FMIC that lets me keep my A/C? 92 TSI AWD

[Dan2]

I have a 92 TSI AWD w/ most the bolt-ons, a small16G, and the stock IC. It's run a high 12 as it sits but with race gas. With pump gas I can't get more than 13 PSI before knock is so high that timing is pulled and the extra boost does nothing.

I really want to get a better intercooler, but it seems most of them require you to remove your air conditioning (either for clearance or to avoid overheating). The A/C works damn good in my car and since I'm in one of the hottest parts of California, I am not giving it up any time soon.

I like the Extreme PSI Street Core (and the price is right) but will I need an upgraded radiator and slim fans to use it with my A/C? Are there any other FMICs that are way better than the stock IC that let me retain my A/C (such as the Evo III FMIC maybe?)... any help is appreciated.

BTW: I tried searching but it seems to be down right now or too busy to complete a search.

 

[Dan2]

Another possibility is the Dejontool super sidemount and hard lower pipe to go w/ my current upper pipe

 

[turbolover2]

RRE (www.roadraceengineering.com) sells a small top to bottom FMIC. It's a Griffin core with Spearco tanks. You need to use pipes that go to and from the location of the stock IC. Meaning that you'll need to already have an upper IC pipe and lower IC pipe. RRE sells the rest of the pieces you need. I use it on my car, works great. No overheating, even on a hot day with the AC on.

Here's a link to the install instructions with pics so you get a better idea: http://www.roadraceengineering.com/instructions/1gfmic/1gfmic.htm

Here's a pic of one installed:

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[mike9146]

I run a Spearco 2-216 core and still have my A/C. It would probably be easier to get a good upgraded sidemount, but if you want the performance of a big FMIC, I highly recommend the 2-216.

http://www.pinamotorsports.com/gallery/album05/DSC00232

 

[Dan2]

Do either of these just-mentioned FMICs allow you to use the stock fans too, or do you need slim fans as well? Just trying to stay within a budget.

 

[turbolover2]

The RRE IC let's you keep everything stock except for the pipes. There is some trim work that needs to be done on the bumper and the inner fender (where the pipe goes through), but nothing major. The PS line needs to be bent a little also, but that's about it. It's a low budget install, but very well made. I'd say, all together, if you install it yourself, it will run about $850. That inlsudes all the pipes you need.

 

[mike9146]

Originally posted by Dan2
Do either of these just-mentioned FMICs allow you to use the stock fans too, or do you need slim fans as well? Just trying to stay within a budget.

That would depend on the install. There are companies that make kits using the 2-216 core, but mine was a custom install, so I have no idea if their pipe routing allows for the stock fans. I still run mine, but I'm a picky SOB who believes that stock shrouded fans work better than a zillion CFM aftermarket fan that doesn't fit the radiator. Try checking the parts section under IC's and ask a vendor that sells a 2-216 cored kit if you get to keep the stock fans. YMMV.

 

[Plague]

Just cut your bumper and the core will fit.

 

[GT40MkI]

I have a similar problem....I have a gorgeous full race monster polished intercooler, I went to install thinking I might be able to keep my A/C, and was dead wrong.

A/C works (its still r12 as well!) , and I refuse to lose it on my "street" car. Thats one of the things I did and regret to this day on the drag only Mustang jackstand racer.


So whats the best/most effecient intercooler that will work and still clear the factory A/C lines? I dont mind installing extra pusher/puller fans wherever necessary, and don't mind spending a few extra bucks to do it right. Cutting the bumper/bumper cover isn't a problem either..I just want my damn a/c to work and the car to run cool...

The Extreme PSI street core looks like a great piece, but they are out of stock right now, the piping wouldn't be exactly what I needed (probably going blow through and using a TiAL BOV). Anyone know what kinda CFM/horsepower the street core flows?Anything comparable on the market?

Thanks in advance for any help/suggestions, some info on the setup:

1990 Eagle Talon Tsi AWD
6-bolt 4g64 2.4 L
Precision SCM61 56 trim
MAF-T with 3 and 3.5" gm MAF.
Aftermarket aluminum radiator.

I do have a direct port fogger nitrous setup (possible extra cooling?)that I could use in "race" trim on fuel, and the FMIC will only see as much as its capable of cooling on pump gas 90% of the time....it would be nice to be able to cruise with 25+ psi though It was painfully obvious that my supra sidemount couldn't hang at the current level (about 22psi).



Thanks again
-Sean

 

[Questsi]

I got the Dejon street front mount which allows you to keep the stock fans and a.c. the piping runs where the stock piping went. Check out www.dejontool.com

 

[yo2001]

I got the Extreme Turbo FMIC with my PS line and A/C all intact. It's tight but I got A/C

 

[94EclipseGST]

Here's what I'm thinking about getting from Diamond Star Specialties:

http://www.diamondstarmotorsport.com/fmicparts.shtml

It's the budget kit for $650.

 

[almostquick]

no responses on the SBR kit? I'd like to hear something about it.

 

[2.4 turbo Hyped]

Check out my intercooler I have ice cold ac

 

[4gsx63]

FMIC= $$$+prepare to get overheating or just get SPAL slim fans and custom mountings.

I have both Spoolin Up FMIC and Dejon Tool Race fmic. Both of my car have working cold AC. DT also have the blow through setup for MAFT if that's what you're looking for.

 

[sweet97]

I could have started this post, thanks for the info! I am leaning towards the Dejon street FMIC but will investigate the others referenced here. I would NEVER tear out the AC on street car if the car was nice and mine is in great $4200. condition, original paint that looks like a repaint, spotless interior and well maintained 105K miles. not bad for a 13 year old car. Installing an AGP RS49 today, OK starting to! Mark

 

[ITSME4G63]

Here's what I'm thinking about getting from Diamond Star Specialties:

http://www.diamondstarmotorsport.com/fmicparts.shtml

It's the budget kit for $650.

What type of intercooler is that?

 

[rsr93]

What type of intercooler is that?

PTE