The Top 5 Things to Look for When Choosing an Intercooler

Intercoolers are a huge boost for your vehicle’s performance. Cooling intake air for more efficient combustion enhances your vehicle’s horsepower and torque while reducing engine knock. If you’re in the market for a new intercooler, here are five things to consider before signing on the dotted line. 

Core Size

Size means everything for your intercooler. Check to make sure that your desired intercooler fits your build before purchasing. The thickness of the intercooler core is an important factor as well. Having too large of an intercooler can lead to boost lag, making for a frustrating driving experience. The standard thickness for an intercooler is about 3/3.5 inches. This size intercooler is preferred for street driving and suitable for 640 to 700 horsepower. If you want to go bigger than that there are 4/4.5 inch-thick intercoolers. 

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Inlet/Outlet Size

Inlet and outlet size is also important for your ride. Make sure that it fits your vehicle before installing. Most inlets and outlets are the same size but for drivers who want that extra boost, the inlet size will be larger to take in more of that compressed air before channeling it through the intercooler.  

Core Design

There are several options when it comes to the design of your next intercooler. The two main core designs are bar and plate versus tube and fin. Most aftermarket intercoolers are designed with the bar and plate style. These models are more efficient but are typically more expensive. 

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Fin Density

Fin density impacts the efficiency of cooling the air once it reaches the intercooler. The more fins per row will increase its surface area and will more easily transfer the compressed air through the intercooler for efficient heat cooling. Visit your manufacturer’s website to confirm that the intercooler that you want will be a good fit for your build. 

End Tank Design

Cast aluminum end tank

Most OEM tanks are designed with jagged plastic edges that slow down airflow and are more prone to cracking and fatigue. Stamped aluminum is a stronger material, being able to withstand more compressed air and channel it effectively than their plastic counterparts. The stamped aluminum models are also more expensive, so keep an eye on your budget while shopping for the right intercooler. 

When it comes to aftermarket tank designs, welded aluminum, cast aluminum, or billet aluminum are popular choices. The welded aluminum cutouts are great for custom jobs that need to fit specific requirements. Cast aluminum can be customized to your build while avoiding those fault points from welds, minimizing leaks and other issues. Billet aluminum is made from a large block of aluminum to reinforce the end tank for high-performance applications. 

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Find Intercoolers at MAPerformance 

Each design has its own benefits, so see what makes the most sense for your next installation. If you’re looking for a place to shop for intercoolers of various designs and capabilities, check out the MAPerformance website to find the model that best fits your first ride. 

If you have any questions about intercoolers or any aftermarket parts for your vehicle, give our sales team a call so you can get your answers fast.