As a performance modification enthusiast, you’re likely always looking for ways to maximize your vehicle’s potential, especially on the track. For Mitsubishi Evo owners, achieving consistent and rapid launches is key to lowering quarter-mile times. One factory setting that can hinder this is the rev limiter, specifically the launch control rev limiter, which in models like the 2005 Evo, is set around 5000 RPM. This safety feature, while protective of the engine, can restrict your launch performance.
This guide provides a straightforward method to disable the rev limiter on your Evo, directly inspired by a resourceful mod shared in a 2004 forum thread. This modification can help you achieve quicker and more consistent 60-foot times, potentially dipping below 2 seconds on the quarter-mile. However, it’s crucial to understand that performing this modification is at your own risk. The rev limiter is a safety mechanism designed to prevent engine damage from aggressive launches. Disabling it removes this protection.
This “how-to” guide aims to clarify and expand upon the original forum discovery, making the process easily understandable and executable in about 5 minutes.
Before undertaking this modification, it’s important to understand the factory rev limiter behavior. In a stock 2005 Evo, the rev limiter engages at 5000 RPM when the car is in gear, the clutch is depressed, and there is no forward momentum.
Tools You’ll Need
To perform this modification, you will need the following simple tools:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Small pair of needle-nose pliers
- 10mm wrench or socket
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Rev Limiter
Follow these steps carefully to disable the rev limiter on your Mitsubishi Evo:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
For safety, begin by disconnecting the negative terminal of your car’s battery. This prevents any electrical issues during the modification process.
Step 2: Access the Fuse Panel Area
Locate the panel beneath the steering wheel. You’ll need to remove a piece of trim to access the fuse panel behind it. While not strictly necessary, opening the lower dash (using the Phillips screwdriver to remove two screws) provides more room to work, especially when reaching for the plug to be disconnected. The hole created by removing the trim piece can be used to look through and locate the plug.
Step 3: Locate the Rev Limiter Plug
Look for the specific plug that needs to be disconnected. It’s situated in the fuse panel area you just accessed.
Here are closer views to help you identify the correct plug.
Step 4: Disconnect the Plug
Using the Phillips screwdriver or your needle-nose pliers, gently push up on the white tab that secures the plug in place.
While pushing up on the tab, carefully pull the plug out using the needle-nose pliers to get a better grip and avoid damaging the connector.
Step 5: Secure the Disconnected Plug and Reassemble
Once disconnected, simply let the plug hang freely. It does not need to be connected to anything else.
Now, close up the lower dash if you opened it, and reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
Potential Side Effects
After performing this modification, you’ll notice that the rev limiter is disabled, allowing you to launch at higher RPMs. However, be aware of a common side effect: slower RPM drop when shifting at high RPMs.
This means when you depress the clutch at high RPMs during gear changes, the engine RPMs will decrease more slowly than before the modification. This can have both advantages and disadvantages:
- Advantage: Easier rev-matching during downshifts, which can be beneficial for smoother gear changes and potentially for performance driving where rev-matching is crucial.
- Disadvantage: When coasting in gear, it might feel like the car is still slightly accelerating, or that there’s still some throttle input. This can make slowing down before corners, especially on a track, feel different and potentially more challenging.
This behavior is a known characteristic of Evos with this modification and is generally considered normal. It’s important to be aware of this change in engine behavior after disabling the rev limiter.
Conclusion
Removing the rev limiter on your Mitsubishi Evo using this method is a quick and reversible modification that can enhance your launch control for improved track performance. However, remember that this modification bypasses a safety feature designed to protect your engine.
Always exercise caution and drive responsibly, especially after modifying your vehicle’s factory settings. If you’re uncomfortable with the side effects or decide you want to reinstate the rev limiter, simply disconnect the battery and reconnect the plug to revert your Evo back to its original configuration.
