Hey guys! So, you're looking to turbocharge your Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 9, huh? Awesome choice! The Evo 9 is a beast right out of the factory, but there's always room for improvement, right? One of the most common and effective upgrades is the stock frame turbo upgrade. This guide will dive deep into everything you need to know about this upgrade, from why you should consider it to choosing the right turbo and the installation process. Let's get started!

Why Upgrade Your Evo 9 Stock Turbo?

So, why bother with an Evo 9 stock turbo upgrade? Well, the stock turbo on the Evo 9, while decent, has its limitations. It's designed to provide a good balance of power and responsiveness, but it can run out of breath at higher RPMs. This means that if you're looking for more power, especially at the top end, an upgrade is a must. The benefits of upgrading your turbo are numerous:

• Increased Horsepower and Torque: The most obvious benefit is more power! A properly selected and installed stock frame turbo can significantly increase horsepower and torque across the power band, giving you a noticeable performance boost. You'll feel the difference every time you hit the gas.
• Improved Top-End Performance: The stock turbo can start to struggle as you climb the rev range. An upgraded turbo can maintain boost pressure and deliver power all the way to redline, allowing for a more exhilarating driving experience.
• Better Throttle Response: While some larger turbo upgrades can introduce turbo lag, many stock frame options are designed to minimize this, providing a responsive and immediate throttle feel.
• Enhanced Driving Experience: Ultimately, an upgraded turbo transforms the way your Evo 9 drives. It makes it faster, more fun to drive, and gives you a grin every time you accelerate. Who doesn't want that?

Understanding Stock Frame Turbos

Before we jump into the details, let's clarify what a "stock frame turbo" actually means. A stock frame turbo is designed to bolt directly onto the existing exhaust manifold and downpipe of your Evo 9, using the same mounting points as the factory turbo. This means a relatively straightforward installation process, without needing to modify other components like the exhaust manifold or intercooler piping. This is a HUGE advantage for those looking for a power upgrade without a complete overhaul of their engine bay.

Benefits of Stock Frame Turbos:

• Ease of Installation: The primary benefit is the ease of installation. Since they bolt up directly, you can often perform the upgrade in your garage with basic tools. This can save you a ton of money on labor costs.
• Cost-Effective: Generally, stock frame turbo upgrades are less expensive than more extensive turbo kits that require additional modifications. This makes them a great option if you're on a budget.
• Retains Stock Appearance: For those who prefer a stealthy look, a stock frame turbo upgrade maintains the original engine bay appearance, making it less obvious that you've made significant performance modifications.
• Good Power Gains: Despite being a bolt-on upgrade, you can still expect significant power gains, often in the range of 50-100+ horsepower, depending on the specific turbo and supporting modifications.

Limitations of Stock Frame Turbos:

• Power Ceiling: Stock frame turbos are limited in the amount of power they can produce compared to larger turbo kits. They are typically best suited for those looking for a balance of power and drivability, rather than all-out drag racing performance.
• Compatibility: While they are designed to bolt on, you may still need some supporting modifications, such as a tune, upgraded fuel injectors, and possibly a boost controller, to maximize their potential and ensure reliability.
• Heat Management: Because the turbo is placed in a tight space, heat management becomes very important. You might want to invest in a turbo blanket or heat shield to help keep engine bay temperatures down.

Choosing the Right Evo 9 Stock Frame Turbo

Alright, so you're sold on the idea of upgrading your Evo 9's turbo. Now comes the fun part: picking the right one! There are several excellent stock frame turbo options available, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most popular and well-regarded choices:

• FP Green Turbo: This is one of the most popular stock frame turbo upgrades for the Evo 9. Known for its excellent power potential and relatively quick spool-up, the FP Green offers a significant increase in horsepower and torque, making it a great all-around choice for street and track use.
• Blouch Dominator Series: Blouch Turbo offers a range of stock frame turbos, including the Dominator series, which provides various power levels. These turbos are well-regarded for their build quality, reliability, and performance. You can often choose from different sizes to match your power goals.
• MAPerformance EF3 Turbo: MAPerformance is another popular brand. They offer their EF3 turbo as a stock frame option which is known for its quick spool-up and strong midrange power. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who want a responsive and fun-to-drive car.
• Garrett GTX Series: While not strictly "stock frame" in every case, Garrett offers turbochargers designed to fit the stock location. These turbos are known for their advanced technology, efficient designs, and impressive power output. Keep in mind that you may need some modifications for proper fitment.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Turbo:

• Power Goals: How much horsepower are you aiming for? This will heavily influence your choice. Research the power ratings of each turbo to ensure it aligns with your goals.
• Budget: Turbochargers vary in price. Set a budget beforehand to narrow your options. Remember to factor in the cost of supporting modifications (like a tune, injectors, etc.)
• Intended Use: Will you be mainly driving on the street, or will you be tracking your car? This will affect the kind of turbo that's best for you. Street cars often benefit from quick spool-up, while track cars may prioritize top-end power.
• Spool-Up: How quickly the turbo builds boost is a critical factor. Faster spool-up means more immediate power, but it can sometimes come at the expense of top-end power. Consider your driving style and preferences.
• Reliability: Research the turbo's reputation for reliability. Look for reviews and feedback from other Evo 9 owners who have used the turbo. Choose a reputable brand known for producing durable turbos.

