Just about to start modding

**Intrepidman** · 07-17-2008, 05:32 AM

I'm about to order up some parts for my new toy (black 2002 WS6). I'm think of starting off with headers, catback, air lid, strut tower brace, and subframe connectors. Is there anyone out there that thinks this isn't the way to go?

Next question...what are some good headers (keeping in mind I don't plan to get extreme with this car, just a little more "tweeked" than stock) I used to hear a lot about MAC mid lengths a few years back when I was a teen, are they still in popular favor and are they still available....or should I be looking at something else.

Now for the catback...I want something that is pretty much quiet at normal cruising speeds (I don't wanna lose my girl over the sound) but also something that freightens the neighbours at WOT. Can anyone recommend a particular set up. (keeping in mind that I'll also have headers, and I'm on a budget)

Lastly...slp air lid (cheap and efficient?) and strut tower and subframe connectors...which ones are cheap and reliable?

Thanks a million guys!

**Y2KPewterSS** · 07-17-2008, 08:54 AM

Your initial mod list looks good. Instead of the strut tower brace, I would get lower control arms instead though.

**Colten W.** · 07-17-2008, 09:15 AM

I've heard good things about pacesetter LTs

**0rion** · 07-17-2008, 09:21 AM

pacesetter long tubes are a good way to go. Easy on the wallet and a pretty good header for the money.

magnaflow is a very popular catback. Flowmaster would be quieter than most but you'll be giving up a few HP running it. It's hard to combine quiet and HP. Magnaflow would probably suit your needs but go to LS1sounds.com and listen to a few on there and decide for yourself.
SLP lid is fine. Very good lid but most lids are very close in gains and quality.

I'd look at either BMR or UMI subframe connectors. Basically the same design with UMI usually being a little cheaper.

**Intrepidman** · 07-17-2008, 10:14 AM

Originally Posted by Y2KPewterSS

Your initial mod list looks good. Instead of the strut tower brace, I would get lower control arms instead though.

Is there a downside to the strut tower brace...control arms are probably a lot more expensive to have installed, are they not? (unless I can manage it myself in the driveway)

**WS6ICK** · 07-17-2008, 10:50 AM

Get Pacesetter LT, Stall converter and lower gears.

**Spaz** · 07-17-2008, 10:52 AM

Originally Posted by Intrepidman

Is there a downside to the strut tower brace...control arms are probably a lot more expensive to have installed, are they not? (unless I can manage it myself in the driveway)

not a down side... the lower control arms are a FAR better choice... what good is power when it's being absorbed by weak parts??? the control arms can be had at a good price... check out the sponsors for "UMI" brand... they are inexpenseive and great quality...

rapter34 · 07-17-2008, 10:55 AM

Originally Posted by Intrepidman

Is there a downside to the strut tower brace...control arms are probably a lot more expensive to have installed, are they not? (unless I can manage it myself in the driveway)

you can put LCA in by yourself and they will do alot more than the STB. you should get unbinded LCA so they can move more idependantly. you may also want to think about relocation brackets with the LCA. they are like $60 but they help you get much better traction.

rapter34 · 07-17-2008, 10:59 AM

here is the install.
http://www.installuniversity.com/ins...sity/index.htm

Here are the unbinded ones.
http://www.stranoparts.com/partdetai...D=19&ModelID=8

here are the relocation brackets.
http://www.stranoparts.com/partdetai...D=19&ModelID=8

**Spaz** · 07-17-2008, 11:00 AM

Originally Posted by rapter34

you can put LCA in by yourself and they will do alot more than the STB. you should get unbinded LCA so they can move more idependantly. you may also want to think about relocation brackets with the LCA. they are like $60 but they help you get much better traction.

eespecially if you have lowering springs... then they are a must!!!

rapter34 · 07-17-2008, 11:06 AM

also with regards to headers. Don't waste your money on the mid tubes go for the full long tubes.

**98Z28importslayer** · 07-17-2008, 11:07 AM

Headers defiantly go with Pacetter quick trip cermaic coated LTs you can order them from texas-speed for like $370 (i dont even think theres a 1-5hp diffrence between pacesetter LTs and the 800 kooks or hooker) , then go with texas speed's ORY which is like $110, and for a catback like Orion said magnaflow is probably your best bet and you could always get a eletric cutout and place it right after the ORY so when your GF isnt in the car you flip the switch and it sounds like its going to eat you

.

**Richy_Rich67** · 07-17-2008, 08:42 PM

UMI suspension parts all the way There are some really good sponsors to this site (guys that wont just sell you expensive parts because it makes them money, they will sell you parts that work and good stuff for the right price)

**mrsracing** · 07-19-2008, 04:11 AM

Good post. I also have a new 02 and was wanting to start mods. I was thinking LT Headers, Air Lid, MagnaFlow and had the same questions. I'm not going to rob your post hope to continue to get some feedback. Can anyone list what type of money is to be spent on these suggestions?