www.chirpthird.com: Help with 2002 SS purchase please

This is topic Help with 2002 SS purchase please in forum SSOA: "Back Porch" at www.chirpthird.com.

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Posted by powerjunky (Member # 1205) on :

Hello everyone,

I am seriously considering buying a new 2002 Camaro SS and have a few questions:
1. Is the Bilstein Ultra Performance Suspension System worth the extra dough ($1099)?
2. What are your opinions on the 335HP Performance Exhaust System with Dual-Dual Outlets ($699)? Specifically, how loud is it and does it resonate at cruising rpms (1800-2200)?
3. Is the center mount system better sounding than the Dual-Dual? Does it use the same muffler?
4. Is there anyone out there that can help me get the Camaro Legends Tour $1000 rebate certificate?

Thank you very much for your replies.

powerjunky

Posted by poSSum (Member # 119) on :

1. The Bilstein is an absolutely "must have" option. I added it to my '99 ragtop after the fact at a premium and am most impressed by it.

2. The dua-dual is extremely quiet, and has very little resonation. Get it if you like quiet performance. Don't get it if you want an aggressive sound. There are lots of agressive sounding aftermarket systems available.

3. The center mount uses the same muffler, I know it sounds a little different, and jeffY (chief engineer at SLP Engineering) really likes it.

BTW ... get the air lid and filter while you're at it. Nice looking unit, works as good or better than any aftermarket system, and comes with the full new vehicle warranty.

I can't help you with the Legends Certificate ...try the SLP board too ... a little bigger readership over there.

Posted by amy00ss (Member # 106) on :

1. No opinion here -- it was not available on the convertibles in 2000.

2. Many people end up upgrading the exhaust system...so I wouldn't get it. There are a lot of aftermarket systems that sound awesome.

3. I have never heard the center mount system...but I think it looks cool!

4. No help here with the ledgends tour...they didn't make a stop in my area.

I think you will be quite impressed with the SS if you do decide to purchase one. Good Luck!

Posted by Hawkeye (Member # 88) on :

ditto the poSSum man.

1) Bilstien is a must
2) Exhaust - buy after market - if you want sound.

Posted by XLR8NSS (Member # 1065) on :

I have the Bilstien and love it. I also had the Dual/Dual and changed over to the loudmouth, which was too loud for me, and I added a 4' Magna flow muffler inline. (Just right) I probably would have done fine to go with Borla, or similar aftermarket. Its tough without actually hearing what your getting. I bought mine off the lot and its loaded with SLP options. In my opinion, if you can afford to, I reccommend getting every available upgrade. Its worth the investment.Have fun!

Posted by DLMCamaroSS (Member # 503) on :

1) Bilstien is a must. I helped a co worker order a 35th SS, he got it at my suggestion. Looking back, I wish I would of gotten it on my SS.

2) Only get the Dual/Dual if you want the new air box. My suggestion is to get the stock exhaust. Then get the SLP Loudmouth exhaust, it's fantastic. Then buy a aftermarket air lid if it's that big of a concern to you.

3) I have never heard a center mount exhaust, but I don't like the looks of it. It doesn't fit with the line of the car in my opinion.

4) Can't help you with the rebate.

Posted by mhayman (Member # 146) on :

quote:
ditto the poSSum man.

Good advice, now I will throw in my .02.

1. I don't have the Bilstein but would still recommend it. I have heard nothing but praise about it and I wanted it when I ordered my car. However, as Amy said, it wasn't available then. I hope to add it to my car at some point, even though I don't have poSSum's "connections".

2. Dual Dual is a great exhaust but not too loud, definitely no resonation. If you want a meaner sounding exhaust, don't get it and buy an aftermarket system.

3. In my opinion, the CM exhaust does sound better than the dual dual. I would order it if I was getting a new car.

4. Can't help with the rebate - sorry

Posted by powerjunky (Member # 1205) on :

Everyone,

Thank you for your replies. I think that I will go with the Bilstein optional suspension but purchase an aftermarket exhaust.

Powerjunky

Posted by Voiceguy (Member # 844) on :

Here's my .02 cents as well.
1. The Bilsteins are awesome. But I would also suggest upgrading the tires and brakes. The cross-drilled rotors are a big improvement over the GM system, and I've been running the G-Force KD's from BFG and they are GREAT!!!
2. My advice on the exhaust is to get the upgrade and put an aluminum or stainless muffler in place of the factory unit. That way you won't scare the hell out of the neighbors coming home at night, but it still sounds more like a muscle car than the factory set-up. I also like the dual-duals better than the center-mount, and I don't care if they do sound a bit better.
3. The WhisperLid is great as an airbox upgrade.
4. Most important...Bilsteins, brakes and tires!

Posted by poSSum (Member # 119) on :

quote:
Originally posted by mhayman:
I hope to add it to my car at some point, even though I don't have poSSum's "connections".

You don't need any "connections". Call SLP Engineering in Troy ... talk to Tom or Keith ... they'll sell the Bilstein package to anyone that has a genuine SS.

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