Hi Guys,

Just bought a 2006 GMC 1500 Ext. Cab equipped with a Vortec Max engine. I love the truck in general, especially the extra oomph of the 6.0 (I'm coming from an 04' 5.3). Planning on keeping this truck for a good while, so I don't feel bad spending some considerable $$$ on it!
About to order an STS kit from Atomic Motorsports here in San Diego, and I'd love to have your advice on a few points:

1. Atomic is supposedly an outstanding shop for the installation, but I have to question the labor hours they say it will take- 17 total! That's just for the turbo, the intercooler would be another 7 hours! At $75/hr, that gets to be kinda pricey. Thoughts?

2. I'm going to purchase my own 44lb. injectors (as opposed to paying STS the $800 they want for theirs!). What brand should I pick up? I've been looking at the Racetronix and Venom injectors.

3. Do I even need an intercooler? or is it just a waste?? I don't plan on ever exceeding 8-9lbs of boost, won't ever take the truck to the track (ok, maybe once!), and rarely ever tow.

4. Is a methanol injection system vital for a purpose like mine? I don't plan on buying one unless I'm convinced that I absolutely need it.

5. (To those who are familiar with the longer front lip of the 06' Sierra's) Anyone know if the STS intercooler will be covered by the longer front lip? I know that it hangs down below the front valence of the 05' and previous models, and I'd much prefer to have it completely hidden. If I do decide on an intercooler, I'll have Atomic custom make one if it can't be hidden with the STS version.

6. Finally, is there anything unrelated to the kit that I need to immediately pick up? i.e- short shift kit, upgraded transmission, etc.?

Many thanks guys! Pictures coming soon... I also plan on having Atomic take step by step pics for me in case anyone would like to see how the install goes.

Ross

 

 

 

Might want to start saving up for a nice tranny.... its only a matter of time before that one well you get the point... and prob replace the G-80 if you have on?? maybe? depends on how bad you are goin to beat on your truck.

 

I would try BlownChevy at JPA Distributing in Chatsworth. He is a sponsor here and a power dealer for STS.

bzacuto@hotmail.com

818-998-1975

 

Thanks for all of the replies!

Sounds like the general concensus is....I'm getting bent over.

Mort- I just placed a call to JPA/Blownchevy...looking forward to his reply- thanks for the suggestion.

Trtturbo- Is there a number where I could reach you directly? I just might be interested in those 43lb injectors, and I'd love to talk with you about your intercooler experiences.

 

365, I got your message kinda late in the day.

We have the injectors, and can handle the install for you no problem...I can even supply you with the turbo system if needed. I will give you a call on monday and we can discuss the options that you have.

 

he's located kinda close to me.........hmmm, might have to check that out

Hey Ross, I'm located in SD as well, you can PM me with any questions you might have or help in general.

 

If you are slightly mechanically inclined you can install yourself. I have an Innovate LM-1 that you can use for tunning if you want. I am in the Hemet area if you need help with install. Don't forget the beers, lol.

 

Sorry for the late reply....thanks for the offer!

I just ordered the STS system today, along with the STS intercooler, and Methanol kit. This is getting interesting....standby for more to come!
Advanced Performance Industries is doing the install in Cypress, CA. Anyone heard good/bad about them? Gavin (the owner) seems to be on top of his game, and STS had nothing but good things to say about them.

Ross