The technical specifications on this page refer to the 1991 LeBaron GTC Coupe with the optional performance powertrain package which consisted of the 'High-Torque' Turbo-I and an A-568 5 speed manual transmission. The standard powertrain for the 1991 GTC was the MMC 3.0L V6 and A-604 4 speed automatic. Turbocharged engines were being phased out during the later model years of the 'J' bodied Lebaron's. Probably due to the perception that Turbo engines represent a reliability issue. Those of us who have owned and driven these forced air induction 4 cylinder MOPAR's know that this is not the case. The 'Red Baron' runs as well today, maybe even better, than the day I drove it off the lot.

The first (BLACK) section in the diagram illustrates the Air Induction (AI) system. The primary function of the AI system is to supply the engine with clean cold air. Cold air creates a more efficient air/fuel mixture so on the LeBaron a hole has been cut in the front facia of the engine compartment where the opening to the AI system is located. The battery is drawn in just for reference. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) is embedded in this part of the AI ducting so air can be drawn across its cooling fins. The air then travels through the AI system to the airbox, passes through the air filter element and on into the intake (BLUE) side of the Turbo.

On the exhaust (RED) side of the Turbo, exhaust gases are used to create boost. It's this boost that forces air into the intake manifold increasing horsepower and torque. Similar to the BOV, when you take your foot off the accelerator the Wastegate opens to allow exhaust gases to by-pass the Turbo, otherwise a cascade effect would occur causing boost to continually rise until the engine couldn't take the stress.

If you have a Turbo-I you might want to look around under the hood and see if you can identify the items in the diagram. Start at the AI opening and 'walk-through' the system. I find the whole system quite interesting.

2.5L I4 SOHC 'High-Torque' Turbo I A-568 Gear Ratios Turbocharger Mitsubishi TD04 1st 3.00:1 Size, cc./cu.in. 2508/153 2nd 1.89:1 Fuel Delivery M.P.I. 3rd 1.28:1 Bore and Stroke 3.44"x4.09" 4th 0.94:1 Comp. Ratio 7.8:1 5th 0.71:1 Horsepower 152@4800 Reverse 3.14:1 Torque (lbs/ft.) 210@2400 Overall 2.73:1

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Last update: January 18, 2002.