Tuner or subframes??

ArkansasMystic · Nov 17, 2008

I've got a 96 Cobra that is my daily driver, few bolt on mods (listed in sig). I really don't have any big plans for it mod wise, just some appearance stuff. I doubt I'll be doing many power mods. Since it is my dd, I'd like to have the best gas mileage possible, and some extra power wouldn't hurt. I am considering a tuner (it would be the SCT XCAL 2) to give me a few extra mpg and maybe more power at the track. I've heard great reviews on subframes, and also that they might help my track times. I'm at 11.4 on a 1000ft track, wanting to break into the 10's. I'm having traction problems, but drag radials are out, so I'm also trying to plan mods according to that. My main concern is driveability, I am looking at the MM full length subframe connectors if I go that route. Either way I'll be looking at ~$250. I'm thinking since my mod list is minimal, and I don't plan on any power mods any time soon (longtubes, lower gears, etc), I'm thinking the subframes will be the way to go. What do you guys think? Thanks for any input.

Stark77 · Nov 17, 2008

If you want to increase performance, without hurting gas mileage - Aluminum driveshaft! Tuner will cause you to lose a little bit of gas mileage. It will be in the 200-250 dollar range.

ArkansasMystic · Nov 17, 2008

Haven't considered that, but I'm open to other suggestions, so if there are others with the same opinion, I'll add it at the top of the list. I've always heard of a "street" tune that would improve fuel economy, maybe that's incorrect, but that is what I need to find out. Thanks.

Stangdriver13 · Nov 17, 2008

I got a tuner with 93 oct tune and It hurt my gas milage a little in the city, but actually improved it on the highway by 1-2 mpg. It may also be due to my driving habits but who knows

ArkansasMystic · Nov 17, 2008

When I take it easy, I get 22mpg city. I average about 20mpg due to a heavy foot. Worst I've gotten was mixed city/track and 18. Highway I get 24mpg. I'm not complaining with those numbers, but if it would boost my mpg by 1-2 it'd basically pay for itself, that's how I'm looking at it. Thanks for the info.

Stark77 · Nov 17, 2008

A driveshaft, along with a set of proper UDP, not piggy backs, will increase MPG by reducing the load placed on the engine/rotating mass. The best underdrive pulleys will actually replace the harmonic balancer/crank pulley with a smaller, lighter one. Steeda makes a great set.

ArkansasMystic · Nov 17, 2008

Already have Mac UD's, not sure how they compare to the Steeda's though.

mazen189 · Nov 17, 2008

subframe connectors ftw, they make all the difference for the cheapest price.

ArkansasMystic · Nov 17, 2008

Would subframes have any effect on traction? I know they improve handling and reduce some noise, but not sure if they would help me off the line at the track.

Stangdriver13 · Nov 17, 2008

I usually get 17 -18 in the city and 24-25 on the highway, i used to get 22-23 mpg on the highway but I used to drive 80, but since I got a ticket I usually drive around 73 or so. I would say a combination of slowing down and the tuner improved my mpg the 2 mpg

mazen189 · Nov 18, 2008

LittleJohn07 said:
Would subframes have any effect on traction? I know they improve handling and reduce some noise, but not sure if they would help me off the line at the track.

it depends on the driver, because its stiffening the chasis, and reduces vibration. and it will actually help with traction. You will be able to plant your tires to the floor better.

ArkansasMystic · Nov 18, 2008

I know the best way to improve fuel economy is to control the right foot, so guess I'll stick with that method as much as possible. After talking to you guys, I'm feeling subframes even more. If it stiffens the chassis and helps keep tires planted, it should be exactly what I need. A friend is running 1/2 second faster than me at the track, but I'm trapping 2mph faster. If I could get off the line, I'd be with running a good bit faster. This is my dd, not a track car, but it is fun to go every now and then, plus subframes will help daily driving from what I hear. Any other opinions on this? Thanks everyone.

GettinThere · Nov 18, 2008

LittleJohn07 said:
I am looking at the MM full length subframe connectors if I go that route.

This is my vote. If you need to improve traction at the line, other than tires, you'll need to improve your suspension. Subframe connectors are the place to start, and MM have some of the best.

ArkansasMystic · Nov 18, 2008

OK, looks like tuner is out, won't benefit me as much as the other options. Last thing (I hope) to throw in the loop would be a set of MM lower control arms for the rear. They'll come in at about the same $250. I know they are great, but since I'll be sticking with street tires, not sure if they will benefit me. Also, since daily driving is the main concern, not track times, I'm thinking the subframes will still be at the top, but just wanted to throw this out there. Thanks again.

mazen189 · Nov 18, 2008

no problem man, good luck with your purchase, and besides the subframes helping of the line, try and enjoy some twisties while your at it.

NitroDuck · Nov 18, 2008

If you need one more vote for the SF connectors, this is it. IMO, they should be the 1st mod anyone does.

I doubt you'll notice any improved traction, but they may eliminate a few squeaks or rattles that may have developed over the years. Best mod you can do for a rare specimen such as yours.

Stangdriver13 · Nov 18, 2008

After that I would go with a tune, because you have a o/r h and catback plus you have a 4-valve so your gains will be greater than a 2v tune, that is the main reason i got my tuner was for my exhaust

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