DIY Network

Toyota Matrix: Intake and Exhaust Enhancements, Part 1 From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-102

	Our project car: an XR model Toyota Matrix. The XR model's lower compression makes it ready for bolt-on supercharging.
	The Matrix comes stock with a 130 hp inline 4-cylinder engine. Tricked Out takes over from there.

In this episode of DIY's Tricked Out host Andrew Totolos and automotive expert Harry McKinney install fuel-intake and exhaust-system enhancements on a stock XR model Toyota Matrix. In this first segment, we begin with some prep work to get ready for installing a short-ram intake.

The XR model's lower compression makes it ready for bolt-on supercharging. Before the enhancements, the car tested at 105 peak horsepower with 108 pounds of torque. Our upgrades include a short-ram intake, axle-back exhaust system and piggyback engine-control system that takes full advantage of the new airflow mods. The short-ram intake helps the engine "breathe easier" for better performance.

DIY Difficulty Rating for Repair: This computer and exhaust project is fairly straightforward in terms of installation. We gave it a difficulty rating of 2 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. Although we make big changes to vehicle's performance, there's no difficult drilling or cutting involved. All of the modifications simply bolt on or plug in.

Materials needed:

This product requires only the kits and parts installed, and standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.). An air-compressor and set of pneumatic tools is optional, but may help speed the assembly process.

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.

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• After disconnecting the negative battery cable, begin by removing the engine cover to access the intake tract (figure A). Removing these bolts requires a 10 mm socket. With the bolts removed, gently unclip and remove the engine cover.

• Unplug the mass air sensor and unhook the throttle cable from the intake tube (figure B).

  Figure A

  Figure B

  
  

• Loosen the two hoses clamps on the intake tube and remove it. This hose comes from the evap OBD canister and vents evaporated fuel from the gas tank into the intake system where it is burned. Pull the hose off the factory air-box. Make certain that it later gets hooked to the new kit. Unclip the factory air cleaner lid (figure C) and tilt it forward so that you can remove the air filter.

• Now you can reach behind the lid access the PWM switching valve. To unhook the valve, use a small, flat-head screwdriver to release the catch (figure D) and pull it free. Retain the mass air-sensor as it will be used in the new setup.

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

Guest expert Harry McKinney assists with the engine and exhaust upgrades.

WEB EXTRA:
Information on Warranties and Performance Modifications: The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

You may be wondering whether the new intake system, or other performance modifications, will void your vehicle's warranty. In most situations, they do not. If a problem arises with your vehicle that has nothing to do with the modification, restrictions to the warranty don't apply. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, aftermarket equipment that improves performance does not void a vehicle-manufacturer's original warranty.

Note: There are certain conditions where the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act does not cover you. One is if the warranty clearly states that the addition of aftermarket equipment automatically voids your vehicle's warranty. The other is if the aftermarket device is the direct cause of the failure you are getting repaired. To find out if adding aftermarket accessories will void you warranty look in your owner's manual or ask the dealership. For more information on warranties, modifications and the law, click here.

Later, the Matrix will get tricked out even further with a set of 17-inch wheels and a body kit.

Important: Included in this segment are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of repair-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection, and follow proper safety precautions, when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.

RESOURCES :

Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guide: Import Cars (Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guides)
Author: Joe Pettitt
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Voyageur Press (October 2000)
ISBN: 1884089526

Toyota Performance Handbook (Motorbooks International Performance Handbook Series)
Author: Pat Braden
Publisher: Motorbooks International
May 1990 ASIN: 0879383208
To order this book from Amazon.com, click here.

Supercharging, Turbocharging, & Nitrous Oxide Performance Handbook (Powerpro)
by Earl Davis, Diane Davis
Motorbooks International
December, 2001
ISBN: 0760308373
To order this book from Amazon.com, click here.