Masochist

iTrader: (1)

Hi guys,

The situation is I've got a 2002 Trans Am WS6 M6 w/ 120k on the clock, totally bone stock other than a cat-back.

Now, I've got approximately an 8,000$ budget. I want to make this car a reliable, streetable daily w/ roughly 400-420hp. I'm concerned primarily with reliability as this engine has quite a few miles on it. I'm trying to avoid a situation where I dump nearly 10k into the engine/car and the engine fails somehow 15k~ miles later. I know sometimes stuff happens but I'm looking for the most reliable approach possible while still keeping in line with my budget.

Given those guidelines does anyone have some suggestions for me as to how I should approach achieving this goal?


Thanks!

HCI2000SS

iTrader: (2)

Either slap on a blower or a basic heads and cam package. If the car is in good running condition 420 hp will be no problem

blackbyrd

iTrader: (14)

with that kind of budget and the reliability concern I would consider doing a motor swap to a ls3 or ls2.

if you want to stick with the ls1, I would consider a well balanced head and cam package that wont eat to much of the current budget and maybe have plans for a short block as a phase 2 when the stock internals give. though ive read the average lifespan of the ls1 is near the 200k mark if well maintained. Food for thought

Masochist

iTrader: (1)

The car has been sitting outside for two years prior to me owning it driven almost never during that time. The previous owner claims its only been changed with synthetic oil at .. varying intervals but I can't help but be concerned about neglect.

I like the idea of an LS2/3 engine swap.

thompson

iTrader: (4)

You can get in a new long block along those lines. We have 440HP Packages starting in the $4000 range and 500HP packages starting at $5597. Give us a call and we can get you in something that will really impress you.
Thank you,
Kyle
Thompson Motorsports

clg82

iTrader: (2)

totally don't mean to highjack your thread, but I am in the exact same situation. Quick question for you Kyle....are those 500hp packages California carb compliant? The problem I am having is finding anything that I can do to the engine to achieve that much horsepower yet still stay California smog compliant.....the only thing I've found for 8,000 is a p1 procharger setup that will still pass smog...any suggestions?

thompson

iTrader: (4)

I don't want to steer too far off for the OP either, I have sent you a PM clg82. Give me a call at your convenience, Short answer is yes it is possible. Thank you for your interest and I look forward to the opportunity to help you.

Delfygo

iTrader: (2)

Just a thought 400-500 h.p. Won't do you much good when things start to break on the drive line. I would start with subframe connectors, Headers, ORY, rear end, drive shaft, torque arm, LAC's, Heads and cam package with a proper tune. Also with a M6 depending on your clutch you will probably want to upgrade to a LS7 or aftermarket with a Tick master cylinder, I have a similar goal and have gone through everything with the heads and cam my last choice and to date have $10,465 invested with all the labor being completed by me