I have about 7 grand I want to dump into my automatic Z. Should I go single or save a few grand more for a twin setup? I like and prefer the single turbo but am concerned with the ability to make some serious power with a built block and the other goodies. I don't plan to race or show it off, I just want a smooth and strong sleeper. What do you guys recommend?

 

What are your goals for the project (HP/Torque)? I would think that a single would suite your needs.....

 

Unless you are looking for 500-800hp...the single should do fine. Great numbers coming out of the kits now.....reliably

 

After driving a single turbo car, I have come to appreciate my twin turbo set ups ALLOT more, and have learned 2 things. One being that, "MAN I HATE TURBO LAG" , and second, I would rather have an upgraded Super Charger than a ST system. Even though with the SC I would be giving up some power to the ST , atleast I would be gaining some instant throttle response. You get the best all around kit (IMO) with the smaller ball bearing twins, ALLOT less lag and MUCH more power potential. Just my 2 cents.

 

IMO, Save your money for a TT kit. In the long run you will be glad you did.

 

A ST setup without aftermarket headers should be at full boost at roughly 3300 rpms. The turbos kicking in is a bit more abrupt, but as far as lag I don't know if you'll be complaining about it as much as this guy. There is a more noticable surge in power as the single turbo kicks in, but the power delivery is right on. Besides, with the power both of the types of kits deliver, your biggest enemy will be TRACTION, not lag. The TT is definitely the choice if you want the most power and performance, but I sure am glad I went with a ST over a SC any day.

Also, on an AT there is no way you will have a proper TT setup on $7k alone. It's just not possible, much less so if you want to build the tranny like you should with FI. So unless you come up with more money, your choices are limited.

 

+1

 

Thanks for the info guys. I'm going to Japan this next month and might pass by some shops out ther and see what goodies they have to offer. I think the twin might be the way to go.

 

Single turbo's have gotten good press due to cars with inline 6 motors, Supra, and Skylines. The Z has a v-6 which means you are only using 1/2 the exhaust gasses to make power. FYI< I have talked to several reputable mechanics, and I have been advised if you are going to do a single, stay away from the Turbonetics kit. (Guys who have that kit, don't waste your time e-mailing me telling me how much you love it, they are not my words.)

 

With only $7K you would be lucky to buy a Greddy kit for around $5500 and find a shop to install for $1500, most charge around $2000+. You would have no $$$ left to buy correct ignition harness for Emanage, get guages, tune it, nothing. Id say your better off getting a single, and doing it the right way. If you dont you'll be another Z owner, owned by lack of tuning/improper set-up.

And dont listen to the guy above me, because his mechanic doesnt like the TN kit doesnt mean jack. I guess the many happy TN Z owners that have had no issues are all full of crap

BTW-only using 1/2 the gasses? WTF do you think the turbo only runs off of 1 bank of cylinders? No wonder your mechanic doesnt like the kit, lmfao...

 

No problem, sounds good........................You seem to be headed on the right path.

 

Actually you should not post without your brain in gear..

Please do not smoke gangi, or post after more than the legal limit.. Alcohol that is..

The TN uses a very odd plumbing to join the right and left bank of cylinders ( removing all cats ) to spin the high front mounted turbo. In some states it may pass emissions

So register the Z in Alabama

Cheers Amy -

 

I meant that I have $7,000 at the moment. I know that wouldn't be enough for a twin setup. Thats what I would spend for a single, the extra few grand would go towards the twins. Thanks for looking out.

 

that says it all. Everyone says the ST kits on the VQ have no lag, yet I can even see exponential hp boost in half of the hp curves on dyno sheets. That tells me that the ST isn't doing crap under 3k then gives you all it's got really fast by 3300-4000. Then of course the torque drops off after that

 

Yep..........IMO,...ST= SC= ,and TT =

 

I realistic prelimnary budget is about $10K for install parts and labor, give or take a couple thousand, depending on which kit you decide on, and which additions/subtractions you make to the kit.

 

there was a new ST kit out, which uses the stock manifolds, runs around $4500 ~ $5000, i think it was APS, that's a good price, plus they stated the installation is self doable, i say $7K is enough here.

 

You will still need things like gauges and the install on all of this...the APS kit is around $5500. My $10K estimate is a good ballpark. For instance, if you arent happy with the APS out of the box tune, then you will need to pay for a retune. It adds up quickly.

If you choose a self-install, of course, you will save $1500-$2500 depending on which kit you get.

 

it's a question that I've asked myself alot.. Single or Twin? I guess I will have a single child first then think about twins j/k

anyway, Sharif, would it be easy AND safe to install a turbo kit when you have 0 backround knowladge about car mechanics? I read that other Stillen SC topic with the guy installing the SC with few friends in ~7 hours..
now, how much time would a turbo kit take with few helping hands? and let's say it's the APS ST because it's one in my mind..

 

It's a good question. Even the single kits require a full comprehensive set of tools, and a moderate about of mechanical accumen. If its your first time working on the Z, it will be a pretty good challenge. But if you REALLY take your time, follow the directions closely, and ask questions when you get stuck, I think its doable. There have been plenty of successful self installs, but virtually none without a little drama. But, what fun would that be if no drama occured?