in the opions of the turbo users wut would be better.... rear mounted or engine mounted, pros and cons.... which makes more power, does one have more lag than the other, do both of them need intercoolers or just engine mounted, which is less expensive? thanx

 

The rear and front mounts all need the same parts so for parts cost they are about the same. The rear is much easier to mount so overall with parts and install, the rear would be a little less. Plus the rear can get away with a little smaller wg than a front mount due to cooler condensed air in the rear. WG's get a little more expensive in the 40/42mm range.

They both can produce great power and if sized and tuned right, the lag wouldn't be noticeable between the two. I don't have an opinion on which is better. I can only argue that a rear mount is as good as a front mount (which doesn't make it worse, better, or the same).

 

does the rear mount still need an intercooler? and is the rear mounted kit alone more exspensive than the engine mounted kit. if it is, b/c the rear mounted is easier to install, its prolly worth the extra. has anyone tried both?

 

Yes -- all forced induction benefits from an intercooler -- all work without one, you are just restricted as to how much boost you can run which limits your power.

I think rear mounts are cheaper -- not as much fab work.

 

I have a front-mount, but I wouldn't hesitate to use an STS.

You can get into an STS cheaper than a front-mount, and add options later. The fronts are more expensive but include the intecooler etc. I also think the craftsmanship on the FMs are much nicer. But, if they both make the numbers who cares.

 

From what I've heard;

Turbos and the exhaust piping gets hot, really hot. The rear mount keeps that heat from the engine compartment and all components (including the engine).

I have no way to compare the 2, but the lag should be close to zero. As the turbo spools it starts creating pressure in the tube. Pressure is equal throughtout the pipe all the time.

 

But you can compress a smaller volume faster.

However since our motors are pretty large, the difference in volume may not make a big difference. I haven't heard of many STS owners complaing about how slow there trucks are.

 

I agree! +1

 

I think each has its own pros and cons. Rear mounts are easier to install, make it easier to work on the engine or maintain it, and produce great power.
There are some things that can add to the performance of the rear mount like keeping in as much heat to the turbo. This is a non issue with the front mount. IMO, the rear mount makes alot nicer street kit; i.e. drives normal until you hammer on it. I think if someone is all about track times, then they should consider a front mount.
Kindof a toss up really.

 

For all out racing, I'd go with a front mount (twins) for a dailly driver or some one that even thinks they will tow anything, a rear mount makes more sences to me.