Strider74
02-21-2003, 07:07 AM
Well I finally finished my “Stage 1” on my Marauder; Reinhart’s performance chip, plugs, thermostat, K&N filtercharger, and the 4.10 gears. I know there are a lot of readers here still trying to decide on what they want to do to their Marauders so fortunately for them (not quite so from my point of view) I had to do each of these steps about a week apart due to my schedule. So here is my opinion on each of these things as they went in to my baby. And since this is my daily driver I can pretty well tell if there was a change in how she felt.
First, the K&N filter. I swear by these things, and I added this at the same time I took Cycled and LinkMercLover’s advice and removed the silencer from the intake. The sound change alone here is worth this cheep upgrade and there is a noticeable change in the car’s pickup but nothing compared to the later upgrades.
Second, Reinhart’s chip. While it was rather nerve-racking to pull the computer out of my car Logan’s directions were perfect and this chip is amazing. This bad boy completely changes the feel of the car and has a huge impact in how she handles and shifts. (it even sounds different but I don’t understand why) I cannot stress enough that if you have a Marauder call Dennis and get this chip.
Third, the Plugs and Thermostat. This change had the least noticeable effect but mind you we’ve had a local high of about 40 degrees. While I may never notice now that the other parts are all in, I do feel that this mod will be of the best use in the summer or for those who live further from the artic circle.
Finally the 4.10 gears. This change flat out tricked me. I picked my car up after spending a day and a half on a rental Chevy Metro (I’m cheap ok) and took the highway back from the shop, and I was not impressed. The throttle felt “loose” and the car just didn’t have the get up and go I was used to. Until I realized I was already doing twice the legal speed limit. But it wasn’t until my first stop light did I see what she can really do, give her the RPM’s she’s asking for and this car will move! This is a great modification; it gives you more power off the line than I thought was possible and still is great for highway driving.
Overall I’d recommend calling Dennis and getting the whole lot, it’s more than worth it. But if money or warranty issues are a concern, the chip is still an absolute must have. Just get it you will not regret it.
Sorry this got long guys but I see a lot of questions from guys about what each step does, hopefully this answers some questions.
:D
First, the K&N filter. I swear by these things, and I added this at the same time I took Cycled and LinkMercLover’s advice and removed the silencer from the intake. The sound change alone here is worth this cheep upgrade and there is a noticeable change in the car’s pickup but nothing compared to the later upgrades.
Second, Reinhart’s chip. While it was rather nerve-racking to pull the computer out of my car Logan’s directions were perfect and this chip is amazing. This bad boy completely changes the feel of the car and has a huge impact in how she handles and shifts. (it even sounds different but I don’t understand why) I cannot stress enough that if you have a Marauder call Dennis and get this chip.
Third, the Plugs and Thermostat. This change had the least noticeable effect but mind you we’ve had a local high of about 40 degrees. While I may never notice now that the other parts are all in, I do feel that this mod will be of the best use in the summer or for those who live further from the artic circle.
Finally the 4.10 gears. This change flat out tricked me. I picked my car up after spending a day and a half on a rental Chevy Metro (I’m cheap ok) and took the highway back from the shop, and I was not impressed. The throttle felt “loose” and the car just didn’t have the get up and go I was used to. Until I realized I was already doing twice the legal speed limit. But it wasn’t until my first stop light did I see what she can really do, give her the RPM’s she’s asking for and this car will move! This is a great modification; it gives you more power off the line than I thought was possible and still is great for highway driving.
Overall I’d recommend calling Dennis and getting the whole lot, it’s more than worth it. But if money or warranty issues are a concern, the chip is still an absolute must have. Just get it you will not regret it.
Sorry this got long guys but I see a lot of questions from guys about what each step does, hopefully this answers some questions.
:D