Advice Needed On Upgrades - Dropping Off Tomorrow!

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

I was going to leave everything alone on this car, but I have the opportunity (I am leaving town for a week or so) to leave it with a reputable shop, so I am going to go for it. Everything is stock right now.

I am trying to gain a little performance, better sound, and improve shifting. I'd like to do headers really, but don't want to spend the money right now.

Option 1:

Flowmaster American Thunder catbacks with super 40s
Ford Racing 3.73 gears
Ford Racing 8.8in Rear Axle Bearing & Seal Kit
Ford Racing Ring & Pinion Installation Kit - 8.8in
Exedy Mach 350 Stage 1 Clutch
SR Performance Clutch Adjuster Kit (83-95 5.0L)

$921 in parts

Option 2:

Flowmaster American Thunder catbacks with super 40s
BBK Catted X-Pipe
Ford Racing 3.73 gears
Ford Racing 8.8in Rear Axle Bearing & Seal Kit
Ford Racing Ring & Pinion Installation Kit - 8.8in

$1,050 in parts

So basically I am trying to decide to either go with the X-pipe or go for the clutch.. Thinking option 1 is going to be more expensive because of the additional labor involved in the clutch install. I got pricing for option 2 with parts and labor ($,1800).

DIY when I get back:

Install SR Performance CAI (already have it)

Install 21 tooth speedo gear (need to order) - hopefully it works with my tires (slightly larger than stock)

Install Short Throw Sport Shifter for T-5/T-45 (I can use OEM shift knob right?)

Advice or recommendations? I don't want to do any major motor work (cams, etc) and don't want to get to the point where I need to dyno tune and chip it. Just want a little more pickup, smoother shifting, and a throatier sound which I know I will get with the Flowmasters.

madspeed · Feb 20, 2014

do you need a clutch? if not, don't bother!

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

no. I'm assuming the short throw though will help shift smoother? it just doesn't shift as smooth as I'd like it to.

madspeed · Feb 20, 2014

your stock shifter bushings are likely shot giving you very notchy shifting. I strongly recommend a Steeda TriAx or Pro 5.0 if they are still around. Hands down one of the best ahifters I've used in all my years

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

madspeed said:
your stock shifter bushings are likely shot giving you very notchy shifting. I strongly recommend a Steeda TriAx or Pro 5.0 if they are still around. Hands down one of the best ahifters I've used in all my years

Can I keep stock boot/knob with those? Do they come with new bushings? pricey?

madspeed · Feb 20, 2014

you can keep the stock knob and boot and all. They run about $200 last time I bought one. And four bolts to install

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

I was also thinking change the clutch because the stock one seems so tight. I am short as it is and have to have my seat 3/4 up to mash the clutch all the way in. My 89 didn't seem as tight. either they made different clutches between 89 and 91 or someone changed the clutch in my 89.

madspeed · Feb 20, 2014

sorry, but not a whole lot a new clutch will do about that. Take your left foot and pull the clutch pedal back towards the seat to ensure it is adjusted properly

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

madspeed said:
sorry, but not a whole lot a new clutch will do about that. Take your left foot and pull the clutch pedal back towards the seat to ensure it is adjusted properly

I just don't remember having so much distance from front to back. It didn't take as much effort if that makes sense.

madspeed · Feb 20, 2014

adjust it as i mentioned. It should help a good bit

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

madspeed said:
adjust it as i mentioned. It should help a good bit

I'm not sure what you mean. Pull the clutch toward the seat? I didn't know it could be adjusted. I can Google some more tomorrow...

madspeed · Feb 20, 2014

here's a good read

http://www.corral.net/tech/drivetrain/clutcha.htm

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

madspeed said:
your stock shifter bushings are likely shot giving you very notchy shifting. I strongly recommend a Steeda TriAx or Pro 5.0 if they are still around. Hands down one of the best ahifters I've used in all my years

which one is better?

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

madspeed said:
here's a good read

http://www.corral.net/tech/drivetrain/clutcha.htm

ahhhh that is awesome, I had no idea. I will definitely give that a try. So I am thinking option 2 and go with a better shifter. I'm pretty easy to convince. I just want to put the money in in the right place. I still want to do the $700 upholstery replacement someday too. + 400 in labor because I don't think I feel like even dealing with that.

koala33 · Feb 20, 2014

Was told to leave the stock MAF when I change the CAI. I put a BBK on my 89 and am wondering if this was why I was getting intermittent check engine light when I was shifting. I never tuned that car - maybe it needed it?

madspeed · Feb 20, 2014

nah, you dont need any maf change at this point

Sharad · Feb 20, 2014

What's the suspension situation on the car?

koala33 · Feb 21, 2014

stock. that might not be a bad idea either if not too much money. any recommendations for springs?

Sharad said:
What's the suspension situation on the car?

koala33 · Feb 21, 2014

Any recommendations for suspension? Dropping off in in a few hours.

Mintsick · Feb 21, 2014

I'd recommend 3.55's over 3.73's personally, don't bother with a clutch, and get full length subframe connectors.

Advice Needed On Upgrades - Dropping Off Tomorrow!

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ALWAYS choose the V over the P!!! Wait... what?

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