What performance mods do you plan to do to your vehicle?

[d_m_kolb]

I'm just curious on what people have planned for upgrades to there vehicles. Don't say your going to do something if your really not going to do it.When we finally get a Vibe (After the 2004 model is realized) I have many mods I want and plan on doing. This list isn't in any kind of order.1. West Covina Turbo setup (complete kit) I was thinking about getting a WCT setup but will probably end up going with the GM supercharger and changing the stock pulley to a aftermarket pulley that will make the supercharger output more in the area of 10 PSI instead of the factory 7 1/2. Our Performance & Tuning moderator andrewmva can get the pulley for anyone who wants it and anything else that might be needed to make this happen.2. Custom CAI If SLP ends up making their True ram air hood for the Vibe I'd like to get it. Then I wont have any need for a CAI because the hood is a true ram air hood.3. I will install a Thermal intake manifold spacer to help keep intake temps down.4. Level Ten Torque Converter (Probaby just have them redo stock TC)Possably upgrade auto trany internals but we'll wait and see how trany holds up to forced induction first. This will be a later on mod.5. I will be running the trany fluid through it's own transmission cooler and not through the stock radiator. The cooler will have it's own fan to keep the trany at a constant cool temp.6. The stock exhaust will have to be replaced with a much larger diameter pipe from the exhaust manifold all the way out the back so the engine wont have to work as hard. On a forced inducted vehicle bigger is better. This is not true for any engine not using a turbo or supercharger. Going with a large exhaust on a non turbo or supercharged engine will hurt performance. On a turboed or supercharged vehicle the positive pressure of the turbo or SC pushes the exhaust gas out of the engine so you want the exhaust very big to cut down on how much the engine works to do this. I'm going to use a Xtreme Flow Exhaust Research & Delelopment catalytic converter and I'm going to use a 60 series flowmaster muffler.I'm going to end up having my stock exhaust manifold bored. This means the inside of the manifold will be made larger so more exhaust can be pushed through it faster and easier. I'm not going to replace it because it's so well designed replacement isn't needed. The pipe diameter will probably be 3" from the exhaust manifold all the way out the back. The exhaust manifold back to the first cat will be header wraped to keep under hood temps down.7. Might install a set of Unorthodox Racing performance pulleys.8. I will be switching over to Amsoil synthetic motor oil, oil filter and trany fluid.9. I'd like to lower the Vibe so I'll probably use Ground Control since they have a adjustable kit so I can change how low the car is if need be.10. Freedom Design strut bar.11. Hotchkis Tuning Sport Stabilizer Bars12. Replace stock brake pads with racing brake pads but this will probably be the only mod done to the anti-lock brakes on my Vibe. 13. I'd like to replace the stock wheels with 17X8 wheels that look similar to the wheels NovaResource has on his Vibe. Of couse I'd like ZR rubber on those wheels. If Pontiac changes the optional 17" wheels to ones I like more I might end up getting them but I have no idea if this will happen. I don't like the current 17" at all. If Pontiac makes the wheels that are on the VIBE GXP a option for 2004, I'll order the Vibe with those.14. I'm going to have my Vibe ordered with the Sport package installed when it's being made. The supercharger will be installed at the factory also since it'll be ordered that way. Might have to have the dealer install it but either way it will be on the vehicle before I pick it up.As of right now this is the plan for my Vibe. More will be added to this list in the furture I'm sure. Please do realize this will not all happen in a night. This list probably wont be complete for the first 2 or 3 years after purchase but they will be done. I hope to have a Vibe that will be able to pull a 0 to 60 time of 5.5 seconds or under, and run 14 sec. in the 1/4 mile when all mods are complete. Not really sure what the numbers will be but it'll be a screamer.Maybe in a few years I'll tear down the engine and install low comp pistons in it so I can run 15 to 20 PSI. andrewmva our Performance & Tuning moderator can help anyone out with a engine strenthen tear down and rebuild, because he's done it.

