Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Duratec Performance Newbie, first mods?

Hey guys,
What are some basic mods to get a lil more out of my 97 V6 Auto?

Total price I want to initially spend on first mods is around $500.

Thanks

trans cooler!!! Because you have the ATX a trans cooler is a must due to the fact they overheat.

Definetely go with an intake. You can get the pipe from a few places... Check out SPmotorsport.com. You'll need a maf adapter, from SP as well. ANd pick up a K&N RU3530. Very popular choice. Next i would say go with an svt exhaust... Or maybe some other type of cat back. There are many other things you can do, use the search and check the stickies.

There are 5.. yes 5 threads right above you about how to modify your duratec.... I know for a FACT you can find anything and everythign you want in there.

Common mods under 500.00...

Exhaust, Intake, Chip, Pulleys, Nitrous Fogger, oil pan, accusump, list goes on.

There are tons of posts about mods to do for cheap. Use the search function up top to get some more info or idea's. A Chip should be saved for last so you don't have to have it reprogrammed after you've done more performance mods to your car. For $500 you could buy a MAF adapter, K%N filter, and a Trubendz Catback Exhaust. That will exhaust your funds and will get you to the next step.

MAF adapter - www.spmotorsports.com - $39
K&N (RU-3530) - www.ajusa.com - $33
Trubendz Cat-Back - www.trubendz.com - $340 and up

I don't know what an AT cooler costs, but that sounds damn important to me, as pulling/fixing/replacing a tranny is $$$$. Limited to only $500, look for a cheap adapter and that K&N 3530; if you can find a cheap svt catback exhaust, that's an improvement; and here's one with the best bang/buck payoff: optimize your stock y pipe or get a cheap used good aftermarket one. Even if you have to pay someone to do it or install one for you. Precious few mods get you ~4 HP for ~$100. Do all of these together and you will feel the difference. Then if you're eager to use wrenches, buy some gaskets and clean your UIM/LIMs.

PS: Later on, avoid buying heavy wheels that slow you down.

I do not have one yet but its on the top of my mod list as of right now...I would get the B&G super cooler...thats the one that I am going to get...I believe it is on JC whitney along with other ones like Summitracing..etc..you will have to get some adapters to work with our trans and some trans hose but thats about it...should be under 100 bucks if you do it urself