89 Firebird.

I have an 89 Firebird 5.7L 350 V8 with 115,006 mi. The transmission was basically completely custom built <75mi ago, and I just had a major engine tune-up including new fuel injectors. The body shows no signs of rust either. I plan on getting a new exhaust system in the summer, but right now I'm looking for other little things I could do to increase my HP. I'm thinking new plugs and wires. What else could I do? One of my firends suggested I invest in a Ram Air system, but I didn't think they made Ram Air systems before 93? Any and all suggestion welcome. Thanks in advance.

They (Pontiac) made Ram Air systems in 1965, but that's not relevant here...(:- For the most part, the real "advantage" of RA systems are they allow ambient air (much lower temperature than underhood) to enter the intake tract. It has been debated since the beginning of "time" whether or not they actually make more power due to a "ram" effect. They sure look cool, though... Argh! Argh! Humor...

Plugs, wires, etc., will not "make more HP". They WILL allow the engine to run as well as possible if there is something amiss with them now. If your engine is in "good" tune, they won't help.

What you can do externally is add an upgraded "chip", bigger injectors, larger throttle body, good 4-tube headers, rear gear change...

You'll find most real HP gains come by making engine modifications. Camshaft and cylinder heads, specifically.

Best of luck and have fun!

Jim

What you can do externally is add an upgraded "chip",

The GTA I bought over the fall had a hyper'crap' chip in it, ran like a 3cyl Metro with asthma. :2cents:

WrightZ28,

Yup. Let the buyer beware! There are several advertised, so I didn't mention any specific brand. I've seen people use them and gain as much as .5 seconds (1/4 mile time) and others gain nothing at all... It's all in the "combination".

Find your local "hang out" and talk to the people that have already done it, and get input. Once you've established what appears to be the popular brand, THEN talk to them (the people selling it). They can tell you if it meets your needs and what other changes will make it wok the best.

Jim

One thing you can do for it is a cold air induction system. The Firebird's long inlet tube snaked over to the right with 2 90* bends, hooked to a coffee can that holds the filter just plain sucks. The IROC's induction ducting is about the best you can get, but it won't fit with the Firebird's low sloping hood line.