 2011
Supercharger Parts
What supercharger parts normally come in a complete kit? Most supercharger systems will come with tons of parts to make up the kit. And having an understanding of what supercharger parts will only make you more familiar with the systems. Here is a list of the most common supercharger parts that make up a supercharger […]
18 / Aug / 2011
What supercharger should I get?
What is the best supercharger? This is by far the most common question we get at www.SuperchargersOnline.com. The correct answer is there is not one supercharger brand that is best for you since all types have it’s pro’s and con’s. What it ultimately comes down to is what type of supercharger will fit your needs, […]
10 / Nov / 2005
How to install a Nissan 350z Vortech Supercharger System.
The following installation overview is designed to give you an idea of what is involved in installing a Vortech Intercooled Supercharger System on a 2004 Nissan 350z. Installation InfoLocation: 7901 Canoga Ave, Canoga Park, CA 91304Vehicle: 2004 Nissan 350zSupercharger System: Vortech Air-to-Air Intercooled Supercharger System for Nissan 350z (Click Here)Selected Boost: 6-7psi Ratings (Scale of […]
07 / Nov / 2005
How to install an Acura NSX Comtech Supercharger System.
The following installation overview is designed to give you an idea of what is involved in installing a Comptech Supercharger System on a 2005 Acura NSX. Installation InfoLocation: 7901 Canoga Ave, CAVehicle: 2005 Acura NSXSupercharger System: Comptech Supercharger System for 1997-2005 Acura NSX (Discontinued)Selected Boost: 6psi Ratings (Scale of 1-10, 10 being the best)Packaging: 9Installation […]
19 / May / 2005
Replace your Vortech oil nozzle and feed line!
This new product from HP Stainless caught our eye because it solves several concerns and problems that many Vortech supercharger owners ask us about. If you have ever broken the oil-feed nozzle on your Vortech supercharger, or if you would simply like to improve the look of the oil pressure feed line and nozzle, HP […]
17 / Dec / 2004
The Low Down on Gauges
Why do I need a gauge? Gauges are not necessary but are an extremely helpful tool to have. Gauges help monitor levels which can help you in tuning or even help find minor problems before they turn into something major…not to mention they also look good in your ride! There are many types of gauges […]
13 / Aug / 2003
The Mystery of ‘Octane’ Finally Uncovered
What is octane? The concept of octane is peculiar to many people, including myself. I can’t see it, I can’t hold it, I can’t buy it by itself, but I know I know I pay extra for it if I want more than 87 of it in my gas. Today we take an in-depth look […]
04 / Aug / 2003
Detonation, Knock, and Pre-Ignition 101
As you probably have already figured out, detonation (aka “knock”) is a big issue in the world of forced induction. You probably know that detonation is a bad thing, and that by adding a supercharger (or any forced induction power adder), you must take additional measures to avoid detonation, especially if your engine has other […]
04 / Aug / 2003
How-to: Install a MagnaCharger RADIX Supercharger System on a GM
The following installation overview is designed to give you an idea of what is involved in installing a MagnaCharger RADIX Intercooled Supercharger System on a 4.8L, 5.3L, or 6.0L GM Truck. Special thanks to SuperchargersOnline.com customer Chris Sandman for his help in creating this article on MagnaCharger Superchargers. Installation InfoInstaller(s): Chris SandmanLocation: Brewerton, New YorkVehicle: […]
07 / Jun / 2003
The Braking Equation
STOP!!! Do you really know about brakes? Or do you read too many magazines? With contributions by Ed Martinez – Performance Solutions Engineering and inserts by James Walker, Jr. Let’s look at some common rotor “modification” and “performance” upgrades that you may have been exposed to and try to separate the marketing from the engineering. We’ll […]
19 / May / 2003
The Fuel Management Unit (Part 2 of 2)
The FMU and vehicle fuel systems were explained in the first part of this series (The Fuel Management Unit – Part 1 of 2). In this segment we will go deeper in to the FMU and its ability to support horsepower. Getting Technical The FMU, also know as a “boost dependent fuel pressure regulator,” only […]
17 / Apr / 2003
How Your Drive Train Handles Boost
“Roots and Twin-Screw superchargers are known for the higher low-end torque they provide. Are they harder on the drive train components than a centrifugal supercharger is?” Written by James Bertok – Guest Tech Guru The short answer to this question is both yes and no, so let’s start with the basics. (See a comparison […]
31 / Mar / 2003
The Fuel Management Unit (Part 1 of 2)
OK…so what exactly is an FMU? Here, we grapple with the basics of fuel management. This article is Part #1 in a two part series focusing on the fuel delivery system – hold on! Written by James Bertok – Guest Tech Guru What is an FMU? Horsepower is a result of two key components: […]
26 / Mar / 2003
Superchargers A-Z (Part 3 of 3)
Welcome to the 3rd and final installment of “Superchargers A-Z”. If you haven’t already read Part 1 and Part 2, of this series, you may want to start there. So far in this series we’ve discussed what a supercharger is, where it came from, and what technologies drive the core of any supercharger system – […]
26 / Mar / 2003
Vortech Q&A
When you think “supercharger” chances are you’re thinking “Vortech”. The term “Vortech” has become almost interchangeable with “supercharger”. It’s what Kleenex is to tissues, what Aspirin is to pain relievers, and what Rollerblade is to inline-skates. One might wonder how this relatively new entry into the centrifugal supercharger industry has become such a dominant force. […]
03 / Mar / 2003
As Technical As Twin-Screws Get
Welcome to the 2nd installment from Aleksandar Subic – Associate Professor at RMIT University in Australia. At RMIT, they are making giant strides to understand, and improve upon, the intricacy and technology of the twin-screw supercharger. The following information has been graciously offered by the RMIT team, to our online community, so that we may […]
02 / Mar / 2003
Bye Bye 14.7 psi!
