VYII SS Wagon - Auto (help with mods please?)

[FrangaFry]

Hi folks, first time poster here, so apologize if some of this has been asked/covered before.

As the title suggests, I have a 2004 VYII SS Wagon (Auto) that is stock as a rock and done 140,000kms. It's in great nick (as I have owned it since new) and I want to give it a slight tickle up.

I don't want a fire breathing beast that is going to seriously mess with my fuel economy but something that sounds a little better, goes a little better and maybe drives a little better (I have just decided to keep the old girl instead of upgrading as I don't like the new Holden wagons - not enough space in the back for big dogs and fishing gear......)

So, firstly I am looking for some reputable contacts in the Melbourne area (I am based in the SE) to start some dialogue with (want to explore options).

Secondly, I have no real idea what the hell I am talking about so thought you guys would be a great place to start to ask for advice (there are sooooo many threads/posts on LS1 upgrades, it gets a little confusing sorting the crap out).

At the end of the day I have been thinking down the lines of:
- OTR CAI
- Exhaust upgrade
- ECU tune
- Auto Transmission upgrade
- Shocker upgrade

My budget is between 3k and 5k and I am looking for options and advice on the above or a combination of the above. The plan here is to keep my car for a few more years and to make some changes that will improve the drive but not stuff the economy or damage the car.

I know there are 'standard' packages around, but really not sure where to start or what the costs associated would be.

So I need some help before I start picking up the phone to find myself being ripped b/c I don't have a clue.

Thanks in advance!!

[team illucid]

What do you consider big dogs? We get 2 german shepherds and a BMX in the rear of our VE wagon, so unless you have great Danes or ponys they should be fine.

With such a small budget, I would look at picking up a secondhand set of headers and OTR then get a reasonable MAF tune. Should be able to get them all for around 1K if you are vigilant.

Look also at Monroe shocks when they are on special and new springs. That should be about the $1500 mark depending on model. Bigger swaybars are a must for those wagons as our old VT used to be all over the place.

Cheap exhausts will drone and drive you nuts. Might want to speak to Greg from Sureflo about options.

Sent from my Xbox

[DC347]

Mate I'm not from vic so not sure which shops are in your area. Maybe someone else could advise.

The first thing is make it breath. Full exhaust,otr and tune. Buy good quality and get a well known tuner. You will be shocked at the difference, both power and economy will improve. Just get the auto serviced if there is nothing wrong with it. You wont need to upgrade it for those mods. Shocks???? depends on what you want. Lower,handling,towing etc.

With your budget you will get 1 5/8 try's 200cpi cats 2.5 system ( Dont get stainless if your selling in next couple of years) Dus OTR or similar plus a mafless tune easy. Factor in a gearbox flush and service you'll still have some cash left.

I can't stress this enough don't by a cheap system as stated the drone will drive you insane.

Cheers Chris

[IEVLVX]

Here we go what I have and will be doing to my car.

Full exhaust- 1 3/4, 4 into 1 extractors, 3 inch 100 cpsi ballistic cats, twin 3 stainless steel exhaust- speak to Greg at sureflo exhaust (forum sponsor) mine is the same and sounds insane- around 2k fitted and supplied, even if Greg supplies it and get ur mechanic to fit it!

Vcm OTR- $525, 1 of the best otr on the market.

Maffless tune - around $800 speak to forum sponsors in ur area

LSD with 3.9 gears - rebuild ur LSD with 3.9 gears $1,400 again forum sponsor to help out.

That is around 4700 to 5000 depending where u go and u will completely fall in love with ur car again!

If you can stretch the budget get a tranny cooler aswell and swap over spark plugs and leads!

Hope I was of some help!

[DC347]

Here we go what I have and will be doing to my car.

Full exhaust- 1 3/4, 4 into 1 extractors, 3 inch 100 cpsi ballistic cats, twin 3 stainless steel exhaust- speak to Greg at sureflo exhaust (forum sponsor) mine is the same and sounds insane- around 2k fitted and supplied, even if Greg supplies it and get ur mechanic to fit it!

Vcm OTR- $525, 1 of the best otr on the market.

Maffless tune - around $800 speak to forum sponsors in ur area

LSD with 3.9 gears - rebuild ur LSD with 3.9 gears $1,400 again forum sponsor to help out.

That is around 4700 to 5000 depending where u go and u will completely fall in love with ur car again!

If you can stretch the budget get a tranny cooler aswell and swap over spark plugs and leads!

