Charge Cooler Heat Exchangers

Does your engine run a water-cooled charge cooler, and does the intake temperature rise during repeated pulls or on a track day? A heat exchanger, typically mounted at the front of the car, sheds the heat from the coolant so the charge air stays cooler. Here you can choose between universal and car-specific models.

How the heat exchanger works

In a water-to-air system, the charge cooler absorbs the heat from the compressed air, and the coolant is pumped on to the heat exchanger, where the airflow from driving cools it down. If the heat exchanger is too small for your power target, or it gets too little air, the coolant can get hot and the intake temperature rises. You will find the cooler itself under intercoolers.

How to choose a heat exchanger

Size alone does not determine performance. Consider several factors:

• Cooling capacity: sometimes stated in Btu/hour, e.g. Edelbrock's universal model with single pass, single row and 31,000 Btu/Hr.
• Dimensions and space: check width, height and depth, and whether the airflow to the engine radiator is affected.
• Flow and pressure drop: the number of passes and rows can affect both cooling and the resistance for the pump.
• Fitment: AMS offers car-specific models for e.g. the BMW G8X M2/M3/M4 with S58, Toyota GR Supra A90 and Nissan Z.

Installation and maintenance

Bleed the system thoroughly after installation, as air pockets can reduce circulation. Keep the fins free of dirt, and check hoses and joints for leaks.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a universal and a car-specific heat exchanger?

A car-specific model is designed for a particular car and its mounting points. A universal one typically requires you to make brackets and route the hoses yourself, but can be used in your own projects.

Does a larger heat exchanger always give a lower intake temperature?

Not necessarily. The result also depends on the airflow through the fins, the pump flow, the amount of coolant and the charge cooler itself. The space in front of the engine radiator must also be taken into account.

Does a new heat exchanger need to be approved for inspection?

It depends on the product and the car. Check for the specific part number whether documentation is available, and assess the modification as a whole together with the rest of your project, e.g. increased boost pressure.