Good questions - let me know if you need more info.
1)What's the expected hp output for the SC-related parts alone, ie. no exhaust/intake?
40+ Rear Wheel Horsepower and at least an equal amount of torque - see chart and info on my page - I have seen up to 75 RWHP on some dyno runs on an Amigo
2)What boost level is this SC producing?
4-5PSI
3)Does it have a bypass or electromagnetic clutch for cruising situations?
Sophisticated vacuum bypass - unnoticeable transition!
4)How is fuel handled, specifically, is it simply a rising rate FPR or FMU (fuel pressure regulator/fuel management unit) or is it handled via ECU reprogramming (MAP sensor?) with stock or larger injectors?
Stock ECU is able to handle and adjust for the added air - even at the 5 PSI I am running, I am still running rich. Stock injectors can handle more boost when we use a UniChip to allow longer pulses.
5)Is the warranty void if mufflers and intake are added after the installation?
No - recommended.
6)What model SC is being used, what's the maximum boost recommended by the SC manufacturer, and if possible any thermal efficiency numbers? I remember reading that 3.5L was the upper limit for an SC kit listed on the BBS. Wasn't sure if it was for the Alpine kit or another being produced.
EATON M62, 3rd Generation Roots style - see Eaton or Magnuson (Eaton’s aftermarket division) web site.
7)I'm no expert on automatic transmissions...I noticed that a "beefier" torque converter is offered. Is this all that is needed to enable the transmission to handle the additional hp/torque the SC along with other performance goodies (intake/exhaust, etc..) I understand the stock transmission will be fine with just the SC and no other modifications.
Better torque converter would be recommended if you drive it hard all the time - otherwise, we are within spec for the powertrain. This kit was designed with input from Isuzu as they contacted Alpine about it as well as TRD engineers. I do recommend the use of the AutoTrans Interceptor electronic shift kit on any VX that is driven spiritedly.
8)What's the expected MPG drop with the addition of the SC assuming you NEVER get into boost. Are we looking at 1mpg parasitic loss?
Technically tiny if you never hit boost and there is the potential to increase it slightly as the engine does not have to work as hard. Parasitic drag is less than 1hp around town. I only notice increased fuel usage when driving it hard.
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