VX Search

[XtremeAaron]

Even though I wont be able to purchase a VX until about 6 months from now, I start the search now. I was wondering what yall paid for your VX and how long ago, im trying to gauge what its going to cost me. Also, whats the deal with supercharged VXs. How hard will one be to find? Whats the difference in power for non s/c vs s/c VXs?

Thanks, really like the VX!

[johnnyapollo]

I bought mine new in 2001 so I won't post that price as it's not relevant. All supercharged VXes were created using an aftermarket kit (mostly Alpine with an Eaton mp62 SC). Supercharged VXes have an additional 40-60 HP at the rear wheels depending on pulley size (earlier units shipped with a 4 lb pulley, later 5 lb pulley and more horses) and intake/exhaust configuration. The kit ran anywhere from $2500-3200 plus labor for install.

Since the VX has limiters that prevent going over a top speed of about 120 MPH, the SC provides additional HP in the form of torque and throttle response - it also provides forced air to improve performance during altitude drives (not that you'll be crossing the continental divide every day but since the engine isn't starved for air you end up zipping past all the non SC and TC motors around you).

-- John

[XtremeAaron]

Cool, thanks for the reply! Having a supercharger isnt a major must for me, I was just wondering its benefits. I cant wait to buy one. I currently own 2 Rodeos and am a strong believer in Isuzu, even with theyre pull from the US next year. From the second I saw it I knew I had to have it. Seems like the unique dd/wheeler ive been looking for!

Ive found a few videos of VXs, do any of you have any to share?

[klatshaw]

I live just South of Cleveland

[XtremeAaron]

I live just South of Cleveland

Well I just moved to Tallmadge OH just south of you! I moved from cleveland.

How do you like yours?

[klatshaw]

Close to SummitRacing, A nice place to spend a Buc

[XtremeAaron]

I can see summit from my back window if that puts it into perspective!

[snowtrooper1966]

SNIP- ...it also provides forced air to improve performance during altitude drives (not that you'll be crossing the continental divide every day but since the engine isn't starved for air...SNIP

-- John

Hey, John!
At what altitude, does performance start to be altered for our engines?
I live @ 10,000 feet...
Best,
James

[johnnyapollo]

I'm not sure if the ECU adapts to altitude if you're at a fairly consistent elevation - It's when you're a low altitude dweller and you change to high that the mix gets starved of air and there's a noticeable drop in acceleration, fuel economy and performance. My guess is that the ECU would adapt with time by adjusting the mix. If you'll search around on the web you'll see postings by people crossing the divide or doing other high altitude trips relating the issue as a loss of power.

-- John

[snowtrooper1966]

Do you know of any way to confirm/deny your supposition? It would be nice to know for sure if I am not getting all I can out of my Dragon...
James

[johnnyapollo]

I think it was granpabob that first mentioned it - he was the first with an Alpine unit with the actual prototype - he's since changed his username so I don't remember what to search under. He was also the first with a VX at Rubicon.

Here's one of many articles I found:
http://www.4x4offroads.com/4x4-vehic...-altitude.html

Here's a dialog about the altitude effect on gas mileage (on a Prius no less!):
http://www.intuitive.com/blog/toyota...elevation.html

I still don't know if the ECU compensates though. If the VX still feels sprightly to you where you live I'd say that it does adjust.

-- John

[don moore]

I to was ready for a VX but I had to wait fur the money....then it happened..now im a proud owner of the best looking VX in eugene...

[XtremeAaron]

Guys I found a potential LOCAL VX I may take out a loan to buy! Opinions? Going to look at it tomorrow.
Heres some pics and specs:

Price $7,599
Body Style Sport Utility
Mileage 106,187
Exterior Color BLACK AND RED
Interior Color Other
Engine 6 Cylinder Gasoline
Transmission 4 Speed Automatic
Drive Type 4 wheel drive
Fuel Type Gasoline
Stereo AM/FM Compact Disc Playr
Doors Two Door
Stock No. 4450
VIN JACCN57X9X7991973

[WyrreJ]

I still don't know if the ECU compensates though. If the VX still feels sprightly to you where you live I'd say that it does adjust.

I'm no mechanical engineer, but I can't see how the ECU could compensate. The problem is a reduction in the amount of available oxygen and nothing the ECU could do can substantially increase that in a normally aspirated engine.

It could certainly make the fuel mixture less rich to match the reduction of oxygen - so no fuel goes unburnt. I think that would save gas, but would not increase power.

My understanding is that forced induction via a turbo or a supercharger is the only way to compensate for reduced air/oxygen pressure.

[johnnyapollo]

Yeah from some of those posts I read it doesn't seem like it would to me either - I just wasn't sure in my earlier posts.

-- John