MazdaSpeedClub Tech
Powertrain
Enhancing the Performance of the MazdaSpeed Protege
The MazdaSpeed Protege has a lot of performance potential. The drive train in stock form is adequate, but is restricted by it's surroundings. Here are a few enhancements that will help the MazdaSpeed Protege perform better (please note that your dealer warranty coverage may be affected if you enhance your car):
1. K&N Air Filter
The stock air box sufficiently supplies cool air to the
engine. When using the stock air box, install a K&N drop in air filter.
You can also use some hose (from a hardware store) that extends to the
front of the car for a "ram air" like intake. This new hose will
take the place of the stock elbow at the end of the air box. If the stock
air box is not cool enough for you, try an aftermarket cold air induction
system. If you prefer
to use an cold air induction system, make sure it is routed so that
the cone is in the best location to get cold air. Fabricating a shield to
protect the filter cone from the hot engine is a good idea.
2. Turbo-Back Exhaust
The stock exhaust on the MazdaSpeed Protege is quite
restrictive. It is somewhat small in diameter, has two catalytic
converters and a muffler. The best setup would be a nicely flowing
2.5" diameter pipe with one performance catalytic converter (or better yet,
none) and a performance muffler. There are plenty of exhaust kits
available for the Protege in both 2.5" and 3" diameters.
3. Larger Intercooler
The stock intercooler is quite small. There are
plenty of intercoolers now out for the MazdaSpeed Protege. Upgrading to a
large intercooler will help keep the turbo cool and increase the cold air into
the engine.
4. Increasing Boost
The stock boost is set at about 6psi. This is adequate for the car in
stock form, but low after enhancements. Only after you have freed up the
exhaust and added a larger intercooler, should you consider increasing the
boost.
Increasing to around 9psi should grant sufficient power gains and
still be fairly safe. There are both mechanical and electronic boost
controllers available. It would also be a good idea to get a boost gauge
installed!
Here are some aftermarket part sites to check out:
If you have a tech tip that you wish to share, please email us!
Email Us at: info@mazdaspeedclub.com