Hope I was of some help!

3" exhaust is a bit of over kill I think with a stock LS1. 1 3/4 good if he is going to do further mods down the track but he said the car will be sold in next couple of years. 3.9 diff gears will hurt his econnomy.

Just my thoughts.

[IEVLVX]

3 inch sounds good and makes way for future mods!

3.9s around town make fcuk all difference, maybe a litre or 2 over a full tank!

On the hwy they arnt even that bad!

If ppl are worried about economy sell your v8 and buy a Honda accord or a lancer! Simple as that!

[FrangaFry]

Thanks folks! Some good advise there I think.

If I was to go the mild steel exhaust, how long would it last and does it sound 'tinny'. As I might end up keeping this vehicle for more than a couple of years.

You are right about the economy - I don't want a Honda Civic (point taken).

Also, once the above mods are completed what sorts of power gains would I expect and does this mean that all servicing would now need to be done my the 'tuner' (as the car has always been Holden serviced due to extended warranties etc).

In regards to suspension, currently it has the 'tow' pack. I do tow, so probably wouldn't want to mess with this and not interested in lowering it as I drive the odd dirt road. So can an existing tow pack be upgraded without messing with the ability to tow.

Lastly, the tranny cooler, what sort of bucks do these cost and will this give my tranny some longevity?

Thanks in advance,

[IEVLVX]

Pwr tranny cooler is around 130 from repco!

Couple of hrs to fit and then ur done!

Yes helps with the tranny life and if ur towing u should have one!

With the above mods I listed ull have anywhere between 220kw to 235kw depending on dyno! Dyno numbers mean nothing! Also with the mods I listed ud run a high 12 second very low 13 second qtr mile pass!

Holden can still service the car once everything is done no problems, but I would never get holden to service my car! They take no care or pride in doing so and they r a rip off!

[Richie217]

Thanks folks! Some good advise there I think.

If I was to go the mild steel exhaust, how long would it last and does it sound 'tinny'. As I might end up keeping this vehicle for more than a couple of years.

You are right about the economy - I don't want a Honda Civic (point taken).

Also, once the above mods are completed what sorts of power gains would I expect and does this mean that all servicing would now need to be done my the 'tuner' (as the car has always been Holden serviced due to extended warranties etc).

In regards to suspension, currently it has the 'tow' pack. I do tow, so probably wouldn't want to mess with this and not interested in lowering it as I drive the odd dirt road. So can an existing tow pack be upgraded without messing with the ability to tow.

Lastly, the tranny cooler, what sort of bucks do these cost and will this give my tranny some longevity?

Thanks in advance,

With full exhaust, OTRCAI and tune you would probably be looking around the 220-230rwKw mark.

Above mods won't make any difference to maintenance. I would imagine after 7years your extended warranty is now done with anyway.

Suspension mods, sorry can't help there.

Tranny cooler between $150-300 depending on brand, that price is if you fit it yourself. Is rather easy to do. Heat is a Auto Tranny's worst enemy, coolers will help with longevity.

[DC347]

The mild steel will last for 5years++. 3" does sound good, loud but good. Stilloverkill for a stock LS1. 2.5" is good for 300rwkw. 3.9 gears actually better around town but do rev about 500 - 600rpm more @ 100km/ph.

You can own a v8 and have a econnomy figure of 10-11 L/100ks. Need to now what you want from the car. If future mods likely?? go bigger. Will the car be a weekender in the future?? go huge. Do you just want a bit more power a better sound and retain some sort of ecconomy?? best advise is approach a shop and request excatly that. The only stupid question is the one you were affaid to ask. Not everyone is an expert mate.

Cheers Chris

[FrangaFry]

Thanks for all the feedback, excellent effort!!!

As I am Melbourne based, where is a good place to start (if yu had to pick a couple of decent places to approach first), I started to check out the sponsors pages but allot of these guys are inter state.

Thanks heaps for all the info. I think I need to pick up the phone now and make some calls.

Cheers,

[csv rulz]

My Vy SS is in at Chev's Performance Centre Carrum Downs today getting tuned. I've heard nothing but good things about them and found them to be really helpful.

[IEVLVX]

Chevs in carrum
Lsx garage in pakenham
c&a auto fashion in blackburn
Allsparks automotive in keilor
Gm motorsports in melton

Wide range of places above all over Melbourne!

Where r u located?

[FrangaFry]

Chevs in carrum
Lsx garage in pakenham
c&a auto fashion in blackburn
Allsparks automotive in keilor
Gm motorsports in melton

Wide range of places above all over Melbourne!

