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i jus got a 2008 vett today and dont know to much about them. can some of u plz help me and tell me what is the best and cheapest way to add some more hp with simple bolt on parts.
First there's the best way. There is no cheapest way. Secondly, what kind of power do you want?50 hp, 100 hp ? You need to decide that first. Once you've done that , then get out the check book and have at it.
Cheapest mod is a 160 degree thermostat. It doesn't actually add any power, but it will prevent power losses caused by high air inlet temps.
The most popular performance mod is probably a cold air intake system, such as Vararam, Blackwing, K&N, Hurricane, etc. There are several, and lots of opinions about which is best. Cost is in the $500 range.
Another popular mod is an underdrive pulley. You can do a crank pulley, alternator pulley, or both. Cost is under $500, but depends on whether you do the install yourself or no.
Another option is computer tuning, also runs in the $500 range. You'll get more improvement if you have other mods, but even on a dead stock engine, it's worth it. Typical issues that tuning will address are the air/fuel mix, spark advance, torque management, and fan controls.
An option here is a hand-held controller such as the Predator.
Last popular option is headers, can cost $1-2K, depending on installation.
Catback exhaust will improve sound, not power.
Gears will actually reduce power slightly, but improve overall performance and acceleration.
Depends on $$$ and how much you like your warranity you just paid for.
This is what I like to call the starter package....
CAI (mentioned above)
Headers (usually voids a part of your warranity)
X-Pipe
Cat-back
T160
Tune (usually voids a part of your warranity)
After this the car should have gained a little power, drive cooler, and sound better. Don't go any further unless you plan of keeping the car for a while or learned how to control what's under the hood to begin with.