GreenYellow

Hello MT!

I'm an engineering student from Sacramento, CA. I picked up my '01 LS as a replacement for my gas-hog '99 Mustang GT, and here I am. The car has 109k and it runs very strong. It's basically stock, and I love the car. I've installed a HDHCDDHT and I have V-Maxx coilovers, but it's been raining nonstop lately so I haven't put them on. Here it is as a recent AutoX in Stockton.



I'm not going to lie - I do miss the horsepower level of my '99 GT. Answer: turbo. I'm looking to start buying parts to go turbo in 12-18 months. I do know just how much research I'm going to have to do in the next year (a LOT). I'm aiming for 200-250whp. I'm still not clear on whether or not it can tune with the VVT. Will search.

My total projected budget is about $3000, give or take. Preferably less, but quality is always better. This is what I have so far.

Garrett GT2560 or GT2860
Not sure which manifold, looking at OBX... quality? (will search)
FMIC
MS
Wideband O2
Custom DP (?) and 3" exhaust
Upgraded clutch
Tune by hand, then clean things up and get the spark down on a dyno

This is a rough outline. I'm aware of all that's missing from this abbreviated list. Again, this build is 12-18 months away. I will be researching and doing my homework in the meantime. Better research = better build = less money spent on things I didn't really want in the first place.

I'll make sure to search before I ask any questions. And I promise never, ever to use improper grammar. Yes, I'm 18, but I'd like not to act like a JDM-stricken fool in search of mad turbo powerz so I can drift around the neighborhood. This car is my DD and autocross toy, and I hope to get it on the track soon. Screwing it up is not high on my list of things to do.

So, that's me! I like the forum. It certainly is a treasure trove of turbo knowledge.

18psi

iTrader: (76)

Welcome
I'm in sacramento too

samnavy

iTrader: (7)

Good NOOB, great first post!

For 200whp, GT2554r
For 250whp, GT2560r
There is a HUGE DIFFERENCE between those 2 power goals... most people will recommend a few extra supporting mods when you reach the 250whp mark, or are aiming for it. Shoot for one of the other, it will make a difference in your overall approach.

For a $3k budget and 250whp, it's gonna be tight, and you'll be skimping. You'll definitely not be able to buy much new. People have done it it's never pretty and they're never "done".

For 200whp, you're still talking about buying some used stuff, but also some new. Used intercooled BEGi or FM kit. New or used wideband and Adaptronic (to control VVT) and used 550cc injectors. Used 2.5-3.0" exhaust. New FM Stage1 Clutch. New or DIY coolant reroute.

^You could certainly do all that for $3k if you get lucky... but those are the major parts. The little things like a new oil drain line and bung will set you back $40... and there are a dozen $40 "things" that will pop up during your build. If you're budgeting $3k, then "spend" $2500 and keep an extra $500 for the stuff you didn't think of.

At that power level, you can stick with the stock suspension (already have coilovers) and wheels... make sure you're on good rubber.