COOLING THE INTERCOOLER

The method of cooling the charge that flows through the intercooler is an effective means of improving performance. A front-mounted intercooler is generally regarded as being more efficient than a top-mounted intercooler because there is a more direct flow of air for cooling. Mounting the intercooler behind a front bumper is a popular modification and is standard on some models (eg, the secondgeneration BMW MINI Cooper S). In other cases, a universal intercooler can be fitted along with custom-made boost pipes and hoses.

The air that flows through an intercooler can be cooled by other means than air. Water is a popular method, requiring a closed system that pumps water through the intercooler (also known as a charge cooler) to help cool the air that is also fed through it. Such a system includes a separate means of cooling the water, such as a radiator. Spraying water over an intercooler is another method of cooling the air. Using evaporation, this helps to dissipate heat from the intercooler and, in turn, cool the air inside it.