A forced induction system configuration where the carburetor or throttle body is located upstream of the turbocharger. This setup necessitates the fuel-air mixture to pass through the compressor and intercooler (if equipped) before entering the engine. An example involves modifying a carbureted engine to accommodate increased air pressure generated by the turbocharger, requiring adjustments to the fuel delivery system to maintain the correct air-fuel ratio.
This methodology offers certain advantages, particularly in simplifying the conversion of naturally aspirated engines to forced induction. Historically, it provided a more straightforward route to turbocharging older, carbureted vehicles, circumventing the complexities of early fuel injection systems. The benefits often include a potentially lower initial cost and reduced complexity compared to converting to fuel injection. However, proper implementation and tuning are crucial for reliable operation and optimal performance.
The following sections will delve into the specific components required, potential challenges encountered during installation, and best practices for tuning and maintaining such a system. Discussion will include considerations for fuel system upgrades, boost control, and ensuring long-term engine reliability under forced induction.
1. Carburetor Enclosure
The carburetor enclosure, often overlooked, stands as a sentinel in the realm of forced induction, particularly in “blow thru” configurations. It is not merely an accessory; it is an essential adaptation, bridging the gap between the atmospheric simplicity of carburetion and the pressurized environment created by a turbocharger. Without it, the carefully calibrated fuel delivery of a carburetor becomes a liability, turning a potential power gain into a destructive force.
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Pressure Equalization
The enclosure’s primary role is to equalize the pressure around the carburetor’s fuel bowls and vents with the boost pressure generated by the turbocharger. Imagine the carburetor as an island in a rising tide; without the enclosure, the rising boost pressure would act upon the fuel within the carburetor’s bowls, forcing it to flood the engine with an excessively rich mixture. The enclosure, effectively, raises the island along with the tide, maintaining the carburetor’s intended fuel metering even under boost.
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Sealing Integrity
The enclosure must be meticulously sealed to prevent boost leaks. These leaks not only diminish the overall boost pressure available to the engine, reducing power output, but also create turbulent airflow around the carburetor. This turbulence can disrupt the delicate balance of fuel and air mixing, leading to inconsistent performance and potential engine damage. A poorly sealed enclosure is akin to a breach in a dam, slowly eroding the potential power and reliability of the entire system.
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Material and Construction
The material and construction of the enclosure must withstand the sustained pressure and temperature fluctuations inherent in a turbocharged environment. Thin, flimsy materials can flex and deform under pressure, compromising the seal. Poorly constructed enclosures may crack or warp with prolonged exposure to heat, leading to catastrophic failures. A robust enclosure, built from durable materials, provides a critical layer of protection and ensures consistent performance.
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Venting and Drainage
Effective venting and drainage are necessary to prevent fuel accumulation within the enclosure. In the event of a carburetor malfunction or overflow, fuel can pool within the enclosure, creating a fire hazard. Venting allows any excess fuel to be safely evacuated, while drainage ports prevent the buildup of fuel vapors. Without these safeguards, a seemingly minor carburetor issue can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation.
The carburetor enclosure, therefore, is not a mere container, but a precisely engineered component that allows carbureted engines to thrive in the world of forced induction. It mitigates the inherent vulnerabilities of carburetion under boost, ensuring stable fuel delivery, preventing leaks, and safeguarding against potential hazards. Its design and construction are pivotal to the overall success and reliability of any “blow thru turbo kit”.
2. Fuel System Upgrade
The engine, once a docile servant, is now asked to consume with ravenous hunger. This transition, initiated by the “blow thru turbo kit,” necessitates a fundamental alteration: a fuel system upgrade. It is not merely an addition, but a critical metamorphosis, akin to replacing a humble stream with a raging river. The existing fuel system, adequate for the engine’s naturally aspirated existence, becomes woefully insufficient when forced to supply the increased demands of a turbocharged engine. The turbocharger, in essence, amplifies the engine’s breathing capacity, but without a corresponding increase in fuel delivery, the result is a dangerously lean condition, a recipe for catastrophic engine failure. The upgraded fuel system, therefore, acts as the lifeblood, ensuring the engine receives the sustenance required to thrive under the new, demanding conditions.
