Intercooler after thoughts

[CHUCK]

I got my IC installed. Now, it seems as if I've lost some boost psi, about 5-7psi. I dont think thats right, or is it?
How can I check for leaks?

She runs great, especially after 1800 rpm.

[farmboypowerstroke]

yeah you must have a leak somewhere you shouldn't lose any boost

[CHUCK]

Thanks for the reply. I'll start checking in the a.m.

[95dieselsmoke]

maybe im wrong, but i belive that installing an IC will lower boost. can anyone confirm this?

Installing an intercooler or for that matter a bigger one will drop boost over what your used to seeing. Even going from a stock 7.3 to a 6.0 will drop a bit. But it moves more volume. I've never seen one drop 5-7 but it will probably drop 2-3 for sure.

[RC51]

Drop 1-2 and you mite get a little turbo lag.

[DZL JIM]

Yup, drop in psi is normal. But if it's too much, something's up.
I've seen guys rig up caps for their pipes and pressure test the cooler and tubes to see if it's leaking.
Basically get PVC caps the size of your pipes and clamp them in the boots at the turbo and intake. In one of the caps drill and thread a fitting for an air chuck and gauge. Add pressure (35 - 40 psi?) and watch gauge to see if it drops. It should hold good.
Even if there's a small leak, it'll suck psi from you, but 5 psi loss doesn't really sound like a leak...


Check it and see and let us know.

[waynej]

I lost 5 when I put mine in and I have checked for leaks....We'll see what the dyno says in a couple of weeks

[farmboypowerstroke]

yeah you may lose alittle, but not 5-7psi

[RLSVT]

friend of mine did the same thing and lost about 5psi. Then he put a chip in and that help out alot.