QUOTE(xf_turbo @ May 9 2007, 04:32 PM) [snapback]530369[/snapback]
A top mount intercooler is such a crude setup you would be better off without one or at least a FMIC. When your sitting at the lights or even low speeds the intercooler soaks up massive amounts of heat from the engine, and once you've got that heat into the cooler/end tanks/piping its very hard for the air entering through a scoop to cool this down to provide any benefit. That is why overyone gets rid of top mounts (such as WRX) and go for FMIC. All turbo drag cars go for FMIC and they are runing like 30psi +. So I would really not recommend you go for a top mount, especially if you going to run something like 15psi. What about mounting a small cooler in the wheel arch with a protector from the tyre side and a duct from the front bumper to provide cool air. At least it will not be soaking up engine bay temps. Anyway food for thought.
Would love to see pics of this car!
Yes, they are crude. But only 'cos they are "old" technology. They are still better than nothing believe me. My car would only run about 12 psi without it. When it was first built (about 8 years ago) the motor was running 20 psi for a while - just while I was "tuning" it and getting all the computers set up properly. After I got it sorted to my satisfaction I then pulled the boost right out of it for longevity of the motor. I figure that as it was built to take 20 psi then at 12 psi it should last a good while without any problems. So far so good.
I don't have a problem with heat soak - there is full time high capacity fan forced ducting for the engine compartment out through the inner guard. No bonnet scoops, no bonnet vents ... pure stealth!
I had a look for some pics but don't have any on my current 'puter system that I can find. I'll post a couple up tomorrow.