About to spend 9 grand on my celica, XAT Racing and Konis Options

[ModdedST]

I drive a 94 ST. 84k miles, excellent shape. But im tired of its sluggishness. I always have the damn thing slowed. But thats nothing new with people who have 6g's. Anyways. My shocks are blown (Lowered 2.5" inches, stock shocks, 18" rims). I knew it would happen. So im gonna buy Koni Yellows - 600$

And this summer im going to send my car to XAT Racing for the 3rd gen swap w/ custom exhaust, etc(6500$). Should i get the fuel management they offer (1400$). Also, just wondering, where can you find turbo upgrades, and basic aftermarket parts for the 3sgte?

Instead of selling my car and buying a 3000GT VR4, which i probably should do, the love for my celica is to great. Btw, i sold the bimmer.

[jgreening]

Should i get the fuel management they offer (1400$). Also, just wondering, where can you find turbo upgrades, and basic aftermarket parts for the 3sgte?

In my opinion, a properly tuned EMS is a must if you plan on going above 240whp in a 2nd gen or 270 whp in a 3rd gen. You can do it other ways but after tons of research, I just don't think its smart in the long run. My next upgrade will definitely have a standalone.

As for turbo upgrades and other aftermarket parts, I suggest www.mr2oc.com. There are literally dozens of people on that board with a ton of knowledge of tuning and relatively safe power upgrades on the 3sgte that would have been considered radical 5 years ago.

Here are some recommendations based on my research related to Celicas. First, not all turbo kits that bolt on to the 3s, will work in a 6gc application because of clearance issues (e.g. the Streetbrawler). Second, make sure you go with a full 3"+ exhaust. Getting a 2.5" exhaust is the only step I have taken so far that I have regretted. That includes (assuming you don't have any emissions laws) getting rid of the cats. Third, do NOT underestimate the power gains from an aftermarket intake manifold. Fourth, for power levels requiring EMS, do NOT consider injectors smaller than 720's. Fifth, RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH. Ask alot of questions after researching but do not put 100% faith in anyone, no matter how knowledgable they are. This is your project and you must have ownership in it because there will be numberous pains along the way in terms of expense, bumps, delays, bugs and breakdowns.

Good luck. Regards, Jay.