What Is a Dump Valve? Do I Need One?
A dump valve is a release system that is present in almost all turbocharged engine applications. It is intended to release excess pressure and prevent any type of compression surge that is caused by mass airflow intake.
The intended purpose of these valves are high-performance automobiles that use turbochargers. These specific vehicles benefit from having a valve since they are necessary for reducing engine and turbocharger failure. Compression surge is a situation that occurs when drivers lift off of the throttle on a turbocharged engine. The high pressure air in the intake system becomes trapped and forces excess pressure into the compressor. If this happens, the compressor will slow down and can cause the turbo to stall. This phenomenon is noticed usually if a driver is attempting to accelerate quickly after the pressure surge.
A valve can release the compressed air into the atmosphere while making a notable hissing sound. Additionally, the dump can release the pressurized air back in to the intake through a compressor inlet. A dump also reduces wear & tear on the turbocharger and the engine.
Bailey Motorsport Dump Valve
Bailey Motorsport first introduced their version of a valve in 1997 which uses a piston-design. There are different models that are available which have their own applications. The DV24 is used on engines that have no air flow meter and boasts a 60 psi boost. The DV26 is designed for vehicles that have an airflow gauge and also has a 60 psi boost. The DV34 and DV36 is a unique design that incorporates a trumpet-styled outlet. These valves will cost drivers between $123 and $165.
Advantages
The piston-shaped valve is more efficient than the diaphragm valve and is able to react faster. This also translates to increased power boost and overall better performance. These valves can also be used on a variety of engines that may or may not have a mass airflow sensor.
Disadvantages
The only disadvantage to using a Bailey valve is the potentiality of a fuel-rich environment if the valve is placed after the mass airflow sensor. Proper installation will negate this and will allow drivers all the benefits provided by a valve.
Forge Motorsport Valves
Forge Motorsport also has line of valves that can be purchased in either the piston design or a diaphragm design. Forge diaphragm valves are similar to a piston model but use a rubber diaphragm to release excess pressure. This type of valve makes a whooshing sound compared to the hissing sound of a piston-style dump valve. However, Forge Motorsport also makes piston-style dump valves for other turbocharged engine applications. Furthermore, dump valves from Forge Motorsport will cost between $104 and $211. Read more