Here's a breakdown:
Challenges:
* Fuel Management: Carburetors are designed for naturally aspirated engines and struggle to handle the increased air density and flow from a turbocharger. You'll likely need a specialized carburetor with adjustable jets or a fuel injection system to provide the necessary fuel-air mixture under boost.
* Boost Control: Controlling boost pressure with a carburetor is difficult. You'll need specialized components like a boost controller and possibly a wastegate to manage boost levels.
* Tuning: Proper tuning of a turbocharged carburetor system is complex and requires extensive knowledge and experience.
* Driveability: Carburetors can struggle to provide smooth throttle response and drivability, especially with significant boost.
* Reliability: A carburetor-based turbo setup can be prone to issues like detonation, fuel starvation, and overheating, especially under heavy boost.
Alternatives:
* Fuel Injection: The most reliable and efficient way to turbocharge an engine is with fuel injection. Modern fuel injection systems provide precise control over fuel delivery, allowing for smooth operation under boost.
* Aftermarket Carburetion: Some companies offer specialized carburetors designed for turbocharged applications. These carburetors are generally more expensive than standard carburetors and may still have limitations.
In summary:
While it's technically possible to add a turbo to a carbureted motor, the challenges and limitations make it a less than ideal solution. If you're considering turbocharging, it's highly recommended to convert to fuel injection for optimal performance and reliability.
