I've always been a firm believer in the phrase "You get what you pay for."

But recently I was talking to a friend, who I consider to be an excellent mechanic,
about a speed problem I'm having.

right now I'm not all that concerned about hp gain in the 5000 and 6000 rpm range.
I'm more concerned about take off power in the 2000 and 3000 rpm range.
which means bolt-on mods like headers and exhaust will do nothing for me.

My friend reminded me that taking any drag off the belts would add some HP and since it's rarely warm enough to use AC around here, I might as well take the belt off. He said I would probably see around 10 extra HP in the 3000 rpm range

has anyone tried this? does that number sound high/low?

 

I'd leave the AC belt on since it's not causing much drag at all if any when the clutch is disengaged (when the AC is off).

Remove the powersteering belt. If you wan't low end grunt, retard your timing...although it'll feel like *** in the upper rev ranges.

 

you can make all the power you want at 2,000 RPM. but by second gear you'll be getting reeled in like a dead fish and be looking at wedge taillights if you don't make power where your gear ratios can take advantage of it.