So, you're thinking about slapping a turbo kit on your 1999 Honda Civic? Awesome! You're in for a wild ride – literally. Adding a turbocharger is one of the most effective ways to seriously crank up the horsepower on your Civic. But before you dive headfirst into this project, let's break down what a turbo kit actually is, what to look for, and some things you should keep in mind.

What is a Turbo Kit?

Okay, let's start with the basics. A turbo kit isn't just a single component; it's a collection of parts designed to force more air into your engine. This extra air allows the engine to burn more fuel, resulting in a bigger explosion in the cylinders and, you guessed it, more power. Think of it as giving your Civic a serious caffeine boost! A typical turbo kit includes:

• Turbocharger: The heart of the system. This turbine is driven by exhaust gases and spins to compress incoming air.
• Intercooler: Cools the compressed air from the turbo, making it denser and further increasing power.
• Manifold: Connects the turbo to the engine's exhaust ports.
• Downpipe: Connects the turbo's outlet to the exhaust system.
• Wastegate: Regulates the amount of exhaust gas flowing to the turbo, controlling boost pressure.
• Blow-Off Valve (BOV) or Diverter Valve: Releases excess pressure when the throttle closes, preventing compressor surge and potential damage.
• Piping and Hoses: Connect all the components together.
• Fuel Injectors: Larger injectors may be needed to supply the extra fuel required by the increased airflow.
• Engine Management System (EMS) or Piggyback ECU: Crucial for tuning the engine to run correctly with the turbo. It controls fuel and timing.

Finding the Right Turbo Kit

When you're shopping for a turbo kit for your '99 Civic, you'll find a ton of options. Some are universal, meaning they might fit a range of cars, while others are specifically designed for your model. Going with a kit designed for your specific car is almost always the better choice. These kits are engineered to fit properly, and they often come with detailed instructions. A few things to consider:

• Quality of Components: Don't cheap out here. A turbo kit is a significant investment, and you want it to last. Look for reputable brands known for their quality and durability. Read reviews and do your research.
• Turbo Size: The size of the turbocharger will impact your car's performance. A smaller turbo will spool up faster, providing quicker boost at lower RPMs, which is great for street driving. A larger turbo will deliver more power at higher RPMs but may suffer from turbo lag (a delay before the boost kicks in).
• Intercooler Type: Air-to-air intercoolers are common and effective, but some kits use air-to-water intercoolers, which can offer even better cooling performance, especially in hot climates.
• Engine Management: This is critical. Your stock ECU (Engine Control Unit) won't be able to properly manage the increased airflow and fuel requirements of a turbo engine. You'll need some form of engine management, whether it's a standalone EMS or a piggyback ECU that modifies the signals from the stock ECU. Without proper engine management, you risk serious engine damage.

Installation Considerations

Installing a turbo kit is not a simple bolt-on affair, guys. It's a complex project that requires a good understanding of automotive mechanics. Unless you're an experienced mechanic, it's best to have a professional install the kit. Here's why:

• Complexity: There are a lot of parts to install, and they all need to be connected correctly. Incorrect installation can lead to leaks, poor performance, or even engine damage.
• Tuning: After the kit is installed, the engine needs to be properly tuned. This involves adjusting the fuel and timing maps in the ECU to optimize performance and ensure the engine is running safely. Tuning requires specialized software and knowledge.
• Potential Issues: Problems can arise during installation, such as fitment issues or the need to modify existing components. A professional will have the experience and tools to handle these issues.

Even if you plan to have a professional install the kit, it's still a good idea to do your homework and understand the process. This will help you communicate effectively with the installer and make informed decisions.

Key Considerations Before Turbocharging Your '99 Civic

Before you drop a bunch of cash on a turbo kit, let's be real about a few things. Turbocharging your '99 Civic is a major undertaking, and it's not without its potential downsides. Here's what you need to think about:

Engine Condition

The first thing you need to consider is the condition of your engine. If your Civic's engine is old, tired, and has a ton of miles on it, adding a turbocharger is like putting a Formula 1 engine in a go-kart – it might work for a little while, but it's probably going to end in tears. A turbocharger puts a lot of stress on the engine's internal components, so it's essential to have a healthy foundation. If your engine is already showing signs of wear and tear, like excessive oil consumption or low compression, it's best to address those issues before adding a turbo. Consider a rebuild or refresh to ensure your engine can handle the extra power.