[savedbyzero]

my income could possibly triple in the next few months, if this happens:1. Springs (Eibach)2. 17's or 18's, depending on how it looks with stock 17's after lowering3. XM radio4. S-AFC (Apexi)5. GMD Exhaust6. TRD clutch7. Anything to make it a naturally aspirated beast! (internal work)8. a really, really big wing and crappy paint job with a whole lot of stickers. this will really through the competion off. they'll thin i'm just another ricer, look at me and laugh, rev and by that time, i'll be gone! HA!9. number 8 is a joke, although not very funny...that's all for now...i don't think i want to do any forced induction. i'd rather be all motor and all bad...

[mu_ohio]

I've already tried a couple things, but I plan to invest in the following:1. After winter, sport springs giving 1.5" drop, but brand is unknown2. A Cat back exhaust, but again waiting for more options3. Lighter 18" rims4. Tinted windows all the way around5. Painted plastic molding6. Rear sway bar7. Better speakers/amp/subThings I would like to get:1. Turbo/Supercharger2. Apexi S-AFC3. Big break kit4. TRD brake pads5. Hot model for passenger seat Still saving for a new bike though so who knows how long it will be before I complete my list.

[Big_Red]

none. Simple isn't it?

[Chris]

I'm with Big Red... no mods. I guess I would be nice to have something a little different but, to be honest, I really like the looks, the mags are actually quite nice for stockers, the ride height is great as you don't garf your front spoiler all over the place (had a gti that you couldn't even get a jack under... cool but what a pain!!!) and power? Well, it'll never be a vette but, then again, I've got my bike for 'those crazy days' More power to ya for creatin' a custom vibe... I'll just enjoy vanilla!

[MYKIDSGT]

Thanks for putting together a list with the thread info.I was going to ask if there was a way to summarize some of the mods that were being dicussed. I will look over them all before I decide exactly what to do.For sure the ground control kit.

[6slinger]

Honestly, I am new to owning a Vibe and it gets really good gas mileage for being an AWD. I am looking to do some mods that would increase gas mileage, performance, and if it also increases acceleration that great. So any suggestions that you could do to an automatic?If just I was driving it, well let's just say those little" fast and furious" Vin Diesel wannabes wouldn't be so fast but just mostly furious!

[NovaResource]

The wheels are already done. The supercharger is my biggest want. Cost will dictate but I will probably get it. I'd like to see the Ram Air hood also and I'd like to see it work with the supercharger. Other than that, I'll probably install a cat-back exhaust, a front strut bar and maybe a torque converter and trans cooler. New sway bars are low on the priority and I'm not one for lowered cars.

[MrMke]

quote:I'm just curious on what people have planned for upgrades to there vehicles. Don't say your going to do something if your really not going to do it.No upgrades for me..........I'm too old for that stuff.Besides......I like my Vibe just the way it is!!

[DopeVibeGT]

quote:No upgrades for me..........I'm too old for that stuff.Besides......I like my Vibe just the way it is!! Old? Whats age have to do with it, uless you're like 70. LoL Who knows. I may be moding my rides until I'm 70.

[Flip-Side]

My favorite mod is a giant cupholder. What good is a flashy car if you're always thirsty?

[Fritzburg]

Things I will get done within the first year of ownership: 1. Tinted Windows 2. Supercharger 3. Lowering Springs 4. Cold Air intake (Not Sure of Supercharger Intake Setup) 5. Sound System (It's Installed in my Cavy Right Now) 6. Shave ALL Emblems/BadgesThings I MIGHT mod: 1. Full Exhaust (2.5" or 2.75") 2. Underdrive Pullys 3. Change Supercharger Pully to Increase Boost 4. Rims 5. Body Kit/WingThe Vibe looks great lowered, and the supercharger should provide the added performance that I would like. It all comes down to simple economics, if I can afford it, I'll do it.