Did you know that the reason your engine makes MORE power with a supercharger is the same reason it makes LESS power as you gain elevation? You lose power as you gain elevation simply because the air is LESS densely packed with air molecules. Conversely, a supercharger packs in air that is MORE densely packed […]
26 / Feb / 2003
Superchargers A-Z (Part 2 of 3)
Welcome to part 2 of “Superchargers A-Z”. If you haven’t already read part 1, of this series, you may want to start there. Some of you may have recognized in part 1 of this series that in the early days of supercharging, there are three types of superchargers – roots, twin-screw, and centrifugal. You may already […]
05 / Feb / 2003
Superchargers A-Z (Part 1 of 3)
In this series we’ll take a slightly more in depth look at the fundamentals of supercharging that were introduced in our “Supercharger Basics” article. This is part 1 of a 3-part series. After reading these three articles you should have a fairly strong understanding of what the supercharger does, what the advantages of each type […]
04 / Feb / 2003
How to Tap Your Oil Pan
Is tapping your oil pan better than a self-contained head unit? Is a self- contained head unit the way to go? Read on. What is tapping an oil pan? A tap is a tool used to create female threads in a punched hole. “Tapping a pan” means to punch a small hole in the side […]
30 / Jan / 2003
Choosing the Right Differential Upgrade
Now that you’ve supercharged your truck, the next project to consider might be getting all that extra power planted to the ground! Written by James Bertok – Guest Tech Guru Consider the following: Does your truck only spin the passenger-side tire when you mash the throttle? Do you have trouble maintaining traction off the line? […]
14 / Jan / 2003
An Introduction to VF-Engineering
What’s all the buzz about the new VF-Engineering Supercharger Systems? Check out this Tech Article, featuring FAQ’s for VF-Engineering’s VW Golf/Jetta Supercharger Kit, and see for yourself! ABOUT VF-ENGINEERING The Team:The VF-Engineering management and engineering team derive their experience from 7 years of supercharging modern sports cars such as the Lotus, VW, BMW and Opel. […]
10 / Jan / 2003
Suggestions for Proper Engine Maintenance
So you want to supercharge your engine?!?! Here are some valuable tips to making sure your engine (and supercharger) are properly maintained. Written by James Bertok – Guest Tech Guru How Will Engine Maintenance Change With a Supercharger? Supercharging your vehicle is an investment in its capability. Once installed, your vehicle will offer levels of […]
04 / Dec / 2002
Superchargers…Aussie Style!
From our friends “down unda” comes the First High Performance Supercharger R&D Facility in the Southern Hemisphere! With contributions by Aleksandar Subic – Associate Professor at RMIT University RMIT University and Forced Air Technologies Pty Ltd have launched a new High Performance Supercharger Testing Facility in March 2002, offering specialized research and commercial services that […]
24 / Oct / 2002
Pre-Purchase Checklist
Before you buy your supercharger, make sure you’ve considered the following: 1. TYPE OF SUPERCHARGER: Centrifugal, twin screw, and roots style superchargers are all founded on different technologies. Each offers different performance characteristics and has a certain set of limitations. Normally if there is only one type of supercharger available for your vehicle, then your […]
16 / Oct / 2002
The Skinny on Spark Plugs
Wake up, Sparky! Here’s everything you need to know about spark plugs courtesy of our resident engine and supercharger expert! With contributions by Ed Martinez – Performance Solutions Engineering Whether you have a forced induction unit installed on your engine, or are just running a naturally aspirated setup, the performance of your vehicle is greatly […]
05 / Aug / 2002
HOW TO Install a Vortech S2000 Supercharger System
The following installation overview is designed to give you an idea of what is involved in installing Vortech’s new aftercooled supercharger system on a 2000-2002 Honda S2000. Special thanks to SuperchargersOnline.com customer Brian Troup for his help in creating this article. Installation InfoInstaller: Brian TroupLocation: Atlanta, GAVehicle: 2001 Honda S2000Supercharger System: Vortech Supercharger Kit w/ […]
10 / Jun / 2002
Aftercooling – Vortech style!
