Programmer/2.73's vs. Stock PCM/3.15's
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 453
Likes: 0
From: Wilmington NC
Programmer/2.73's vs. Stock PCM/3.15's
I know we have been down this road many times but I cannot make up my mind and need some help. I have a 2000 Coupe and the only thing that I do not like about the car is the lack of low-end acceleration with the 2.73 axle. My friend has the same car as me except he has the 3.15 performance axle and his is much more fun to drive. This is my question. Is there a programmer (Powerloader, Superchips Microtuner, Hypertech, etc) out there that will make my car as fast or faster than a stock 3.15 car? I would also like to get everyone's opinion on what you think would be the best modications to do. Right now my plans include a VaraRam intake system, SLP cat-back which I have already installed, and either 3.15's and a programmer or just a programmer if I can get away with keeping the 2.73's and be happy. In a way, I would like to be able to avoid the hassle and cost of swapping differentials but if it takes the 3.15's to be happy with my Vette, than I will do it.
Thanks,
Adam
Thanks,
Adam
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 1,206
Likes: 21
From: Roswell GA
Re: Programmer/2.73's vs. Stock PCM/3.15's (PewterVette)
3.15's will run $300 + probably another $400 to get installed including a dealer reporgram to 3.15 code. That is $700 total.
For $950 total you can get 3.42's installed and dealer reprogram to the 3.15 code and you are set.
If you pocket book allows, add a 2400-3000 stall converter for $700 and maybe $200 more install if done at the same time, and you are hot.
I think this is a no brainer for guys who never intend to got the H/C route.
Exhaust gets you nothing except noise for good dollars spent and most intake mods are only effective over 3000 rpm.
You can stay stock programming, stock engine, and beat the pants off any stock car buy just doing a converter and gears. :smash:
For $950 total you can get 3.42's installed and dealer reprogram to the 3.15 code and you are set.
If you pocket book allows, add a 2400-3000 stall converter for $700 and maybe $200 more install if done at the same time, and you are hot.
I think this is a no brainer for guys who never intend to got the H/C route.
Exhaust gets you nothing except noise for good dollars spent and most intake mods are only effective over 3000 rpm.
You can stay stock programming, stock engine, and beat the pants off any stock car buy just doing a converter and gears. :smash:
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 246
Likes: 0
From: valrico fl
St. Jude Donor '05
Re: Programmer/2.73's vs. Stock PCM/3.15's (PewterVette)
I have the PLII and 2.73 gears on an 02 vette. I would say that the PLII will be quicker than a 3.15 stock gears and programming, becuase the torque mangement is removed. My mods and times are in my sig not alot of mods yet but not a bad time either for the first time at the track, in the summer months. I thinks I could improve that time by maybe 2/10 tenths of a second with more experience at the track.
Remember with the PLII programming, you will get Fuel and Air ratio programming that will give you about 6 to 8 RWHP increase as well. Your car should be faster than the stock one.
Remember with the PLII programming, you will get Fuel and Air ratio programming that will give you about 6 to 8 RWHP increase as well. Your car should be faster than the stock one.
Team Owner
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 54,204
Likes: 180
From: S.W. Ohio. . . . . . NRA Life Member
Re: Programmer/2.73's vs. Stock PCM/3.15's (golfman)
I agree with the King; go to the 3.42 and have your dealer reprog it as a 3.15. It will work just fine.
My dealer quoted $60 to reprog.
My dealer quoted $60 to reprog.
