Tuners, If you knew then, what you know now.... Options

[jgreening]

I have always meant to start this thread for the benefit of others considering modifications (particularly engine modifications and swaps). My question is really for the people who have engaged in fairly serious modifications. Perhaps we can help others learn from our mistakes. So, here it is: Based on your experience and current knowledge, what would you do differently if you were starting all over with your 6gc project.

I will start.

I would have bought a ST205 front clip, kept it stock except for intake, boost controller and exhaust and sold the ST205 tranny for big $ to the alltrac guys. The fact is that 250whp is all you really need (and can usefully use) in a FWD setup. The newer engine, better turbo, and intercooler are a real plus.

I would have then switched the GT4 front end over and had the whole car professionally painted.

I would have bought Greddy guages rather than Autometer.

I would have gone immediately to Tein SS coilovers instead of springs and new struts and would have skipped my sway bars (due to all the rubbing problems I have had).

I would have bought 8" wide 16" TE37's so I could run 245/45/16 tires.

If I had done that, I would have spent less than I have and had a better (although similar) car.

[eggman40]

Man i have to say my biggest regret was not having everything i needed before starting. I was kinda forced into starting cause the throw out bearing went on the 7a. But i cant stress that enough to anyone wanting to do the swap themselves, GET EVERYTHING YOU NEED! if you dont, you will greatly increase your car's downtime. this means gaskets, hoses, MOUNTS, and if you have the money to do so, aftermarket upgrades
(such as downpipe which is much easier to install when engine is out). Another piece of advice i will give is to
those that will use the e153 tranny. When you take your tranny to get welded, have them drill and tap the
threads for the shift linkages. I tried doing it myself and it only led to a piece of the tranny breaking off and me having to remove the tranny and take it to get reweled and re-tapped. One more thing i regret was not having DG Performance extending my harness for me, I thought i was saving money but in the end it was a huge headache. I was cutting, stripping and soldering wires for 3 days. (Hell!) Good luck to any future swappers.

This post has been edited by eggman40: Apr 4, 2006 - 5:16 PM