Future SS Project Help Needed - Camaro5 Chevy Camaro Forum / Camaro ZL1, SS and V6 Forums

SS_FireHawk · 08-19-2010, 08:35 PM

Well, I don't have one now, but during my deployment, I plan on taking an order so when I get back home, it is ready and waiting for me to fondle it. I am by no means a mechanic and do not understand grind numbers on a cam or valve duration, but I understand a fair enough amount. Ive been reading these forums like a crack head for a few months now as I try to make up my mind on what I want when I take ownership of one. I currently own an 03 325i which I love to death and will be my daily driver, she has 105k miles on it and never an engine problem, so the Camaro will be my toy.

Let me get stereotypes out of the way. I'm 28, not 20, I have my own money, my BMW is a straight 6 not a 4 banger, I am not a ricer, and I could care less about an opinion on how I spend my money. I prefer a Camaro over a Mustang (though I'm highly impressed with the Coyote motor), and I would buy an M3 if the damn things weren't going for 70k. I carry a Degree in networking,I have a smoking hot girlfriend of two years who gets off on a sexy exhaust note. Oh, and I only drive a stick, auto's are for sissy's and old people.

This is what I plan on doing with my car. I would like to take it to the track on occasion, I'm not focused on 1/4 times, though I wouldn't mind making a pass or two from time to time. I also want to scare small children and strike fear in the hearts of Mustang owners when they hear my approach. I like it loud, lumpy, with a hearty burble. I guess Im looking for a street legal track car that defiles the competition.

First of all, I am unsatisfied with turn in response, so I have been researching Pfadt suspension components they make for the Camaro. Ive also seen a lot of people use Pedders, so Im unsure which would be better. I admit I am more impressed with the Pfadt package at the moment. Does anyone have experience with either that can give me advice or tips on this?

I am totally up in the air between forced induction and natural aspiration. From my understanding with turbos, the come with an exhaust manifold to use so there is no need to purchase LT's. Ive never owned a turbo vehicle so I am unsure how reliable and finicky they are. I haven't owned any type of supercharged vehicle either but from reading, they are more reliable than most turbo systems and require less maintenance. Please tell me if im incorrect in this assumption. N/A requires more work to get power out of the engine and can be cost detrimental if I am to try and go farther than 500 rwhp compared to forced induction. Is more than 500 rwhp even needed for me considering my poor car is only rated at 184 at the crank? I test drove the SS and in my honest opinion, I still wanted more power. I want my sternum screaming for mercy and my neck to suffer whip lash.

Im trying to find valid opinions on how I should go about this project. I plan on setting aside 20k for the project. It would be great if I could reduce the weight down to around 3600 lbs or less. Not too sure whats feasible without sacrificing a lot of amenities. I still want my back seat and AC is mandatory in Las Vegas. How do I increase throttle response? I would like to have a faster revving engine. I want a cam package that can safely push the engine to 7k rpm and be rock solid reliable, not so much that I want to constantly rev that high, but if it can do 7k, then it should have no issues running high rpm for an extended period of time. Again, these are ideas that I'm throwing around and if I am not making any sense, or if there is a better way to do something I have in mind, please feel free to criticize.

Here are the parts I have in mind:

Pondering forced induction. Some of my selections would obviously not be needed if I go one route or another. Im looking for a light weight and cost effective solution with cost effective trumping reduced weight.

LSX F.A.S.T intake (not needed if I get a blower)

SLP, Borla, ARH, or Kooks headers with high flow cats; pref 1 7/8, 1 3/4 is fine also. (any difference between brands?) (not needed if I go turbo)

Borla atak exhaust with X pipe (should I get X pipe from headers or cat back)

K&N cold air intake (well known brand... I'm up for recommendations)

Cam (I don't know much about this, but that it will vary depending on if it N/A or forced induction)

Pfadt or Pedders full suspension system. (coil overs, sway bars, bushings, etc...)

under drive pulley, thermostat, clutch/flywheel kit, 3.73 final drive ratio (is it even possible to replace individual gear ratios?)

