Archive for the 'Mustang Q&A' Category

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How Can I Install a Supercharger on a Budget?

Ford Mustang Q&A

Michael asked: “I purchased a Vortech V2 supercharger for my ‘98 Mustang GT. What can I do to install it on a budget? I bought it second hand, and like so many other people, I don’t have money burning holes in my pockets. I was told to invest in an intercooler, MSD ignition, headers, and to remap my computer. It is a weekend driver so it won’t see any track time, only the road. The engine is a mostly-stock 4.6-liter V-8, just a chip and Borla exhaust. Any other info or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again!”


Answer: With the economy in the crapper, it seems we’re all on a budget these days. Many of our customers are taking the Do-It-Yourself route, which is saving them big bucks on install fees. However, Mustang supercharger kits are NOT a DIY project for anyone without years of hands-on experience with cars and performance mods.

Doing engine work like this “on a budget” is risky. It’s imperative that everything be installed correctly or you could wind up with a connecting rod poking through your engine block. No one wants to see that. If you don’t have the dough for the best parts and the best shop, then putting your money in the right places can make all the difference.

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Which Exhaust Set-up Provides the Most HP for an ’06 GT?

Ford Mustang Q&A

Karl A asked: “I just purchased a 2006 GT convertible. I really want to put a lot of time and money into my new car, not only to make it look good, but powerful too. The first thing I want to do is upgrade my exhaust. I’d like a strong old school muscle car rumble and growl but I don’t exactly know where to start. I have been told to get Flowmaster axel back mufflers with cross pipes. I have been told H pipes are good, and many other options. My goal would be for extra power, and of course, a loud, muscular sound. I would appreciate any advice here. I want to put work into my new car and do it right!”

An aftermarket exhaust is a great place to start when modding any car. A complete system can add an extra 40 hp at the rear wheels with a tune. Our tech article on understanding exhaust systems is a must-read for any first-time modder. Before I get into the nitty-gritty of exhaust systems, here are some important points everyone should know about aftermarket exhausts:

  1. Purchase your headers and mid-pipe from the same manufacturer – some manufacturers sell products that only bolt up to their own, or OEM, exhaust components.
  2. Long tube headers sometimes require oxygen sensor extensions, but always require a new mid-pipe (shorty mid-pipe).
  3. If you choose to run an exhaust with no catalytic converters you will need to re-tune the computer to get rid of the check engine light.

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How Do I Add Horsepower to My V6 Mustang?

Ford Mustang Q&A

V6Stang04 asked: “I have a stock V6 Ford Mustang, what can I do to increase it’s performance?”

As a V6 owner myself, I understand how frustrating it can be trying to modify a V6. While there is not as much aftermarket support for the V6s as there is for the V8s it is still out there and available. Supercharger and turbo kits are available for V6s now. But if you’re starting slow or don’t have quite that much to spend I would recommend a cold air intake, upgraded exhaust system and a tuner.

Cold Air Intake

Cold air intake systems by themselves can add 8-10 horsepower to your car and are relatively inexpensive. A K&N FIPK V6 Intake kit would be a great option. If you’re not looking to spend $200-$300 on a complete intake system, a K&N Drop-In Replacement Filter is a less-expensive alternative.

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