V-6: What can I do to boost performance?

[twinbopilot]

I've searched high and low regarding V-6 performance mods with precious little to show for it. Is there anything that can reasonably be done to increase the performance of the V-6 LS? I know I can buy a new air filter set up, but I'm curious if anyone can say anything about it from experience? HP Gains? I know I can buy a cat-back exhaust system, but once again can anyone with actual experience advise me on the wisdom of that potential purchase?

Does anyone run laughing gas on a V-6? I'd LOVE to hear about that....

I'm open to anything that I can do that will still allow the car to be driven by my better half without her thinking the car is a "hot rod"

 

[Quik LS]

trade it in for the V8

you have the same options as most cars - all the bolt-ons...
- intake
- exhaust
- tuning
- gears
- SST
- TC
- N2O (quite a few V6s have run this)
- brakes (ss lines, rotors, pads, big brake kit)
- springs


- no turbo or SC yet for the V6 - but someone HAS to do it...

 

[twinbopilot]

OK Quick, I agree. But here's a question for ya: There is an LS V8 motor I can get for cheap. What would be involved in converting a V-6 model to V8? Has it ever been done?

 

[Lincoln Jealous]

OK Quick, I agree. But here's a question for ya: There is an LS V8 motor I can get for cheap. What would be involved in converting a V-6 model to V8? Has it ever been done?

you would have to replace everything, it would have been easier buying the v8 in the first place

 

[Quik LS]

not to my knowledge.

there should not be too much involed as most of the car (suspension, trannie, electronics) are the same....

some things you would have to change:
- PCM program
- not sure about exhaust manifold to cat
- some cooling hoses
- intake track is slightly different
- not sure where the accessories land (AC, alternator, PS pump) so leads and hoses....

not likely worth it for the base 42hp more... but the V8 has more options to improve on it...

 

[twinbopilot]

Prolly better off selling the car and buying a V8 like you say. But the wife LOVES this car so I'll I guess I'll just have to get my jollies with my '97 MK VIII.

 

[mespock]

+1 Beat me too it ...

Go out and buy a Mark VIII