Consider the tale of a classic muscle car, resurrected with a “blow thru turbo kit.” The original fuel pump, a relic of a bygone era, struggled to maintain adequate pressure under boost. The engine, deprived of fuel, began to detonate, its internal components subjected to extreme stress. A rapid upgrade to a high-flow fuel pump, larger fuel lines, and fuel pressure regulator corrected the imbalance. The engine, once teetering on the brink of destruction, now roared with renewed vigor, its fuel supply more than capable of meeting the demands of the turbocharger. This illustrates the practical significance: the “blow thru turbo kit” unlocks immense power, but only if the fuel system can keep pace. A failure to upgrade is not merely a performance setback; it is an invitation to disaster.
The “blow thru turbo kit” demands a fuel system capable of delivering not only increased volume but also precise control. Fuel injectors, often larger than their stock counterparts, must be carefully selected and calibrated. A fuel pressure regulator, capable of maintaining consistent pressure even under fluctuating boost levels, becomes essential. The challenge lies in achieving a harmonious balance, ensuring the engine receives the precise amount of fuel required at any given moment. The fuel system upgrade, therefore, is not a simple bolt-on affair but a carefully orchestrated symphony of components, each playing a crucial role in maintaining the engine’s health and maximizing its potential. Failing to acknowledge this complexity invites failure.
3. Boost Reference
In the heart of a “blow thru turbo kit”, lies a critical nexus: the boost reference. It is the silent communicator, the unsung hero translating the fury of the turbocharger into controlled action. Without a precise boost reference, the entire system devolves into chaos, an untamed beast capable of self-destruction. The boost reference acts as the vital feedback loop, informing the fuel system, and sometimes the ignition system, about the pressure generated by the turbocharger. This information allows these systems to adjust their parameters accordingly, maintaining a safe and optimal operating condition. Imagine a ship navigating treacherous waters without a compass; the boost reference is that compass, guiding the engine through the tempestuous seas of forced induction. Its absence or malfunction invites disaster.
Consider the tale of a race team attempting to push the limits of their “blow thru turbo kit”. They had meticulously tuned the carburetor and upgraded the fuel system, but they overlooked the importance of a stable boost reference. The initial runs were promising, but as the boost levels climbed, the engine began to exhibit erratic behavior. The fuel mixture fluctuated wildly, sometimes running dangerously lean, at other times flooding the engine. The culprit was a poorly routed boost reference line, susceptible to vibrations and pressure drops. The inconsistent signal caused the fuel system to overcompensate or underreact, leading to engine misfires and a significant loss of power. A simple relocation and reinforcement of the boost reference line solved the problem, allowing the team to unlock the true potential of their engine. This illustrates a core truth: the “blow thru turbo kit” is only as good as its weakest link, and the boost reference is often that overlooked point of failure.
The boost reference, therefore, is not merely a connection; it is the cornerstone of reliable performance in a “blow thru turbo kit”. It dictates the precision and consistency with which the engine responds to the demands of forced induction. A stable and accurate boost reference ensures that the fuel system delivers the correct amount of fuel at all times, preventing lean conditions and maximizing power output. It allows the ignition system to adjust timing appropriately, minimizing the risk of detonation. Without a robust boost reference, the “blow thru turbo kit” becomes a gamble, a dangerous game of chance. Understanding its importance and ensuring its proper implementation is essential for anyone seeking to harness the power of forced induction safely and effectively.
4. Air-Fuel Ratio Tuning
Within the realm of forced induction, “Air-Fuel Ratio Tuning” emerges not as a mere adjustment, but as the very keystone holding the arch of performance together. The “blow thru turbo kit,” designed to amplify an engine’s potential, becomes a liability without the meticulous art of air-fuel ratio control. It is the difference between a controlled burn and a destructive conflagration.
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The Stoichiometric Ideal
At its core, stoichiometric balance represents the theoretical perfect ratio of air to fuel for complete combustion, approximately 14.7:1 for gasoline. This ideal, while often cited, is rarely the target under the stresses of forced induction. Consider a dyno cell, the air thick with the smell of high-octane fuel as a tuner painstakingly adjusts the carburetor jets of a “blow thru” equipped engine. Aiming for 14.7:1 under boost would court disaster, as the elevated temperatures and pressures demand a richer mixture to prevent detonation. The stoichiometric ideal serves as a starting point, a reference in a landscape that demands constant adaptation.
