Torn, Opinions Wanted

  • #1

    Torn, Opinions Wanted

    I have my modifications listed below in the sig and not sure where I want to go next. I have gotten all the little buggers worked out since adding the intercooler and radiator. Still have to work out a minor overheating issue. Only overheats in 85* + weather and with the A/C on. Will, most likely, trade out current dual fans with a setup that includes a shroud. Also the stock A/C fan would not fit with the Champion 3 row so will find an aftermarket fan that will fit in the confined space and that should take care of that.

    My issue would be is that the t3 is on it's way out. Has 120k on it. I'm not sure what to replace it with. Not sure if I want to inc. power goals, go t3/t4 and then the supporting mods or just go back with the t3 and call it a day (I plan on purchasing a low mileage 2009 Pontiac G8 next year after the wife's car is paid off. That should satisfy the power itch with a few modifications). I digress.

    If I go with the t3/t4 I am assuming needed upgrades will be injectors, fuel pump and engine management. It seems I'm at the point where additional power will be a significant increase in expense relative to what I have already done. Not sure I want to dump another bucketful of cash into this car. Cosmetically the car still looks good. Had a quality repaint done about 9 years ago, interior still looks great, no rust, runs great, etc…

    I guess what I'm asking is what are the minimum supporting mods to go t3/t4 and keep it as inexpensive and uncomplicated as possible?

    The other option is go with the stock t3, call it a day, get the G8 and have a little fun with that (headers, exhaust and intake).

    All views (negative, positive, otherwise) welcomed. Thanks
    1986zxt w/ '86, 56k mile, na engine (turbo bits swapped), K&N intake, 3" CM Performance turbo-back exhaust, Eibachs, KYB shocks, Front Mount Intercooler (2.5" plumbing), Turbosmart MBC/9 lbs, recirculating BOV, ASCO plenum, dual fans, Maxima alt, Champion 3 row Radiator.

    2013 Ford Taurus SHO Performance Package
  • #2
    Kind of unrelated to the Z as far as the turbo goes, but wouldn't modding that G8 be a bit of a hassle with Pontiac being discontinued? I know a friend that has one and he said its a great car but just a little on the expensive side to mod and maintain.
    Build Log Link: http://z31performance.com/showthread…-VG33-HX35-WIP
  • #3
    Wouldn't think it would be any harder than sourcing parts for a Z31. Can deal with the cost. I would think the limited build #s would come into play at some point as far as being able to get out of it what I put into it. Not that I think it would ever be a positive cash-flow thing. Just better than a Z31. Sourcing parts for the LS2 should be a breeze. Sourcing other parts would be Z31-like.
    1986zxt w/ '86, 56k mile, na engine (turbo bits swapped), K&N intake, 3" CM Performance turbo-back exhaust, Eibachs, KYB shocks, Front Mount Intercooler (2.5" plumbing), Turbosmart MBC/9 lbs, recirculating BOV, ASCO plenum, dual fans, Maxima alt, Champion 3 row Radiator.

    2013 Ford Taurus SHO Performance Package
  • #4
    Oh duh, didn't even come to mind when I thought of that lol. Yeah I suppose sourcing parts for a sub 10 year old vs a nearly 30 year old car should be no problem haha.
    Build Log Link: http://z31performance.com/showthread…-VG33-HX35-WIP
  • #5
    Yep. It seems when a car hits collector status the aftermarket follows. My guess is the G8 will get there before the Z31. Plus, how can you go wrong with LS2 for smile factor when the right foot goes down?
    1986zxt w/ '86, 56k mile, na engine (turbo bits swapped), K&N intake, 3" CM Performance turbo-back exhaust, Eibachs, KYB shocks, Front Mount Intercooler (2.5" plumbing), Turbosmart MBC/9 lbs, recirculating BOV, ASCO plenum, dual fans, Maxima alt, Champion 3 row Radiator.

    2013 Ford Taurus SHO Performance Package