THINGS HAVE CHANGED --> SEE POST # 14

Ok, so here is where I am at with modding MY DAILY DRIVER:

I can purchase a brand new Vortech s-trim non-intercooled unit and do the install myself, then either purchase a canned tune from Brenspeed (I have CMDP's, shorty headers, etc..) or have it custome tuned for a cost of:

$3.2K Vortech non-HO S/C
$130 spark plugs
$75 canned tune or $400 for custom tune
$250 tools/stuff for install
= $3,800 to $4,200 for 400rhp

or,

I can purchase a used Paxton Novi 2200 intercooled unit (w/ 5k miles) and install it myself (never done it before and am worried that since it is used I will have a more difficult time installing) or have it installed and custom tuned by Adam @ STMotorsports.

$3.8K used Paxton Novi 2200 HO S/C
$130 spark plugs
$250 tools if install myself, $75 canned tune, or
$1.2k installed/tuned by Adam/STMotorsports
= $4,700 to $5,200 for 440rhp (w/ conservative tune)

Factors = [/align]How much of a difference is 40rhp? [/align]Which system would be safer for my engine? [/align]Which system is more reliable? [/align]Is the $1,000 difference worth 40rhp? [/align][/align]I AM NOT TRYING TO BUILD THE FASTEST CAR ON THIS SITE, just trying for a well balanced spirited driver. I honestly don't think I would need more than 420hp. I don't want to immediately have to upgrade suspension, brakes, clutch, transmission, and I don't want anything to break.

Am I dreaming?

Give me your input fellas.[/align]

3800 used for the 2200 isnt that great of a deal. You can probably score a new one for 4300ish. If you dont plan on upgrading later then get the vortech non HO or the Paxton 1200 non IC. They are both very close in performance. If you think you may want to go nuts later then get the 2200, but get a new one with a 3 year 36,000 mile warranty. Either way i would get the self lubricating unit for easy self install. I have the2200 and love it but the 1200 or the vortech would have been plenty of power for me. The 2200 iscrazy power.PM me if you have any questions.

Are you buying it from Adam?

You already know my thoughts but 2200 installed and tuned by st...

Yes, I am thinking about buying it from Adam at ST. I agree that $3.8K is not much different than buying new. I asked for a better deal, but we'll see, he seems firm. Seriously, I think 400-410 hp can be achieved with the Novi 1200 or Vortech non-HO. I am not a big 1/4 track guy trying to push the envelope but I would go to the track and enjoy road racing (auto-x).I just want a very strong powerband on tap.

As of now thoug, the Novi 2200 is not a deal I can't refuse.Maybe ST will sweeten the deal with install/tune price.

I am kinda on the fence between the units though.

1.) 400 hp v. 430 hp?
2.) $3,800 v. $5,200?
3.) Canned v. custom tune?
4.) Money for suspension v. breakin the bank?

I should start a vote and let you all decide my fate!

400-ish rhp is the goal.

I would go with the intercooled kit from Adam. He has done some great things with my car on my tune.

you could always add meth injection or the power cooler at a later time

you could always add meth injection or the power cooler at a later time

ORIGINAL: Stkjock

you could always add meth injection or the power cooler at a later time


That's true, but who can answer what the difference feels like between 400rhp and 440rhp?

How much boost does a Novi 2200 take to hit 440rhp? 10psi?

How much boost does a Non-HO kit take to hit 400rhp? 8psi?

Which one is healthier for the engineandwon't stress stock internals/suspension?

Less boost will mean less stress on the engine, if they have similiar tunes. If you want to be safer get the non HO.

If you can swing it I would go with the IC version if possible. I know of two people who went the non-IC Vortech route and both are looking to add the intercooler. Personally, I like the Novi 2200 and as someone else said before, can make insane power. However, it doesn't have to if you keep the boost lower.

ORIGINAL: hypersurf1

3800 used for the 2200 isnt that great of a deal. You can probably score a new one for 4300ish. If you dont plan on upgrading later then get the vortech non HO or the Paxton 1200 non IC. They are both very close in performance. If you think you may want to go nuts later then get the 2200, but get a new one with a 3 year 36,000 mile warranty. Either way i would get the self lubricating unit for easy self install. I have the2200 and love it but the 1200 or the vortech would have been plenty of power for me. The 2200 iscrazy power.PM me if you have any questions.


Hypersurf1, I see in your sig that you dyno'd 499rhp. Are you running that tune every day or did you tune it conservative for daily driving?

Excellent numbers.

That dyno number was at 6200rpm and 12psi. Seldom do I bring it to 6200 rpm. I try to keep it under 5700rpm. Yes I run that tune every day.

ORIGINAL: hypersurf1

That dyno number was at 6200rpm and 12psi. Seldom do I bring it to 6200 rpm. I try to keep it under 5700rpm. Yes I run that tune every day.


Who tuned it for you? Damn, those numbers are on the brink. I guess careful driving can limit detonation potential, but don't you get a bit nervous?

Novi 2200 coming through for you I see. That is a butt load of power for the street.

Okay, well for some odd reason Adam @ STMotorsports hasn't gotten back to me about the USED Novi 2200 HO system. I have called him like 5 times and have received absolutely no return calls whatsoever. I even offered him what he was asking, but I guess he is just too busy or is not motivated to sell right now.

So here is the new option: RHP goal = 400-450

Vortech V2 T-Trim with air/h20 charge cooler, 60# injectors, 8 rib pulley system, high pressure bypass valve - local friend will sell me the kit for $3,700.

I would still need to purchase:
HTO cold spark plugs, with 32 degree gapping - $130
3.8" s/c pulley to push 8-10psi for no more than 450rhp - $90
Dual fuel Pump - $150-ish

What do y'all think. Are the 60# injectors too much?

Lookin at $4,000 for a ready to install kit HO massive HP potential (way more than I need) supercharger set up.

Let me know what you think.

As I said I feel 60# injectors are too much but if they came with the used kit keep them and get them flow tested first (save the money for install or other parts mentioned). Oh - Adam is extremely busy and has very little time for himself much less for returning calls but dont give up as he is one of the BEST tuners installers in the nation IMO and many others and truly cares for the car he is working on.... JMO J

I have read some of the 3.4L Whipple custom fab job threads on here and understand that STMotorsports is knee deep in grease and wrenches. I just feel like an idiot calling them 5 times and not hearing anything back, so I will just let it ride and keep on looking elsewhere.