940 L4-2320cc 2.3L SOHC Turbo VIN 87 B230FT (1992)
Intercooler: Description and Operation
Intercooler
PURPOSE AND LOCATION
The intercooler, located in front of radiator, cools down the intake air to increase its density. The cooler the intake air, the greater the density, resulting in
an increased amount of air to enter the combustion chamber. This will increase the overall power output.
CONSTRUCTION
The intercooler is of the air to air type. The intake air flows through the intercooler tubes that are exposed to the engine air stream.
OPERATION
Due to compression, the intake air temperature increases approx. 104 - 176°F (40 - 80°C) as it exits the turbo charger. Consequently, the density of the
intake air is reduced which will decrease the cylinder fill rate (amount of air to be burned in the cylinder).
By routing the air through an intercooler, the intake air temperature can be decreased by approx. 86 - 122°F (30 - 50°C). This will increase the air
density and allow more air to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in higher engine power output.
The cooling is accomplished as the hot intake air passes through the intercooler tubes which are cooled by the airstream created by the cooling fan or
vehicle speed. These cool tubes reduce the temperature of the intake air passing through them. This temperature reduction also contributes to overall
lower engine temperatures.
