Improving Overall Performance: 3 Truck Parts That Increase Horsepower

13 April 2015
 Categories: Automotive, Blog


Trucks are gaining in popularity due to their rugged structure and overall performance capabilities. From 2009 to 2014, the average annual growth of light rigid trucks is about 4.3% and the average annual growth of heavy rigid trucks is about 1.2%. If you are a truck owner yourself, you'll be aware that there are various truck parts that can increase horsepower. Here are 3 aftermarket truck parts that are inexpensive, but effective. 

Upgrade the Air Filters

Most truck owners are unaware that changing and upgrading the air filters can have a phenomenal impact on their truck's horsepower. Most air filters produced by manufacturers are restricted in performance by cost. In short, these air filters don't allow for as much airflow as what would be considered as ideal. To increase horsepower, upgrade from a manufacturer's air filter to a high-performance aftermarket filter. These filters tend to a better job at filtering without restricting airflow to the engine. An increase in airflow will enhance your engine's capabilities and increase horsepower.

One important factor to note when choosing an air filter is to find one that is both washable and reusable. Air filters get clogged up and dirtied easily. Dirty air filters are much less efficient and will rob your truck of its horsepower. With a washable and reusable air filter, you can clean the filters often to make sure that dirt and dust particles do not obstruct the airflow.

Get a More Efficient Fuel Delivery

The fuel delivery's job is quite self-explanatory; it delivers fuel to the engine. Getting a more efficient fuel delivery is especially important if you have modified or altered your engine; however, choosing a fuel delivery is not as simple as installing a larger version. Most engines have a stoichiometric air-fuel ratio between 12.5 to 1 and 14 to 1. You will want to find a fuel delivery capable of adjusting the air-fuel delivery ratio to that range.

Keep in mind that you will waste gas and lose power if too much fuel is delivered, as the mixture is ratio. On the contrary, you will also lose power and your engine will run hotter if too little fuel is delivered, as the mixture is too lean. As a result, it is crucial that you choose wisely. 

Install Improved Cylinder Heads

Last but not least, installing improved cylinder heads can make a huge difference. Cylinder heads are responsible for topping off the cylinders and sealing off the pistons to build compression. Much like fuel delivery systems, there are many different types of improved cylinder heads that can be purchased that will improve the air-fuel ratio that enters the engine. These cylinder heads incorporate different shapes in their design in order to improve airflow, and can significantly increase a truck's horsepower as a result.

Conclusion

There are many other truck parts that can be purchased to increase the horsepower. Depending on the budget that you have available for modifications and the amount of time that you are willing to spend on your truck, you can significantly improve its performance. 


Share