Another question regarding Bolt-ons

96blkbullitt · Jul 27, 2008

So I'm new to the cobra side of life, and am trying to learn things as they go. I have a 97 cobra and am considering to upgrade my MAF and t-body. Most everywhere I see says that it's rather pointless unless your running a blower on your car. I'm just looking to throw on a lot of easy to do bolt-ons and these are the 2 I'm on now. Anyone have anything good/bad to say about either the BBK or Accufab t-body? Which is worth the money (if any)? Also is there anything to gain by upgrading the MAF when my car is all bolt-ons? Just curious what experienced people have to say about either of the mods. Appreciate any input. Thanks.

badass98svt · Jul 27, 2008

You won't notice a gain with either the MAF or T-body.

Your first mod should be 4.30 gears

The MAF and T-body are more of a mod for F.I.

You can do gears, pulleys, Air intake,

96blkbullitt · Jul 28, 2008

Thanks for the info. That's basically confirming what all I've heard lately about it being a waste for NA cobras. Especially with the ridiculous price for each of those parts. I guess I should just focus on a set of pulleys and gears for the mean time, and try to be happy. I started the mustang kick with a 96gt, so really I should be plenty thrilled to own a 4V cobra.. haha

99PanozAIV · Jul 28, 2008

Also don't forget a good set of long tubes, if you don't mind the work, and a tune.

96blkbullitt · Jul 28, 2008

yeah, long tubes are definitely on the way. Just been told by many that it's a total pain to install. Seems like it would be worth it compared to a set of shorties. What's this about needing a tune with long tubes? Can you just use a handheld tuner?

99PanozAIV · Jul 29, 2008

96blkbullitt said:
yeah, long tubes are definitely on the way. Just been told by many that it's a total pain to install. Seems like it would be worth it compared to a set of shorties. What's this about needing a tune with long tubes? Can you just use a handheld tuner?

It's not so much that you absolutely have to have it as that it will help make sure you get the most out of whatever mods you've done. Someone can chime in and correct me if I'm wrong but I think most (e.g. Diablo, SCT) allow you to take into account things like headers, gears and most common bolt-ons, without ever getting on a dyno.

96blkbullitt · Jul 29, 2008

Thats good to know about the handheld's. I've looked into them a little, but would probably go with a dyno tune in the long run anyways. Is anyone running full 3" exhaust on their cobra, without being FI? I've seen Mac makes a nice 3" X-pipe and catback. Would like to hear the good/bad out there to see if it's practical. You guys have been helpful already. Thanks

NinetySixCobra · Jul 8, 2009

I'd say stick with 2.5 for awhile, 3" is only necessary if you go FI

moboost · Aug 2, 2009

4.10/4.30's, headers, and I might look into an electric water pump? I personally haven't tried one, yet, but it would have to save/gain some power and keep the car running cooler to boot.

Shifty Powers · Aug 26, 2009

as said above. Gears(with that ide get an Aluminum DS), Not critical if you dont, but recomended. JLT CAI, u/d pulleys(not piggyback style).

Then LTs, SCT tuner, and a tune. Throw in some springs in there somewhere.. Oh and youll deffinately want a short throw shifter. Steeda tri-ax(notchy) and MGW(smooth) are the top out there.

luvmystallion · Sep 24, 2009

I recently bought a 98 cobra,my question is this,it has some rod noise in it so while the motor is out and down can I take a set of 03/04 cobra heads on it with the kenne bell super charger,will they work on my 98 block or do I have to replace block and all.

uncltrvlnmatt · Sep 26, 2009

They will work on your block, but if you want to boost it you will need alot more than just the heads. It is big bucks to do that swap, you would be better off getting a 03/04 Cobra engine and using it. Or boost the one you have.

duff daddy · Sep 26, 2009

Its not about an or F/I really its about the necessity of being able to meter a large amount of air and injesting that large amount effectively. If your staying basic bolt on's then I wouldnt worry about it. Your not going to create a need for more air in/out of the motor so why spend the money

TxCobrA98 · Sep 27, 2009

if you do longtubes, i highly recommend a tubular cross member.. i installed my longtubes in 2 hours when i rebuilt my engine. ive known people who took a whole day to do ONE long tube...

a tubular cross member is a very nice upgrade too. gives you way more room, lightens the front end.. just an idea. and also, get a SCT handheld and go get your car dyno tuned. its something everyone should do IMO.