This is my first post here. I'm looking to get an '02 SS ragtop, but I'm confused by all the different options available, especially the SLP ones. Can anyone recommend a good place to study up on these? Are there some I would be better off waiting to add aftermarket?
Anyone got a pic of a white SS with a beige (neutral) top?
Why don't we start with "dual-dual" vs. center mount exhaust? I assume I should get SLP's "20-hp upgrade," but what's the difference between the two types of exhaust? Is it just style?
The next thing I would consider is the Bilstein suspension. Any thoughts on that?
posted
I put the Bilstein shocks on my 96 vert and have excellent results. They have been on about a year now and still feel like new.
Posts: 5 | From: Houston,Texas | Registered: Jun 2001
| IP: Logged
posted
As far as SLP Options go, if I could only have one major option, I would definitely get the Bilstein suspension.
I added it to my '99 'vert after it was released for the Convertibles for the 2001 model year and absolutely love it.
The exhaust and lid option is good ... if you want a relatively conservative exhaust tone. Many replace the exhaust with something that sounds a litlle more "agressive", such as the SLP Loudmouth or the Borla. The dual-dual and center mount look different, and sound different but use the same basic exhaust system and muffler.
The toughest question you need to answer is " what are my future plans for the car?" If there are areas you plan on modifying down the road it may not make good economic sense to buy an option in that area right now.
Of course, when I ordered mine, other than not being able to get the Bilstein, I figured I would leave it virtually stock. My "wish list/dream list" now is anything but leaving it stock.
Posts: 4222 | From: Winnipeg MB CA | Registered: Feb 2000
| IP: Logged
posted
Welcome! IMO be careful about ordering a beige convertible top. From what i have seen on the street they look great when new but older ones are stained and seems to make a newer car look older. This darkening is probably caused by normal dirt but also pollution ( Have you ever passed a diesel truck with all that black crap streaming out:-). The first option you should buy is a two point Strut Tower Brace (STB). I have the TPIS and it has changed the structural rigidity completely. It is a whole lot more fun to drive. Good luck with your new investment and have fun but be safe.
posted
Welcome. I agree with Possum about the Bilstein. I wish I could have gotten it on mine (which is a 2000). But, I am planning on putting it on anyway one day. Also, as far as exhaust goes. I would say don't bother with the SLP upgrade unless you specifically like that one. There's a lot of aftermarket stuff you can put on yourself later if you like doing stuff like that. I personally have the GMMG exhaust and I think it's great. Corsa also makes a real nice one as well as a few others. Post back if you want links to some aftermarket places, and we can point you there...
-------------------- Doug Smith Camaro SS Convertible #1328 Posts: 61 | From: Leesburg, VA | Registered: Mar 2001
| IP: Logged
posted
Hey! I thought you guys would make it easier to decide, not harder!
It sounds like the Bilstein is a good deal, but that I can put off the exhaust until after I pay my insurance. What does SLP do to the intake for the extra 10 horses?
I thought I would add my $.02. I would stick with the stock exhaust. You will probably change it later anyway.
I got the Hurst shifter on mine. It is covered in the warranty that way. But there are better shifters on the market.
Good luck with your new purchase!
-------------------- Amy F00-1724 2000 SS Navy Blue Metallic/ Black Top, Ebony Leather, ASR, SLP Floor Mats, car cover, dash plaque and Key fobs BMR STB, SLP SS Chrome 10 spokes with SS Centercap, Carbon Fiber Whisper Lid, SLP SS Grille, Camaro SS Fuel Rail Covers and KBDD SFCs SSOA Founding Member: http://www.camarossoa.org
posted
Know how ya feel. bought my 2001 SS off dealer lot didnt even know what slp was.Been on the site ever since I had all factory options no slp.since I have put on slp STB,slp lid ,holley filter,slp y-pipe,skip shift switch and have Loud Mouth on order.I think when it is time to replace shocks am going to get bilsten package from slp and bmr SFC.Like any thing how much to you want to spend and how fast to you want to go.and you might look in to attack dog to protect it.
[ 16 October 2001: Message edited by: 2001 ]
[ 16 October 2001: Message edited by: 2001 ]
-------------------- ---------------
Eddy in Iowa 2001 SS conv.M-6 car # 0612 Black All factory options 2002 ZO-6 cam & springs SVO 30# injectors Slp lid-Holloy filter Slp STB Slp LT headers High Flow cats All SLP GP thru SPO/F1 Mike Stealth performance Tuned by Team ZR-1 JR jmholiday@mchsi.com
Posts: 89 | From: Cedar Rapids Ia | Registered: Aug 2001
| IP: Logged