Ep 8. Black and Blue Stage I

In season 2 episode 8 of PowerNation: Engine Power, titled "Black and Blue Stage I," the hosts are back in the shop with their 1987 Chevy C10 project truck. This time, they're focusing on improving the engine's output with a Stage I upgrade.

The first step in the process is to remove the stock intake and exhaust systems. The hosts explain that these parts are designed to restrict airflow and reduce noise, which can limit the engine's performance. To address this, they install a new Airaid cold air intake and a Gibson performance exhaust system. These upgrades are expected to increase the truck's horsepower and torque while giving it a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note.

Next, the hosts turn their attention to the fuel injection system. They remove the stock fuel rails and injectors, which are again designed to limit performance, and install a new set of high-performance injectors along with a Holley Sniper EFI system. The new EFI system is designed to optimize fuel delivery to the engine and provide better control over the air/fuel mixture. The hosts explain that this will result in improved throttle response and overall performance.

With the new intake, exhaust, and fuel system upgrades in place, the hosts turn their attention to the engine itself. They remove the valve covers and install new roller rockers, which are designed to reduce friction and increase valvetrain stability at high RPMs. They also install a new camshaft, which is designed to provide more lift and duration than the stock cam. These upgrades are expected to further improve the truck's horsepower and torque output, as well as its overall sound and performance.

Finally, the hosts take the truck out on the road to test its new upgrades. They note that the truck accelerates more quickly and smoothly than before, with noticeably improved throttle response. They also note that the exhaust note is deeper and more aggressive, giving the truck a more performance-oriented sound. Overall, they're pleased with the results of the Stage I upgrades and are eager to move on to the next stage in their project.