Hey gearheads! Ever dreamt of unleashing some serious power from your 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse? Well, you're in the right place! We're diving deep into the world of 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse turbo kits, exploring everything from the best kits to install guides, and even some common problems you might encounter. Buckle up, because we're about to transform your ride into a true street beast. This guide is your ultimate resource for navigating the exciting, sometimes daunting, world of turbocharging your 2G Eclipse. We'll break down the essentials, making sure you're well-equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions and get the most out of your turbo upgrade. This article is your one-stop shop for everything related to 2G Eclipse turbo kits, so let's jump right in.

Why Turbocharge Your 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse?

So, why even bother with a 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse turbo kit? The answer, my friends, is simple: power! Adding a turbocharger is like injecting your Eclipse with a massive dose of adrenaline. You'll experience a significant increase in horsepower and torque, leading to quicker acceleration, more thrilling drives, and the envy of other drivers on the road. The 2G Eclipse, especially the GS-T and GSX models, are already known for their sporty handling and sleek design. Adding a turbo kit amplifies these qualities, turning your Eclipse into a high-performance machine. With a well-chosen turbo kit and proper tuning, you can transform your everyday driver into a formidable force. The performance gains are immediately noticeable, offering a driving experience that’s far more exciting and engaging. Beyond raw power, a turbocharger can also improve your car's overall efficiency, delivering more power from less fuel, provided it's tuned correctly. Furthermore, it gives you the opportunity to customize and personalize your car to reflect your unique style and performance goals. Choosing the right turbo kit for your 2G Eclipse allows you to tailor your car's performance to your specific needs, whether you're looking for a boost on the track or more fun on the street. Consider this: you're not just adding power; you're unlocking potential. The potential to leave your competition in the dust, to experience a rush of adrenaline with every acceleration, and to enjoy a car that truly reflects your passion for driving.

Benefits of a 2G Eclipse Turbo Kit:

• Significant Power Increase: Experience a dramatic boost in horsepower and torque, leading to faster acceleration and improved overall performance. This translates to quicker 0-60 times and more responsive handling, making every drive more exhilarating. This is one of the biggest and most exciting benefits of installing a turbo kit, giving your car a new lease on life with added power. The difference is immediately apparent, offering a thrilling change to how your car performs. Your 2G Eclipse will feel like a completely different car, giving you a substantial advantage whether you are on the track or the street.
• Enhanced Driving Experience: Enjoy a more engaging and exciting driving experience, with quicker throttle response and a feeling of immense power at your fingertips. The added power fundamentally transforms your interaction with the car. You'll find yourself eagerly anticipating every drive, thanks to the thrill and responsiveness of the turbocharger.
• Customization Options: Tailor your car's performance to your specific needs and goals, whether you're aiming for all-out speed or balanced performance. The beauty of turbocharging is that it offers incredible flexibility. You can choose a turbo kit that suits your driving style and the kind of power you're after. This allows you to personalize your 2G Eclipse to your exact specifications.
• Potential for Improved Fuel Efficiency: With proper tuning, a turbocharger can help improve fuel efficiency by extracting more power from each drop of fuel. Though it depends on the driving style and the settings in your tune, many find a turbo can help them save money at the pump.

Choosing the Right 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse Turbo Kit

Alright, now for the fun part: picking the right 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse turbo kit! This is where you need to do your homework. There are several factors to consider. First, think about your budget. Turbo kits vary in price, from relatively affordable entry-level options to high-end, professionally-built kits. Set a realistic budget before you start shopping to narrow down your choices. Next, define your performance goals. Are you looking for a moderate power increase, or do you want to build a drag strip monster? Knowing your goals will help you select a kit with the right components. Do some research and find out what your goals are and the parts you need to match. Finally, consider your mechanical skills. Installing a turbo kit can be a complex project, especially for beginners. Some kits are designed for bolt-on installation, while others require extensive modifications. If you're not comfortable with wrenching, it's a good idea to seek professional installation. Research the different turbo kit brands available. Some popular brands include Forced Performance, Precision Turbo, and Garrett, to name a few. Look into customer reviews and talk to other 2G Eclipse owners to gather information on each brand. The right kit for you depends on several things: your budget, the power you want to make, and your mechanical skills. The quality of your components, your tuner's expertise, and your overall goals will determine the success of your project. If you are a beginner, look at a bolt-on kit. If you have experience, you may consider a more complex kit.

