[Z06] Where do I start
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 6,984
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast CA
The shifter should be your first mod. GM should have used a better shifter for the Z06. I chose a Hurst and black newer style MGW Pistol Grip ****. Also replace the vinyl shifter/parking brake boots with leather ones.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 438
Likes: 0
From: Nesconset (LI) NY
While on the topic of shifters, most also install the CAGS (1st to 4th shift) delete (approx $20 for part from most of the forum vendors). I have to admit that all the mods I have done so far have been appearance related, but I do also plan on doing the suggested shifter related mods.
Congrats on the new Z and welcome
Congrats on the new Z and welcome
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Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 3,567
Likes: 0
From: Aurora IL
Take all the MOD money less the cost of a good after market shifter and sign up for a driving school, like Bondurant. After you learn what the beast can do and how to control her, then you will know what MODs you want to add. JMHO.
Pro
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 673
Likes: 1
From: Pembroke Pines Florida
Originally Posted by CAPN17
Take all the MOD money less the cost of a good after market shifter and sign up for a driving school, like Bondurant. After you learn what the beast can do and how to control her, then you will know what MODs you want to add. JMHO.
don't let it go to your head CAP'N
Scott
at a high speed that is 
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 56,377
Likes: 79
Originally Posted by zlp16
Just purchased a new 2003 ZO6. Where should I start with this car. 
Get some driving lessons and seat time, then you may not even want to increase the HP.
Premium Supporting Vendor
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 5,364
Likes: 38
From: King George VA
Personally, the only mod I would do at first is skip shift defeat which can be bought for about $20 and installed in under an hour, most of which is jacking the car.
I also think the stock shifter is a little sloppy and would consider an aftermarket one. They are pretty easy to install and relatively cheap, around $125 or so.
After that, just drive it and have fun.
Depending on how many miles were on it, I would consider putting in some new, good fluids in the engine, tranny, and diff so you know where you stand. AMSOIL products for your car can easily be found here:
AMSOIL Online Product Application Guide
I also think the stock shifter is a little sloppy and would consider an aftermarket one. They are pretty easy to install and relatively cheap, around $125 or so.
After that, just drive it and have fun.
Depending on how many miles were on it, I would consider putting in some new, good fluids in the engine, tranny, and diff so you know where you stand. AMSOIL products for your car can easily be found here:
AMSOIL Online Product Application Guide
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Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 767
Likes: 0
From: MD
St. Jude Donor '10-'11
Originally Posted by zlp16
Just purchased a new 2003 ZO6. Where should I start with this car.
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: South Elgin IL
Originally Posted by MungoZ06
I'm usually on "the other forum" but I just want to echo the advice to spend $ on DE's and track time. I've got ~ 5k miles on mine, done 3 DE's and figure that I'm getting about 80% out of the car. When I get to 95% I'll think about Mods, and the first will be lowering and '04 shocks.
Next, go for the shifter and a day on a track to experience the car's limits ... or more likely your own.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 801
Likes: 1
From: Ashburn VA
I just got an 04 in June and here's the list of mod's I've done so far in order. Hurst shifter and Flame ball shift **** (not everyone's taste, but if your going to put on a hurst, get a good shift **** to go with it), CAGS shift eliminator, Borla Stingers, Lowered on stock bolts (probably go back this weekend and cut a front bushing and put in the 8" rear bolts). Oh and I threw in an XM Commander and a shorty antennae in the middle there some where. I did them all my self in my garage and am very happy with all of it. Good luck and enjoy! 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 6,362
Likes: 30
From: Oak Harbor WA
It all depends on what you want from the car or for yourself. Most of the mods already listed are good starters for the newbie types.
If you just like to look good but are satisfied with the cars performance already then get some wheels or work the interior with some products from Ken King (Vette Essentials).
Going fast costs big bucks, but takes more skill then most are willing to learn. If you want a taste of racing then sign up for a Driving Event (DE) or a performance driving school (Bondurant) to learn how to handle this type of car where it really shines.
Want to better exhaust sound then join a club and listen to other cars or other opinions on here.
Welcome and enjoy the car.
If you just like to look good but are satisfied with the cars performance already then get some wheels or work the interior with some products from Ken King (Vette Essentials).
Going fast costs big bucks, but takes more skill then most are willing to learn. If you want a taste of racing then sign up for a Driving Event (DE) or a performance driving school (Bondurant) to learn how to handle this type of car where it really shines.
Want to better exhaust sound then join a club and listen to other cars or other opinions on here.
Welcome and enjoy the car.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 43,084
Likes: 33
From: Raleigh / Rolesville NC
Originally Posted by Goody
Going fast costs big bucks, but takes more skill then most are willing to learn. If you want a taste of racing then sign up for a Driving Event (DE) or a performance driving school (Bondurant) to learn how to handle this type of car where it really shines.
Seat time, seat time, seat time.
High Performance Driving Schools east of the Mississippi river
http://www.trackschedule.com
http://www.carguys.com
http://www.panoz.com
I am sure there are more schools out there.