1986 corvette performance mods ??
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 175
Likes: 18
1986 corvette performance mods ??
Hello guys there is a possibility I may be getting a 86 corvette my first one it has an automatic and the dealer wants 6500 for it. I`m thinking of buying it I have checked on line and the car only has 235 hp is there any upgrades that I can do to up the power on this engine like heads cam or intake ?? I want to stay away from NOS just want to keep it NA and btw it has 141,000 miles............... thanks for any help
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
From: Melbourne, Australia
I put up a thread about building an L98 - check it out, there is plenty of good info.
Basically the intake is the problem, so you need to replace it if you want a big cam and high revs for higher horsepower, or go with a smaller cam and ported stock intake for less power and more torque.
Basically the intake is the problem, so you need to replace it if you want a big cam and high revs for higher horsepower, or go with a smaller cam and ported stock intake for less power and more torque.
Advanced
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 85
Likes: 1
Hello guys there is a possibility I may be getting a 86 corvette my first one it has an automatic and the dealer wants 6500 for it. I`m thinking of buying it I have checked on line and the car only has 235 hp is there any upgrades that I can do to up the power on this engine like heads cam or intake ?? I want to stay away from NOS just want to keep it NA and btw it has 141,000 miles............... thanks for any help
Yes 235hp (that is the aluminum head late 86). however 330tq. From idle until 4000rpm - TORQUE.
You need to remember that HP is a mathematical calculation of tq and RPM. Because the L98 engine does not breath in the upper rpm's - lower HP.
What I am trying to say is the HP number is not the full story and you may be surprised. (unless you are looking for a car to drag race).
Better exhaust (headers back), better intake (either ported stock, aftermarket runners /base or full swap ) will get you to the point were you can easily keep up with the 300hp Lt1's.....
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 2,940
Likes: 5
From: Chesapeake VA
A built 383 with a miniram should keep you and your passengers in "Depends" for a good long while.
----That will require a stronger transmission and differential, but all of this is redily available...for a price.
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Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
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From: Athens AL
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
C4 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
141K, i think I'd drive it for 6mos-1 year, and then decide. You will end up replacing alot of parts. Trust me, the only thing left of mine thats original is the PS Pump itself, pretty much everything else had to be changed out and mine is a little over 170K.
But it'll last for quite awhile if you drive like you have a little bit of sense and change the fluids on time.
In the meantime do your research, my site is available (click my name), but start with exhaust, then intake, then think about getting into the motor later. Form a plan, dont just throw parts at it.
But it'll last for quite awhile if you drive like you have a little bit of sense and change the fluids on time.
In the meantime do your research, my site is available (click my name), but start with exhaust, then intake, then think about getting into the motor later. Form a plan, dont just throw parts at it.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 175
Likes: 18
well finally got a chance to actually drive the car and it pulls like an animal the seller of the car wants it gone in an hurry and I think I can get it at about 5500-6000. It has a new paint job rebuilt rear end new shocks and tires along with c5 chrome rims new alt and master cylinder
Drive it like you stole it.
Former Vendor
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 2,482
Likes: 3
From: Carmichael ca
Looks good. Does it have any mods already? Aluminum or cast iron heads? If there's anything questionalbe have it checked by an imparcial pro. These cars can get pricey to repair, especialy interiors. There are lots of deals out there right now, be choosey!
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 57
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Hey gmbal4,
The car looks good. I just picked up an 86, and i gotta tell ya, the thing can move. The only modifications i'm aware of are TPIS manifold, and runners. It has 93,000 miles. I just put a set of remanufactered stock heads on it, {among other things} just to get it running. And to tell you the truth, i'm thinking about keeping them on it. Don't let the lack of HP throw you, the thing can be a beast.
The car looks good. I just picked up an 86, and i gotta tell ya, the thing can move. The only modifications i'm aware of are TPIS manifold, and runners. It has 93,000 miles. I just put a set of remanufactered stock heads on it, {among other things} just to get it running. And to tell you the truth, i'm thinking about keeping them on it. Don't let the lack of HP throw you, the thing can be a beast.
