Project Dark Horse, Part 2 - Supercharger Install

There are a few ways blower companies address the need-for-more-fuel issue that a supercharger creates. New FMUs, reprogramming the injector pulse, an external fuel pump, or larger injectors are all ways to add more fuel. Powerdyne opted to use larger injectors in the kit. Actually, they are the same ones used in the factory supercharged Cobra Mustangs. These go in with the least amount of hassle, and since they are a Ford part, Powerdyne knows they will work.

After he removed the retaining bolts, Vinnie used a disconnect tool to pop off the fuel line to the injector rail. These tools can be rented at most parts stores or you can buy them out right.

But, you definitely need them to get the rail out, so don't try and MacGyver it-just get the proper tool.

There are little clips that keep the injectors seated in the orifices of the rail that a little persuasion of a screwdriver took care of. Don't worry if you damage the clips taking them out, because Powerdyne sends out a new set with the Cobra Injectors.

Here, you can see the difference between factory (left) and new (right); the new unit has a larger housing that contains a bigger solenoid, so the injector can supply more fuel at the higher cylinder pressures the supercharger will create.

A little motor oil was used to lubricate the O-ring before the Vin-meister popped in the new injector.

This will help the O-ring slide into the orifice easily and make sure it seals properly.

Powerdyne provides a new lower pulley that was cut in house on a CNC machine out of 6061 aluminum bar stock. The company whittles it down to a finished 7.25-inch diameter that will spin the blower to the proper speed, producing 6 pounds of boost.

The new pulley slips right inside the factory unit and bolts up with hardware provided in the kit. Vinnie says, "Not really a hard thing; just make sure the inside of the factory pulley is clear of debris," which will ensure the new pulley spins true.

The plate that Powerdyne cuts in house, out of 0.50-inch aluminum, is designed to bolt up flat against the block at a few points.

This simple design makes it very rigid and easy to install.

The idler and the tensioner pulley bolted up the plate-again, very simple yet effective.

Here is the meat of the whole system, Powerdyne's centrifugal supercharger featuring the company's SilentDrive internals.

Instead of a set of internal gears, this one has a dry belt setup with hardened shafts to spin the impeller to as high as 40,100 rpm. Also, Powerdyne designed the impeller to come on quicker than most, providing more low-end boost.

Here, Vinnie enlisted the help of Gary to mount the supercharger to the plate with the provided hardware.