Where r u located?

Belgrave based, so Hallam, Pakenham are close but can also travel for the right mob.

[FrangaFry]

I live in Belgrave but will travel to the right place.

Just got off the phone with LSX Garage (Brett - nice fella, very helpful) and I have described what I am looking at getting out of a mod (basically, nice note, not too loud, bit more herbs and some lower end torque without compromising the car too much, as it is a daily driver - city/country).

The following has been suggested - can I get your thoughts (as it is a little different than my train of thought).

3" Stainless cat back exhaust (Hurricane) - keep my factory headers
CAI VZ (with mods) with lager MAF
2800 stall converter (10.5") + tranny cooler and service/flush
3.4.6 Diff change/rebuild
ECU MAF Tune

Approx$ 4000 - 4500 (2 days - drive in, drive out)

I like the sound of the Stall converter and diff gears giving me a shite load of punch off the line (without too much change to fuel econ - maybe and extra 2 -3 ltres per 100??) but I really don't know too much about the stall converter or what the possible down sides could be (from the sounds of my discussion nothing to worry about).

I am to believe that the above could get me 230rwkw with the added bonus of a huge torque increase (not interested in 1/4 mile action or street racing, just want to feel that 'push' into the seat)

So what do you think folks>

Appreciate the feedback.

[Gmfan]

VCM otr you can get on ebay. One for $480 buy it now currently. DUS is $700 ish from memory that looks much nicer to me.

Consider cost of 1 3/4 4-1 vs Tri Y's. I didn't bother with the 4-1 because from memory it was $200-$300 more. Mild steel will last fine and is supposed to have a deeper note than stainless. FYI the twin 2.5" stainless Pacemaker exhaust Chev's fitted does not drone at any rpm. I was very wary of drone in a wagon but even with the auto it wasn't an issue. Wouldn't be a bad idea to hunt around ebay and classifieds to try and find some second hand extractors. Savings here could be spent on the DUS OTR instead of VCM.

I went with 3.7's in the rear and rev'd about 2200rpm at 100kph from memory. Really 3.9's wouldn't rev too much higher but i also figured i wouldn't notice much difference between 3.7 and 3.9 either.

Had my tune done by Gary at Chev's in Carrum Downs also. They have done basically all my mods except for auto -> manual swap. I also had a trans cooler and a 2800rpm stall fitted. Stall made it quicker off the mark and was quite fun.

On the suspension side of things i have king springs in my wagon with koni yellow shocks up from and bilstein shocks in the rear. Rides quite well. Feels softers over bumps than the stock stuff that was in there when i got it. No sway bars yet.

Before lowering
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v344/marantz/28156122.jpg

After lowering
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v344/marantz/2011-02-11180352.jpg

[Delft Maloo]

id be speaking to chevs, aps or hpf.
Extractors
cats
catback exhaust
otr
tune
tranny cooler
3.46 diff gears.
and general servicing and go over of brakes and suspension.

[IEVLVX]

I'd be weary about the stall converter and towing!

U might want to look into that!

I was keen on a stall converter until I wad told the tranny will have a hard time when towing!

[FrangaFry]

Hi guys, have spent the arvo on the phone calling various folk and I think I agree, the Stall converter isn't the way to go, so have decided to stick with the tried and true (Headers, exhaust, CAI, tune).

Just got off the phone with Troy from Casey Automotive (again a really nice bloke and quite candid) and here is his offering:

- (Stainless) HM 4into1 Headers 1 7/8
- (Stainless) HM 2.5" Cat back (SS straight through)
- OTR CAI
- Power Tranny cooler
- Tune

$4,500.00

Troy seemed to think that the above would reap me 220-225rwkw

Give us your thoughts fellas.

Am I on the right track here, does this seem like a reasonable price (Troy came very highly recommended)

Thanks for the help.

I was hoping to have a bit more coin left over, so might have to consider mild steel ..........

[csv rulz]

A mate's just got his Monaro maf tuned with a cai (not OTR), it went from 177RWKW to 224RWKW. Stock Exhaust. Cost was $1500, I can find out who the tuner is if you like.

