Adding nitrous oxide to an internal combustion engine is the fastest and most cost-effective method of increasing its power output. Oxygen-rich nitrous oxide allows the engine to burn a lot more fuel--and more fuel translates to more horsepower. While nitrous oxide may be the closest thing we have to a magic horsepower wand, it is not without its perils. Probably the most common nitrous-induced problem is an excessive lean condition. By introducing a great deal more oxygen into the combustion chamber, nitrous upsets the air/fuel ratio. If a corresponding measure of extra fuel is not added at the same time, the engine will run extremely lean, which results in detonation, elevated temperatures, and other serious problems.
Another problem sometimes encountered with nitrous oxide is simply overdoing it. If you have a high-mileage, somewhat tired old mill full of cast parts, don’t add a custom 200hp nitrous system.
Installing a ready-made nitrous oxide system, such as the one manufactured by Nitrous Works Inc. shown here, is a fairly straightforward undertaking. However, there are some important safety- and performance-related issues to keep in mind when performing an installation, and for expert advice we turned to The Vette Doctors in Amityville, New York.
