Spooling Up - Your Comprehensive Guide to The Best Nissan 370Z Supercharger Kits

Hey there Nissan Z34 owners! Welcome to your go-to guide for supercharging your Nissan 370Z. If you're looking to take your ride from 0-100, you're in the right place. The Nissan 370Z is an iconic sports car that's been turning heads since it hit the scene in 2009. With its sleek design and impressive performance, it's a car that begs to be driven hard. But what if you could make it even better?

Supercharging your 370Z isn't just about bragging rights; it's about unlocking your car's full potential. Think of it as giving your ride a shot of adrenaline every time you hit the gas. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything from the basics of what a supercharger is, to the types available, and even the nitty-gritty details you need to consider before making that purchase. Buckle up; it's going to be a thrilling ride!

The Best Nissan 370Z Supercharger Kits

When we set out to find the best supercharger kits for the Nissan 370Z, we didn't just look at dyno graphs. We dug deep into factors like ease of installation, drivability, and even the quality of materials used in the kit. We've sifted through the noise to bring you the top four supercharger kits that offer the best bang for your buck, the most straightforward installation, and the most reliable performance for years to come.

Stillen Supercharger Kit

The Stillen Supercharger Kit is a masterpiece of engineering, offering an extra +155 horsepower at 8 psi on pump gas. One of its standout features is the air-to-water intercooler integrated within a custom intake plenum. This design not only cools the air charge right before it enters the engine but also allows for increased torque due to the longer runner length. The Vortech V3 supercharger is self-lubricating, making installation a breeze as there's no need for additional oil lines. Fuel management is handled directly through the ECU, with an ECU reflash using UPrev software tuned by Stillen engineers for an easy plug and play setup.

Z1 Motorsports Supercharger Kit

Z1 Motorsports offers a comprehensive kit designed to give your 370Z's big bump in power to the tune of up to 600 horsepower. This kit is meticulously designed, featuring brackets made from 6061 billet aluminum and pulleys from 304 stainless steel. The charge piping is mandrel-bent aluminum, ensuring optimal airflow. The kit also includes a 370Z-specific intercooler and a 3.5'' filtered intake, ensuring your VQ37VHR as a steady supply of fresh air. What sets this kit apart is its availability in four different power stages, making it a highly customizable kit for owners that may be interested in upgrading later on.

Soho Motorsports V2 A2A LYTE Supercharger Kit

Soho Motorsports' V2 A2A LYTE kit is one of the best supercharger kits on the market, capable of delivering nearly 600 horsepower on 93 octane fuel. The kit features a Garrett intercooler that has been rigorously tested for efficiency. The Vortech V3-SI head unit comes with an 8lb. pulley and the charge piping is 2.5" coming out of the intercooler, transitioning to 2.75" closer to the throttle bodies. For fueling, the kit recommends 1050cc injectors and a 340LPH fuel pump for those running on 93 Octane. Soho Motorsports designed this turnkey kit for both 370Z and G37 owners, ensuring everyone with Z/G has a chance to experience boost!

Topgun Rotrex C38R Supercharger Kit

If you're looking for raw power, the Topgun Rotrex C38R kit is your go-to. This kit is capable of an astonishing 802whp/600wtq out of the box! Unlike other kits that require a turbo guard, this kit ensures that your engine remains free of sand, dirt, and other road debris. The kit includes a Rotrex C38R-112 head unit, a Setrab 19-row oil cooler, Tial blow-off valve, and a in-cabin boost controller for easy adjustments on the fly. It's the most affordable +500 horsepower SC kit on the market, offering a win-win situation for power and price.

Why Supercharge Your Nissan 370Z?

Z1 Motorsports 370Z SC Kit
Z1 Motorsports Supercharger Kit

Increased Horsepower

Who doesn't want more horsepower? A supercharger kit can boost your 370Z's horsepower by a significant margin, making your car not just faster, but also more responsive when you need that extra oomph.

Improved Torque

More torque means better acceleration and a more enjoyable driving experience. With a supercharger, you'll feel the difference every time you step on the gas, whether you're overtaking traffic on the freeway or carving up your local canyon roads.

Incredible Driving Experience

Let's be real; driving a supercharged 370Z is like having your own personal roller coaster. The incredible speed and performance will make every drive an experience you won't want to end.

The Basics of Supercharging

What is a Supercharger?

A supercharger is essentially an air compressor for your engine. It forces more air into the combustion chamber, allowing your engine to burn more fuel and generate more power. It's like upgrading your car's lungs so it can breathe better and make more power.

Types of Superchargers

There are mainly three types of superchargers: Roots, Twin-Screw, and Centrifugal. Each has its own pros and cons, affecting factors like efficiency, noise level, and power curve. Most 370Z kits on the market use a centrifugal supercharger due to the cramped engine bay and design of the V6 engine.

How Does a Supercharger Work?

In simple terms, a supercharger spins at high speeds to draw air into its compressor. This compressed air then gets pushed into the engine's intake manifold, creating a richer air-fuel mixture. The result? More power at your disposal.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Supercharger Kit

Soho Motorsports V2 A2A LYTE Supercharger Kit

Compatibility

Not all supercharger kits are created equal. Make sure the one you're eyeing is compatible with your specific 370Z model. The last thing you want is to drop cash on a kit that doesn't fit.

Budget

Supercharger kits generally cost several thousand dollars. Know your budget and what you're willing to spend for adding performance that a supercharger kit can give your Z.

Installation Complexity

Some kits are plug-and-play, while others may require a bit more mechanical know-how. Consider whether you'll be doing the installation yourself or if you'll need professional help.

