I have been going through the FI posts for a while and now that the Vortech kit is STREET LEGAL in CA, I am making an appointment with SuperchargersOnline.com in LA for an install. My 2003 is completely stock with about 26k miles.

First off, along with the base Vortech kit, what else do I need to install at the same time to help (if possible) with reliability and longivity? How long can I expect the stock clutch to last? Should I budget for a replacement clutch right off? If so, what clutch is suggested for the stock 8 psi?

I know the Vortech kit comes with an FMU and SlitSecond piggyback computer. Do any installers also tune the kits from stock settings? If so, is something extra needed? I saw some posts about eManage, will this work on the Vortech and is there any advantage with stock boost levels on stock engine? Is there anyway to control the amount of boost much like you can control boost on a turbo system?

Thanks for any feedback, as you can see I am in absolute need of details and info!

Yobigd

 

on stock boost, the stock clutch might last a little bit, but don't expect it to. You don't have to upgrade it off the bat and can do it later since the transmission doesn't have anything to do with the vortech install itself - meaning you won't be paying to remove the same parts twice.

lots of people tune to different numbers with the SS box.

you can get a smaller vortech pulley like the 3.12 to get more boost. The more boost you run, the shorter your engine's lifespan will be. Stock boost is safer than higher boost etc.

you don't need a return fuel system or bigger injectors or anything like that until you start getting around 400whp. An aftermarket oil pan like the APS pan, or a JWT oil pan spacer is a good thing to install.

 

I havent gotten up to full boost at redline yet , but I should be making around 13 to 16psi and I'm using the SS box still . The JWT TT uses the SS box , Stillen uses it with thier SC....its agood unit and can do the job

 

My biggest recommendation for safety and reliability is to open up your exhaust. A free flowing exhaust (headers, cats, cat-back) will allow you to run lower boost at the engine while still putting down the same power. In the end this just leads to a safer tune with less risk of detonation.

As for the clutch, if you still have a decent amount of "pad" left on your clutch plate you should be good for the most part. The stock clutch is definitely not made for big HP numbers, the springs aren't strong enough to hold the power. Unless you have plans to immediately go above stock boost levels you should be fine.

 

yeah a better flowing exhaust will also help keep heat from building up as much, though headers will add more heat in the engine bay - so jethot coat them

 

I have had the Vortech S/C with the 9lb pulley (3.12) since the summer of '04 and have 30K miles on it. I still have the stock clutch and it holds fine. It will work fine unless you completely dog your car out.

Before I had the S/C installed I did have headers, race pipes, and true dual exhaust (all Stillen) installed. You want the air to flow through the car as much as possible. I also have the Kinetix SSV which helps with the air coming into the engine.

 

Congrats on the Vortech. You will love it!