Glossary / General

spool

10 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

'Spool' means the time it takes for a turbocharger or supercharger to start working and give the car more power. It’s like waiting for a jet engine to get up to speed before it can take off.

Technical Definition

In automotive terms, 'spool' refers to the time it takes for a turbocharger or supercharger to build boost pressure and deliver increased power. This process can take a moment, similar to how a jet turbine needs time to reach full speed.

Hear It Discussed

"...because it's got these bigger turbos that take a little longer to spool."
Aston DBX Review; Ferrari Record Nonsense; AI on BaT? The Smoking Tire 17:52

"But it was also, it was the difference between taking club corner flat out"
Andy Wallace on downforce injuries, winning Le Mans & his motorsport career | part one The evo podcast 10:09

"...the best mix of quick spool, low back pressure, good boost, good airflow, low EGTs and it all varies depending on whether the guy wants to tow..."
7.3 Tuning Takes a Huge Leap Forward The Diesel Podcast 14:00