Please help

[popeski123]

Hi. I just decided that I wanted to install a few performance add-ons. The only problem is that I have no clue as to which to start with. I'd like to get a lowered suspension (but which one?), I have new tires (on factory rims), and I NEED a new exhuast. What I am thinking is a GT takeoff exhaust, CAI, and a new throttlebody (56mm?). The guy at "the shop" says that he'd put in new rear end gears, a new cam, exhaust, and the CAI. Please help the new guy figure out what I can do for about $2000. I don't plan on ever putting a SC on, if that helps. Would a new chip be worth it? If you were to start off with 2K, what would you guys do? I may like a little change in the exterior (new head and tail lights), but I think mostly I'd like a little more out of the hole power.
Thanks everybody for helping the "guy with no clue!".

[Joshta]

Hi, from your profile it sais you have a 96 3.8L. Auto or stick?

Suspention= eibach (biggest name for stangs)
Exhaust= very touchy subject. GT takeoffs are nice, might be too big of pipe for 150hp though (don't know). They come w/ an h-pipe which is important. MAC makes headers for v6's; shorties and they have long tube headers now ($200-250). Mufflers are a personal oppinion.
Intake= MAC makes that too, though it really is more for looks ($200). Cheap ones are sold on ebay,they look okay. Main thing is getting air from A to B as cold and as least restricted as possible. K&N makes good kits from plastic, which doesn't heat up like that metal. Stripping your stock intake and adding a k&n filter is nearly as good.
Chip=no, not until you have lots of mods
Lights= not my personal preference
Gears= a must; stick=3.73, auto=4.10 I'm looking into getting a GT takeoff rearend and changing gears (bigger axle and positive traction)

I wouldn't mes with the cam (personally). There are also pulleys that do wonders. Rpmoutlet.com is good. Also, if its an auto there are many other upgrades. Sorry if i left alot of things out, that's what you get for doing alot of things at once. Good luck and God Bless.

[redhorseV6]

for exhaust, splitting the Y pipe and having fake duals is probably as good as anything if you're not going to get an SC or TC. forget the throttle body. i personally like the CAI made by densecharger--www.densecharger.com . headers aren't going to help much performance wise unless you have a lot of hp. i would recommend underdrive pullies, CAI, exhaust, a new MAF sensor, and go from there. RPMoutlet has a lot of parts for the v6 stang, you should check it out.

[popeski123]

Thank you very much for your ideas. I really appreciate you taking the time to answer me. I am always open to ideas and I definately agree with you guys. The gear ratio is exactly what I've been trying to research. You guys are awesome

[thunderbird muscle]

If it is an auto can I suggest a nice shift kit also!

[redhorseV6]

Originally Posted by thunderbird muscle

If it is an auto can I suggest a nice shift kit also!

could you suggest it to me, please? i've got an auto and i plan to get a shift kit eventually. thanks