Supporting Modifications

A turbo kit doesn't exist in isolation. You'll likely need other modifications to support the increased power and ensure your car runs reliably. Here are a few examples:

• Fuel System: The stock fuel pump and injectors might not be able to supply enough fuel for a turbocharged engine, especially at higher boost levels. You may need to upgrade to a higher-flow fuel pump and larger injectors.
• Clutch: The stock clutch probably won't be able to handle the extra torque. A stronger aftermarket clutch is a must.
• Brakes: With more power comes the need for more stopping power. Upgrading your brakes is a smart idea to improve safety.
• Suspension: A stiffer suspension can help improve handling and reduce body roll.

Budget

Don't just factor in the cost of the turbo kit itself. Remember to include the cost of installation, tuning, supporting modifications, and any potential unexpected expenses. It's always better to overestimate your budget than to underestimate it. A turbo kit can easily turn into a money pit if you're not careful!

Reliability

Let's be honest, adding a turbocharger to an older car like a '99 Civic can impact reliability, at least initially. You're pushing the engine harder than it was originally designed to be pushed, and that can lead to problems. However, with proper installation, tuning, and maintenance, you can minimize the risk of issues. Regular oil changes, monitoring boost levels, and addressing any problems promptly are essential for keeping your turbocharged Civic running smoothly.

Choosing the Right Turbo Kit: Brands and Features

Okay, let's dive a little deeper into what to look for in a turbo kit and some brands that are known for quality. Remember, doing your research is key to making an informed decision. Reading online forums, checking out reviews, and talking to other Civic enthusiasts can provide valuable insights. Some well-regarded brands in the turbo kit market include:

• GReddy: A Japanese company known for its high-quality turbochargers, intercoolers, and other performance parts. GReddy kits are often considered to be very reliable.
• Garrett: Garrett is a major manufacturer of turbochargers, and many turbo kits use Garrett turbos. They offer a wide range of turbo sizes and configurations.
• BorgWarner: Another well-known turbocharger manufacturer, BorgWarner offers high-performance turbos that are popular in the aftermarket.
• Full-Race Motorsports: Specializes in high-performance turbo kits and exhaust manifolds. They're known for their innovative designs and quality craftsmanship.

When evaluating turbo kits, pay attention to the following features:

• Turbocharger Type: Ball bearing turbos generally offer faster spool-up and better response than journal bearing turbos, but they are also more expensive.
• Intercooler Design: A larger intercooler with efficient core design will provide better cooling performance.
• Wastegate Type: Internal wastegates are integrated into the turbocharger housing, while external wastegates are separate components. External wastegates generally offer better boost control.
• Manifold Material: Cast iron manifolds are durable and affordable, while stainless steel manifolds are lighter and offer better flow.

Tuning Your Turbocharged Civic

Tuning is arguably the most important aspect of turbocharging your '99 Civic. A poorly tuned engine can suffer from a range of problems, including:

• Detonation (Knock): This is when the air-fuel mixture ignites prematurely in the cylinder, causing a damaging shockwave. Detonation can destroy pistons and other engine components.
• Overheating: Running lean (too little fuel) can cause the engine to overheat.
• Poor Performance: An improperly tuned engine won't make the power it should.

There are two main approaches to tuning a turbocharged Civic:

• Standalone Engine Management System (EMS): A standalone EMS replaces the stock ECU and gives you complete control over every aspect of the engine's operation. Standalone EMS systems are very powerful but also complex and require extensive tuning knowledge.
• Piggyback ECU: A piggyback ECU intercepts and modifies the signals from the stock ECU. Piggyback systems are easier to install and tune than standalone EMS systems, but they may not offer as much control.

Regardless of which tuning method you choose, it's essential to have the engine tuned by a qualified professional with experience tuning turbocharged Hondas. They will use a dyno to measure the engine's power output and adjust the fuel and timing maps to optimize performance and ensure the engine is running safely. Some popular tuning solutions include Hondata, AEM, and Neptune.

Conclusion: Is a Turbo Kit Right for Your '99 Civic?

So, is a turbo kit the right choice for your 1999 Honda Civic? It depends. If you're looking for a significant power boost and are willing to invest the time, money, and effort required, then a turbo kit can be an amazing upgrade. But it's not a decision to be taken lightly. Consider your budget, your mechanical skills, and the condition of your engine before taking the plunge.

With careful planning, proper installation, and professional tuning, you can transform your '99 Civic into a seriously fun and powerful machine. Just remember to do your research, choose quality components, and prioritize reliability. Happy boosting, guys!