[FrangaFry]

Ok, just got off the phone with Garry from Chevs (again, nice bloke, bvery up front) and his offering is:

Pacemaker SS headers (Tri-Y) 1 5/8 (ceramic coated)
2.5" SS Cat back
CAI OTR
Power tranny cooler
Tune

$5,000.00

It sounds to me like this is the ball park figure (regardless of manufacturer) 4500 - 5000k - Garry seems to think that this should reap 230rwkw

He has also suggested a Diff change to 3.7.3 (specifically for towing). this was an extra $1,600 (which seemed a little steep)

So I am getting a little confused now about the headers (the only thing that everyone seems to agree on is 2.5" cat back and CAI), the 4into1 or Tri-Y and sizes there of, seems to vary depending on who you speak to (and I assume what they have in stock)

So, am I in the ball park here or are there better deals around.

Cheers,

[Delft Maloo]

To save some money you could source 2nd parts and save a whole lot of money.
Headers = $250-$500
Exhaust = $250-$500
Cats = $250-$500
Otr = $150-$500
Tranny cooler = $150-$200
3.46 diff is better than what you have and very common to find as thats what the manuals had fitted std = $500-$800
Most of this stuff you could fit yourself with basic tools
Tune = $800-$1200
Worst case $4000 plus fitting of the gear if you cant do it your self though there is always plenty of members willing to lend a hand if needed.
Could be done for as little as $2500 if you shop about for good cheap used gear.

[jono0309]

Pacemaker SS headers (Tri-Y) 1 5/8 (ceramic coated)
2.5" SS Cat back
CAI OTR
Power tranny cooler
Tune

$5,000.00

Do that and then do the diff later on if you dont want to fork out the cash, its well worth it and that sounds perfect for what you want.
Cheers

[jono0309]

To save some money you could source 2nd parts and save a whole lot of money.

and if you can fit it yourself too...

[MTC]

look in the classifiied here or ebay you will save heaps. My daily is a VY SS Wagon makes 232.5rwk on lpg on APS dyno for well under 5k in mods inc lpg conversion

used VYII HSV Headers & cats, 2.5inch xforce exhaust, used VCM alloy otr, APS mafless tune & APS SVI LPG. all that inc the LPG was $3900 (after lpg rebate) if you take the lpg off was only $1900. suspension I have std fe2 with monroe gt shocks as this is My tow car. std diff

I have also put on used front & rear Harrop 4 piston brakes & Black VE R8 19's
http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g57/MIKEVYII/291.jpg

[HSVREDSLED]

$5000???

Take a drive up the Hume and call in at Sureflo near Cambelltown. Talk with Greg about what exhaust would suit your requirments. Probably $1300 Then head up the mountains and get an OZTRACK cam package (Christmas Special) for $2950 fitted. Throw in an extra $700 for one of DUS OTRs.

Bang for buck???? Will absolutely belt the crap outa anything else suggested and retain great fuel economy.

[csv rulz]

My VY SS made 230.5rwkw after chevs tuned it today with nothing more than: 2 hole mod air box, VY GTS intake pipe, redback catback.

[zorro]

Ok, just got off the phone with Garry from Chevs (again, nice bloke, bvery up front) and his offering is:

Pacemaker SS headers (Tri-Y) 1 5/8 (ceramic coated)
2.5" SS Cat back
CAI OTR
Power tranny cooler
Tune

$5,000.00

It sounds to me like this is the ball park figure (regardless of manufacturer) 4500 - 5000k - Garry seems to think that this should reap 230rwkw

He has also suggested a Diff change to 3.7.3 (specifically for towing). this was an extra $1,600 (which seemed a little steep)

So I am getting a little confused now about the headers (the only thing that everyone seems to agree on is 2.5" cat back and CAI), the 4into1 or Tri-Y and sizes there of, seems to vary depending on who you speak to (and I assume what they have in stock)

So, am I in the ball park here or are there better deals around.

Cheers,

5k!!!!!!!!!! Does that come with 10 free services afterwards?

For a starters a street car doesn't need ceramic coating nor stainless exhausts, we don't live in a country that gets snow an roads salted. Id take the advice of others and find some 2nd hand headers (1 3/4 3-400 possibly) and with the price of catbacks these days a mild steel 2.5" shouldn't be more than 5-600 if you shop around.

Get your gearbox serviced and drop some decent fluid in it, also as mentioned add a Trans oil cooler (140 depending where you buy) to keep the box alive whilst towing. 3.73 gears would be a good step with towing so you dont labor the box/motor. I'd budget about 1k for diff freshen up.

OTR either second hand or new as pricing doesn't seem to move much so a new one with new filter would be a good idea 600ish.

Then your tuning, heaps of competition out there so shop around. APS does some good work but I digress I don't take anything from other sponsors as they all do a good job.

