|
So many mods, so little time.
A Supra enthusiast could go nuts trying to decide what to buy, how to install it, and what is really needed. We've tried 'em all. Here's our picks for sure-thing performance.
|
|
|
APEXi GT-Spec Exhaust
Your first step. We've tried them all..GReddy, HKS, Blitz, etc. The APEXi GT is bigger, cheaper, and is comprised of 100% stainelss steel from end to end. Performance, look, and sound is awesome. Pay about 600 dollars
1 Hour Installation
Requires a lift/hoist.
|
Rod Millen 3" Stainless Downpipe
It ain't smog-legal, but then again, either is hairspray. When used with the APEXi GT-Spec, the RMM downpipe provides HUGE power and boost increases. In fact, without installing the next mod, you will hit fuel cut. Fuel cut occurs at 15PSI! About 300 dollars
1 Hour Installation.
Requires a lift/hoist.
|
|
|
|
Fuel-Cut Defensers
When the Supra's boost sensor hits 15psi it outputs 4.3 volts to the ECU, causing fuel cut. By reducing the voltage output below 4.3v, you can increase the boost without hitting fuel cut. You can use the GReddy BCC, the HKS FCD, or wire in your own 4.3v Zenier diode. They all work the same. Rumors and myths abound that one is better than the other... this is bulls&!t. Use whatever you want. The Zenier Diode costs 49 cents. The HKS FCD is 115 bucks!
30 Minute Installation
Requires Accessing ECU Under Carpet at Passenger's Feet |
Intakes/Cone Filters/Etc
Yes... they work. But they don't make the horsepower that their manufacturers claim. Fiqure on adding about 8-9hp. The K&N filters air and flows the best. The foam HKS and Greddy intakes filter air very poorly, so they must be cleaned or replaced on a regular basis. Remember, a few specks of abrasive sand in your engine means good-bye turbos. Intakes cost 150-300 dollars.
1 Hour Installation
Requires Removal of Stock Airbox
|
|
|
|
Boost Controllers
Despite what your buddy who works on Chevys said, you shouldn't regularly run over 16-17psi if you want long-term reliability. Since the APEXi exhaust, fuel cut defenser, and RMM downpipe have already brought you up to 15psi, you only need 1-2psi more! So don't go waste your money on a fancy electronic boost controller. The TurboXS High-Peformance Boost Controller is our pick. It's cheap, reliable, reduces turbo lag, and is easy to install. 140 Bucks
Installs in 1 Hour Max
|
Suspension
A Supra's suspension is excellent from the start. Upgraded dampers include Bilstein, KYB, Koni, HKS, Greddy, and numerous others. Eibach Pro-Kit springs and H&R springs work well. Be careful not to drop it too far as the camber will not adjust to spec, resulting in inner tire wear and expensive tire bills. A front strut-tower bar crisps up the steering. A rear strut-tower bar isn't needed: look under the carpet... it's already got one!
Struts/Springs: 3 Hours Installation (does not require spring compressor)Struts average 450-800 dollars a set. Springs are about 240 dollars
Strut-Tower Bar: 40 Minutes & costs 100 dollars.
|
|
|
|
Wheels and Tires
Lightweight 18x8 fronts with 18x10 rears fit well,
and look great. Both Volk and Racing Hart make some extremely light wheels (that are also extremely expensive). Tires are expensive, too. The new rage is Kumho Supra Ecsta tires: 245/40-18 front, and 275/35-18 rear. These tires cost 50% of the nearest competitor, wear well, and handle great! If you are going to run track days, think about keeping the stock seventeens, as these sized tires are much less money. An 18" set of Kumhos run 700 dollars installed. Volks/Racing Hart wheels are about a three grand a set. |
Turbo Timers/Boost Gauges
For street use, a turbo timer is a must. It allows the turbo to cool, prolonging bearing life.
A boost gauge is also a must. You've got to know your current boost level, so you don't detonate and go kaboom!
The Blitz Dual Turbo Timer includes a turbo timer function, a digital boost gauge, and a digital boost peak hold. It installs on the steering column without cutting and has a nice appearance. 150 dollars with wiring harness.
Installs in 2 Hours
Requires Removing Fender Liner for Access to Firewall to Run Wires/Hoses to Engine
|
|
|
|
Spark Plugs
Despite the Japanese-Only mentality, Bosch platinums work excellent and are only a tenth of the price of NGKs. $1.75 each.
1 Hour Install
Don't believe us... try it.
|
|
Fluids
6 Speed: Use only Toyota V160 Gear Oil. Never use anything else ever! If you do, you will have problems. (46 dollars/liter...this is not a misprint)
Engine: Mobil 1 Synthetic 10-30 or 15-50 4.75/qt
Transaxle: RedLine 75-90 Synthetic Gear Oil. 8.50/qt
Brakes/Clutch: Valvoline Synthetic Dot 4 Fluid. 4.99/qt
Power Steering: Mobil 1 Synthetic Dexron/Mercon III ATF Fluid. 4.00/qt
Coolant: Prestone 5/150 Phosphate-Free with Distilled Water Only. 7.50/gallon
|
|
|
