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88 C4, where to start?

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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 02:50 AM
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Default 88 C4, where to start?

I'm in the process of purchasing a very nice '88 model. It has been chipped, and has new tires/2000 vette rims. It is automatic.

Where should I start with some minor power adders and performance modifications. Basically I'm just looking for ideas on where to start. There is sooo much information on this forum, that it is hard to sift through, especially a noob like myself ;)

Thanks for your help and suggestions.

J
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 08:37 AM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (JCAIRE2)

I bet someone here has a link to the list of free mods you can do. I know I have read it before, I just don't know how to find it & post it to ya. Since you have a chip, you most like have a low temp stat. Personally, i would cut the airbox lid open & remove the screens from the mass air flow sensor. You can also bypass the coolant from going thru the throttle body. Just a few off the top of my head that are free. Have fun w/ your 88!
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 12:09 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (maroon94)

Thanks Maroon94, most appreciated.

Anyone who can help me find the link mentioned above?

J
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 12:13 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (JCAIRE2)

Welcome!!! You're going to have a great time with your "new" '88 Vette. I love mine!!! :yesnod: :yesnod: :yesnod:
Start reading this Forum everyday, and you'll learn more info. than you can probably handle!! :lol: :lol: :lol:
Good luck!! :cheers:
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 12:48 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (fixvet)

Start reading this Forum everyday, and you'll learn more info. than you can probably handle!!
I already have, lol. Apparently the previous owner didn't have time for the vette anymore and wants to see it go to a good home rather than sit. I asked him a few questions, that he just plain didn't know the answer too,lol.

I've learned more about vettes in the last week on these forums, than I thought I would ever need to know.

J :seeya
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 01:29 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (JCAIRE2)

65Z01 will have some directions for the free mods on an 88. He'll probably send them to you if he finds this thread.

Usually, you remove the frisbee, Throttle body bypass of the coolant lines, K&N filter and open your air lid with a dremel or tin snips, 160 thermostat, fan switch, remove the MAF screens
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 10:19 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (JCAIRE2)

With the advice of some of the fine people on this sight I advanced my timing to about 9btdc. stock specs. is 6 btdc. My car had a very noticable difference with this free mod. Dont over do it and listen for spark knock. if you hear any back off the timing and try again. Be sure to use high octane fuel after this mod.

Welcome to the sight you are in for a great ride and remember to wave to fellow vette folks. Its kindof a tradition.
Dave :seeya


[Modified by daves87, 2:20 AM 6/16/2002]
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 11:09 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (daves87)

The First challenging mod I did to my "88 was the A.I.R. Pump eliminator kit. I think It's around $150, Cleaned up the engine compartment and freed up some ponies. :yesnod:

I've owned my "88 since September. You can see the mods I've done since then on my page.
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Old Jun 15, 2002 | 11:43 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (chucks88)

Thanks chuck, will check out your page pronto.

J
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Old Jun 16, 2002 | 12:50 AM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (JCAIRE2)

Free mods, headers, 2 1/2" duals, 2,600 converter, 3.07 gear and drag radials got my car to 13.2@102. My car has 115k on it.
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Old Jun 17, 2002 | 10:35 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (Fastguy)

Free mods, headers, 2 1/2" duals, 2,600 converter, 3.07 gear and drag radials got my car to 13.2@102. My car has 115k on it.
Can anyone point me to the "free mods" that everyone posted about? I've found a few, such as removing the "frisbee" and bypassing the TB coolant. Are there any others? Might there be a list of these with links to instructions?

Thanks again. :seeya

J
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Old Jun 18, 2002 | 12:07 AM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (JCAIRE2)

I'm not sure where they are listed, someone has them on their home page, might even be listed as tech tips. I cut a hole in my airlid, basically just cut out the louvered area. I bypassed the throttle body by taking the coolant lines off the TB and connecting them. I removed the frisbee by unbolting it and substituting some washers for the frisbee. I then took the MAF sensor off and removed both screens from it but didn't port it. Those are your free mods.
I paid $150 for the Raptor converter on ebay new in the box. I paid $1,000 for the Hooker Super Comp coated headers and 2 1/2" dual exhaust, $250 for used Nitto Extreme 17" drag radials and Epsilon wheels, $440 for a Dana 44 with 3.07 gears,$60 for a D44 driveshaft tube, $120 for Spicer U-joints. So I have about $2,000 into it. Well,actually I just built a 383 so I have a little more into it now.:D
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Old Jun 18, 2002 | 12:58 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (Fastguy)

I think this is the link you are looking for :
http://www.c4vettes.com/performance.htm

Do any of you guys know if the timing adjustment to 9* will work for an 84 (L83) as well?

:cheers:
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Old Jun 18, 2002 | 01:15 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (JCAIRE2)

Congrats. 88 is one of my favorite C-4 years. Seems it all just came together visually what with the wheel selection and all. Great car. Enjoy! :cheers:
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Old Jun 19, 2002 | 05:52 PM
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Default Re: 88 C4, where to start? (kenfusion)

Kenfusion, thanks for pointing me to that page :)
Thanks to all of you for your help. Looks like I'm gonna have a busy weekend!


J :seeya
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