So in my books with a little labour costs I'm thinking 3-4k for what you want plus there are always a heap of guys here happy to help, watch and drink beers :lol:

[elton]

Stick with Brett from LSX garage, excellent tuner.. Chevs at currum downs would be the last place i would go..

[DC347]

Ok, just got off the phone with Garry from Chevs (again, nice bloke, bvery up front) and his offering is:

Pacemaker SS headers (Tri-Y) 1 5/8 (ceramic coated)
2.5" SS Cat back
CAI OTR
Power tranny cooler
Tune

$5,000.00

It sounds to me like this is the ball park figure (regardless of manufacturer) 4500 - 5000k - Garry seems to think that this should reap 230rwkw

He has also suggested a Diff change to 3.7.3 (specifically for towing). this was an extra $1,600 (which seemed a little steep)

So I am getting a little confused now about the headers (the only thing that everyone seems to agree on is 2.5" cat back and CAI), the 4into1 or Tri-Y and sizes there of, seems to vary depending on who you speak to (and I assume what they have in stock)

So, am I in the ball park here or are there better deals around.

Cheers,

This would be my pick but up to you

[Delft Maloo]

iv got some vx2 hsv 4-1 headers with cats for $200 if you want? only done 80k.

[zorro]

I'm clearly in the wrong game if people are happy paying that sort of money for so little...

[team illucid]

Stick with Brett from LSX garage, excellent tuner.. Chevs at currum downs would be the last place i would go..
what's wrong with Chevs?

Sent from my Xbox

[csv rulz]

Couldn't speak higher of chevs personally and I know many on the forum would feel the same way

[Wonky]

iv got some vx2 hsv 4-1 headers with cats for $200 if you want? only done 80k.

The only HSV headers worth having are VY2, anything else aren't even worth the effort of fitting I'm afraid as they're bugger all better than the stock cast manifolds. Unfortunately they're now as scarce as hen's teeth second hand. Expect to pay up to $300 if you can find them.

My mate had a stock VX SS A4 with 170rwkw. Add a set of VY2 headers, Ballistic 100cpsi cats, Sureflo 3.5" med/loud system, DUS OTR and Chev mafless tune he just cracked 230rwkw and is rapt with how it sounds and goes!! Even with 3.73 diff gears now fitted he got low 10litres/100km going up to Bathurst with 4 adults on board and the occasional more spirited driving. :D

[FrangaFry]

I'm clearly in the wrong game if people are happy paying that sort of money for so little...


Zorro, it's not that I am happy spending 5k on minor mods (far from it), it's that I really don't know any better at this point ,but, with the help of your kind self and these other fine forum members, I am sure I will be able to work something out that will make me (and my wife) happy.....

With the few calls I have made so far, I am getting the feeling that I am being reamed a little at the moment though - but early days....

So second hand could be the way to go, but, clearly I have allot to learn before being in a position to buy anything second hand (as I just don't know what is good, what is bad, who is feeding me crap etc at this point - but again, early days).

Example, forum member Delft Maloo has posted:
iv got some vx2 hsv 4-1 headers with cats for $200 if you want? only done 80k.

I have absolutely no idea if these are comparable to what I am looking at now or whether 80k means anything in terms of second had headers/cats (I appreciate the offer, but I really don't know at this point how to compare apples with apples) - I really do appreciate the offer though, I just don't know how to process it..... yet

[Delft Maloo]

The only HSV headers worth having are VY2, anything else aren't even worth the effort of fitting I'm afraid as they're bugger all better than the stock cast manifolds. Unfortunately they're now as scarce as hen's teeth second hand. Expect to pay up to $300 if you can find them.

My mate had a stock VX SS A4 with 170rwkw. Add a set of VY2 headers, Ballistic 100cpsi cats, Sureflo 3.5" med/loud system, DUS OTR and Chev mafless tune he just cracked 230rwkw and is rapt with how it sounds and goes!! Even with 3.73 diff gears now fitted he got low 10litres/100km going up to Bathurst with 4 adults on board and the occasional more spirited driving. :D

maybe in your experience but iv tested and seen otherwise on a few cars.

[Delft Maloo]

Zorro, it's not that I am happy spending 5k on minor mods (far from it), it's that I really don't know any better at this point ,but, with the help of your kind self and these other fine forum members, I am sure I will be able to work something out that will make me (and my wife) happy.....

With the few calls I have made so far, I am getting the feeling that I am being reamed a little at the moment though - but early days....

