Water Methanol Injection Kits

Does your intake temperature climb when you turn up the boost? A water/methanol injection kit sprays a fine mist into the intake, which can cool the air and reduce the risk of knock. The kits typically combine pump, nozzle, controller and hoses (some also include a tank) for turbocharged or supercharged engines.

How to choose the right kit

Start with the controller, because it determines when and how much is injected. A kit from AEM such as the V3 kit has, for example, an internal MAP sensor up to 2.4 bar (35 psi), so injection follows boost pressure, while the multi input versions can take signals from several sources. Snow Performance offers Stage II kits, among others, including a programmable version with an engine-mounted pump. Also consider:

• Tank: kits with a 3.8-litre tank and built-in level sensor, or versions without a tank if you already have a solution for the fluid.
• Hoses: some kits come with braided stainless steel hose and 4AN fittings.
• Nozzles: the flow must match the engine's power and boost pressure. If you want to change it, you will find water/methanol nozzles separately.

Installation and maintenance

The nozzle is often placed in the intake after the intercooler, but the best position depends on the engine and setup. Injection quantity and mixing ratio should be tuned together with the engine management so the system suits your project. If you want more advanced control than the kit's own, water/methanol controllers can be found under water/methanol injection. Regularly check hoses and connections for leaks, and clean the filter and nozzle, as contaminants can cause uneven atomisation. In addition to AEM and Snow Performance, the category also includes kits from Nitrous Express.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use pure water or water mixed with methanol?

It depends on the project and the engine management. Pure water cools, while a methanol mix also adds combustible fluid that the engine management must be able to handle. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for the specific kit, and adjust the mix during tuning.

Can I use water/methanol injection on a road-driven car?

It depends on the product and the car. Check for the specific part number whether relevant documentation exists, and ask a vehicle inspection centre before installing the system. Changes to engine output may also require an inspection and notifying your insurer.

What happens if the tank runs dry?

The cooling from the injection stops, and the engine runs without the extra protection against knock. Some kits, such as the AEM V3 with a 3.8-litre tank, have a built-in level sensor so you can keep an eye on the fluid level. If the engine management is tuned for injection, you should avoid high boost on an empty tank.