Re: CIS vs CIS-E III wizardry sought

[steveb@falcon.kla-tencor.com (Steven Buchholz)]

> As the centerpiece to my Coupe's coming performance upgrades, I'm using a 
> 2.3 5 cyl from an 87 or newer 5000. In reading the service training 
> manual for the new engine and injection, I'm wondering if the upgrade to 
> the newer stuff will be of any performance benefit. Granted, the knock 
> sensor is a desirable item, but it's quite a bit more work to change all 
> of this malarky compared to just using what I already have. So, the 
> questions begin:
> 
> 1.  Just how necessary is the knock sensor? In reading about it's 
> function, it seems it is just a sensor to switch the ignition map back 
> and forth. Won't I be okay in running premium fuel most of the time?

The improved performance of the newer engine comes from its higher static 
compression.  One of the reasons such engines are more practical now than 
they were is the fact that electronic systems can monitor the engine to 
prevent damage.  Yes, running premium fuel should minimize the effect, 
but I like to think that the knock sensor can help avert disaster when 
something else has gone wrong as well.  It sounds like you are going to 
try to tweak the engine further ... were I attempting such a task I would 
want all the insurance I could buy.  
> 
> 2.  "Knock" seems to be the result of high temperatures. Is there another 
> way of reducing engine temp that would solve this?

Knock is a result of improper fuel ignition in the cylinders ... I've seen
engines knock when cold.  
> 
> 3.  The "E" system operates at a higher PRESSURE. Most of the advantage 
> from my reading indicates this is to avoid a vapor lock condition more 
> than to increase performance. Seems to me a higher VOLUME would be better 
> than pressure from a performance standpoint, so upgrading the injection 
> in this respect shouldn't make any real difference. 

Your argument sounds good, but I'll bet if you check the fuel delivery 
rates you may find that the newer car has more capacity there as well.  
> 
> 
> My goal is 160+hp, nothing silly. I appreciate everyone's help and 
> figured you all would enjoy the challenge <g>

... the stock turbo engine starts at 160HP and can easily be tweaked 
beyond that.  I know of a person in So Cal that was contemplating 
dropping an MC engine in his Coupe-GT ...

Have fun!
Steve Buchholz
s_buchho@kla.com
San Jose, CA (USA)