Would like to get a subtle body kit and replace some heavier body parts. (not a high priority)

New rims and tires, I would like to get atleast 20'' X 10'' all around. I keep hearing a lot of the under-steering woes are from the skinny fronts.

would like to upgrade the brake system though; Baer, Wilwood, Brembo? (I don't wanna kill myself because my brake system can't match the rest of the car)

I know I rattled off a lot of questions and intentions. I also understand that I am planning early, but if I'm dropping 55k on car and parts, I want my money's worth. I think I google at least 200 web pages per day researching and looking for opinions and testimonials and I want to see if Im on the right track or if there is an easier way to go about this. Hell, by the time I order, the Z/28 will be available :P

Darth_Emma · 08-19-2010, 09:06 PM

flyer08 · 08-19-2010, 09:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Darth_Emma

i like your helmet

WyteMamba · 08-19-2010, 09:49 PM

superficial much, i drive an auto, and i run into burning buildings... guess im a sissy

SS_FireHawk · 08-19-2010, 10:43 PM

Im asking for help, not a hazing. I apoligize if you found that offensive, how about if I say it is much more a personal preference, and driving a stick is for the fans of using a 3rd pedal. Tho I still refuse to buy my gf a sports car with an automatic.

As for the helmet, I don't see a problem wanting to take it out on a race track, what makes it different than taking it to the strip? I think we all should have a right to do whatever we want. So I want to turn faster, brake harder, and still be fast in a straight line. If I only wanted the latter, Id buy a Challenger...

I came here because I found the best information here. I asked for constructive criticism, not a useless post that didn;t benefit anyone. I'm am absolutely certain I am not the only person who is looking for a suspension upgrade to go with the motor.

I'm sure If it was already in my garage with parts installed, and my own personal Youtube video, reception would be quite different.

Supercharged SS · 08-19-2010, 10:51 PM

I'd offer to help but I'm guessing you won't accept any from a 10 second AUTO (sissy) Camaro owner. Gd luck. As most will say....search is your friend.

oldfriend · 08-19-2010, 10:53 PM

You may look into the TX guy that goes by the name like HENNESSEY and be done with it from the get go!

SS_FireHawk · 08-19-2010, 10:56 PM

Appreciate the forward honesty, and yes, search is my friend. But where would we be if everyone only Google'd and no one posted or inquired for information? Hell, I believe the ability to know where to find information is stronger than a degree

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldfriend

You may look into the TX guy that goes by the name like HENNESSEY and be done with it from the get go!

Valid point lol, but it takes the fun out of watching the car evolve and change. I remember my dad and his 98 Z/28, 02 SS, 02 SS 35th ann., 98 trans am, and 02 trans am; (he liked F-bodies) every time he bolted something new on, he would throw me in the passenger seat while he acted like a hooligan laying patches of rubber and waking up neighbors because he was working on it all night. I plan on doing the same to an extent, until it is something I either don't have the tools or the stones to do myself

JoeThePro · 08-19-2010, 10:58 PM

i would think having an automatic car in LV would be hell of a lot easier than a manual

SS_FireHawk · 08-19-2010, 11:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JoeThePro

i would think having an automatic car in LV would be hell of a lot easier than a manual

Traffic is terrible, but it is generally flat in the valley. Gives me more opportunities to blip the throttle

oldfriend · 08-19-2010, 11:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JoeThePro

i would think having an automatic car in LV would be hell of a lot easier than a manual

Well that would only apply if you only drive on the strip , but if you are like most humans you will want to go for the open land that is all way around the CITY OF SINS !

SS_FireHawk · 08-19-2010, 11:31 PM

Lol 'oldfriend', I see your from S.F. I took my bimmer there once... Over the course of 3 days, my clutch foot was shaking for mercy and of course that ominous burning clutch smell always filled the cabin when there was a stop sign at the top of the hill and I was 10 cars back. Though I am happy to say I never stalled. I had to walk with a limp for a couple days till my calf muscle felt better...

SnoopyAce7 · 08-19-2010, 11:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SS_FireHawk

Lol 'oldfriend', I see your from S.F. I took my bimmer there once... Over the course of 3 days, my clutch foot was shaking for mercy and of course that ominous burning clutch smell always filled the cabin when there was a stop sign at the top of the hill and I was 10 cars back. Though I am happy to say I never stalled. I had to walk with a limp for a couple days till my calf muscle felt better...

haha the stuff us manual drivers go through just to have that extra ounce of power control. Respect to both auto and manual Camaro drivers. Different strokes for different folks.

