LT1-LT4 Modifications 1993-97 Gen II Small Block V8

What to do first?

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Old Jan 10, 2007 | 03:41 PM
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Default What to do first?

I recently bought a 96 z28 6sp and it has cold air and a 2OTL catback exhasut. I want to put a SS hood on it, new wheels, and re do the exhaust (headers n all). I cannot afford to do it all at once so what do you guys think I should start with first?
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Old Jan 10, 2007 | 03:59 PM
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Originally Posted by vaughn96
I recently bought a 96 z28 6sp and it has cold air and a 2OTL catback exhasut. I want to put a SS hood on it, new wheels, and re do the exhaust (headers n all). I cannot afford to do it all at once so what do you guys think I should start with first?
Personally I'm more for the performance than looks. I'm still rocking the factory salad shooters and hood.

I prefer the element of surprise when people don't really have a clue what you're running. My car looks like a stock anonymous high 13-second jellybean.. but I'm actually running high 11s.

Edit: Long story short, personally I'd do the full exhaust and start pricing out a heads/cam package. For the cost of a new hood (plus paint) and new wheels and tires you could probably do a cam swap. Just food for thought
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Old Jan 10, 2007 | 04:55 PM
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You will have to decide whether you want performance or looks. Looks are a personal preference, so I'll give you advice on speed.

I say go with longtube headers and y-pipe. Thats one of the first things you need to get out of the way. Keep your catback exhaust though. I'm not sure if you like the sound, but it will sound completely different with headers. I payed around $1000 for all my exhaust (including gaskets, bolts, clamps), so you can spend about $700 if you keep your catback.
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Old Jan 10, 2007 | 06:09 PM
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If your not ever planning on making tons of extra power, get 4.10 gears. They feel great in a m6 car. I wish I had done a gear swap earlier than I have.
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Old Jan 10, 2007 | 09:10 PM
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Like stated above. Looks or Power and all in how much you want to spend. If you can do it yourself, you can save a ton of $$. I go with some Longtubes and y pipe to open it up a little. Some 4.10's is not a bad idea. All that will set you back about $800 to $1k, depends on brand. But like I learned a long long time ago. It cost alot to go FA$T!
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Old Jan 10, 2007 | 09:22 PM
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I would choose between 4.10 gears or headers. Either one will make your hairs stand up. The gears will cost you about $350 to buy them and have them installed. The exhaust will cost you about $700, granted you install it yourself.
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