DML-here is a copy of some correspondence between Blake and myself on different
types of mods to do to his truck with $700. He asked if I could post the whole
thing to the list after we chatted back and forth a few times, so maybe some
other members could give their opinions. The first thing that I had asked him
was whether he was going to pay someone to do the work, or do it himself and
save the cash for more go-fast parts. He said his Dad and a buddy could help
him. Have at it and give him some feedback. I tried to be cost conscious,
picking the items that would get the most effect for the $, and prioritizing
them in order that I'd recommend doing this.
I have had similar conversations with many of you from the DML, and I think
that many people will find a lot of this familiar with what I have said before,
being a logical order of progression from a mechanic and an economist' point of
view--
boydmcguire@mindspring.com wrote:
> Patrick,
> *Ugh* I hate the sound of 93 Octane. Im only 16, but I start work on Monday.
> Hope I can afford it. Could you post to the group next time? All of them
> seem to have a different opinion on what to do, and in what order, and I
> like to hear all sides of the issue. Thanks.
>
> Blake
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Patrick and Kelly Engram <shetland@erols.com>
> To: boydmcguire@mindspring.com <boydmcguire@mindspring.com>
> Date: Monday, March 22, 1999 9:39 PM
> Subject: Re: mods from dml
>
> >You got me on that ICQ thing...I've seen people post their numbers but dont
> know
> >what it stood for.
> > Well, if you're dad is up to the task, here's my suggestions. You can do
> >these things 1 at a time, or all at once, but I think the total for
> everything
> >will end up being more than $700. Skill levels being 1-10, with 10 being
> the
> >most advanced, requiring special knowledge/tools, etc. (Changing your own
> air
> >filter I'd rank as a 1)
> >
> >#1 modification-Install transmission shift kit, drain plug in trans pan,
> and
> >install trans cooler if not already equipped. This 1 modification will
> give you
> >the being feeling of change in the way your truck feels. The cooler is for
> >longevity, the drain plug is for ease of service in the future. Total cost
> out
> >of pocket should be less than $150. Skill level 7.
> >#2 Walker Dynomax cat back exhaust system. Your '93 should still have the
> >larger exhaust pipe on it, Dodge changed to a 2" pipe in '94. This will
> change
> >the way your truck sounds. the Walker system is one of the cheapest out
> there,
> >but sounds good, not too quiet, not too loud. Mine cost me $125 for my
> cat-back
> >system. Skill level 3.
> >#3 K&N drop in replacement air filter. Fits in factory air cleaner. $40,
> skill
> >level 1.
> >#4 Headers. Any headers, any price...Coating makes them look good 3 years
> from
> >now, but costs money. Y-pipe isn't critical at this point, not until you
> change
> >the camshaft. range in cost from $250-$675. Skill level 5, more pain in
> the
> >but than anything. Note: dont install headers before you do catback
> system.
> >
> >These 4 mods give you a good basis to go to the next level in mods. They
> will
> >give you benefits now, and if you dont have them when you go to the next
> phase,
> >you will be losing performance.
> >
> >Phase 2-
> > Go to your local Dodge dealer and ask them about the Magnum R/T
> performance
> >packages available for your truck. The most involved package includes #2-4
> >above, but what you are looking for now is the camshaft/spring package.
> >#1-Install cam/lifter/spring package. Also replace timing chain and gears
> with
> >double roller set while you are there. Maybe add Mopar finned valve covers
> >while old ones are off-they look awful sharp! Skill level 8, cost ??
> >#2-Install SBEC-high performance computer, from Dodge dealer again. Skill
> level
> >2. Cost $250. Do not trade in your old one.
> >
> >This should get your truck into the mid 14's in quarter mile, but be very
> >streetable. You will have to start using 93 octane when you get to phase
> 2.
> > I dont expect you will get much benefit in replacing the ignition
> >system/plugs/etc with any fancy high dollar part. My experience has led me
> to
> >believe that as long as it's a big name part, and it's installed correctly,
> >Dodge's ignition systems do just fine for street use with Champion, Auto
> Lite,
> >A/C delco plugs, and common cap/rotor/wires...Make sure yours are in good
> shape,
> >replace them everything 60K (except the plugs, 30K) and you should be
> happy
> >with them. The cap and rotor should be a brass type, made by Borg Warner.
> > All of my suggestions above I have tried on my own truck, or assisted
> others
> >in doing them. Let me know if you have any questions.
> >Patrick
> >
> >
> >
> >boydmcguire@mindspring.com wrote:
> >
> >> Patrick,
> >> Good guess. My father knows what he is doing, most of the time. If
> all
> >> else fails, we resort to the intructions. By the way, who all here has
> ICQ?
> >> I do, and my # is 25880435.
> >>
> >> Blake
> >
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