Where may an intercooler be placed in a high-performance supercharger setup?

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In a high-performance supercharger setup, placing the intercooler between the supercharger and the inlet valve is a strategic choice. The primary function of an intercooler is to reduce the temperature of the air being compressed by the supercharger before it enters the engine's combustion chamber. When air is compressed, it heats up, which can lead to decreased efficiency and increased chances of knocking during combustion.

By situating the intercooler between the supercharger and the inlet valve, cooled air is delivered directly to each cylinder, significantly enhancing the engine's performance. This cooler, denser air increases the amount of oxygen available for combustion, leading to improved power output and efficiency.

Options like placing the intercooler at the carburettor intake or between each cylinder do not strategically address the primary goal of cooling the compressed air from the supercharger before it enters the combustion chamber. Similarly, a location between the engine block and the exhaust manifold does not serve the purpose of cooling intake air, as it would instead be exposed to high temperatures from the exhaust, rendering it ineffective for its intended purpose. This understanding of intercooling placement is crucial for optimizing performance in forced induction engine setups.

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