To intercool or not to intercool?

CAPE YORK through the creb and OTL and yes I do have a turbo.
I've been 4wding (mostly Landcruiser Park)for quite a few years. I'm a person that likes to be prepared for the worst especially with two kids under 4. I did a lot of shopping around for all my improvements but no one has yet said you need an intercooler or that an intercooler will make my fourby more reliable it's just something I've been reading in mags, but there all advertising their own coolers anyway by making them sound like you defenitly need one.

I just want the truth and nothing but the truth!

THX truckster

An intercooler could possibly make your engine more reliable by running leaner, but if the turbo has been properly installed/tuned it is not required and really a waste of money. I would spend your money on a boost and EGT gauge instead.

I would also say that a 4" suspension lift for long distance touring is more of a hinderance because of a raised centre of gravity. (more likely to roll over and less high speed stablity).

Regards

John D

I'd agree with JD on the lift being a PITA and going the gauges before anythign else

Sorry about that,

GU II 4.2TD Factory turbo - Standard
100,000 km

THX

Hi Beady,

I'd spend the money on something else. I think an intercooler alone on that engine would have minimal benefits. If you're happy with the power levels, leave it alone - it will be quite adequate for your Cape York trip. If you're really after more power and torque there are other things I'd do first.

Apparently the standard turbo set-up on the TD42T engine is not the most efficient one around and there are a few mobs around that will modify the turbo and injection pump for quite improved performance - MTQ is one but I'm sure Denco and others would too. If you still want more grunt and have plenty of money to spend, then add the intercooler and have the pump re-tuned to suit.

I echo the comments of others on radical suspension lifts (I regard anything over 2" as 'radical'). Unless done properly with castor corrections, modified panard/radius rods etc. etc. they can create steering and tyre wear problems. They also make the vehicle less stable cornering and on side slopes (especially the 95+% of the time most spend on the bitumen).
Ian

Thx for that info. You've settled that decision for me.
When I had the lift. I made sure , modified panard/radius rods, castor kit etc. were used. I didn't just use springs and shockies.
I done a lot of shopping around and come up with the best option for my situation I spent $3400 to make sure it was done properly

once again thx for your advice