i had posted this in another post mid-last week, but, shortly after, got rather sick and wasn't online for 4 days. i didn't see any responses and it probably just got buried, so i thought i'd re-ask.

i'm looking to likely resume modding my truck this summer. I put a cap on shortly after I bought it that really tapped my funds and I should be in better shape to buy more toys this summer. For performance, I'm considering an exhaust, intake, t-stat and perhaps a JetChip I. I'm hoping to gain more power (the truck gets used mostly as a daily driver, plus some weekend hauling/towing) and some MPG improvement.

Which would you do first? What are the costs, especially on the t-stat and intake? (i haven't yet researched those). Which gives you the most bang for the buck?

I'm also hoping to do a little work on the sound system this year, which is why some of the performance mods might have to wait...the base sound system just needs more bass...bad.

Thoughts?

Thanks,
Matt

 

Hmmm...didn't realize the t stat was that cheap. How difficult is it to install? You mentioned the notch, and I'd need to deal with that, but is it real hard for a fairly inexperienced individual to install?

I'll have to give some thought to the exhaust. I think that'll be next.

Thanks for the help.

 

Go to http://www.spectreperformance.comand look into their CAI's. You can find out what store had their parts and build one a lot cheaper than a K&N and get the same results.

Go to a muffler shop and get like a MagnaFlow muffler and have someone build an exhaust that you would like. Getting one that is prefabbed for our trucks is expensive.

The Jet Chip runs 240 for the Stage I and 250 for the Stage II (www.JetChip.comor www.SummitRacing.com). If you're going to get he Tstat, you might as well get the Stage II.

You can get a Throttle Body from www.TheFastMan.com. He bores them out for 260 - 80 back on the core you send back.

That stuff right there is pretty basic, but you'll get more power and some mpgs out of it.

It's fun to do this stuff though. Have fun.

 

the stat is by the simlest and cheapest. a cooler running engine is better. if you cant afford a full intake then a drop in filter will do for now. find a nice muffler and have an exhaust shop bend and hang pipe. most places if you pay in cash they dont charge tax. my was 250.00 out the door. throttle body from www.thefastman.com is a great upgrade. dan does a good job and fast turn around. .

 

Thanks for the help, guys!

I think, at least for this year, I'm going to take care of the t-stat (since it's so cheap that might happen soon!) and the exhaust....and hopefully the JetChip. Like I said, though, I really, really want a sub, too, so the chip might have to wait. The intake and throttle body'll just have to wait awhile 'til the funds are available.

Hmmm....so many fun things to do to this truck, so little time and money.

 

I have the Gibson Dual Sport exhaust on my 05 Dakota. I think it was the cheapest system I found and it sounds great. I got it at stylinconcepts.com I installed it myself and it was easy. The only problem I ran into was they needed to add another bracket because the exhaust tips kept banging against the body. It was pretty easy to make a bracket though. I told gibson about this problem but got no response.

 

no way punk, i want it...check your PM's lazy cakes