I have a Magnaflow cat-back and AEM intake on it already. Here is my dilemma:

1. I want some more power.
2. I cannot sacrifice reliability as my truck will be my daily driver for probably quite a few years to come.
3. I don't want to spend a ton of cash.

So, am I screwed? I'd like an STS turbo kit, but I cannot risk popping the motor (unlikely at 5psi), but the transmission will eventually go, as we all know how tough(haha) the 4L60E is.

So, is there anything else to do to liven up the truck a bit? I haven't heard a lot of great things about some long-tube headers? Would a stall or some other transmission mod affect driveability too much?

Radix is nice too, but getting a bit pricey, especially if you factor in a transmission beef-up too.

As you can see, I'm not sure what to do...any help would be appreciated.

 

I am in the same delimma. I want power but want it reliable and cost effective. You would probably notice a great improvement with Long-tube headers, Stall converter(Yank has a group purchase going on now), and a good computer tune. If you decided to go forced induction later, these mods would just make the setup even better.

 

well, if you are looking for cost effective things, i would do the Trailblazer tq verter. will stall up to 2600 rpm and retain factory towing.

A tune from nelson, or one of the other sponsors will help liven it up as well.

then pacesetter just came out with their long tube for 380 coated. not including the Y pipe.

after those things, you are looking at the normal, under drive pulley, gear swap, efans.

also, if you want a little more power and have the gears for it, a 2000 vette cam would go nicely in there. you can get them for 20 bucks and then spend another 40 on seal, gasket, crank bolt and such.

 

Trans mods are going to be a necessary evil. With more power and more aggressive driving the '60 will do out sooner or later as you know.
You would see a huge performance with a cam, tuning, headers, stall, and LS1 fans
You could get a good used cam in the classifieds for $200
Fans for $100 and a PCM harness for $90
Get a used PI for $400 or so
and the pacesetter longtubes $380
you would still need some tuning, but those mods arent too expensive and would make ALOT more power.

 

Here is my best bang for the buck recomendations.

Pacesetter Headers
Nelson Tune

You could do both of those for about 700 or less, make at least 25hp.

 

Well it all matters on how much money "a ton is". I would say that you could get a Radix. Flyer just went 11's with his. Also you could get a STS with a FMIC. I would suggest ARP head studs just for the added safty. There is lots you can do on a budget.

 

Id hardly call a radix or sts a budget! LOL

 

i guess if your budget is 10K to play with then yes it is a budget. but i am too poor to even look at a s/c or t/c. i have to go play with spray for my enjoyment now.

 

why dont you do this.......get some long tube headers, a tune, a shift kit and billet servos.......and a wynjammer!!! lol, i have been wanting to know how those boost on our trucks. i have heard good things though. they can be had for under $3000. good luck anyway you go though.

 

I'm with Greentahoe on this one.