Do You Need A Tune For a Blow Off Valve?
Turbochargers are probably one of the most talked-about components in the tuning world. The explanation for this is simple: the more boost you have, the faster your car will move. The only drawback with boost is that it can cause a slew of problems if it’s tuned incorrectly. To produce more power, raising the air pressure entering the engine is critical. It does, however, put much stress on the interior components of your engine. When you remove your foot from the gas pedal, the throttle plate closes, trapping pressurised air between the intake, manifold, and the turbocharger. Modern turbocharged engines have blow-off valves to prevent internal components from being harmed by excessive air pressure.
Blow-off valves are basic but essential components of every turbo engine that produces much boost. The primary function of the blow-off valves is to release pressure when the throttle plate shuts, relieving the turbocharger of its burden. Furthermore, some of these valves maintain the compressor spinning when the engine load is released, lessening the turbo lag effect when the gas pedal is pressed again.
Is It Important To Tune A Blow Off Valve?
One of the things that many people appreciate about blow-off valves is the iconic sound they produce, in addition to the safety features they offer. Even yet, many manufacturer-installed blow-off valves are designed to be as silent as possible, permitting forced induction without causing any unnecessary noises that can prompt service or warranty concerns. As a result, you’ll need to tune your blow-off valve to achieve that distinctive sound the blow valve makes when the throttle closes.
How Can You Tune Your Blow Off Valve Properly To Get That Iconic Sound?
Vent to the Atmosphere
As previously indicated, if you purchase a car with a factory-installed blow-off valve or bypass valve, it will be completely silent. This is because the valves are designed to redistribute the vented air into the intake tract, which is muffled by the airbox. However, having a blow-off valve intended to vent straight to the atmosphere is a straightforward technique that can provide you with a more noticeable sound.
With neither intake tubing nor airboxes to soften the sound, the airflow is vented straight to the engine compartment, resulting in a much louder discharge. However, if you own a car with a mass airflow system, it is essential to note that venting your blow-off valve discharge to the atmosphere is a very unrecommended course of action. That is because venting to the air will generate unexpected too rich fuel mixtures, causing stumbling and stalling due to how these systems gauge air.
Institute a cold air intake
Cold air intakes and short ram intakes replace OEM airboxes with a faster, more direct path for airflow into the engine. Unfortunately, even on systems installed for factory-style recirculation, a significant increase in blow-off valve discharge noise is an adverse effect of this direct airflow route.
Any blow-off valve vented to the air will produce a more noticeable sound, but there are drawbacks. Consider installing an intake system for the most refined balance of sound and drivability. More power and loudness can be yours at a reasonable price.
Select a Hybrid Type to Prevent Stumbling
The pressure air from hybrid blow valves is vented into the intake pre-turbo to maintain the proper fuel mixture and into the atmosphere to produce an iconic sound. This is useful in some cars where venting simply into the atmosphere causes a rich condition, resulting in stumbling.
Use The Sequential Type Valve to Enhance Throttle Response
Utilizing a sequential pull-type valve such as the super sequential valve or the HKS SSQV will enhance the throttle response since these valves are designed to respond much quicker to the changing engine conditions than the larger ones. In addition, because of their design, these valves also benefit from being less susceptible to pressure leaks.
Use a Dynamometer
To obtain the best results from your tuning, you’ll require to put your automobile on a dynamometer. A dynamometer is a device used to measure horsepower and torque output to give you the best results when tuning your blow-off valve. Adjust the blow-off valve very slowly and carefully until you get the best results.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Blow Off Valve
Build Quality
The blow-off valve construction quality speaks volumes about how long it will survive and operate well. Always buy those that are manufactured with a billet aluminum frame and an anodized aluminum internal piston. Anything constructed entirely of plastic should be avoided since it can break or melt under extreme strain.
Sound Quality
It’s crucial to think about the sound quality or kind you desire before purchasing a blow off valve. For example, do you prefer a quiet hissing sound or a louder hissing sound that attracts attention to your vehicle? To avoid noise complaints, make sure anything you choose is within the recommended noise rating.
Ease of Installation
Always purchase BOV’s that come with installation instructions and a mounting kit. These are easier to install than those that come as a standalone product and require you to buy mounting hardware separately.
Compatibility
Although there are universal fit BOVs on the market, you should conduct your research to ensure that the option is suitable for your vehicle. Always prioritize models described as a custom fit for your car’s model, make, and year to avoid obtaining the wrong size.
BOV vs. CBV
Whether or not you use a BOV is determined by how your engine handles excess air pressure. For optimum engine performance, some engines require a compressor bypass valve that directs pressured intake. Always consult your owner’s manual to determine the type of valve your car should use.
Final take
Every turbo engine has blow-off valves, which are basic yet critical components. Aside from their protective role, many people enjoy them for the distinctive sound they make. However, because many factory-installed blow-off valves are supposed to be silent, you’ll need to tune them to achieve that characteristic sound. To avoid engine damage, always make sure your blow-off valve is appropriately tuned.
