Tips and Tricks for the Vortec 350

[The Stig]

Throttle lip mod lol. Its free and wakes them up a bit. Probably insignificant at WOT, but it helps it be more responsive.

I've been meaning to get out to do that, but work, turkey hunting and other projects I just haven't had time. I still haven't figured out why GM even put that in there haha.

 

[The Stig]

Lots of reasons. Engines with over 300hp only came in sports cars and heavy trucks, so there really wan't any incentive to try harder. They had to meet emissions, while meeting Federal CAFE standards, while building an engine that would last for the duration of their powertrain warranty, while making as much money off of each of those engines as possible. Aaaaand... they couldn't well have a truck that made more horsepower and torque that a Z28 or base model Vette. They learned that lesson with the Typhoon/Syclone.

So is there any one thing holding these engines back.

 

[SAATR]

So is there any one thing holding these engines back.

Tune, cam, and exhaust, in that order. The induction system is really the limiting factor after that, as the CSFI intake/spider really blocks up the works for good performance potential. There are workarounds, like the upper plenum spacers and "high flow" spiders that supposedly provide more fuel, but the real solution is a new intake manifold with traditional external injectors and fuel rail. You really won't hit that wall until you've done some pretty considerable mods, or try to spin outrageous (for a truck) RPM's. Of course, the stock heads will run out of flow about the time that the induction system does, but by then you'll be wanting a stroker/supercharger/turbocharger and won't be too concerned.

 

[The Stig]

Tune, cam, and exhaust, in that order. The induction system is really the limiting factor after that, as the CSFI intake/spider really blocks up the works for good performance potential. There are workarounds, like the upper plenum spacers and "high flow" spiders that supposedly provide more fuel, but the real solution is a new intake manifold with traditional external injectors and fuel rail. You really won't hit that wall until you've done some pretty considerable mods, or try to spin outrageous (for a truck) RPM's. Of course, the stock heads will run out of flow about the time that the induction system does, but by then you'll be wanting a stroker/supercharger/turbocharger and won't be too concerned.

Thanks, I'll probably start looking into a tune.

 

[SAATR]

Thanks, I'll probably start looking into a tune.

Don't forget the 0411 PCM swap. Your tuner will thank you.

 

[The Stig]

Don't forget the 0411 PCM swap. Your tuner will thank you.

Even if I were to go through Black Bear?

 

[SAATR]

Yeah, because with an 0411 they can use an Auto-Cal and give you a true custom tune, with instant updates via email. It will also open up your options for tuners, as most tuning software like HPTuners, EFILive, etc can't tune the '97 PCM. That would mean you could use a reputable local tuner who could tune your truck in person. The 0411 is also, simply put, a better piece of hardware.

 

[Hunttman01]

Full tune up. New plugs and wires and a cap and rotor improved throttle response and mpg

sent from the tractor cab