Ironheadspearo · 08-19-2010, 11:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SS_FireHawk

Well, I don't have one now, but during my deployment, I plan on taking an order so when I get back home, it is ready and waiting for me to fondle it. I am by no means a mechanic and do not understand grind numbers on a cam or valve duration, but I understand a fair enough amount. Ive been reading these forums like a crack head for a few months now as I try to make up my mind on what I want when I take ownership of one. I currently own an 03 325i which I love to death and will be my daily driver, she has 105k miles on it and never an engine problem, so the Camaro will be my toy.

Let me get stereotypes out of the way. I'm 28, not 20, I have my own money, my BMW is a straight 6 not a 4 banger, I am not a ricer, and I could care less about an opinion on how I spend my money. I prefer a Camaro over a Mustang (though I'm highly impressed with the Coyote motor), and I would buy an M3 if the damn things weren't going for 70k. I carry a Degree in networking,I have a smoking hot girlfriend of two years who gets off on a sexy exhaust note. Oh, and I only drive a stick, auto's are for sissy's and old people.

lets see how hot she is so we can help you out

08-19-2010, 08:35 PM	#1
SS_FireHawk Drives: 2011 370Z 6mt w/sport package Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 11	Future SS Project Help Needed Well, I don't have one now, but during my deployment, I plan on taking an order so when I get back home, it is ready and waiting for me to fondle it. I am by no means a mechanic and do not understand grind numbers on a cam or valve duration, but I understand a fair enough amount. Ive been reading these forums like a crack head for a few months now as I try to make up my mind on what I want when I take ownership of one. I currently own an 03 325i which I love to death and will be my daily driver, she has 105k miles on it and never an engine problem, so the Camaro will be my toy. Let me get stereotypes out of the way. I'm 28, not 20, I have my own money, my BMW is a straight 6 not a 4 banger, I am not a ricer, and I could care less about an opinion on how I spend my money. I prefer a Camaro over a Mustang (though I'm highly impressed with the Coyote motor), and I would buy an M3 if the damn things weren't going for 70k. I carry a Degree in networking,I have a smoking hot girlfriend of two years who gets off on a sexy exhaust note. Oh, and I only drive a stick, auto's are for sissy's and old people. This is what I plan on doing with my car. I would like to take it to the track on occasion, I'm not focused on 1/4 times, though I wouldn't mind making a pass or two from time to time. I also want to scare small children and strike fear in the hearts of Mustang owners when they hear my approach. I like it loud, lumpy, with a hearty burble. I guess Im looking for a street legal track car that defiles the competition. First of all, I am unsatisfied with turn in response, so I have been researching Pfadt suspension components they make for the Camaro. Ive also seen a lot of people use Pedders, so Im unsure which would be better. I admit I am more impressed with the Pfadt package at the moment. Does anyone have experience with either that can give me advice or tips on this? I am totally up in the air between forced induction and natural aspiration. From my understanding with turbos, the come with an exhaust manifold to use so there is no need to purchase LT's. Ive never owned a turbo vehicle so I am unsure how reliable and finicky they are. I haven't owned any type of supercharged vehicle either but from reading, they are more reliable than most turbo systems and require less maintenance. Please tell me if im incorrect in this assumption. N/A requires more work to get power out of the engine and can be cost detrimental if I am to try and go farther than 500 rwhp compared to forced induction. Is more than 500 rwhp even needed for me considering my poor car is only rated at 184 at the crank? I test drove the SS and in my honest opinion, I still wanted more power. I want my sternum screaming for mercy and my neck to suffer whip lash. Im trying to find valid opinions on how I should go about this project. I plan on setting aside 20k for the project. It would be great if I could reduce the weight down to around 3600 lbs or less. Not too sure whats feasible without sacrificing a lot of amenities. I still want my back seat and AC is mandatory in Las Vegas. How do I increase throttle response? I would like to have a faster revving engine. I want a cam package that can safely push the engine to 7k rpm and be rock solid reliable, not so much that I want to constantly rev that high, but if it can do 7k, then it should have no issues running high rpm for an extended period of time. Again, these are ideas that I'm throwing around and if I am not making any sense, or if there is a better way to do something I have in mind, please feel free to criticize. Here are the parts I have in mind: Pondering forced induction. Some of my selections would obviously not be needed if I go one route or another. Im looking for a light weight and cost effective solution with cost effective trumping reduced weight. LSX F.A.S.T intake (not needed if I get a blower) SLP, Borla, ARH, or Kooks headers with high flow cats; pref 1 7/8, 1 3/4 is fine also. (any difference between brands?) (not needed if I go turbo) Borla atak exhaust with X pipe (should I get X pipe from headers or cat back) K&N cold air intake (well known brand... I'm up for recommendations) Cam (I don't know much about this, but that it will vary depending on if it N/A or forced induction) Pfadt or Pedders full suspension system. (coil overs, sway bars, bushings, etc...) under drive pulley, thermostat, clutch/flywheel kit, 3.73 final drive ratio (is it even possible to replace individual gear ratios?) Would like to get a subtle body kit and replace some heavier body parts. (not a high priority) New rims and tires, I would like to get atleast 20'' X 10'' all around. I keep hearing a lot of the under-steering woes are from the skinny fronts. would like to upgrade the brake system though; Baer, Wilwood, Brembo? (I don't wanna kill myself because my brake system can't match the rest of the car) I know I rattled off a lot of questions and intentions. I also understand that I am planning early, but if I'm dropping 55k on car and parts, I want my money's worth. I think I google at least 200 web pages per day researching and looking for opinions and testimonials and I want to see if Im on the right track or if there is an easier way to go about this. Hell, by the time I order, the Z/28 will be available :P

