Okay, first of all, this will be my first post on these forums. I've been looking for an information source and I hope I've found it. I've already read some great information and seen some beautiful R/T's.

I'm looking to buy an 01 R/T Coupe in the next few weeks. The question I have pertains to the best order to add performance mods to the R/T.

I've definitely already looked at CAI over the Short Ram, is this the best decision?I'd also like some input on the exhaust issue, should I stick with the single or look at investing in a catback, like the Borla set? Do I need to upgrade everything from the Catalytic Converter forward, or will just the muffler upgrade add hp?

What about aftermarket wheels? Any suggestions on the difference between 17 and 18 in wheels? I'm a fan of the simplicity of the five spoke design. Actually, I'm looking at the ASA JH8 or JH9 on Tirerack.com. What are the concerns on new brakes? Are they a must with any aftermarket wheels or just lightweight ones? I have read in a few mags that lightweight performance wheels should absolutely have performance brakes, but wasn't certain about ones that are not listed as lightweight.

After doing some looking around here, I have definitely added the Eibach Pro Kit to my list of mods.

I was eyeing a body kit, specifically the Viper kit from Extreme Dimensions, but after looking around here, I think the Eibach kit will give me about the same lowered look and better performance. I still want the Viper style hood, so I'm going to be pondering carbon vs. fiberglass as well.

This will be my first modified vehicle, so I'm definitely new(b?) to this. This will be my everyday driver, but I want to give it some extra power and definitely a nice look. If it sounds like I don't know much about cars, it's because I don't, but I'm trying to learn. As my everyday driver, I wouldn't mind maximizing the fuel economy, but I'll be happy with the stock mpg anyway since I'm switching from an 05 Dakota to an 01 Stratus. I'm just about doubling my MPG from the start.

Thanks for the help in advance and I look forward to becoming a regular visitor.

 

You might not know much about cars, but you did a fantastic job doing research. FYI, the Stratus coupeis technically a 00-05 Mitsubishi Eclipse, so anything chassis related you can use. There really isnt a whole lot of aftermarket exterior wise however.

Your brakes will do just fine with aftermarket wheels; they will just look small. You can upgrade using Mitsu. Evo brakes if you choose.

 

Well first off to make the RT somewhat fast you'll have to add some FI (turbo Superchrager), Exhaust, I would just chop the muffler off and add a nice tip. Exhaust systems wont help you to much. I have the Borla and I didn't notice any power gains.

 

Okay, so the stock exhaust is okay and I should just add a tip for some flash?

And I'm assuming when we are talking supercharger or turbochargers we're looking at models for the G3 Eclipse? I tried looking for them for the Stratus but noone seems to have them listed. I did find intercoolers listed and I assume that it would be wise to have the intercooler in addition to the turbo/super charger?

I guess what I'm getting at with my initial post is that I want some advice on what order I should add my mods in if I'm working on it a little at a time.

Performance? (intake, exhaust, turbo, headers, etc)
Suspension? (springs, shocks, etc)
Wheels/Tires?

Anything else I'm missing for performance? I did some reading on the reviews for the base model and the R/T is supposed to havea 'standard' sport suspension, but realistically, how good is it? What parts should definitely be changed?

My goal here is a fun everyday driver, with surprising speed and performance. It needs to be street legal I guess is what I'm saying. I'm not planning to race for slips or cash, but if some wiseacre decides to impress me with his car, I can shock him back.

BTW Nate...love the car. Simple and beautiful.

 

Yeah, anything from the 3g eclipse will work. You can check out Rippmods, or Tearstone.com. I personally don't like the stock suspension, way to much body roll. I have Eibach sportlines, and KYB AGX shocks and struts with a homemade camber kit.

Thanks for the compliment.

 

My next questionsare about the suspension. If I added the Eibach Pro-Kit, which lowers the vehicle, then I need cambers for all four wheels, right? Does anyone sell camber kits that will work on theStratusor must they be custom made? Are the Eibach Recommended Alignment Kits what I'm looking for in terms of the cambers?

Right now I'm guessing that my suspension shopping list is:
Eibach Pro-Kit Springs
KYB AGX
Camber kits

 

I've read that with the prokit you don't need a camber kit. I have sportlines, 2" drop and all I needed was a rear camber kit. I just made my own camber kit.