We are posting this article to help set the record straight about Vortech Engineering’s aftercoolers. Yes, Vortech utilizes a new style air-to-water aftercooler that many people think only work well for drag racing – but they are wrong. Vortech’s aftercooler includes a air-cooled radiator that cools the water via air passing through the front grill, […]
22 / May / 2002
HOW-TO: Install a Whipple Supercharger System
The following installation overview is designed to give you an idea of what is involved in installing a Whipple Supercharger System on a 96-01 GM 5.0/5.7L. Special thanks to SuperchargersOnline.com customer Richard from Pacific Palisades, CA for his help in creating this article. Installation Info Installer: Carl Rheuban Location: Pacific Palisades, CA Vehicle: 1997 GMC […]
21 / May / 2002
Supercharger Manufacturer Comparison
When you begin to search for the best supercharger for your vehicle, the choices can sometimes seem overwhelming. With so many manufacturers, it’s sometimes difficult to know where to start. This guide is designed to give you an overview of each supercharger manufacturer and will hopefully help you decide which brand is the best choice […]
05 / Apr / 2002
Roots Type Superchargers Explained
History The roots style supercharger is the oldest type of supercharger and dates back to the early 1900’s when it was first used as an industrial air-moving device. In the past 30 years or so, however, the roots style supercharger has undergone drastic changes and has become so efficient and quiet that it is now […]
03 / Apr / 2002
Turbo vs. Supercharger
It’s one of the most common questions we are asked – the answer to which is almost impossible to find“What is better – a supercharger or a turbo?” We only wish the answer were that simple, but unfortunately it is not. The simple answer is:“It depends.”But don’t worry, we’ll go into more depth than that […]
02 / Apr / 2002
**NEW** SuperchargersOnline Discussion Forums!
SuperchargersOnline.com is proud to announce the grand opening of its discussion forums. This interactive addition to our community will allow you to communicate with and learn from other enthusiasts just like you. By launching these forums, we hope to help you build the largest supercharger technical network in the world. The size and success of […]
08 / Jan / 2002
The Centrifugal Supercharger Explained
The Centrifugal Supercharger Explained Since we sell more centrifugal superchargers than any other type of supercharger (twin-screw or roots), it’s time we sat down and discussed exactly what the centrifugal supercharger is and how it works. Take a fresh breath of air, because this fairly detailed and technical. Don’t worry if you don’t understand exactly […]
04 / Dec / 2001
Screw-Type Supercharging 101: An Intro to Whipple
The Whipple Twin Screw Supercharger Incredibly high adiabatic and volumetric efficiencies Positive displacement design Very flat efficiency curve combined with positive displacement design gives the most achievable torque of any method Instant boost A true compressor Direct drive from the crankshaft Compact and lightweight design Virtually silent operation Low temperature increases during operation […]
03 / Aug / 2001
Let’s Talk Intercoolers!
An intercooler (sometimes referred to as an aftercooler) is designed to remove heat from the compressed air coming from the supercharger (or turbo) before it enters the engine’s induction system. An intercooler works just like a radiator – air is cooled by fins, bars, louvres, and plates inside the intercooler that are cooler than the […]
05 / Jul / 2001
Supercharger Basics
Superchargers 101 – Introduction to Superchargers In order to understand how a supercharger is going to help your car scream, you first need to understand what a supercharger is and how it works. Well… class is in session, so sit down with your note pad pay close attention, because there might be a quiz at […]
18 / Apr / 2001
Answering your questions about By-Pass Valves.
What is a By-Pass Valve, what do they do, & do I need one? The By-Pass Valve does just that, it allows air that is being forced down the throat of your motor to be by-passed back into the supercharger or into the atmosphere, depending on the application, and the requirements of the supercharger. Why, […]
02 / Apr / 2001
Supercharger Specification Matrix Chart (Part 3)
Answering the Popular Question: “What’s the Difference?” With so many options in the way of superchargers, it’s easy to get confused on what-is-what and what it does once you have purchased it. This chart is to help aid in the decision of what brand and model of supercharger that is right for you. Roots & […]
02 / Apr / 2001
Supercharger Specification Matrix Chart (Part 2)
Answering the Popular Question: “What’s the Difference?” With so many options in the way of superchargers, it’s easy to get confused on what-is-what and what it does once you have purchased it. This chart is to help aid in the decision of what brand and model of supercharger that is right for you. ProCharger & […]
02 / Apr / 2001
Supercharger Specification Matrix Chart (Part 1)
Answering the Popular Question: “What’s the Difference?” With so many options in the way of superchargers, it’s easy to get confused on what-is-what and what it does once you have purchased it. This chart is to help aid in the decision of what brand and model of supercharger that is right for you. Vortech & […]
21 / Mar / 2001
Roots vs. Centrifugal vs. Screw Type Supercharging
Roots vs. Centrifugal vs. Screw Type Supercharging The most effective performance enhancement that you will ever do to your car or truck is definitely a supercharger. That is why it is very important that you choose the right type of supercharger to get the right kind of power for the type of conditions that you […]
20 / Mar / 2001
Choosing The Right Supercharger
Supercharger Buyers Guide The popularity of superchargers has created overabundance of options in the way of supercharging. With this in mind a lot of supercharger enthusiasts are confused on which way they should go. You’ve got Centrifugal, Screw, or Roots type superchargers, with drive systems consisted of gears, belts, screws, etc…. The best way to […]