CARBON CONNECTION: INTAKE MANIFOLD MAGIC!

With runner lengths tuned for peak torque plus the beauty of carbon fiber, Performance Design’s XR manifold delivers max power and head-turning appeal.

Caleb Newman has degrees in engineering, years of hands-on design and development experience at Katech and is now at the helm of Performance Design in Troy, MI. Their latest product is a carbon fiber intake manifold for GM LS7 motors that can increase the output of a stock crate motor by 48 horsepower at 5, 600 rpm. Torque gains of 30 to 50 pound-feet have been documented at between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm.Power increases are considerably higher on race-prepped hot rod and road race LS7s.

Designed and built for cars with larger engine bays, the Carbon XR intake manifold features dual throttles to eliminate airflow restrictions, tall deck fitment without spacers and 12.5-inch- long runners for superior torque curves. The airflow path is similar to an I.T.B. intake with improved drivability due to a reduced number of throttles requiring synchronization and finer throttle area control at tip-in. Carbon fiber is utilized for its light weight, strength and improved heat soak characteristics versus an aluminum casting. It also delivers killer looks!



The XR throttle body flange can be pre-selected for different throttle bodies and throttle bore sizes. Dual 75-mm throttles support up to 900 horsepower (naturally aspirated airflow), while optional dual 90-mm throttles support over 1,300 horsepower. The intake utilizes production sensors, PCV routing and has charcoal canister and vacuum ports available. Custom configurations are possible if necessary for fitment and function to specific applications.

A cross-ram, dual plenum, dual throttle intake manifold allows packaging of long and straight intake runners with raised bellmouths, allowing superior flow and less restriction into the in the runners. Optimum injector targeting aimed at the back of the intake valve is maintained for emissions, fuel atomization, combustion and power. Plenum and runner volumes are sized to support large displacement and high-power engines. Further, plenum shapes are designed and located to be symmetric, providing engine bay aesthetics and even throttle mounting flanges.

Performance Design’s Carbon XR manifold is constructed of carbon fiber and billet 6061-T6 aluminum. A Five-Axis CNC machined head flange offers perfect port matching for LS7 heads. Designed and manufactured in the USA and hand assembled in Troy, MI, the Carbon XR is ideal for performance marine and offshore race boats, hot rods, kit cars and racecars and is priced at $4,999. Coming soon is a version that works with LS3 engines.



For more information about Performance Design products, please visit http://performancedesignllc.com/