Supporting Modifications for Your Evo 9 Turbo Upgrade

Upgrading your turbo isn't just about bolting on a new part. To maximize performance and ensure your engine's longevity, you'll need to consider some supporting modifications.

• ECU Tuning: This is arguably the most crucial modification. A proper tune is essential to optimize the fuel and ignition maps for the new turbo. Without a tune, your car won't run correctly, and you could potentially damage the engine. You'll need to find a reputable tuner who specializes in Evo 9s and can tailor a tune to your specific setup.
• Fuel Injectors: The stock fuel injectors may not be able to deliver enough fuel to support the increased airflow from the upgraded turbo. You'll likely need to upgrade to larger fuel injectors to ensure your engine receives the necessary fuel. The size of the injectors depends on your power goals.
• Fuel Pump: Along with larger injectors, an upgraded fuel pump may be necessary to supply enough fuel to the injectors. The fuel pump delivers fuel from the fuel tank to the fuel injectors, and a high-flow pump is critical for supporting higher horsepower levels.
• Boost Controller: While not always required, a boost controller can give you more precise control over boost pressure. This allows you to fine-tune your boost levels for optimal performance and safety. Electronic boost controllers are the most common type and offer various features for tuning.
• Intercooler and Piping: The stock intercooler may not be sufficient for the increased airflow. An upgraded intercooler can help cool the charged air more efficiently, resulting in better performance. Upgraded intercooler piping is also recommended to reduce restrictions and improve airflow.
• Exhaust System: An upgraded exhaust system, including a downpipe and cat-back exhaust, can help reduce backpressure and improve exhaust flow, which is crucial for maximizing power gains. A larger downpipe is especially beneficial for improved turbo performance.
• Clutch: If you're significantly increasing the power and torque, the stock clutch may not be able to handle it. A performance clutch is recommended to prevent slippage and ensure reliable power transfer.

The Installation Process

Okay, so you've chosen your turbo and gathered the necessary supporting modifications. Now it's time to get down to business and install it! Here's a general overview of the installation process:

1. Preparation: Gather all the necessary tools and supplies, including the new turbo, gaskets, bolts, and any other components you need. Make sure you have a clean workspace and plenty of time. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, consider taking your car to a trusted mechanic.
2. Remove the Old Turbo: Disconnect the battery and remove any components that are blocking access to the turbo, such as the air intake, intercooler piping, and coolant lines. Then, carefully disconnect the oil and coolant lines from the stock turbo. Loosen and remove the bolts that hold the turbo to the exhaust manifold and the downpipe. Once the bolts are loose, remove the old turbo.
3. Install the New Turbo: Install the new turbo in the same location as the stock turbo, using the provided gaskets and hardware. Make sure to torque all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Connect the oil and coolant lines, ensuring they are properly secured.
4. Install Supporting Mods: Install any supporting modifications, such as upgraded fuel injectors, fuel pump, and intercooler. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for each component.
5. Install the Downpipe: Install the new downpipe, ensuring that it is properly aligned and secured. The downpipe connects the turbo to the rest of the exhaust system, so a proper fit is essential for good performance.
6. Connect Intercooler Piping: Attach the intercooler piping, ensuring all connections are secure and leak-free. Make sure the intercooler is properly mounted and connected to the turbo and intake manifold.
7. Final Touches: Reinstall the air intake, intercooler piping, and any other components you removed during the disassembly process. Double-check all connections and make sure everything is properly tightened.
8. Tuning: This is where a professional tuner comes in. They'll connect your Evo 9 to a computer and adjust the fuel, ignition, and other parameters to optimize performance and safety. Don't skip this step! It's absolutely crucial for maximizing your investment.
9. Testing and Break-in: After the tune, it's time to test the car and make sure everything is working correctly. Drive it carefully at first, and monitor for any leaks or unusual noises. Follow any break-in procedures recommended by the turbo manufacturer.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a professional installation, you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Boost Leaks: Check all connections, including intercooler piping, vacuum lines, and boost hoses, for leaks. Use soapy water to find leaks by spraying the connections and looking for bubbles.
• Oil Leaks: Inspect the oil lines for leaks. Ensure that all fittings are properly tightened and that the gaskets are in good condition. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
• Poor Performance: If you're not getting the expected power gains, double-check your tune. Make sure all supporting modifications are installed correctly. Check for boost leaks or other mechanical issues.
• Smoking: If your car is smoking, it could be due to a variety of issues, such as oil leaks, a damaged turbo, or a bad tune. Determine the source of the smoke and address the problem.
• Surging: Surging is when the boost pressure fluctuates rapidly. This is often caused by a malfunctioning boost controller or a problem with the wastegate. Check your boost controller settings and inspect the wastegate for any issues.

Conclusion

Upgrading the stock turbo on your Evo 9 is a fantastic way to unlock more power and make your driving experience even more exhilarating. By carefully selecting the right turbo and supporting modifications, and by ensuring a professional installation and a proper tune, you can transform your Evo 9 into a true performance machine. So, get out there, do your research, and enjoy the thrill of your upgraded Evo 9! Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with professionals if you are unsure about any part of the process. Have fun out there, guys!