18/06/2003
When it comes to high-performance automotive engines, especially in the demanding world of motorsport, precision fuel delivery is paramount. Kinsler Fuel Injection has long been a name synonymous with cutting-edge engineering and unparalleled quality in this specialized field. Their commitment to innovation has made them a go-to choice for race teams and performance enthusiasts seeking to extract every last ounce of power and efficiency from their engines.
- Who Are Kinsler Fuel Injection?
- Kinsler Manifolds: Precision Engineering for Every Engine
- Optimal Fuel Rail Pressure for EFI Systems
- Electronic Fuel Injection Basics: Group Fired vs. Sequential
- Beyond Manifolds: Kinsler's Comprehensive Product Range
- Kinsler's Legacy in Motorsport Excellence
- Frequently Asked Questions About Kinsler Fuel Injection
- Conclusion
Who Are Kinsler Fuel Injection?
Kinsler Fuel Injection stands as a pillar in the high-performance automotive industry, renowned for designing and manufacturing state-of-the-art fuel injection components. Their expertise is deeply rooted in the racing world, where the demands for reliability, precise control, and maximum power are constant. Kinsler's philosophy revolves around meticulous engineering, exemplified by features such as their all-ball-bearing supported throttle shafts, including bearings between each set of butterflies. This design ensures super smooth throttle action, providing drivers with superior control, particularly crucial on the track. Their components have powered numerous championship-winning vehicles across various racing disciplines, from the high-speed thrill of the Indy 500 and Daytona 500 to the dirt-slinging action of the World of Outlaws. This extensive track record underscores their dedication to performance and their capability to deliver under extreme conditions.
Kinsler Manifolds: Precision Engineering for Every Engine
One of Kinsler's flagship products, particularly for Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems, is their range of billet intake manifolds. A prime example is the Kinsler Billet “410” Intake Manifold, designed for small block Chevy, Ford, and other engines. These manifolds are not just off-the-shelf components; they are engineered with remarkable adaptability to meet the unique requirements of high-performance engines.
A common question among builders is whether a Kinsler manifold can accommodate a ported engine. The answer is a definitive yes. Kinsler manifolds are explicitly designed to accommodate any port design the customer desires. This flexibility is achieved through Kinsler's ability to vary both the shape and volume of the CNC-ported runners. This customisation ensures that the manifold perfectly matches the specific flow characteristics of a highly modified or ported cylinder head, optimising airflow and fuel distribution for peak performance.
Furthermore, Kinsler has thoroughly embraced modern EFI requirements. Their manifolds, including the “410” series, can be specifically configured for EFI applications, whether for road racing or street use. This includes the integration of essential EFI components such as throttle position sensors, fuel rails, and, crucially, nozzle bosses for EFI nozzles. This integrated design streamlines the EFI conversion or upgrade process, providing a comprehensive solution for sophisticated fuel management.
Optimal Fuel Rail Pressure for EFI Systems
Achieving the correct fuel pressure is vital for any Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system to perform optimally. Kinsler Fuel Injection, with its vast experience in high-performance applications, offers insightful recommendations that often deviate from conventional wisdom to achieve superior results.
Understanding Pressure Spikes and Atomisation
In EFI systems, especially "group fired" configurations where multiple injectors might trigger simultaneously, the interrupted flow can create pressure waves within the fuel rails. These waves, or "spikes," can reinforce each other at certain RPMs, leading to unusually high pressure pulses and potentially poor fuel distribution across cylinders.
Kinsler addresses this by recommending a higher overall system pressure and utilising larger diameter fuel rails. Their extruded aluminium fuel rails boast a substantial 0.680-inch inside diameter. This larger diameter significantly helps to smooth out pressure pulses compared to smaller rails, promoting more consistent fuel delivery.
Regarding fuel pressure, Kinsler often advises running approximately 72 psi, which is considerably higher than the more common range of 36 to 43 psi. While the amplitude of the pressure spikes might remain similar, their relative impact becomes smaller as a percentage change in injector flow when operating at a higher base pressure.
Beyond smoothing pulses, this elevated pressure offers another critical advantage: better atomisation. Higher fuel pressure forces the fuel through the injector nozzle with greater velocity, creating a finer mist. This improved atomisation leads to a more homogeneous air-fuel mixture, which can translate into better combustion efficiency, potentially yielding improved power output and fuel economy.
However, it's crucial to exercise caution. Running the fuel pressure excessively high can lead to issues. Some Electronic Control Units (ECUs) might not be capable of supplying enough current to consistently lift the disc or pintle within the injector against this increased pressure. This can result in inconsistent injector opening and, consequently, poor fuel distribution. Therefore, it's imperative to ensure that your chosen fuel pump is capable of supplying the required volume of fuel at the higher pressure, and that your ECU and injectors are compatible with such operating conditions.
