I need more power! Help!

[Eli]

I think what is getting lost in translation here is his specific issue.

If you come around a 10-15MPH hairpin turn while going up a 5% grade, you're going to have to downshift into 1st. There's no way around it in the Insight. And then winding it back up to ~4000RPM so you can shift into 2nd is going to take some time.

I think that's the real problem here. The Insight definitely isn't geared optimally for this type of use, like he says.

[Eli]

double post

[cordog13]

I will give these tips a try!
Thanks for the advice!
I have taken out my spare et al from the rear but replaced it with an amp and subwoofer, I often need my passenger seat but I have contemplated that and maybe if my manager needs a ride to BART he will just have to sit on the floor!
I deliver gourmet food to rich people in piedmont and montclair so my payloads are 40 to 50 pounds max on a large run.
I have not done anything with the cat or egr etc.. so I will get on that ASAP!
I once tried those dual head spark plugs that worked great on a few of my other cars improving performance and mpg but the insight rejected them like a vegetarian rejects a free hamburger! I dont know why but it stumbled a stuttered with those plugs.
I took the hose leading to the air box off and put a K&N filter in and it seemed to have a bit more umph but then it would styall every once in a while so I figured it was not a good thing to do.

[Willie Williford]

Try to drive with the tach right at the 3200 rpm level. That way when you get assist you will get "full assist" and also get good power from the ICE.
The timing is advanced just right.
Your mileage might suffer somewhat, but you can't have the best of two worlds.
(My opinion)

HTH
Willie

[bibendum]

I have a steep hill near my house. I go up it a lot.

If I have a passenger, the engine and assist will
accelerate at 25MPH when in 2nd. barely.

that is said to give an idea of the grade involved.

It will accelerate in 1st gear in that same situation.

so my advice is put it in first and wind that engine out.
it is a 1 liter mill, low rpm grunt is not an option.

My first thought was you have a problem with engine or exhaust.
ummm? stock tires?

victor