I have a 1996 GS-R with about 90,000 miles on it, right now the only mod it has is an AEM CAI. I just put it on a few weeks ago, as I am beginning build up of my car. My goal is to get it ready for autocross (joining the SCCA with some friends). Now, there are a few things I'm not sure of and that if you could give some advice, it would be really helpful.

First off, I'm not sure what header I want to get. I've looked at the dyno charts for the DC Sports 4-1 header, and it matches pretty closely my AEM intake, so they do complement eachother. I'm looking to just increase my powerband (the stock powerband) and so don't want or need headers that offer low or midrange torque increase. However, on these forums I've seen people say that the DC header sits low, and things like that. So, based on what you know, which header would be best to get? In terms of clearance, power (dyno numbers and charts are good), sound (the lower a note the better). Appearance doesn't matter. I'll be running a 2.5'' exhaust system, preferably Tanabe, unless anyone has any other suggestions. Also, I'll be running with an Advanced Technologies high flow cat. This should all happen towards the end of this year (saving to do it all at once). Afterwards I'm going to get it tuned at my local speedshop. So, I'll leave it at that, there are more mods I need to do before autox, but for power, thats pretty much it for now. Any input would be great! Thanks!

 

if your looking to join autocross i recomend you spending alot of money or investing alot into suspension before all these mods then after suspension you can do these.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Dc2 Powered &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">if your looking to join autocross i recomend you spending alot of money or investing alot into suspension before all these mods then after suspension you can do these.</TD></TR></TABLE>
werd. id invest in some adjustable shocks or a nice set of coilovers.
you should also look into a bigger sway bar. it will dramatically improve the handling

 

agreed...power in auto-x is not that important, thats why you see miatas and the like whooping on faster cars. I'd lower the car, get some handling bars, and a roll cage to be comptetive. Also get an LSD. Then get a header that gives good power in midrange-high range rpms, and a high flowing exhaust. And of course some good sticky tires are a must

 

I already have a suspension set up ready to use, Tokiko shocks, H&R springs, camber kit. I just need new wheels/tires to put it on. Yes, suspension is a big deal here, I'm gonna do that next year, after I do these power mods first. One of the main reasons I'm doing these first is...first of all, cat is rattling...my exhaust manifold has a HOLE in it...not good. So...they need to be replaced, becase the sound is driving me nuts. THEN suspension =P

 

Have you researched each class to see what you can and cannot have in terms of modifications? Assuming this is your first time, I would suggest it.

 

if you're going to auto-x and want to be competitive, don't do too much as far as modifications to the engine OR suspension. You could probably go into STS (street tires, stock) and be competitive with the car if you get some nice sticky rubber that has some sort of treadwear rating on it If you want to just go out there and have fun and don't really car about winning, then by all means, get the engine mods and then deck out the suspension with springs/shocks/swaybars/etc. Just to let you know, I went this route, and I still haven't figured out how to drive my car to the limit even after doing auto-x's and hpde's for the last 2 years or so. Whatever you choose, good luck and have fun

 

I agree with the comments above. Definately get some suspension work done first. Find some good 15x7 rims mated with some sticky tires. After your H&R's and tokico's go on, I'd suggest an ITR rear sway bar.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by P Nut &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I agree with the comments above. Definately get some suspension work done first. Find some good 15x7 rims mated with some sticky tires. After your H&R's and tokico's go on, I'd suggest an ITR rear sway bar.</TD></TR></TABLE>
Go with the Koni yellows though