Electronic Fuel Injection Basics: Group Fired vs. Sequential
When selecting an electronic fuel injection system, the sheer number of features and options can be overwhelming. Kinsler works with electronics from various manufacturers, each offering multiple models. To help navigate this complexity, understanding the two basic types of multi-port EFI systems—Group Fired and Sequential Fired—is essential.
Group Fired EFI
In a group fired injection system, a group of injectors (e.g., two or more in a given fuel rail) are triggered simultaneously. The ignition system or a crank trigger provides the signal to the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for speed input, which then dictates when the injectors fire.
| Aspect | Group Fired EFI |
|---|---|
| Cost | Generally lower cost. |
| Triggering | Multiple injectors fire at once. |
| Timing Accuracy | Less precise; some injectors may be poorly timed relative to valve opening. |
| Fuel Distribution | Can be erratic, especially at low RPM, as fuel may collect on port walls. |
| Pressure Waves | Prone to significant pressure spikes in fuel rails due to simultaneous firing. |
| Ideal For | Budget-conscious builds, less critical applications where ultimate precision isn't paramount. |
The primary advantage of group fired systems is their lower cost. However, the main drawback is the timing inaccuracy. Since injectors fire in groups, some will be triggered close to the optimal crank angle, while others will not. If an injector fires at the wrong crank angle, fuel may collect as liquid on the intake port or runner walls. When the intake valve finally opens, only a portion of the fuel may be suspended in the air entering the cylinder, leading to erratic mixture conditions, particularly at low engine speeds where air movement in the intake runner is minimal. This can compromise idle quality and low-speed smoothness.
Sequential Fired EFI
A sequential fired system represents a more advanced approach to fuel injection. In this setup, each injector is triggered individually at a precise crank angle for every cylinder, typically near Top Dead Centre (TDC) overlap (when the intake valve begins to open).
| Aspect | Sequential Fired EFI |
|---|---|
| Cost | Generally higher cost due to increased complexity. |
| Triggering | Each injector fires individually at a precise crank angle. |
| Timing Accuracy | Highly precise; fuel injected exactly when needed. |
| Fuel Distribution | Superior and more consistent, leading to better idle and low-speed performance. |
| Pressure Waves | Less prone to severe pressure spikes due to staggered firing. |
| Ideal For | High-performance engines, racing, and applications where optimal fuel economy and precise control are critical. |
This precise timing significantly improves idle quality, low-speed engine smoothness, and fuel economy. Some sophisticated sequential systems even allow for different injection phasing to be programmed for each speed site within the fuel map, offering unparalleled tuning flexibility.
Triggering a sequential system is more complex than a group fired system. It requires a separate "CAM" or "SYNC" signal, usually generated once every two crankshaft revolutions on a 4-cycle engine, to reference the start of the injector firing sequence. Additionally, a "Crank" signal, generated at a specific crankshaft angle for each cylinder, is needed to calculate engine RPM and crank angle position for precise injector firing and ignition triggering from the ECU. Both sine wave (typically from magnetic sensors) and square wave (typically from Hall effect sensors) signals are used, depending on the ECU manufacturer's requirements.
Beyond Manifolds: Kinsler's Comprehensive Product Range
While celebrated for their manifolds and EFI insights, Kinsler's product portfolio extends to other critical fuel system components, all designed with the same commitment to performance and durability.
High-Pressure Nozzle Lines
Kinsler offers Model HP (high pressure) Nozzle Lines that are slim, sleek, and lightweight. These lines are meticulously assembled in their shop using an eight-crimp die set, ensuring robust connections. Key features include a 5/16” hex at the barrel valve for easier installation, the ability to rotate the fitting in the line after installation, and a PVC sheath crimped under the collar to protect from dirt and prevent braid showing. The nozzle fitting features a 45-degree seat for proper matching with the nozzle angle and is bent 65 degrees to allow lines to run snugly over valve covers. The lines themselves are smooth bore Teflon with a 3/16” ID and stainless braid, covered with black PVC (.275 OD), rated at an impressive 3,000 psi working pressure and a minimum burst pressure of 14,000 psi. Kinsler has tested these lines to 15,000 psi without failure, highlighting their extreme durability.
Tough Pumps
Kinsler's Series 1 and Series 2 Tough Pumps are renowned for their ruggedness and ability to handle dirt in fuel better than many other pumps on the market. Available in various flow rates (e.g., 8.68 GPM, 10.62 GPM, & 12.58 GPM at 4,000 Pump rpm for Series 2), these pumps are suitable for a wide range of applications, from 600+ cubic inch naturally aspirated methanol engines to supercharged or turbocharged methanol engines up to 2,000 HP, and even Top Fuel Harley Davidson (with special seals for nitro). They are rated for 300 psi continuous operation. A common problem with mechanical fuel pumps is wear due to insufficiently hard gears and housings. Kinsler addresses this by using very hard gears and a hard-coated housing, making them exceptionally resistant to wear from dirt. Furthermore, they are built with premium metals, coatings, and very close tolerances to ensure extreme durability, with Kinsler stating they have never had a pump fail in the field due to wear or total failure.