Key Components to Consider:

• Turbocharger: The heart of the kit! Choose a turbocharger that matches your power goals and engine specifications. Pay attention to the turbo's size, which affects its boost threshold and overall power output. It needs to match your performance goals to be a good fit. Different sizes offer different benefits, so selecting the proper size is very important for the performance you desire.
• Manifold: The exhaust manifold connects the engine's exhaust ports to the turbocharger. Make sure the manifold is made of high-quality materials to withstand high temperatures and pressures. Durability is a key factor; a quality manifold will ensure that the kit performs at its best.
• Wastegate: The wastegate controls the turbocharger's boost pressure by diverting exhaust gases away from the turbine. Select a wastegate that can handle the boost levels you plan to run. The wastegate is critical for safety and performance; it ensures you don't overboost the engine and damage it.
• Intercooler: An intercooler cools the compressed air from the turbocharger before it enters the engine. This increases air density, leading to more power. The intercooler must be sized to match the turbocharger's output. A well-designed intercooler can significantly improve engine efficiency by lowering air temperature.
• Blow-off Valve (BOV): The BOV releases excess pressure when the throttle closes, preventing compressor surge. This protects the turbocharger and improves its lifespan. The BOV is essential for your turbo's health and will improve how your car sounds!
• Fuel Injectors: Upgrade your fuel injectors to provide enough fuel to support the increased air intake from the turbocharger. Insufficient fuel supply can lead to engine damage. Proper fuel delivery is vital for ensuring your engine runs smoothly and doesn't experience catastrophic failure.
• ECU Tuning: This is where the magic happens! Tuning your Engine Control Unit (ECU) is essential to optimize the engine's performance and ensure that all the components work together harmoniously. Without a proper tune, your engine can run poorly or be damaged. This must be done by a professional for optimal performance.

2G Eclipse Turbo Kit Installation Guide

Okay, so you've got your 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse turbo kit, and you're ready to get your hands dirty. Installation can be a rewarding experience, but it requires patience, attention to detail, and the right tools. If you're not confident in your abilities, consider seeking professional help. Start by disconnecting the battery. Safety first! This step prevents any electrical shorts during the installation. Next, remove any components that will be in the way. This may include the factory exhaust manifold, air intake system, and other parts. Follow the instructions that came with your kit, and consult the relevant service manuals for your 2G Eclipse. Carefully mount the exhaust manifold and turbocharger to the engine. Make sure all bolts are tightened to the correct torque specifications. Install the intercooler and piping, ensuring that all connections are secure and leak-free. Connect the wastegate and blow-off valve, and run the necessary vacuum lines. Upgrade your fuel injectors and install any other fuel system components as needed. This will vary depending on your specific kit. Reconnect the battery. Finally, before you fire up your engine, make sure all connections are secure, and there are no leaks.

Essential Tools and Preparations:

• Basic Hand Tools: Wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, and other essential tools. Having a complete set will make the entire process run more smoothly.
• Torque Wrench: Necessary for tightening bolts to the correct torque specifications. This will ensure proper performance and prevent damage to the engine components. It's a must have tool.
• Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safely lifting and supporting your car during the installation. Safety first, every time.
• Service Manual: A detailed service manual specific to your 2G Eclipse model. It provides important information and instructions on how to handle specific components. This can save you a lot of trouble.
• Clean Workspace: A well-lit, organized workspace will help the installation process go smoothly. Make sure you have plenty of room to move around and keep your tools within reach.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Even with the best planning, you might encounter some common problems during or after installing your 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse turbo kit. Don't worry, it happens to everyone. The key is to be patient and methodical in your troubleshooting. First, boost leaks. These can rob your engine of power and cause drivability issues. Check all connections, piping, and clamps for leaks. Use soapy water to identify any leaks. Next, poor tuning. This can lead to a variety of issues, including poor performance, engine knocking, and even engine damage. Have your car professionally tuned by a qualified tuner to ensure that everything is working well together. Finally, engine knocking. If you hear a knocking sound coming from your engine, this could be a sign of pre-ignition or detonation. Immediately stop driving and have the engine inspected by a professional. This could mean a big problem for your engine if you ignore this issue.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Boost Leaks: Check all connections, piping, and clamps for any leaks using soapy water. This is an important and very common issue during any install.
• Poor Tuning: Have a qualified tuner analyze the engine's performance. The tune must be spot on for your engine to run efficiently.
• Engine Knocking: Stop driving immediately and have the engine inspected by a professional to prevent serious damage.
• Check Engine Light: Identify the cause of the Check Engine Light with an OBD-II scanner. Diagnostic tools are very useful during troubleshooting.
• Consult Online Forums and Communities: Utilize the Mitsubishi Eclipse community online for help and guidance. There's a ton of information available online.

Maintaining Your Turbocharged 2G Eclipse

Once your 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse is turbo'd, proper maintenance is crucial to keeping it running smoothly and preventing problems. Change your oil and filter regularly, using a high-quality synthetic oil designed for turbocharged engines. This will keep everything lubricated and at peak performance. The turbocharger spins at very high speeds, so using high-quality oil is essential for its longevity. Inspect your turbocharger and related components regularly for any signs of wear or damage. This includes checking for leaks, loose connections, and damage to the turbine blades. Pay attention to how the car sounds and behaves. Listen for any unusual noises or performance issues. Regularly inspect the engine bay for any signs of problems. Check the intercooler for leaks and any cracks in the piping. Make sure your intercooler is secure and functions as it should. Your turbo is a precision piece of machinery, and a little bit of care goes a long way. This includes maintaining the engine to a high standard, but also being careful with driving habits. Make sure to let the engine cool down before shutting it off. Always use a high-quality fuel, and follow the instructions in your service manual for regular maintenance schedules. The care you give your turbo will directly impact its longevity and performance. Overall, the more you take care of the car, the better the performance and driving experience will be.

Maintenance Checklist:

• Regular Oil Changes: Use high-quality synthetic oil designed for turbocharged engines. Changing the oil and filter regularly is critical.
• Filter Replacements: Replace your air and fuel filters as needed. This will ensure that your engine breathes freely and runs efficiently.
• Component Inspection: Regularly inspect the turbocharger and related components for any signs of wear or damage. This will help you catch issues early on.
• Boost Pressure Monitoring: Install a boost gauge to monitor boost pressure and identify any potential problems. This can help with early detection of potential issues.
• Professional Tuning: Have your car professionally tuned periodically to ensure optimal performance and prevent engine damage. Tuning can degrade over time and become less efficient.

Conclusion: Unleash the Beast Within

Adding a 2G Mitsubishi Eclipse turbo kit is a transformative experience, unlocking a new level of performance and excitement for your car. By carefully selecting the right kit, following the installation process, and practicing proper maintenance, you can transform your 2G Eclipse into a true street beast. The benefits of turbocharging go far beyond mere power increases. They encompass a heightened driving experience, a thrilling connection to the road, and the satisfaction of knowing you have created a unique, high-performance machine. Whether you are aiming for weekend track days or simply a more enjoyable commute, a turbo kit is an investment in fun. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with professionals when needed. Embrace the power, and enjoy the ride! Happy boosting! Now go out there and enjoy the power of your boosted 2G Eclipse! Always remember to drive responsibly and obey all traffic laws. Have fun, but stay safe! The road is waiting for you! Don't delay; the time to turbocharge your 2G Eclipse is now! You've got all the knowledge you need, so get out there and enjoy the ride!