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The Rich-Lean Tightrope
The performance margin in a “blow thru turbo kit” is often defined by a delicate dance between rich and lean mixtures. A lean mixture, where air outweighs fuel, risks overheating and detonation, potentially melting pistons in moments. Conversely, an overly rich mixture, where fuel dominates, sacrifices power and efficiency, creating a sluggish, unresponsive engine. The tuner, armed with an oxygen sensor and a practiced ear, walks this tightrope, seeking the optimal balance for maximum power without compromising engine integrity. This requires understanding how the “blow thru” design alters fuel atomization and distribution, necessitating changes in jetting and fuel pressure.
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Boost Pressure Influence
The amount of pressure generated by the turbocharger drastically alters the required air-fuel ratio. As boost increases, so does the need for additional fuel to cool the combustion chamber and prevent knock. The boost reference system, as previously mentioned, is crucial here, informing the fuel system of the pressure levels and allowing for precise adjustments. Consider a drag race scenario; as the turbo spools and boost surges, the air-fuel ratio must correspondingly richen to compensate. A failure to properly map this relationship results in either a lack of power or, more catastrophically, engine damage. The “blow thru turbo kit” magnifies this effect, requiring a fuel system capable of responding quickly and accurately to changing boost conditions.
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Environmental Factors
Altitude, temperature, and humidity all play a role in the optimal air-fuel ratio. An engine tuned for sea-level performance will likely run rich at higher altitudes, where the air is less dense. Similarly, cold air requires less fuel than hot air. A skilled tuner understands these nuances and adjusts the air-fuel ratio accordingly, ensuring consistent performance regardless of the prevailing conditions. This becomes particularly critical for “blow thru” systems that are used in varied environments, requiring constant monitoring and adaptation to maintain optimal performance and reliability.
In conclusion, “Air-Fuel Ratio Tuning” is not a one-time event but a continuous process, a constant adaptation to the ever-changing demands of a “blow thru turbo kit”. It is the invisible hand guiding the engine, ensuring its survival and maximizing its potential. The risks are high, and the margin for error is slim, but the rewards raw power and exhilarating performance are undeniable. The true art lies in understanding the interplay of these factors and mastering the delicate dance of air and fuel.
5. Intercooler Integration
The forced induction narrative, particularly with a “blow thru turbo kit,” inevitably leads to the chapter of intercooler integration. It represents more than a mere addition of hardware; it’s a crucial refinement, a tempering process that separates raw power from sustainable performance. The turbocharger, in its function of compressing air, generates heat, an unwanted byproduct that diminishes air density and increases the likelihood of detonation. Integrating an intercooler, essentially a radiator for intake air, directly addresses this thermal challenge.
Consider the consequences of neglecting this integration. A “blow thru turbo kit” installed without an intercooler becomes a double-edged sword. While the turbocharger force-feeds the engine with air, the elevated temperatures negate much of the density benefit. Furthermore, the heated air dramatically increases the risk of pre-ignition, placing immense stress on engine components. One recalls instances where meticulously built engines, boosted by “blow thru” systems, met premature demise due to detonation stemming from inadequate intercooling. Conversely, systems equipped with properly sized and efficient intercoolers demonstrated not only superior power output but also enhanced engine longevity. This underscores the cause-and-effect relationship: increased intake air temperature, unchecked by an intercooler, leads to decreased performance and increased risk of engine failure. The “blow thru turbo kit” amplifies this effect, making intercooler integration all the more critical.
The practical significance of understanding intercooler integration extends beyond mere component selection. It involves careful consideration of placement, core design, and airflow management. A front-mounted intercooler, optimally positioned to receive unobstructed airflow, often represents the ideal scenario. However, space constraints and routing complexities sometimes necessitate alternative configurations, such as top-mounted or air-to-water intercoolers. The goal remains consistent: to minimize intake air temperature and maximize air density. Ultimately, intercooler integration is not an option but a necessity for any “blow thru turbo kit” aiming for both performance and reliability. It is the vital bridge connecting the potential of forced induction with the enduring health of the engine.
