18. Internal Engine Mods
When it gets right down to it, the most complex (and one of the most effective) ways to get more power out of an engine is by optimizing the engine's design. Replacing the cam or cylinder heads can make the engine dramatically more efficient and can draw more power from the air/fuel mixture. Four-stroke engines use exhaust and intake valves. The exhaust valves allow the removal of exhaust gases, making room for fresh air and fuel. The intake valves open to allow the next charge of air and fuel into the combustion chambers. When the camshaft rotates, it causes the valves to open and close, and the timing of this process can make the most out of the air/fuel mixture. Replacing the cam can mean improved high-rpm performance or better low-rpm performance, depending on the unit you choose. New cylinder heads can mean an increase in the amount of air coming into the engine, further increasing power.
19. Nitrous
Nitrous-oxide systems started out as a power booster for fighter planes but have since made the transition to performance-truck applications. Nitrous systems inject additional air into the combustion chambers, allowing additional fuel to be added, which makes for a stronger combustion cycle, generating additional power. N20 (don't ever, ever say, NOSS!) adds as much as 150 hp in an instant, but it is only meant to be used for a brief time. Nitrous is a power upgrade that can make driving onto a freeway on-ramp fun, but it isn't something that will give your truck long-term improved performance or efficiency. This is a modification that is safe when done properly, but it can be dangerous to an engine if the installation is improper.
20. Superchargers
The most noticeable modification you can do to give your truck more power is to install a supercharger. A supercharger can safely increase power by 75 to 100 hp, while dramatically improving torque. While there are several different supercharger designs, most push pressurized air into the combustion chambers, essentially putting a lot more air into the chambers. As blower technology advances, and more automakers become comfortable with the long-term reliability of superchargers, supercharges will become more available on OE applications. In fact, while some vehicles come from the factory with superchargers, there is a growing trend of making superchargers dealer-added items, which fall under the vehicle's original warranty. A supercharger installation is a worthwhile all-day process and not recommended for the novice do-it-yourselfer.