What should I get

[wkulestat]

I was interested in getting a turbo kit for my 95 eclipse gs, and I was wondering if anybody had any tips or suggestions. Thanks.

 

[Turbo 420a]

This question has been asked countless times, maybe a moderator could put a "Options for going turbo" at the top of the N/T - Turbo Coversion forums... However, here we go again

Unless you plan on building your bottom end before going turbo, there are two Stages to a turbo kit when using your stock internals. A stage I turbo kit is everything the Stage II is, only non-intercooled. Because of this your boost levels will be limited to 5, maybe 6 psi. Stage II kits come with an intercooler and necessary plumbing, allowing you to boost up to 9 psi - and 10psi with some basic fuel tuning.

As for the kits.. there really are only two reputable kits out there to make your N/T turbocharged. The Hahn Racecraft kit is the most widely used and known turbo kit. This kit comes standard with a 16g turbocharger and internal wastegate + all of the other necessary components needed to make it function. The turbo can be upgraded to the larger 20g, slower spool but more top-end potential. If you spend the extra money and go Stage II with the HRC kit you will get a side-mount intercooler included with everything. You can also opt for the more efficient, noticable and expensive front mount intercooler with this kit. Hahn Racecraft distributes their own product and have exceptional customer service.. I know this firsthand because I purchased my injectors through them, and was able to talk to experienced Hahn employee whenever I had a question. Instructions with the kit are 40+ pages long and should explain everything you or a mechanic need to know for the install.

The other turbo kit is what I use, from Star Performance. This kit comes with a larger *standard* t3/t04b turbocharger, fairly similar to the 20g turbo. You also have the option of a larger E-trim turbo with the Star kit, not to mention a ball bearing option (allows for quicker spool). The Star performance kit uses an external wastegate whereas the HRC's wastegate is internal. Polished intercooler piping also comes standard with the Star kit. If you go for the Stage 2 kit with Star you get a standard front mount intercooler with a Spearco core and Star end tanks. Instructions are 2 pages long and serve a better purpose as toilet paper - but it should be 'enough' for a good mechanic... or if you know the fundamentals of the install.

Both of the kits are similar in price, although I think the Star kit is a couple hundred less. This all depends on where the kit is bought, and if it's used, what options it has etc. Eventually you are going to have to get a few supporting mods if you go turbo. I think larger injectors and a basic fuel tuning device (Vortech S-FMU) are damn near required as you don't want to be using your stock injectors for too long and risk running way to lean (engine goes ka-blewie). Also, a larger exhaust system will help out big time - any aftermarket system will do.. I chose to go custom on my exhaust and save a few $$$ to get the same results. Other things such as a clutch or ignition might be required, all depending on your vehicles current condition.

Although I'm sure I missed a few things, this is roughly the main options you will have for which kit to choose. Spend a little bit of time browsing through the N/T - Turbo Conversion forums and reading other similar posts to help fully educate your decision. You would be shocked how many times this question has been asked and debated.

Hope I was of some help! PM me if you have any other questions about the Star kit and what to expect. Or PM one of the many Hahn guys for their fill on that side of the turbo