So second hand could be the way to go, but, clearly I have allot to learn before being in a position to buy anything second hand (as I just don't know what is good, what is bad, who is feeding me crap etc at this point - but again, early days).

Example, forum member Delft Maloo has posted:
iv got some vx2 hsv 4-1 headers with cats for $200 if you want? only done 80k.

I have absolutely no idea if these are comparable to what I am looking at now or whether 80k means anything in terms of second had headers/cats (I appreciate the offer, but I really don't know at this point how to compare apples with apples) - I really do appreciate the offer though, I just don't know how to process it..... yet
just start searching the classifieds, i had a look earlier and there was a fair bit of where your after on there atm.

[Wonky]

what's wrong with Chevs?

Unfortunately no matter if you are best in the world at what you do and a nice guy to boot there will always be detractors. :weirdo: Possibly a clash of personalities or a misunderstanding over something but I've been using Chev's for almost 5 years now and couldn't be happier, as I'm sure most people who use him are. He will never tell you something needs doing when it doesn't and in all the time I've been using him that guy is only the second person I know of with that attitude. I can tell you now that even in my limited experience I've heard many more people bagging almost every other shop I know of.

[Wonky]

maybe in your experience but iv tested and seen otherwise on a few cars.

On his VY SV8 Subtle picked up almost 15rwkw going from VY1 HSV to VY2 HSV headers. Please don't get me wrong - I'm not trying to do you out of a sale, I'm just trying to help someone who is inexperienced with all this stuff. I know of guys who just threw pre VY2 HSV headers away as couldn't even get $50 for them.

[Wonky]

Perfect diff upgrade if it really is good - and cheap too if you're quick!! http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=154673

[Gmfan]

Ok, just got off the phone with Garry from Chevs (again, nice bloke, bvery up front) and his offering is:

Pacemaker SS headers (Tri-Y) 1 5/8 (ceramic coated)
2.5" SS Cat back
CAI OTR
Power tranny cooler
Tune

$5,000.00

It sounds to me like this is the ball park figure (regardless of manufacturer) 4500 - 5000k - Garry seems to think that this should reap 230rwkw

He has also suggested a Diff change to 3.7.3 (specifically for towing). this was an extra $1,600 (which seemed a little steep)

So I am getting a little confused now about the headers (the only thing that everyone seems to agree on is 2.5" cat back and CAI), the 4into1 or Tri-Y and sizes there of, seems to vary depending on who you speak to (and I assume what they have in stock)

So, am I in the ball park here or are there better deals around.

Cheers,

Drop the cermaic coating. It is like $500. Gary does suggest it but really i've had my pacemakers on for 12 months now and paint hasn't started to flake.

When getting prices on OTR check what they are quoting on as VCM and DUS OTRs differ in price considerably so best to compare apples with apples.

Gary charges a bit for tranny cooler fitting. I think it was $300-$400 in labour to because of removing and re-fitting the bar. This is probably something i'd suggest you do yourself if at all possible because that is another $300 in your pocket.

Overall Gary isn't cheap but i feel confident my car will be looked after while it's there. I've taken to doing smaller things myself now but Gary, Rob and the guys are reliable and responsible which is more than i can say for the shop that did my trans swap.

Overall by dropping ceramic coating, fitting trans cooler and getting a VCM OTR for $480 over a DUS for $680 you should be able to save around $1000. That money could be put towards your diff gears. I paid $1940 for Eaton TruTrac, new 3.7 gears, fluids/seals etc and fitting. Place is in Dandenong. Can supply details if you like.

[IEVLVX]

Search the forums!

Otr's come up for 300 bucks I know I've sold 2, 1 vcm otr and a rare as fcuk higgins 1.

Ull be able to pick up a full exhaust in the for sale section for around 1200.

Tranny cooler as I said from repco 150 max.

Diff with gears 900 again on forums.

Dyno tune 800 forum sponsor!

The above is 3350 not including labour!

Chuck a few slabs and a bbq on and I'm sure ppl off the forum will help u! Ppl are very helpful on here and u can learn aswell, while its being put on!

Love how I got flamed for diff gears and now every1 has mentioned them! Go 3.9 gears ull love them and how much of an improvement they will make!

[FrangaFry]

Well, I have to be honest, I am totally blown away by the responses and members comments on this Forum.

You guys are all a credit to the human race (and I sincerely mean that!!)

