Adding nitrous oxide to your engine can significantly increase its power, but it can also be dangerous if not installed and wired properly. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to wire your nitrous system, the components you need, and frequently asked questions.
Components Needed for Nitrous System Wiring
Before we delve into the wiring process, let’s have a brief look at the components needed for a nitrous system installation. This includes:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Nitrous bottle | Stores nitrous oxide |
| Nitrous solenoid | Regulates the flow of nitrous oxide |
| Fuel solenoid | Regulates the flow of fuel |
| Nitrous controller | Controls the activation and duration of nitrous injection |
| Wiring kit | Connects all the components together |
It’s also important to note that different nitrous systems may have different components or require different wiring. Therefore, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific setup.
Wiring Process
Step 1: Mounting the Components
The first step is to mount the nitrous bottle and all the solenoids in the engine bay. Make sure they are securely mounted and not in contact with any moving components. You can refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific mounting locations.
Step 2: Connecting the Wires
The next step is to connect the wires using the wiring kit. Typically, the kit will have wires with different colors to differentiate their functions. The following table outlines the common wire colors and their functions:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Red | 12V power |
| Black | Ground |
| Blue | Nitrous solenoid activation |
| Yellow | Fuel solenoid activation |
| Purple | Activation switch input |
| Green | TPS (throttle position sensor) input |
Connect the wires according to the manufacturer’s instructions, making sure to double-check the connections to avoid any potential short-circuits.
Step 3: Adding a Relay
To avoid drawing too much current from the activation switch, it’s recommended to add a relay to the wiring setup. The relay will act as a switch between the activation switch and the nitrous controller.
Connect the activation switch input wire to one of the relay inputs, then connect the other relay input to a fused 12V power source. Finally, connect the relay output to the nitrous controller input wire.
Step 4: Connecting the TPS Input Wire
The TPS input wire is responsible for detecting the throttle position and activating the nitrous system at a pre-set level of throttle opening. Connect the TPS input wire to the TPS sensor on the throttle body or carburetor, depending on your engine setup.
Step 5: Powering the Controller
The nitrous controller requires a 12V power source to function. Connect the 12V power wire to a fused 12V power source, preferably one that is only activated when the engine is running.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to install a nitrous system?
If installed and wired properly, nitrous systems can be safe and reliable. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use high-quality components to avoid any potential hazards.
2. How much power can a nitrous system add?
The amount of power added by a nitrous system depends on various factors such as the size of the nitrous shot, engine displacement, and other modifications. However, it’s not uncommon to see power gains of up to 150 horsepower with a properly installed nitrous system.
3. Can a nitrous system damage my engine?
If used improperly or installed incorrectly, a nitrous system can cause serious damage to your engine. However, if used within the manufacturer’s recommended limits and with proper tuning, a nitrous system can actually extend the life of your engine by reducing the amount of stress placed on it.
4. Do I need a fuel pressure safety switch?
A fuel pressure safety switch is highly recommended to avoid the possibility of the engine running lean due to a lack of fuel pressure. This can cause serious engine damage or even a catastrophic failure. The fuel pressure safety switch will shut off the nitrous system if the fuel pressure drops below a certain level.
5. How often do I need to refill my nitrous bottle?
The frequency at which you need to refill your nitrous bottle depends on the size of the bottle, the amount of nitrous used, and how often you use it. On average, a 10-pound nitrous bottle will last for around 8-10 quarter-mile passes.
Installing a nitrous system can be a great way to add power to your engine, but it’s important to do it right. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using high-quality components, you can enjoy the benefits of nitrous without any potential hazards.
