L98 Experts... advise/help
02-13-2018, 06:39 PM
#23
Race Director
Just got me a 91 coupe L98, A4 (700R4) with 68k on the meter, I’m planning for a compression test to make sure all is ok inside, as it had some oil leaks. Thinking of give it a new set of gaskets/ seals (refresh/maintain the engine) and since I’m there I’m thinking of throwing some Mods to boost the ride to 300-350 rwhp with bolts on (nothing extreme for now) if possible. the plan is:
Im considering DIY ;are all the above can be a DIY project or does it require a pro work, I’m not a mechanic in the since but it’s always my dream to work on corvette and have it as a hobby when retired
I appreciate your feedback and apologized for the long text.
TIA
- set of gaskets/seals (any advise on brand or supplier?).
- Long tube headers (ss/coated/titanium, which brand preferred?)
- Cat back exhaust system (thinking of Borla 3”?)
- Cold air intake with K&N filters (any specific type/brand?)
- 1.6 RR (need advise on those if required or not)
- Rear axle 3.07 (thoughts on that?)
- Runners??
- AFPR (is it required?)
- Torque converter (2400,2600,2800??)
- Intake manifold upgrade (is this considered a bolt on?) should I go for it with the above?
Im considering DIY ;are all the above can be a DIY project or does it require a pro work, I’m not a mechanic in the since but it’s always my dream to work on corvette and have it as a hobby when retired
I appreciate your feedback and apologized for the long text.
TIA
Really, for both LT1s and L98's, I think the best modification is a stroker. IOW, adding more cubic inches is the best modification unless/until you are looking at high-speed performance (which you ruled out with your comment about Dubai highways).
I would encourage another forum member with SD tuning knowledge to comment on the iterations/cost necessary to retune a 91 even when milder changes (like tubes/cam/headers) are installed....let alone anything more serious? IDK...which is why I put this out there. Even with my MAF setup, I learned it myself...but still can't resist trying something new to make it "more perfect". Point being, tuning can represent a decent portion of the cost. Since the OP is in Dubai, what additional obstacle(s) does that represent?
I think we should convey everything before leading a "newbie" from another country down the yellow-brick road. For example, a 3" exhaust for an L98? Really?
Last edited by GREGGPENN; 02-13-2018 at 06:46 PM.
02-14-2018, 12:01 AM
#24
Melting Slicks
this is just me, but I'd start with a cam compatible with my goals, an upgraded timing chain set, an upgraded water pump and work out from there.
Last edited by mtwoolford; 02-14-2018 at 12:03 AM.
02-14-2018, 05:14 PM
#25
Melting Slicks
Because of your location I wouldn't go too crazy. Unless you have a good (L98/LT1) mechanic, once you do your DIY and screw something up that car will sit (months/years).
I would not open up the motor (ie: cam, 1.6 RR, etc). Either get cat back for sound or get long tube header and stay stock the rest of the way(I'm doing that with my LT1). I would check with another L98 owner, because I'm not sure how a '91 exhaust flows....LT1s are known to be free flowing(therefore cat back system won't add much HP).
Maybe do the gears...you can find a used D36 with stock 3.07 or go higher(3.55). Also consider a torque converter....
As someone mentioned, once the ball is rolling it WILL get bigger ($$)...ask me I know. Had the budget set and wham....$1800 to rebuild transmission.....when all is said and done I'm in C5 territory money-wise
I would not open up the motor (ie: cam, 1.6 RR, etc). Either get cat back for sound or get long tube header and stay stock the rest of the way(I'm doing that with my LT1). I would check with another L98 owner, because I'm not sure how a '91 exhaust flows....LT1s are known to be free flowing(therefore cat back system won't add much HP).
Maybe do the gears...you can find a used D36 with stock 3.07 or go higher(3.55). Also consider a torque converter....
As someone mentioned, once the ball is rolling it WILL get bigger ($$)...ask me I know. Had the budget set and wham....$1800 to rebuild transmission.....when all is said and done I'm in C5 territory money-wise
