What's in store for aftermarket products for 2002? We have the answer. Stun grenades and other diversionary paraphernalia in hand, we gained entrance to the inner sanctum of SEMA-the New Products Showcase. Once part of the "in crowd" we had free rein over the cases and set up a quick-and-dirty studio to zap images to emulsion. For 2001, Turbo magazine is introducing its Technical Innovation Awards. The Technical Innovation Award recognizes products that standout due to their potential impact on the industry, their performance and their engineering expertise.
Turbo Magazine's Technical Innovation Award
AEM Programmable Engine Management System
The AEM Pro system replaces the factory ECU and offers complete access to all fuel and timing maps via a lap-top computer by way of user-friendly Windows(tm) software. The AEM Pro is ordered by application and is delivered with a pre-entered base program. The system uses all factory sensors and terminals, making this a plug-and-play proposition. Datalogging, nitrous control, boost and knock control are just a few of the features of this enticing unit. The AEM Pro can tune non-factory turbo conversion cars but additional wiring will be needed. There is also a Race system available. AEM, (310) 484-2322.
Turbo Magazine's Technical Innovation Award
Nitrous Oxide Systems MPFI Wet System Nozzle
This product inserts into the injector hole and the injector is then inserted into it. The NOS Adapter (our name for it) has channels in it and is plumbed for fuel and nitrous...picture a fogger nozzle that injects its nitrous/fuel mixture at the injector and you have the idea. The fuel injector sprays through the adapter, which enhances nitrous atomization in the combustion chamber. It is easier to install than a conventional wet system because there is no drilling and tapping of the manifold and the plumbing of nitrous and fuel lines has been streamlined. The kit includes a spacer to re-position the OE fuel rail. If Pat Musi runs it on his crazy Camaro, it has to be the bomb. Nitrous Oxide Systems; Holley Performance Products, (270) 782-2900.
Turbo Magazine's Technical Innovation Award
Nitrous Express
Rich/Lean Safety Meter
Your own personal watch dog, the Rich/Lean Safety Meter from Nitrous Express monitors the air/fuel ratio of the engine and will disengage the nitrous system if pre-programmed safety parameters are exceeded. Talk about a lifesaver. Nitrous Express, (970) 767-7694.
Turbo Magazine's Technical Innovation Award
Jackson Racing VTEC Performance Amplifier Controller
This device allows the user to adjust the VTEC threshold of his Honda/Acura powerplant. The VTEC effect can be tuned to as low as 2500 rpm. Unlike some of the earlier VTEC controllers, the Jackson Racing VTEC Performance Amplifier Controller also accesses the VTEC-specific fuel and timing tables to ensure maximum performance. Jackson Racing, (888) 888-4079.