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08-19-2010, 09:06 PM	#2
Darth_Emma Psssssssssshhhhhhhhhhhhh! Drives: under contruction Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Marysville, Ohio Posts: 12,996 View My Garage

08-19-2010, 09:49 PM	#4
WyteMamba SStang Killer Drives: 2010 Summit White Camaro SS/RS Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Houston, Tx Posts: 362	superficial much, i drive an auto, and i run into burning buildings... guess im a sissy

08-19-2010, 10:43 PM	#5
SS_FireHawk Drives: 2011 370Z 6mt w/sport package Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 11	Im asking for help, not a hazing. I apoligize if you found that offensive, how about if I say it is much more a personal preference, and driving a stick is for the fans of using a 3rd pedal. Tho I still refuse to buy my gf a sports car with an automatic. As for the helmet, I don't see a problem wanting to take it out on a race track, what makes it different than taking it to the strip? I think we all should have a right to do whatever we want. So I want to turn faster, brake harder, and still be fast in a straight line. If I only wanted the latter, Id buy a Challenger... I came here because I found the best information here. I asked for constructive criticism, not a useless post that didn;t benefit anyone. I'm am absolutely certain I am not the only person who is looking for a suspension upgrade to go with the motor. I'm sure If it was already in my garage with parts installed, and my own personal Youtube video, reception would be quite different.

08-19-2010, 10:51 PM	#6
Supercharged SS Account Suspended Drives: 2010 Camaro Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Sandy Hook, CT Posts: 11,926	I'd offer to help but I'm guessing you won't accept any from a 10 second AUTO (sissy) Camaro owner. Gd luck. As most will say....search is your friend.

08-19-2010, 10:53 PM	#7
oldfriend Drives: Fiat 500 E Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: 32.7607/N. 16.95947/W Posts: 7,816 View My Garage	You may look into the TX guy that goes by the name like HENNESSEY and be done with it from the get go!

08-19-2010, 10:58 PM	#9
JoeThePro Drives: None Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: New Jersey Posts: 27	i would think having an automatic car in LV would be hell of a lot easier than a manual

08-19-2010, 11:31 PM	#12
SS_FireHawk Drives: 2011 370Z 6mt w/sport package Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 11	Lol 'oldfriend', I see your from S.F. I took my bimmer there once... Over the course of 3 days, my clutch foot was shaking for mercy and of course that ominous burning clutch smell always filled the cabin when there was a stop sign at the top of the hill and I was 10 cars back. Though I am happy to say I never stalled. I had to walk with a limp for a couple days till my calf muscle felt better...