OK, I'm ready to bolt on my VR-B2 scoops to the front screens, but the instructions only really show utilization of the inner 2 bolt bosses for each scoop. There is a third outer bolt that appears to be needed to firmly secure each scoop, for a total of 6 bolts holding both scoops, but those outer bolts appear to be virtually impossible to reach without disassembling the brake ducts.

Question is, am I just supposed to use those 2 inner bolts per scoop? The instructions are pretty vague. Thanks for any speedy responses that might be pending!

 

http://www.zbramotors.com/vararam/VaraRam.html
try this

 

Thanks for the quick reply.

Actually, I've read that thread a couple of times already, and it doesn't really answer my question. He just says install per instructions. Vararam just shows the 2 inner bolts, and then tying each scoop together with the V-strip. If push comes to shove, that's what I'll do, although it'd be nice to get that outer bolts on there for security.

 

On my Z I only installed two of the bolts....on a C5 with fog lights I used all three on each side. Hope this is what your talking about.

 

Yup, that's exactly what I'm talking about. Guess I'll just go with 2 then. Thanks!

 

Just did mine and I just used the two bolts on my Z.

Don't forget to remove them freaking air cleaner studs like i did or you will be ripping it apart again (like I did). You may want to close the garage door so the neighbors don't hear you cussing and smashing things.

How about them instructions? For what they charge for these damn things you would think they could at least provide decent instructions.

 

Yeah, I read where someone else forgot to remove the studs, so I did that right away. Frankly, the instructions absolutely stink, thus my questions about how many bolts to use. I finally ended up using all 3 per side. If you remove the fog light access panels on the Z (yeah, I know there aren't any fog lights), you have a real good shot at the brake ducts which can be pivoted slightly up and away from that third bolt. Access was pretty decent after that.

Hey, one more question. The instructions on the Vararam website say to use 2 spacers on the bottom bolt and one on the top if you're using the stock MAF and air bridge. Well, that didn't seem to work, so I went with one on the bottom and none on the top (like the crappy photo-copied instructions that came with the kit say to do). Is that what everyone else did with the stock components?

I'm still not done yet, but I decided to give up for tonight. I was reaching the swearing point, and that's always a good indicator that I'm about to make a serious mistake, so I hung up the tools. Overall I'd say the concept of the VR is way cool, and once I get 'er all buttoned-up it should work as advertised. I'll keep my fingers crossed that I don't have any air leaks or throw any codes.

Oh, and for the guy who complained that the air filter was warped (in another thread), there's a metal mesh on the front that is easily bent so that the filter takes the shape of the airbox. I've got mine bent so it's a nice flush fit.

Over and out, for now...

 

That's exactly what I did. Seemed to work out well. I like mine. I'm hoping I can keep it with the SC. Good luck and great idea to quit while you were ahead tonight

Brian

 

I have an aftermarket air bridge and coupler so I only used the one spacer on the bottom. I am however going to try and get that third bolt in as you have suggested. Thanks for the tip regarding that part of the install.

All and all I believe you will be quite happy with your car after the install. I originally had an ill fitting K&N filter which was apparently causing lean codes. I put a Vararam filter in and have not seen the codes in a couple of days. It definitely adds a boost, especially on the bottom end. The car also seems to rev a little better on the top end.

Since you are obviously much more patient than me I am sure you will have a great install when you are finished. Let us know your opinion when you finish.

 

One other note...

I drilled the drain holes out to 1/4". The stock ones were quite small on mine and this size would allow small pebbles and such that can make it through the screens to pass. I seriously doubt that this will have any impact on the pressure since it is quite small relative to the size of the duct.

The other thing I am considering is trying to seal the riveted on piece to the duct better while I am putting in that third bolt. I have some stick on window seal that I thing will do the trick. I will let you know how that works out or if it is a waste of time after I finish this morning.

 

My first Vararam install took a couple of hours, by myself - what a PIA. The second one was a breeze. Just take your time, it makes sense - once your done!

 

I used all three when I did mine.

 

Thanks everyone. Yeah, I now have intimate knowledge of C5 front-clip construction! There was a bit of a learning curve, but it's really not a difficult install. I can see how doing it another time would be a piece of cake.

I will attempt to finish everything up this weekend, and I'll definitely followup with a seat-of-the-pants impression on final fit and performance.

 

TheDVS1,

You definitely motivated me to put in that third bolt. Thanks. It was amazing how much easier it was when I removed the fog light access panels. I actually pulled the brake air ducts back and was able to tighten up the screw through the duct opening using just a deep well socket.

For those doing this for the first time I personally found it easier to remove the fan shroud through the bottom (providing you jack the car up at least 12 to 14 inches) as opposed to the top as explained in the infamous install example.

I am much happier with the install now. It seems to fit much better and is generally more solid. Getting the install right has definitely improved my opinon of the Vararam (except for the pathetic manufacture instructions).

I agree with you in that if I were to do this on another car I think I could do it in two hours max.

Since I have now done this twice I would be happy to advise anyone trying to install a Vararam. I could save you a lot of wasted time so PM me if you have questions. I am sure their are many others on here that would happily do the same.

 

http://www.z06vette.com/forums/showthread.php?t=21537

 

Well, I buttoned-up the install last night and took it out for a drive after letting it idle for a few minutes. Interestingly, it didn't want to start right away, and when it did, it let out a mighty cough! I guess the computer didn't quite know what to do what all that air, but it ran fine after putting a few miles on it. Once the oil temp warmed up I got on it a couple of times, and lo n'behold, I noticed a definite difference, especially on the freeway at speed. Can't wait until the computer fully learns how to deal with all that newfound breath of fresh air!

I also bought the Vararam velocity stack as part of the deal, so I imagine that can't be hurting the situation at all. Only problem with the stack is that it protrudes slightly in front of the throttle body, which doesn't allow the accordian duct to push on all the way. This keeps the air bridge from fully seating on the 2 tabs sticking up off the crossbar. Looks a little odd, but I can live with it. Perhaps I can persuade it once everything "seats-in" slightly.

Overall, I'd have to say Vararam has a pretty good product that actually works. Their instructions are an absolute disgrace however, and are badly in need of a little time and attention. I could write a better set of instructions in 10 minutes!

When looking back at the stock airbox, what a pathetic piece of breathing apparatus! In no way is that thing capable of flowing all the air needed by the engine. I guess for factory purposes, it does the job, but it's really cheating that wonderful engine.

Thanks again for all the insight and help along the way...