Skunk 2 Acura RSX GT35R Turbo - Import Tuner Magazine

Skunk2 turned towards the expertise of forced induction guru Todd Kaneko as their technical consultant to determine specific turbo sizing to rocket the RSX to the 700hp level. Factoring in exact specs on engine bore, stroke, and compression ratio, Kaneko selected a custom turbo setup using a GT-35R Tial Turbocharger, manufactured by Garrett Turbo. Consisting of a 56 trim compressor wheel and .70 A/R compressor housing with a custom spec turbine housing, the GT ball-bearing turbo is a superior design over the more conventional journal bearing turbos. "We selected this turbo with the ideology that boost response would be beneficial for the K20 and full boost would be achieved quickly at lower rpm's," states Giovino. Skunk2 enlisted the combination of a Tial 50mm blow-off valve and Tial F46 external wastegate as a means to control boost pressure and prevent unwanted boost creep. Noteworthy features of the Tial wastegate include high-temperature silicone Nomex, a reinforced actuator diaphragm rated to 4 bar and a valve seat comprised of Nitronic 60 stainless steel.

Kaneko also played an integral role in calculating the overall dimensions for the exhaust manifold. While posers in the automotive world might ponder the thought that this manifold was designed specifically as an aesthetically pleasing showpiece, they would be disappointed to know that the exact length and diameter of the primaries and runners were methodically calculated and measured to offer better exhaust pulsing to spool the turbo at a more efficient and quicker rate. Specifications for the manifold consist of 1 3/4-inch diameter primaries with an equal-length runner measuring at 15 inches. After completion of the manifold, the unit was shipped out to be ceramic coated by Young Guns of Rancho, Calif. "It took two days of fabbing and welding to create this exhaust manifold, which was a total pain in the ass. I know it was time consuming but when we run this manifold on the dyno you'll come to appreciate the design and engine response over the typical log type manifolds," states Skunk2 mechanic Charles Madrid.

Integral in keeping the K20's force-fed air cold as ice is a monstrous 26-inch PWR intercooler setup. Designed with custom Skunk2 end tanks, the PWR intercooler core uses tubes consisting of integrated internal fins with 12 FPI (fins per square inch) and a straight-through design. This design improves heat transfer for less pressure drop, resulting in higher flow and reduced lag time. When we asked Giovino why Skunk2 developed such an unorthodox looking end tank setup he was quick to respond by saying, "The intake manifold was designed as a direct route setup. The intercooler was of a similar nature using the shortest possible route for this turbo setup to eliminate turbo lag. If you notice, boost is flowed directly from the turbo and into the throttle body." Securing the turbo kits pipe setup are an array of Hose Techniques silicone turbo hoses coupled by their turbo t-bolt clamps.

While posers in the automotive world might think this manifold was designed specifically for cosmetic reasons, they will be disappointed to know that the exact length and diameter of the primaries and runners were spec'ed out to give better exhaust pulsing in order to help spool the turbo at a more efficient and quicker rate.
While posers in the automotive world might think this manifold was designed specifically f
Specifications for the manifold consist of 1 3/4-inch diameter primaries with an equal length runner measuring 15 inches. The merge collector is also designed and welded by none other than Skunk2. The manifold was sent out to be ceramic coated by Young Guns of Rancho, Calif.
Specifications for the manifold consist of 1 3/4-inch diameter primaries with an equal len

Using a test mule engine with the exact specs of the RSX-T, the GT-35R ball-bearing turbo and custom exhaust manifold didn't disappoint as boost was initiated at 2800 rpm while max boost was recorded at an impressive 3800rpm. "The combination of the turbo setup and the engine's larger 96.5mm stroke over the factory 86mm setup really enables the turbo to spool up pretty fast," says Skunk2 head engineer/mechanic Jeff Giovino.
Using a test mule engine with the exact specs of the RSX-T, the GT-35R ball-bearing turbo
Measuring in at 20 inches from core-to-core diameter (26 inches with custom fabricated Skunk2 end tanks), the PWR intercooler core consists of tubes with integrated internal fins and a straight-through design. This design improves heat transfer for less pressure drop, resulting in higher flow and reduced lag time.
Measuring in at 20 inches from core-to-core diameter (26 inches with custom fabricated Sku
When we asked Giovino why Skunk2 developed such an unorthodox looking end tank setup, he was quick to respond by saying, "The intake manifold was designed as a direct route setup. The intercooler was of a similar nature, using the shortest possible route for this turbo setup to eliminate turbo lag. If you notice, boost is flowed directly from the turbo and into the throttle body." Connecting the turbo pipes are Hose Techniques silicone turbo hoses coupled by their turbo t-bolt clamps.
When we asked Giovino why Skunk2 developed such an unorthodox looking end tank setup, he w