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I just installed a Vararam on my 2008 and I can't believe I put that dimestore item on a $67,000 convertible. The worst design, fit I have ever seen. I cut my shroud, but the template isn't even close for a 2008(I don't know if it's the same on earlier C6s) but I had to re-cut it after installation. DON'T BUY ONE.
Getting back to the OP. I had an experienced installer do mine by cutting the original shroud and installing the TB because it came with it. We did have to call Vararam tech twice to clarify issues involving ZO6/08 C6 (LS3) wording on instructions and MAF screw/washer positioning on the Billet Air Meter housing. The tech voice mail box was full but if you get hold of Steve he will ensure your concerns are taken care of. My installer did a great job on the CAI, 160 thermostat, and Borlas. He has a Corvette shop just around the corner from Ecklers should you go shopping in Titusville, FL. He can install a lot of aftermarket,original parts, and does interior work. When I got back home, my tuner dyno-tuned her with HP Tuner; adjusted fans, CAGS elimination. Stock tune: 394hp 388tq, Final Tune: 405hp 404tq. All runs include aftermarket parts. I do not have a bone stock dyno run. PM me if you need more info.
I just ordered the SC-1 for my `07 C6 Coupe from Steve at Vararam. $399 for the unit, the pre cut shroud and tb spacer. Good deal.
I am buying the Corsa sport with X-Pipe and 3.5" pro quad tips tonight.
Got a great deal from the local speed shop so I didn't bother ordering it on line. $1757 for the whole exhaust pkg.
I will be doing the install with my mechanic at his shop some weekend this spring when I finally pull my Vette out of hibernation.
Thanks for all the great input.
Can't wait to feel that throtle response.
What extra parts are added to the Vararam kit for a 2008?
Steve, or anyone have pics of what is different?
Thanks
The VR-SC1R fits C6 Z06 and 08 C6 LS3.
The VR-SC1 fits 05-07 C6 6.0L.
This is because the LS3 shares some intake componets with the LS7.
The different/added parts are Throttle Body Spacer and Billet Air Meter, and some intake tubing. Go to http://vararam.com and compare the two kits with pictures. On my shipping box it said for C6 Z06 and 08 C6 LS3. The instructions inside the box say for C6 Z06 with no mention of 08 C6 LS3. Maybe Steve updated it by now, if not don't be alarmed. HTH
The VR-SC1R fits C6 Z06 and 08 C6 LS3.
The VR-SC1 fits 05-07 C6 6.0L.
This is because the LS3 shares some intake componets with the LS7.
The different/added parts are Throttle Body Spacer and Billet Air Meter, and some intake tubing. Go to http://vararam.com and compare the two kits with pictures. On my shipping box it said for C6 Z06 and 08 C6 LS3. The instructions inside the box say for C6 Z06 with no mention of 08 C6 LS3. Maybe Steve updated it by now, if not don't be alarmed. HTH
Last fall I ordered the VR + spacer+precut shroud for my 05 last fall - (just before Carlisle event) - paid more than current sale deal but installed it myself (bought the precut shroud but ended up just cutting the stock one).
I was concerned about the fit of the upper/lower VR parts (bowed out sections, etc.) even with the foam seal so I used some black duct-tape to seal off the filter to top section area to ensure no possible leaks - none seen. Had to retrim some areas but overall I'm pleased with it... definitely noticed a lower temp on the intake with the VR installed. (I too was concerned after some past threads here on quality of the mating pieces...)
I sent the precut shroud back for a credit (less shipping) - which reminds me I need to check my past CC bills to make sure that credit was applied - hope so!
Didn't install the spacer (yet) as looking at the stock accordian TB coupler it's already almost 100% compressed and wondered about fit issues... (anyone have a source for a shorter/non-accordian coupler for that??)
I'm a journeyman machinist. In my earlier response I wasn't referring to the fit of the shroud. I cut it with a razor knife following the template and I had to re-cut it after installation to make it fit properly. The fit and finish I was talking about is the unit itself. The top and bottom don't have male and female guide ridges so the middle bulges out and from forum pics it gets worse with age. The little plastic pins that hold the lower unit to the frame are round with flats on each side. The hole you put them in is slotted. Therefore if you put them in at the 12 o'clock position and they rotate to the 3 o'clock position they will pop right out. The design radius of the upper unit isn't correct so you can barely bend it onto the MAF housing. It also isn't designed correctly as the bracket that holds the lower unit doesn't sit flat against the frame.
I'm sure it works OK, but I believe a K&N or Halltech and Vette Air would do the same with a much better fit.