Warranty and Support

Always check the warranty and customer support options. A good warranty can save you a lot of headaches down the line, and solid customer support can be a lifesaver if you run into any issues.

Installing Your New Supercharger Kit

Steps for DIY Installation

If you're a hands-on car enthusiast, installing a supercharger kit yourself can be a rewarding experience. You'll need a decent set of tools, a well-lit workspace, and a weekend to get it done. Always start by reading the instruction manual thoroughly. Then, proceed with removing the necessary parts like the front bumper and fender liners, depending on the kit. Make sure to torque all bolts to the specifications given in the manual.

Finding a Qualified Mechanic

If DIY isn't your thing, no worries! Look for a reputable shop that has experience modifying Nissan 370Zs. Check reviews, ask for references, and maybe even visit the shop to get a feel for their expertise. We also recommend having the shop that installs your kit be your tuner as well. ensuring a seamless experience when having your SC kit installed.

Cost Comparison

DIY can save you labor costs, which can range from several hundred to a $1K or more depending on the complexity of the kit. However, if you're not confident in your mechanical skills, the peace of mind from a professional installation could be priceless.

Servicing Your Supercharged Nissan 370Z

Routine Checks

Regularly check the supercharger belt tension and listen for any unusual noises. Keep an eye on your temperature gauges and make sure the intercooler piping is secure.

Common Issues and Solutions

Some common issues include belt slippage and overheating. For belt issues, a simple adjustment or replacement is usually enough. Overheating can often be solved by cleaning the intercooler or upgrading to a more efficient one.

Longevity Tips

Regular oil changes and using high-quality fuel can go a long way in extending the life of your supercharger. Also, consider installing a performance oil cooler if your kit doesn't include one.

Other Nissan 370Z Performance Upgrades

Z1 Motorsports 370Z / G37 VQ37VHR 400HP Package

Nissan 370Z Turbo Kits

If supercharging isn't your jam, turbochargers offer another route to high-octane thrills for your 370Z. Unlike superchargers that provide instant power gains, turbo kits can deliver higher peak power but come with their own set of challenges. They're generally more complex to install, requiring additional modifications like a new exhaust manifold and downpipe, and they demand more intricate tuning to get everything just right. So, if you're up for a bit more of a project and are chasing those higher horsepower numbers, a turbo kit could be the way to go.

Nissan 370Z Full Bolt On (FBO) Setups

If you're not quite ready to take the supercharging plunge, Full Bolt-Ons (FBOs) are a killer alternative to level up your 370Z's performance. We're talking about aftermarket headers for better exhaust flow, high-performance air intakes for more efficient air-fuel mixing, and the perfect exhaust system that not only sounds amazing but also improves your Z's overall performance. These upgrades are like the holy trinity of naturally aspirated performance gains. They work together to give your 370Z a noticeable boost in horsepower, torque, and throttle response. So, if you're looking to make your ride faster and more fun without breaking the bank, FBOs are definitely worth checking out.

OverRev’s Nissan 370Z Supercharger Guide

And that's all she wrote! We've taken you through a boost-filled journey exploring some of the best supercharger kits for your Nissan 370Z. From the balanced performance and easy upgradability of the Stillen Supercharger kit to the jaw-dropping horsepower of the Z1 Motorsports SC kit, we've got you covered. If you're looking for a kit that's the total package—power, ease of installation, and reliability—the Soho Supercharger Kit is a solid bet. But if you're all about raw power, then the Topgun Rotrex SC kit is your go-to.

If you're amped about supercharging your Nissan 370Z, why stop there? Dive into our other articles that cover all the bases for maxing out your ride's performance. From our in-depth guide on air intakes that'll help your engine breathe better, to turbo kits that offer a different kind of boost, and exhaust systems that'll give you that satisfying growl, we've got the full scoop. Each component plays a vital role in turning your 370Z into a true beast on the road.

Thanks for reading and we hope to see you again soon. Happy wrenching!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of horsepower gains can I expect for my 370Z?

Depending on the kit you choose, you could see gains ranging from 100 to 300 horsepower over the stock setup.

Will a supercharger affect the longevity of my 370Z's engine?

Adding a supercharger will put additional stress on your 370Z's engine. It's crucial to follow all maintenance guidelines and possibly even shorten maintenance intervals to ensure longevity.

Do I need to upgrade my 370Z's fuel system for a supercharger?

Most high-performance supercharger kits recommend upgrading the fuel injectors and fuel pump to handle the increased air and fuel mixture.

What about my 370Z's cooling system?

Given the extra heat generated by a supercharger, it's often recommended to upgrade your 370Z's cooling system, including a larger radiator or additional cooling fans.

Is there a break-in period for a new supercharger on a 370Z?

Yes, it's generally recommended to have a break-in period of around 500 to 1,000 miles where you avoid high RPMs and full-throttle accelerations.

Can I switch back to a naturally aspirated setup on my 370Z?

Yes, you can revert to a naturally aspirated setup, but it will require removing the supercharger and restoring the original intake and exhaust systems, among other changes.

Are there CARB-compliant supercharger kits for the 370Z?

Yes, some kits are CARB compliant, making them street-legal in all 50 states, including California. Always check the kit's specifications before purchasing.

Will supercharging my 370Z affect my insurance rates?

It's possible that modifying your 370Z with a supercharger could affect your insurance rates. It's best to consult with your insurance provider for specifics.

Photo Credits

Featured Image - "370z 4" by Ali Al-Emadi is licensed under CC BY 2.0

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