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Re: need suggestions for upgrading an '87 900s n/t Posted by Justin VanAbrahams [Email]  (#32) [Profile/Gallery]
(more from Justin VanAbrahams) on Mon, 24 Dec 2001 18:38:10
In Reply to: need suggestions for upgrading an '87 900s n/t, Rob  [Profile/Gallery]
, Mon, 24 Dec 2001 15:11:59
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Assuming you're not interested in moving to a turbo, consider the following low-cost upgrades:
1. Ditch the A/C system. Takes a day to remove but isn't very difficult. Grab a couple hp from losing the compressor, maybe gain a couple more from losing the weight. The compressor & coils alone save quite a bit. This costs only your time...
2. Upgrade the exhaust. The stock 2" diameter is just fine, but the stock mufflers are restrictive. I run a single Magnaflow on my '86 S, which is fairly loud but a definite improvement over stock. Expect to pay around $100 for a single muffler setup and closer to $200 for a dual.
3. Invest in ignition system upgrades. The stock EZK system is pretty competant, so I'd recommend starting with a high-output coil (Bosch Red is my recommendation for keeping things cheap) and high quality wires. With those, invest in some quality plugs (my choice with be Beru Silverstones or Torquemasters). If you go with conventional plugs, like the Silverstones, gap them at .036" or so. The Red Coil can handle it. Expect to pay $120 for the Red Coil, Magnacor wires, and overpriced plugs.
4. Replace the air filter with a K&N or similar. Since the non-turbos don't have an intercooler you've got a lot of room up front to develop a cold-air box... I'm doing the same on mine right this very minute. Been putting it off too long. Your time, and $50 or so in materials.
5. Invest in a lightened flywheel. A machine shop can take 5lbs or so off yours for $100-$200, or you can blow your whole $500 wad on an aluminum one. Either way, don't overlook this.
6. Make sure you've got front & rear swaybars. You can get these from a Turbo car in a junkyard, or pick up the SAS uprated ones, your choice. I run a Turbo bar up front and an Addco bar in back and am very happy with that combo. Your time and $50 from a junkyard.
7. Get some better springs & shocks. You can nab some from a Turbo car, or better yet, from an SPG. Or you can buy new springs from SAS and, for a better price, shocks from one of the TSN sponsors. You're getting into money here - nearing $500 for this stuff, unless you score at a junkyard.
8. Finally, when its time to replace your tires, move from the stock 195/60 or, more likely, 185/65 to a 205/55. That'll help handling and traction and make your ride a bit less floaty.
Hope this helps... for a deeper look at my '86 S, you can look at the URL below.
posted by 66.123.9...
, Mon, 24 Dec 2001 15:11:59, Mon, 24 Dec 2001 18:38:10 <-- Viewing This Message
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