My head is spinning a little, but I am slowly starting to form 'options' in my mind (I will be honest, I would feel a little uncomfortable asking people I really don't know to do work for me based on a few sherbs and a couple of snags ......... but I have never had to think about this type of offer before and I am really blown away by the thought - I have mates who would not offer this type of help, let alone people I don't know well) - Sincerely THANKS :yahoo:

[zorro]

Never mind tat mate, I've done plenty of work on others cars, it's a hobby and good way to meet people

[FrangaFry]

Just off topic, but may be relevant to what I am trying to do.

I used to own a seriously modded VT Series I GTS (220i ->> 300kw) and have just realized that I have some of the parts left over from this car.

I have a complete set of King springs (lowered about 40mm) which have done only about 8k before I removed them (as I was sick of hitting my drive way).

I also have a set of standard 3.07 LSD diff gears and a Cerametalic clutch plate (50% worn) to suite 6spd man from said GTS.

Do you think these are trade/sellable items and if so what do you think they would be worth? Grasping at straws here ..................

I'm still trying to process D.I.Y for the mods I am after (would any one want to act as my broker - for a fee of course ............ then maybe I would feel comfortable laying out some hard earned for second hand....)

My wife has said just bloody do it and stop whinging but I am having a hard time getting my head around 5k for external mods..... so you never know a BBQ may be on offer at some stage (purchase of mods items dependent).

[FrangaFry]

Hey guys. take a look at this - anyone used these guys before?

LS1 310kw "Bolt on" power package
[OZ310LS1] AU$3,650.00AUD
LS1 310kw "Bolt on" power package


The LS1 310rwkw power package. We expect 230-250 rwkw and in autos 15rwkw less. Also fuel economy improvement of near 15%. Duspeed OTR installed Full exhaust, inc long 4 into 1 extractors HPC coated, metal cats and a twin 2.5" system. Dyno Tune

Why is it these Sydney guys are able to do what I want and still leave some cash over for other mods (Tranny and diff possibly?) but all the Melb guys I call are firm around 4.5 -> 5k

Is there something I am missing here? Geez, could be worth a drive up the hume after all and a few days in Sydney?

and then there is this:

LS1 360kw Performance Package
[OZ360LS1] AU$5,900.00AUD

LS1 360kw Performance Package


The LS1 360 engine kw package consists of
Duspeed OTR
Oztrack Custom Camshaft
Double Springs kit including Titanium Retainers, Seals, Locks and Bases.
Moly pushrods to suit
Long 4 into 1 extractors that have been HPC coated
Metal cats
Twin 2.5" exhaust system

The price includes full installation
The engine is tuned on the dyno and for driveability
We have seen consistently 275-290rwkw from this package in Manuals and about 15 rwkw less on Autos
The whole job drive in - drive out usually takes less than 3 days.

Some customers have a 25% underdrive kit fitted at the same time
This is an extra $450.

*sigh*

[FrangaFry]

>>>Quote:
Originally Posted by FrangaFry View Post
Pacemaker SS headers (Tri-Y) 1 5/8 (ceramic coated)
2.5" SS Cat back
CAI OTR
Power tranny cooler
Tune

$5,000.00
>>>>>>


Do that and then do the diff later on if you dont want to fork out the cash, its well worth it and that sounds perfect for what you want.
Cheers

Well, I did just that!

Spoke to Gary a few times (got the green light from the trouble and strife) and dropped it off to him this morning...... ended up doing the diff 3.7 as well.....

So here I am sitting here on a Saturday night (43 years old.. ) waiting for Wednesday to come with as much excitement as my 4 year old waiting for Santa ............... is that just a little sad?

Thanks to all you fine folks who offered great advise and were able to point me in the right direction. Gary seems like a top bloke, who knows his sH1t and I have every faith my baby will come back feeling better than ever.

Thanks to all..........

:wave:

[skidmarx]

Not sad.... very normal hahaha!

Let us know how it behaves :)

[Wonky]

Well, I did just that!

Spoke to Gary a few times (got the green light from the trouble and strife) and dropped it off to him this morning...... ended up doing the diff 3.7 as well.....

So here I am sitting here on a Saturday night (43 years old.. ) waiting for Wednesday to come with as much excitement as my 4 year old waiting for Santa ............... is that just a little sad?

Thanks to all you fine folks who offered great advise and were able to point me in the right direction. Gary seems like a top bloke, who knows his sH1t and I have every faith my baby will come back feeling better than ever.

Thanks to all..........

