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New to modding, need some pointers & advice

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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 03:17 PM
  #1  
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Default New to modding, need some pointers & advice

Hello all,

I want to start doing some mods to my A4_01. I'm not trying to be all crazy, but I would
like to try installing a PCV, and painting the calipers a new color. You know, just some
Baby steps and all, to get me started. :)

I have access to a large, clean location, tons of tools, and even a bona-fide lift (my pops
loves to wrench on his bikes and he'll let me use his place). I'm also a fast learner, but I
don't want to jump into too much at once.

As far as Budget goes, I don't want to spend more than $500 to start. :) Since I have to
get new tires as it is.

So, can someone recommend some mods to start off with? Books? Must-haves? No-no's?
I'd certainly appreciate it. :)
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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 03:26 PM
  #2  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (GA_Driver)

Get a good intake and you'll get some immediate power. Not too expensive and pretty easy. I recommend Donaldson. Welcome to Mod Fever :cheers:
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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 04:40 PM
  #3  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (fuel524)

Intake is a good place to start. I like my blackwing but the Vararam or Halltech TRAP will most likely make more power.

Then exhaust if you want it to sound a bit more :reddevil
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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 04:49 PM
  #4  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (GA_Driver)

I would look into a new air intake for sure. There is several to choose from blackwing, vavaram, halltech tric and K&N with modified airbox cover. Then I'd probably remove the screen on your MAF because you have a 2001. If you can manage to squeeze some extra money out, definitely get a new exhaust.

I got my K&N for $60, cut my airbox cover for $0, and $549 for my two-stip stingers.

Check out my webpage for some pics.


[Modified by edmaverik, 7:47 PM 6/26/2003]
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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 05:59 PM
  #5  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (edmaverik)

Get a blackwing and the stinger setup :yesnod: Would be about $750 for both.
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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 07:59 PM
  #6  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (MY1Fast99C5)

Then I'd probably remove the screen on your MAF because you have a 2001.
What does that do? I have an A4 2001 as well with 3.73's (being installed now, can't wait heh), and taking a screen out sounds cheap ($0 Yummm). Any drawbacks on what that does?

Thanks. :D
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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 08:10 PM
  #7  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (Oyea)

Lower that bad boy and best of all its a free mod!! Good luck and you have to post pics when shes all done!! :cheers:
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Old Jun 26, 2003 | 09:20 PM
  #8  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (TIKTGTR)

an air intake was the first thing that allowed me to burn out my tires off the line when i first got my C5. start there and then do some 3:42 gears. u wont regret it. freebie mods to start with are lowering her a bit on stock bolts. you can also do the throttle body by pass for less than $5 at home depot with a 1/4 barbed brass piece and two clamps. no need to change it for the winter. i have had mine straight through ever since 2000
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Old Jun 28, 2003 | 12:05 PM
  #9  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (robsvette)

Thanks for the tips folks, I think I have a great starting point. :D
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Old Jun 29, 2003 | 10:17 AM
  #10  
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From: Kennesaw GA
Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (GA_Driver)

$500 = Blackwing intake ($200)
NGK TR-55 plugs ($25)
Plug wires of your choice ($75)
Exhaust plate ($50)
Synthetic tranny fluid ($25) DIY
Nice tint job ($150-180)

These would give you a little better look and a little better performance. Good luck with your choices.

:seeya
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Old Jun 29, 2003 | 10:35 AM
  #11  
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From: Warren OH
Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (GA_Driver)

Blackwing and Magnaflow cat-back picked me up 18.5 hp when I was stock... and a throatier exhaust note... Welcome! :cheers:
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Old Jun 29, 2003 | 10:56 AM
  #12  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (SilverC5inOhio)

Just remember that all after market exhausts are LOUDER than stock.

If you have 2.73 gears - the 3.42 gears are the ticket for major increase in fun. You can get a set for around $500, but the install requires help or professionals.

You can do the intake improvement as a DIY mod. Also I think that the Z06 sway bar upgrade for around $250 has a nice SOTP affect also.
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Old Jun 29, 2003 | 11:13 AM
  #13  
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Default Re: New to modding, need some pointers & advice (GA_Driver)

Get a new intake (donaldson) and paint the calipers would be a good start. :)

vetterdstr :cheers:
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