Kinsler's Legacy in Motorsport Excellence
Kinsler Fuel Injection's equipment has been at the heart of countless victories and championships across the globe, solidifying their reputation as a leader in high-performance fuel systems. Their involvement spans various top-tier racing series, demonstrating the versatility and reliability of their products.
In the legendary Indy 500, Kinsler equipment was on both the 1st and 2nd place Honda-powered cars of Dario Franchitti and Scott Dixon in 2012, and on ten of the top twelve cars overall. At the Daytona 500 in 2012, the first NASCAR Cup race to use fuel injection, all five top finishers and 36 of the 43 starting cars ran Kinsler F.I. components. The 50th Running of The Rolex 24-Hours of Daytona saw Kinsler's modular Ford cross-ram manifold injecting Roush-Yates Engines that powered the 1-2-3 overall finish.
Kinsler's presence is also strong in off-road and sprint car racing. Dougans Racing Engine, equipped with Kinsler Dragon Claw Fuel Injection, secured 1st place and the OVERALL CHAMPION title at the Mint 400 in 2015 with Justin Lofton. In the World of Outlaws, Kinsler Billet 410 Manifolds have been victorious, with drivers like Brad Sweet and Kerry Madsen taking top honours. Their Tough Pumps are widely used, as seen in the 2012 World of Outlaws from Las Vegas, where many top finishers relied on them.
Even iconic figures like Ken Block have featured Kinsler injected Mustangs in their high-performance demonstrations. In sports car racing, Kinsler partnered with SRT and Roush on the IMSA 2014 Champion SRT Motorsport’s Dodge Viper GTS-R program, designing and machining Viper V-10 manifolds that even competed at The 24 Hours of Le Mans. This impressive list of achievements highlights Kinsler's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and reliability in the most demanding automotive environments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kinsler Fuel Injection
Does Kinsler make nozzle bosses for EFI nozzles?
Yes, Kinsler does make nozzle bosses for EFI nozzles. Their Kinsler Billet "410" Intake Manifolds, designed for EFI road racing and street use, come equipped with provisions for throttle position sensors, fuel rails, and specific nozzle bosses for EFI nozzles. This integration ensures a clean and effective installation of your electronic fuel injectors.
Who is Kinsler Fuel Injection?
Kinsler Fuel Injection is a highly respected manufacturer of high-performance fuel injection components, primarily serving the motorsport and high-performance automotive markets. They are known for innovative designs like their ball-bearing supported throttle shafts, precise engineering, and a comprehensive range of products including manifolds, fuel pumps, and lines. Kinsler has a long history of powering championship-winning cars in various racing disciplines.
Can a Kinsler manifold fit a ported engine?
Absolutely. Kinsler manifolds are designed with extreme flexibility to accommodate any port design the customer wants. Kinsler can assist customers in selecting or customising a port for their specific engine combination by varying both the shape and volume of the CNC-ported runners, ensuring optimal flow characteristics for highly modified or ported cylinder heads.
What psi should a Kinsler fuel rail run?
Kinsler often recommends running their fuel rails at approximately 72 psi, which is higher than the more common 36 to 43 psi. This higher pressure, combined with their large diameter (0.680-inch ID) fuel rails, helps to smooth out pressure spikes, achieve better fuel atomisation, and can contribute to improved power and economy. However, it's crucial to ensure your ECU, injectors, and fuel pump are capable of handling this higher pressure consistently.
What is the difference between Group Fired and Sequential Fired EFI systems?
Group fired EFI systems trigger multiple injectors simultaneously, offering a lower cost but with less precise timing and potential for erratic fuel distribution, especially at low RPM. Sequential fired EFI systems trigger each injector individually at a precise crank angle for each cylinder, leading to superior idle quality, smoothness, fuel economy, and fuel distribution, but they are generally more complex and costly due to requiring additional "CAM" and "Crank" signals.
Conclusion
Kinsler Fuel Injection remains at the forefront of high-performance fuel system technology, consistently delivering products that meet the rigorous demands of competitive motorsport and discerning enthusiasts. From their adaptable intake manifolds featuring integrated EFI nozzle bosses, to their robust fuel pumps and innovative fuel rail pressure recommendations, Kinsler provides comprehensive solutions designed for optimal power, precision, and durability. Their long list of racing victories is a testament to their engineering prowess and unwavering commitment to excellence, making them a trusted name for anyone serious about automotive performance.
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