[DopeVibeGT]

1.CAI (Already have it. Need to install when I get the time)2. At least a 2" drop.3.Tinted windows4.18" wheels.5.Turbo or SC (I'm not paying $3500 for a turbo when I can get a S/C for that)6. Stereo systemAll this is when I finally get the body kit on the GA and get it painted for shows. Then it's the Vibes turn.

[Sputnik]

No mods for me either... not even a tinted window... but then I don't own the car (its leased). But even if I did own it I wouldn't do anything to it. Well okay I must admit I might change the wheels, but probably not.

[andrewmva]

BIG TURBO.... all engine internals, the whole 9 yards. looking for 550-600hp at the wheels.

[MadBill]

~2" lower, 18" (maybe 19") wheels with the fattest rubber that will (mostly) clear, say 255/35s, exhaust, possibly including cat (will do some backpressure tests first), mid-deck spoiler, K&N and maybe CAI (more testing), unless I can slide the supercharger into the budget..."Growing old is a given. Growing up is your choice." (turned 59 last weekend)

[andrewmva]

I have 225/35/19 tires and lowered 3" it rubs when I do a U turn.

[MadBill]

Wow! a 3" drop! What did you use, a gas wrench? And what brand/model of wheels? I really like the idea of 19"s, but, for example, the Tire Rack has about 35 18"s and only about 9 19"s to choose from (not to mention at least $100 each more for the 19") Up here in the Frozen North (100 mi. NE of Toronto) where potholes seem to be a subsidized crop, I guess 18"s are the biggest sensible diameter. (Although NJ isn't exactly Smooth City either..)

[andrewmva]

I drive to manhattan about 3 4 times a week... it is all about knowing the roads you drive on... and remember that you have 35 series tires!!! 19" look the best.... if you want traction go with nice 17" lightweight wheels and some sticky tires. yeah about a 3" drop.... Eibach springs that are cut.... usually I do not recomend cutting springs because you will throw off the spring rate and your handling goes to ****... I made sure that I did not cut them too much.... the suspension remains tight and there is no play when it is on the lift... the ride is fine as well... and handling remained stable... I had to go further than the 1" or 1.5" drop springs on the market,,,,

[KSNeptune]

Supercharger, depending on price.All sorts of inventions for the rear cargo rails and space.A BIGGER horn. I'd like one with variable rage settings. The longer you lean on the button, the louder it gets. And two quick hits would engage the siren sound until hit a third time.

[MadBill]

Your wheels look great, and seem to really fill the fenders. It's a little dark in there though; do have a shot where the tread and fender are visible? When you say it rubs on U turns, is it tread to fender, sidewall to control arm, or ?? I'm thinking my plan for 245 (or even 255)/35 x 18" may be a bit over the top...

[Sub-Vibe-R]

1- 17" wheels2- adjustable suspension (camber kit if necessary)3- Supercharger4- CAI or RAM air hood5- body kit

[DABEAR95]

quote:BIG TURBO.... all engine internals, the whole 9 yards. looking for 550-600hp at the wheels.You are shooting for almost 5.5HP per cubic inch? Assume 12% drivetrain loss for 550 FWHP is 616 flywheel. I would be interested to see how often you plan to rebuild the engine. To me this would mean you plan to fill in the coolant passages in the block, port the heads, valve job, bigger valves if possible, forged internals, custom computer, custom fuel system, etc. I would have to be a bit skeptical, only because I do not know of your financial state, or if you perhaps work for Renault or lotus. I remember Renault making a twin-turbo 1.6 liter engine that produced 1,600 horsepower but it was not reliable and was only for show.(Two different sized turbo's to reduce lag and maximize top end) Can you describe how you plan to accomplish this?What Pontiac front drive transmission would handle this power? Are you converting to rear wheel drive?Edit- Nevermind, I read a bit about you in the other forum. It would be very cool if it was still a streetable combination, but that seems doubtful.Jason

[Stang2Vibe]

