HrdRockA4305

Ok TPI guys, this can turn into a BIG mess so I'll just keep this as simple as possible (More for myself than anything. If I don't, I'll write a page long post.)

My Eventual goal for speed/power: About 300HP, or enough to Run about a 14.0, get decent milage, and be reliable.

Cost: College student budget who pays $1075 every six months for insurance and works part time. Can't go crazy.

Why I'm considering TPI L98 swap: I think can get one from 3g resource ($750 if its in stock i think) or somplace local, with all wiring and stuff, for under a grand, rebuild it, and get it in the car all for about $1500. Can this be done in the real world?

I think I can make my power goal in this engine easily, and I really want EFI. With a MILD cam upgrade and good exhaust, possibly aftermarket chip, and TPI foil thingy (I'm not all that familiar with TPI bolt ons). I could do it on a TBI 350 but I'd have to spend a lot of time re-tuning the ECM and I'd REALLY like to avoid that. Its my only car, and TPI's power curve looks great for a street car that will maybe see the track twice over the summer, 4 times during the year at the most.

What I'm looking for: Input! Can this be done for a reasonable cost? Do you think its a decent means of attaining what I'm looking for? Am I nuts? The thing is, I can sell my car for 4K, add the cost of the swap, and probably buy a car that already has this engine and likely the better suspension, IF i can find one! So the other big question is cost-effectiveness and real-world sensibility. Any advice?

Picture is there just because I felt like it.

Ions91Z28

Not sure if this will help you, but I'll try.

Well, HP ratings are weird on TPI... so I'm not going to try that. Instead, we'll say you want to run a 14.0. With a L98, slap some headers and a catback and your in the high 13's.

You might have trouble with the 1500$ thing. I believe the saying is, anything you rebuild an engine, assume it'll be the highest possible. If you don't have the wiring you'll have to use Painless wiring, look for archives on this one, they are supposed to be very easy to use.

Mild cam, good idea, just remember lower duration is much better than high duration in a TPI car. Aftermarket chip, contact Ed Wright or do it yourself. Good exhaust is your choice. And the TPI foil will be an arguement to everyone. Don't consider it any better than going paper to K&N. TPI makes great street cars. Make the car feel like it hauls, even if it doesn't really

In the end its your choice... if you think you can come by the deals and have the knowledge of swapping motors and doing all the wiring, you can make it happen. Remember when you buy another Z, you'll have it's problems too. So you may get a 350, but I'm pretty sure it'll have it's share of problems you'll have to fix as well.

HrdRockA4305

I'm really starting to think... just starting with a higher option car would really be the better way to go. BTW I absolutely love the way your car looks! Only thing is the H.O. F-bodys are hard to find in my area, WHY I don't know. I know less were made but still..

Thanks for replying man.

Zepher

iTrader: (1)

I went from this,

Ran a 14.94@91.67mph with this setup on my 305, it was an LG4.
Changed to Edelbrock 7101 Performer RPM Intake, MSD HEI Coil, Edelbrock 1406 600CFM Carb.

To this,


This swap has cost me about $1500 or so.
$400 for the TPI setup, came with the following:
87 TPI unit, ECM, Harness, Fuel Tank, Pump and Sender, 87 TPI heads, Distributor, and All of the sensors and relays.

$150 for a Holley 45psi 255lph in-line fuel pump.
$185 for the SLP Dual Cold Air Intake
$65 for 91 ECM
$40 for MAF to SD harness conversion
$46 for stock 91 prom
$25 for 90-92 Knock Sensor
$10 for 90-92 ECM bracket
$10 for TPI Alternator Bracket
$10 for TPI Thermostat Water Outlet
$12 for TPI THrottle Cable
and more $$$$$$$$$$$
can't remember, all I know is I spent $4000 in the last 6 months on this car.