We know how difficult it can be to work on cars; believe us, we’ve had more than our share of problems over the years, too. Good thing we’re willing to share this knowledge of problem solving with you and act like we know something technical about cars. Feel free to ask us about your tech problems by writing to Super Street at tech@superstreetonline.com or Super Street, Attn: Tech Support, 831 S. Douglas St., El Segundo, CA 90245. We’ll try out best to answer your questions but can’t answer every one we receive personally or in print, so if your issue is urgent, we highly recommend you seeking the help of a nearby mechanic! Also, try to do some basic research online; while the Internet and forums aren’t all foolproof, it is a very good start as there are many excellent resources to look at. If it helps to include a few photos to describe/illustrate your problem/project, please do so.
Best Blow-off Valve?
Q I have a 2010 Mitsubishi Ralliart, and I have a question concerning my BOV (blow-off valve). I am looking to upgrade because I am not a fan of the OEM plastic BOV. From the research I have done, I know that my car has a recirculating BOV and not VTA (vent to atmosphere). My question is: would you know of a good BOV that could give me the added sound of VTA and not hurt my performance?
Eric Fegley
Coal Township, PA
A Not sure we fully understand you question here. Are you asking about a VTA-style BOV or a recirculating one? You would not be able to use a recirculating one and be able to get the sound of a VTA. There are a lot of quality BOVs that are VTA that can also be configured to recirculate, meaning it can be used as either or; you can try GReddy, Turbosmart or Synapse, to name a few. If you need more ideas on what you can do with your Ralliart, you can look up a few of the articles on our website detailing our project. Good luck with yours!
Ready To Ignite
Q I have a ‘91 Civic hatch with a D15B7 and ‘93 Si transmission. I’m trying to beef up the ignition with new wires and coil, and right now I’m running on NGK double platinum plugs with Bosch wires, but it just doesn’t seem like it’s enough. I’ve been looking up MSD ignition parts, but that’s only because I don’t know of any other reliable brands. I’m also not sure of the setup I should run. Will I benefit from a CD (capacitor discharge) setup? What type of coil would provide the most consistent spark? Do I really need an external coil? What about brass terminal ends; are they better than aluminum, and why? And the wires: 8mm or bigger? Also, the stock coil is from a ‘91 Civic, which would also mean that the distributor, cap and wires should be from the same year, right? I’m pulling my hair out! The questions go on and on with this!
Juan Castillo
Via e-mail
A There are so many different brands of aftermarket ignitions that you can adapt to work with your Civic. In most applications, you’ll benefit with a more consistent and stronger spark. This applies more so in older vehicles, as over time and usage, the factory ignition system deteriorates. It is recommended that you use an external coil, as more often than not the factory coil cannot keep up with the aftermarket ignition system. Brass is a slightly better conductor due to its copper content. Mostly, it’s personal preference, but any reputable brand or thickness in wires will work. It is always best to use the correct year’s parts to ensure proper functionality.