My plans:-Injen CAI-1.5 or 2 inch lowering kit(still deciding what kind)-17 inch wheels (still deciding what kind)-Hotchkis Tuning STB-Hotchkis Tuning front + rear sway bars-Flowmaster 60 Series muffler

[Faultline]

My 1st mod is a turbo charger LOL!! I guess I would rather drive fast , than look fast,or look great! ...but stock looks great any how ...Oh yeah- T3 turbo running about 5 to 7 psi.2nd): new clutch , out fof necesity you know3rd : 17" rims and sticky tires for good traction1.5ish) Chip to remove speed limiter5th May be get car lowered 6th- sway bar. May be thats all .....Oh yeah ... a 1.8T insignia after Vibe

[Lorin]

Being an old fuddy-dud and needing to be somewhat aware of my image in the corporate world, I prefer stealth mods that I can enjoy without incurring an "imature boy racer" image....1)CAI2)Sway Bars / tower bar - (If I can convince myself of the benefit)3)Audio - replace stock speakers, install my sub-woofer.4)Convert it from the Bank's Vibe to MY Vibe (Pay it off...)

[Lorin]

silverawd26: All those wind deflectors will add a lot of wind noise. I had window air deflectors on a 96 S-10 (after having a 96 w/o them).... I hated the extra noise, and never did find any benefit. The s-10 and now my Van (purchased used) had the hood deflectors too. Its one of those mods that doesn't cost much, but I don't get the why part.

[jackospades]

Me and my friends have been going back and forth between Injen and AEM for CAI. I love the catback from Thermal R&D. I want to tint the windows add some 17" gunmetal grey or black wheels. I might also get a mod chip. I really want to keep the six-disc in-dash but I want and Cd-player that can handle MP3's also. I drive home to Alabama and that wouls make the trip fly by.

[Triton]

1. Tinted Windows (within a couple weeks) 2. Install the Stickers I have (waiting for warmer weather) 3. AEM CAI - Blue 4. German Hella Horns 5. Have my JL Audio Subwoofers (Two 10") Installed with Factory Deck (special install) 6. Enkei 5+ 17" Rims with Nitto 555 Tires 7. Strut Tower Bar 8. Front & Rear Sway Bars 9. Thermal R & D Exhaust System

[andrewmva]

quote:BIG TURBO.... all engine internals, the whole 9 yards. looking for 550-600hp at the wheels.You are shooting for almost 5.5HP per cubic inch? Assume 12% drivetrain loss for 550 FWHP is 616 flywheel. I would be interested to see how often you plan to rebuild the engine. To me this would mean you plan to fill in the coolant passages in the block, port the heads, valve job, bigger valves if possible, forged internals, custom computer, custom fuel system, etc. I would have to be a bit skeptical, only because I do not know of your financial state, or if you perhaps work for Renault or lotus. I remember Renault making a twin-turbo 1.6 liter engine that produced 1,600 horsepower but it was not reliable and was only for show.(Two different sized turbo's to reduce lag and maximize top end) Can you describe how you plan to accomplish this?What Pontiac front drive transmission would handle this power? Are you converting to rear wheel drive?Edit- Nevermind, I read a bit about you in the other forum. It would be very cool if it was still a streetable combination, but that seems doubtful.Jason Nah... that is with alcohol... will NEVER see the streets in that form... for the street I want about 300-350 at the wheels... you are right though the block is getting sleeved... pistons rods the head... everything.... I just want a high 10-sec pass with full interior... thats all.. after that I will not keep pounding on the car... too much $$$$ I'll just kick (removed) on the street around here... I dont expect to finish the car untill the end of summer maybe next winter... I'm not a millionare

[03Vibe5speed]

About how much is the GM supercharger gonna cost installed?

[03Vibe5speed]

I thought about eventually going with air bags on mine. That way i can slam it to the height that i want but still make it up the driveway and into the garage. lack of funds is making that a bit tricky right now but long term goals are nice.