6. Ignition Timing
Ignition timing, often a subtle adjustment, becomes a linchpin in the realm of the “blow thru turbo kit.” This adjustment dictates the precise moment the spark ignites the compressed air-fuel mixture within the cylinder. A “blow thru turbo kit,” by its very nature, significantly alters the dynamics of combustion. Increased cylinder pressures demand a recalibration of ignition timing; failing to heed this call can lead to catastrophic consequences. Detonation, that violent, uncontrolled explosion, becomes the specter haunting every revolution if the timing is advanced too far. Conversely, retarding the timing too excessively sacrifices power and efficiency, rendering the turbocharger’s efforts futile. The precise adjustment, therefore, hinges upon a delicate balance, a dance between power and preservation.
Consider the narrative of a seasoned engine builder, tasked with breathing new life into a classic muscle car using a “blow thru turbo kit.” He meticulously assembled the engine, fortified its internals, and plumbed the turbocharger. The initial dyno runs, however, proved disheartening. Despite the increased airflow, the engine produced lackluster power, accompanied by ominous signs of detonation. He systematically adjusted the ignition timing, retarding it incrementally until the detonation subsided. The engine, now operating safely, responded with a surge of power, its true potential finally unleashed. This illustrates a practical truth: the “blow thru turbo kit” unlocks immense potential, but proper ignition timing is the key to harnessing it safely and effectively. The system becomes more a liability than an asset if ignition timing remains unaddressed.
In conclusion, ignition timing is far more than a simple setting within the “blow thru turbo kit;” it’s a critical control parameter. It demands a deep understanding of engine dynamics, combustion principles, and the specific characteristics of forced induction. The challenges are numerous: accounting for varying boost levels, fuel quality, and environmental conditions. Yet, the rewards are undeniable: a potent, reliable engine capable of delivering exhilarating performance. Ignoring ignition timing with a “blow thru turbo kit” is akin to playing with fire; a moment of carelessness can erase countless hours of meticulous effort, reducing a powerful machine to a pile of broken parts.
7. Engine Protection
The installation of a “blow thru turbo kit” invariably alters the delicate balance within an engine, transforming it from a naturally aspirated powerplant into a forced induction beast. However, this transformation comes at a cost: increased stress and the potential for catastrophic failure. Thus, “Engine Protection” is not merely an addendum to the process, but an integral, non-negotiable component. It is the shield against self-destruction, the carefully crafted strategy that allows the engine to endure the rigors of forced induction.
Consider the story of two mechanics, each embarking on a similar “blow thru turbo kit” project. One, focused solely on maximizing power, neglected the vital safeguards. He pushed the engine beyond its limits, disregarding the warning signs of detonation and excessive heat. The inevitable occurred: a melted piston, a shattered connecting rod, and an engine reduced to scrap metal. The other mechanic, however, took a more cautious approach. He invested in a robust engine management system, installed knock sensors, and meticulously monitored critical parameters. His engine, while not producing quite the same peak horsepower, ran reliably for years, its lifespan extended by careful attention to “Engine Protection”. This underscores the crucial point: a “blow thru turbo kit” without adequate protection is a ticking time bomb, waiting to detonate.
Effective “Engine Protection” in the context of a “blow thru turbo kit” encompasses a multi-faceted approach. It begins with fortifying the engine’s internal components: stronger pistons, connecting rods, and crankshafts capable of withstanding the increased pressures. It extends to implementing a sophisticated engine management system, capable of monitoring and adjusting critical parameters such as air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, and boost pressure. It includes the installation of sensors that can detect early signs of trouble, such as knock sensors to detect detonation and exhaust gas temperature sensors to monitor overheating. Finally, it necessitates a proactive approach to maintenance, regularly inspecting and replacing components to prevent wear and tear. Ignoring any of these elements jeopardizes the entire system, negating the potential benefits of the “blow thru turbo kit” and exposing the engine to undue risk. “Engine Protection” isn’t an option; it’s the price of admission to the world of forced induction. A failure to invest in it is a failure to respect the power and the inherent risks associated with a “blow thru turbo kit.”
