I am thinking about getting the FM turbo kit and was wondering if I would need a professional to install it or could i do it. I can work on things as long as there is instructions and i have the right tools. I've never done a turbo intall before.

 

Most likely you could do it yourself. Might take you a lot longer but you will save a good chunk of change.

 

Step back a minute and think about what you are going to take on. This is nothing like any bolt on job. Just screwing on the manifold, downpipe, turbo, and IC(maybe) is not where the job ends. You have to tap the oil system to feed the turbo and add a return line to the oil pan and make sure frothy oil is not being sucked back up into the system. Also, there is alot of tuning involved so make sure you have access to a dyno so you can run the numbers and make any adjustments to the system.

This isn't to say you can't do it yourself. Just keep in mind that doind it wrong won't just ruin the turbo; there is also a chance of blowing up the engine.

If you need to read instructions, then you probably don't want to do it yourself. Find a buddy that is experienced and have him guide you through the install that way you can learn how everything works but still get the job done right.

 

FM is known for their instructions. They are very detailed and will include a ton of pictures...I know, beauase they used my car as the test bunny install and took a ton of pictures while we installed it.

If you read through the directions a few times, then put it down for a bit, read it again and still think you can do it, then by all means go for it.

Not to mention, if you hit any sticky points, you can call FM (during business hours, of course) and get help over the phone. They are very knowledge and the customer service is second to none.

If you want an idea of how detailed the instructions are, they have some up in .pdf format on their website for the one of their Miata kits.

 

since the fm kit is a water cooled turbo, does it still use oil to lub it???

 

It is oil and water cooled...The oil does help as a cooling element while it is lubing the turbo.

 

the oil ised used to directly cool and lubricate the bearings/bushings and the water coolant is pumped around the center housing that contains the bearings/bushings. You don't have to use water cooling unless you are planning to run alot of boost, but since turbo's are heat factories, i'd do it just to be safe and extend the life of the turbo

 

Werd! I use the water cooling on my FM kit, and so should you just to be safe! This also makes Turbo Timers unessassary if you just stay out of boost 60 seconds before you shut your car off. Give FM a call!

By the way, where are you in Texas?

 

i live in glen rose, its about a hr south of fort worth. I don't know when i will be able to do the turbo though. I think i am going to do the internals and stuff before i get the turbo(pistons, cams, valve springs, ect.) and the intake manifold as well.

 

Kool, keep us posted. I used to go to Glen Lake Methodist Church Camp when I was a teen, and have been out to Fossil Rim numerous times, so I know where you are.

 

i think everyone but me has gone to glen lake methodist camp.

 

I would do it. Then get some mechanic friend or something to check it over for you.

Dun wanna do something wrong. Like forgetting the oil lines, for example.