What’s the Best Method to Install a Performance Intercooler on an Audi TT RS?

When it comes to enhancing the performance of your Audi TT RS, one key component is often overlooked – the intercooler. This vital part of your engine’s turbocharging system plays a significant role in delivering optimal power and efficiency, by cooling the air compressed by the turbocharger before it enters the engine. By increasing the air density, the intercooler improves combustion and, consequently, engine performance. But how do you choose the best intercooler and, more importantly, how do you install it? In this article, we aim to guide you through the process.

Choosing the Right Performance Intercooler

Before we delve into the installation process, it’s important to understand the factors that should influence your choice of intercooler. Given the wide range of brands available on the market, from Wagner and CTS to APR and EVO, making the right choice can seem daunting.

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There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as the best intercooler will depend on your vehicle’s specific needs and your performance goals. However, the key parameters you should consider include the core size, the material used, the type of cooling (air-to-air or liquid-to-air), and the pressure drop across the intercooler.

For your Audi TT RS, we recommend considering an intercooler with a large core size. A larger core can cool more air, providing better performance. Brands such as Klasse and Wagner offer intercoolers with large cores that are suitable for the TT RS.

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The Importance of a Good Intercooler Kit

Once you’ve chosen the right intercooler, you’ll need to consider the accompanying intercooler kit. The kit typically includes items like mounting brackets, air intake pipes, and silicone hoses, which are crucial for the installation process.

Brands like CTS and APR are renowned for their comprehensive intercooler kits. Additionally, ensure the kit contains a bar and plate design, as this type of intercooler has proven to be more efficient in cooling the air than the tube and fin design.

Moreover, a good intercooler kit should come with clear instructions, making the installation process straightforward. If you’re not confident about installing the intercooler yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. It’s crucial that the installation is done correctly to avoid damaging your vehicle.

Preparing for the Installation

Before starting the installation, ensure you have the necessary tools at hand. This will typically include a socket set, a torque wrench, and a selection of screwdrivers. Depending on your vehicle, you may also need pliers and a pry bar.

Next, it’s vital you ensure the safety of your vehicle. Use a jack to lift the front of your car off the ground, and support it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle that’s only supported by a jack, as this is extremely dangerous.

The Installation Process

To install the intercooler, you’ll first need to remove the front bumper. This usually requires removing a series of fasteners and clips. Once the bumper is off, you’ll have access to the old intercooler.

Next, remove the old intercooler. This typically involves disconnecting the air intake hoses and unbolting the mounting brackets. Be careful not to damage the hoses, as you’ll need them for the new intercooler.

Now, it’s time to install the new intercooler. Position it correctly, bolt it in place, and then reconnect the air intake hoses. Be sure to tighten all connections securely, as a loose connection can lead to a drop in performance.

Once the new intercooler is in place, reattach the front bumper. Make sure all fasteners and clips are securely in place.

This is just a basic guide, and the actual process may vary depending on the specific intercooler and kit you’ve chosen. Always refer to the detailed instructions provided with your intercooler kit.

Post-Installation Checks

After installing your new performance intercooler, it’s essential to carry out a few checks to ensure everything is functioning as it should be.

Firstly, start your vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. This allows the ECU (Engine Control Unit) to adapt to the new intercooler. Listen for any unusual noises, and check for any leaks. If you notice anything unusual, turn off the engine immediately and investigate the issue.

Secondly, take your vehicle for a test drive. Pay attention to how it performs, particularly under acceleration. You should notice an improvement in throttle response and power. If you don’t, or if the vehicle behaves erratically, there may be an issue with the installation.

Remember, the goal of installing a performance intercooler is to enhance your Audi TT RS’ performance. If done correctly, you will enjoy a noticeable increase in power and efficiency.

Comparing Performance Intercooler Brands

As discussed, the market offers a slew of brands when it comes to performance intercoolers. Some popular ones include Wagner Tuning, Klasse Mercedes, EVO Audi, and CTS. It becomes vital to compare these brands to understand which offers the best value for your Audi TT RS.

Let’s start with Wagner Tuning. Known for its high performance and reliability, Wagner intercoolers have a large core and low pressure drop. They also come with a comprehensive intercooler kit that includes all necessary equipment for easy installation.

Next is the Klasse Mercedes. It stands out for its robustness and superior cooling ability, thanks to its large intercooler core. The brand also provides an excellent intercooler kit complete with clear instructions for a hassle-free installation.

Another player in the game is EVO Audi. Their intercoolers are renowned for their charge cooling efficiency, a crucial factor for high-performance vehicles like the Audi TT RS. The EVO Intercooler kit is designed to enhance the performance of your vehicle, ensuring optimal power delivery and efficiency.

Lastly, the CTS brand is known for its commitment to quality and performance. Its intercoolers and kits are designed with high-quality materials, promising longevity and reliability. The crash bar designs in their kits are particularly commendable, offering extra protection to your intercooler and vehicle.

In essence, when choosing the brand, consider the intercooler’s core size, the quality of the accompanying kit, the type of cooling, and, importantly, the brand’s reputation for reliability and performance.

Conclusion: The Journey to Enhanced Performance

Installing a performance intercooler on your Audi TT RS is not just about increasing its power. It’s about optimizing the efficiency of your car and ensuring that it delivers the best performance possible. The right intercooler, whether it be from Wagner Tuning, Klasse Mercedes, EVO Audi, or CTS, can make a significant difference to your vehicle’s output.

Remember, the intercooler’s role is to cool the air compressed by the turbocharger before it enters the engine. This process increases air density, improving combustion and, as a result, the engine’s performance. In turn, this enhances your driving experience, allowing you to enjoy your Audi TT RS to its full potential.

To summarise, the journey to enhanced performance starts with understanding your vehicle’s specific needs and your performance goals. Next, comes the careful selection of both the intercooler brand and the accompanying installation kit. Installation must be done cautiously, following the supplied instructions or seeking professional help if needed. Lastly, post-installation checks are vital to ensure everything is functioning as it should be.

With careful planning and the right approach, the installation of a performance intercooler can be a rewarding experience, enhancing your Audi TT RS’s performance and ensuring an optimal driving experience. So, gear up and get ready to feel the difference!