Frequently Asked Questions
The realm of forced induction, particularly with a “blow thru turbo kit,” often raises a litany of questions. These inquiries stem from a desire to understand the complexities and potential pitfalls of this performance upgrade.
Question 1: Will a “blow thru turbo kit” drastically shorten my engine’s lifespan?
The tale of two engines serves as a cautionary example. One, hastily boosted without addressing supporting modifications, succumbed to internal failures within months. The other, meticulously prepared with strengthened components and precise tuning, has endured years of spirited driving. A “blow thru turbo kit” inherently increases stress; however, proper implementation and diligent maintenance determine longevity. Neglecting supporting modifications invites premature failure, while a well-executed setup can provide years of exhilarating performance.
Question 2: Is specialized tuning required after installing a “blow thru turbo kit?”
Imagine attempting to conduct a symphony with an orchestra out of tune. The result would be a cacophony, far removed from harmonious music. Similarly, a “blow thru turbo kit” without specialized tuning will yield subpar results, potentially damaging the engine. Accurate calibration of the air-fuel ratio and ignition timing is paramount. A trained tuner, possessing the expertise and equipment to analyze combustion dynamics, becomes an indispensable ally. Specialized tuning transforms a collection of parts into a finely orchestrated performance machine.
Question 3: Can any carburetor be used with a “blow thru turbo kit?”
Picture trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. While force might achieve a temporary solution, the long-term consequences would be detrimental. Similarly, not all carburetors are suited for “blow thru” applications. Modifications, such as boost-referenced power valves and sealed float bowls, are often necessary to maintain proper fuel delivery under pressure. Selecting a carburetor specifically designed or properly modified for “blow thru” use is crucial for reliable operation.
Question 4: Is an intercooler absolutely necessary for a “blow thru turbo kit?”
Visualize a marathon runner attempting to perform optimally in sweltering heat. The reduced oxygen intake and increased physical stress hinder performance. An intercooler serves a similar function for a turbocharged engine, reducing intake air temperature and increasing air density. While a “blow thru turbo kit” can function without an intercooler, performance and engine longevity will be compromised, particularly at higher boost levels. An intercooler represents a wise investment for maximizing both power and reliability.
Question 5: What is the ideal boost pressure for a “blow thru turbo kit” on a stock engine?
Consider the analogy of lifting weights. Attempting to lift an excessively heavy weight without proper preparation can lead to injury. Similarly, exceeding the limits of a stock engine with excessive boost pressure from a “blow thru turbo kit” invites internal damage. The “ideal” boost pressure varies depending on engine design and condition. However, erring on the side of caution is prudent. Starting with a conservative boost level and gradually increasing it while monitoring engine parameters is a safer approach.
Question 6: How often should I perform maintenance on a “blow thru turbo kit?”
Envision neglecting regular oil changes on a high-performance engine. The accumulated sludge and wear particles would inevitably lead to premature failure. Similarly, neglecting maintenance on a “blow thru turbo kit” diminishes its lifespan. Regular inspection of hoses, clamps, and fittings is crucial. Oil changes should be performed more frequently, and the carburetor should be periodically inspected and cleaned. Proactive maintenance ensures the longevity and reliability of the system.
These inquiries, while diverse, underscore a common theme: success with a “blow thru turbo kit” hinges upon understanding its complexities and addressing its inherent challenges. Diligence, knowledge, and a commitment to quality are the keys to unlocking its potential.
The next section will explore common pitfalls encountered during installation and offer strategies for avoiding them.
Essential Insights for a Reliable Blow Thru Turbo Kit Installation
The transformation of a naturally aspirated engine through the addition of a “blow thru turbo kit” represents a significant undertaking. This endeavor, when approached with meticulous planning and execution, unlocks substantial performance gains. However, neglecting crucial considerations can lead to frustration, diminished performance, and potentially catastrophic engine damage. The following insights, gleaned from countless installations and tuning sessions, serve as guiding principles for a successful conversion.
Tip 1: Prioritize Fuel System Adequacy. The lifeblood of any forced induction system is an ample and reliable fuel supply. The increased air volume introduced by the turbocharger necessitates a corresponding increase in fuel delivery. One recounts the tale of an engine builder who, in pursuit of horsepower, overlooked this critical aspect. The resulting lean condition, undetected in its early stages, culminated in melted pistons and a ruined engine. Ensure that the fuel pump, fuel lines, and carburetor can deliver sufficient fuel volume under maximum boost conditions. Invest in a fuel pressure regulator to maintain consistent pressure, preventing fuel starvation or flooding.
Tip 2: Secure a Rock-Solid Boost Reference. The boost reference acts as the communication channel between the turbocharger and the fuel system. Inaccurate or fluctuating boost readings can wreak havoc on the air-fuel ratio, leading to erratic performance and potential engine damage. A mechanic once recounted the frustration of diagnosing inconsistent engine behavior, only to discover a loose or cracked boost reference line. Verify that the boost reference line is properly routed, securely connected, and constructed from high-quality materials capable of withstanding the pressures and temperatures of the engine bay.
Tip 3: Embrace the Carburetor Enclosure. The carburetor enclosure, often viewed as a mere accessory, plays a critical role in maintaining consistent fuel delivery under boost. This enclosure equalizes the pressure around the carburetor’s fuel bowls and vents, preventing fuel from being forced out of the carburetor due to increased air pressure. Consider the analogy of a diver in the deep sea; without a pressurized suit, the external pressure would crush the diver. Similarly, without a carburetor enclosure, the boost pressure would disrupt the carburetor’s delicate fuel metering. Ensure that the carburetor enclosure is properly sealed and vented to prevent fuel leaks and ensure consistent performance.
Tip 4: Implement Effective Ignition Timing Control. The dynamics of combustion undergo a dramatic shift with forced induction. Advanced ignition timing, appropriate for naturally aspirated engines, can lead to detonation under boost, causing severe engine damage. Conversely, excessively retarded timing sacrifices power and efficiency. A skilled tuner once described the painstaking process of mapping the ignition timing curve, carefully adjusting it to optimize performance while avoiding detonation. Employ a boost-sensitive ignition retard system or a programmable ignition controller to precisely manage ignition timing under varying boost conditions.
Tip 5: Monitor Vital Engine Parameters. Blindly relying on guesswork is a recipe for disaster. The ability to monitor critical engine parameters, such as air-fuel ratio, exhaust gas temperature, and boost pressure, provides invaluable insights into engine health. One recalls the tale of a driver who, by closely monitoring his air-fuel ratio gauge, detected a lean condition before it could cause serious damage. Install gauges or a data logging system to track these parameters in real-time. Early detection of anomalies allows for prompt corrective action, preventing catastrophic engine failure.
Tip 6: Master Air-Fuel Ratio Tuning. The delicate balance of air and fuel is paramount. Lean mixtures incite detonation while rich mixtures compromise power. Fuel distribution changes when incorporating a “blow thru turbo kit” and requires adjustment. A wideband O2 sensor is essential in monitoring these parameters.
Adhering to these principles is important. Neglecting them invites unnecessary risk. This conversion demands a comprehensive understanding of forced induction dynamics and a commitment to quality and precision.
The subsequent steps involve a detailed analysis of common problems and troubleshooting strategies associated with systems using the “blow thru turbo kit”.
The Echo of Forced Air
The preceding exploration has traversed the complex landscape of the “blow thru turbo kit,” from its foundational components to the nuances of tuning and maintenance. The narrative has illuminated the delicate balance between potential power and inherent risk, underscoring the critical importance of meticulous planning, precise execution, and unwavering diligence. The story of a “blow thru turbo kit” is not one of simple bolt-on gratification, but rather a carefully orchestrated symphony of mechanical elements, each demanding respect and understanding.
The rumble of a forced-induction engine serves as a constant reminder: power, untamed, breeds destruction. The responsibility rests with those who seek to harness this force, to tame the beast within. Approach the “blow thru turbo kit” with knowledge as armor, precision as a sword, and respect as a guiding principle. The rewards are undeniable, but the path to enduring performance demands vigilance, adaptability, and a commitment to preserving the mechanical heart that beats within. The echo of forced air is a testament to both the potential and the perils of altering the fundamental nature of combustion.
