- Joined
- Jun 29, 2007
- Threads
- 45
- Messages
- 1,539
A question: Does raising the compression ratio positively affect performance at high altitiude (>7000') all else being equal?
I apologize if this was answered before, as I did not read every post carefully.
Raising the compression on an engine leads to problems, specifically with detonation, which can destroy an engine. By adopting computer control of the fuel injection, ignition timing and EGR management, and fitting a knock sensor, the engineers could raise the compression and squish more air and fuel into every cylinder, without fear of destruction.
The answer to your question is no, simply raising the compression does not augment high altitude power. What helps with power at any altitude is to redesign an engine fitted with a carburetor to make use of electronic engine controls: FI, MAP sensor, ignition tailoring, knock sensor and so on. Raising compression ratios is allowable with tighter reign over the A/F mixture and control of pre-detonation. Fuel octane is addressed as well.
Personally I would not bother to adapt a FI system to any carb designed motor unless it was near the cost of a replacement carb. I don't think the cost/benefit would make sense, given the above explanations. I am not a fan of carburetors, so in this conversation I would opt for an engine replacement to the 3FE, with all management ancillaries.
Rick