Amongst all the worries of the wobbling crank pulley, I have decided that I should just replace the pulley with an underdrive unit. That way I don't have to worry and maybe gain a few HP. I knew going into this that modding is an addiction. Well, I had to ask about other possibilities on power. I was quoted a killer deal for a cam, valvetrain package, the undredrive pulley and tune and install. Ultimately, (read realistically) I would like headers and a good exhaust. My question is, except for a intake and airbridge, the car is now stock. I was told there would be a noticeable difference now and once I add headers the cam would really liven up, but I can't afford to do it all at once. Is the cam an alright place to begin "major" modding?

 

I installed a cam in my '99 before headers.

 

I seem to recall someone on here saying that they actually lost a little power by putting in a big cam and leaving the stock mani's on there. Then after the longtubes, they picked up an ungodly amount of hp. You should really call someone like Dave at Cartek and ask him about it or see if someone wants to chime in here. They will probably want to know the cam specs and other valvetrain parts you are getting.

 

It would be better to do headers first. But in your case since you have to replace the pulley you would be saving on labor it you installed a cam now. In most cases you should see an increase in power even with the stock manifolds. Especially if you choose one of the milder cams.

 

If you are getting a killer deal, then why not? I say go for it.

There are plenty of guys going fast with the stock manifolds and exhaust. I have a very mild combination in my C5 now that uses the stock manifolds and exhaust. It has gone 11.96 @ 116 in the heat. I expect 11.7's @ 118 now that the good fall air is here. The best part is that it idles and drives like stock (until you get on it!).