:wave:
:goodjob: Saw it there today - usually a number of us go there on a Sat arvo and just chew the fat on anything and everything - all very low key. Had V8 Supercars on one large screen TV and cricket on the other. :)

I know the feeling of excitement - I have 10+ years on you :eek: and still get to feel a bit that way even though I've done it a few times now. :yup:

I'm sure you'll be very happy with Gary and Big Rob and the guys and in the unlikely event of any problems just discuss it with them. Once it's done you should come down one Sat arvo - anyone and everyone is welcome!!

[chev]

Well said Wonks.
Don't forget to mention Shaun,Lloyd and welder Graham:p

Looking forward to getting our teeth into this nice VYSS wagon

[FrangaFry]

......... Looking forward to getting our teeth into this nice VYSS wagon

Monday morning and that 'excited little kid' feeling has only grown over the last couple of days ............... seriously looking forward to 'driving' again!!! :driving:

The only problem now, is find myself looking at brake and suspension package options .............

[VXSS346]

Congrats mate, after all those mods done at at once, it will be a totally different car to drive.

Take care and enjoy, you'll no doubt love it. :driving:

[RARASV8]

and the outcome is?













must be enjoying it:yahoo:

Garry

[Wonky]

and the outcome is?

Not known till Wed according to his post when he dropped it off.

[FrangaFry]

and the outcome is?

must be enjoying it:yahoo:

Garry

Hopefully will pick up my ride tomorrow .................. that is, if Gary isn't sick to death of hearing my voice ........... I've been like an ADHD kid in a lolly shop for the last couple of days ...............

The suspense is KILLING me .............. :yahoo:

[FrangaFry]

Hopefully will pick up my ride tomorrow .................. that is, if Gary isn't sick to death of hearing my voice ........... I've been like an ADHD kid in a lolly shop for the last couple of days ...............

The suspense is KILLING me .............. :yahoo:

Ok, so I got my girl back off Gary this arvo ............ I'm in love with her all over again!! :love:

My request to Gary and the crew was a car that sounded nice (not too loud, but LIKE a V8 should!! ......), with a bit more punch/torque which still drove like a daily (and most importantly, wouldn't p.. the wife off.......).

I think I got exactly what I wanted!!!

My face hurts from smiling!!!!, actually, my mates face also hurts from smiling (as he got to drive it back from Chev's to home in Belgrave....)..

Gary and the folk at Chev's - thanks, I am WELL pleased with the result. I'm looking forward to the early morning drive to Port Melboure listening to that lovely sound!!!!

Have a great x-christmas folks, as I think mine just came early ...... :driving:

[Richie217]

You sound like a happy camper! Only problem now is you will want more :)

[Wonky]

Awesome!! :goodjob: Just be careful the bug doesn't bite too hard! :D

[VY5.7LTR]

Good to hear. Now for next years xmas list, better start writing one up...
Heads & Cam or Blower......:idea: why not both ;)

[macca33]

Ok, so I got my girl back off Gary this arvo ............ I'm in love with her all over again!! :love:

My request to Gary and the crew was a car that sounded nice (not too loud, but LIKE a V8 should!! ......), with a bit more punch/torque which still drove like a daily (and most importantly, wouldn't p.. the wife off.......).

I think I got exactly what I wanted!!!

My face hurts from smiling!!!!, actually, my mates face also hurts from smiling (as he got to drive it back from Chev's to home in Belgrave....)..

Gary and the folk at Chev's - thanks, I am WELL pleased with the result. I'm looking forward to the early morning drive to Port Melboure listening to that lovely sound!!!!

Have a great x-christmas folks, as I think mine just came early ...... :driving:
Good on ya mate - the crew at Chev's do a good job and achieve consistent results. I'm sure the car is not only better sounding, but drives much nicer as well.

Enjoy it.

cheers

[402clubbyr8]

hey mate. i took my vz clubby and my gfs vy ss to gm in melb they done a pretty good job. got 270 at the wheels and the ss got 243 both with full 2.5 inch exhaust otr and tune. the ss has stock cats aswell

[FrangaFry]

Good on ya mate - the crew at Chev's do a good job and achieve consistent results. I'm sure the car is not only better sounding, but drives much nicer as well.

Enjoy it.

cheers

Yep, i'm still loving it .............. the sound that comes out of the back is aaaaawwwwsome when you sink the boot and cruising is just sweeeet!

I'm a very happy camper.

Thanks to all for the help and comments and thanks Chevs for doing a great job, it also looks good to boot!!! :love: