Im getting an 88 formula, 350 tpi, 700r4 and ws6 suspension. The only mods it has is headers and exhaust. What are some other cheaper mods i could do?
Also, ive heard that these cars have a borg-warner 9-bolt rear end, if true is it any stronger then the normal 10 bolt?
Thanks

 

open up the intake

gut the air box ( if it's the same setup as the camaros), port the upper plenum

probably wouldn't be a bad idea to do plugs, wires, cap, rotor and check the timing.

how big of mods are you asking about??

 

it might have the 9 bolt, just stick your head under it and count

the 9 bolt is stronger then the 10 bolt, but harder to find parts(I.E. gears) for

 

The 1988 Formula routes its air differently than the IROC in that the airbox is located in the passenger side fenderwell. SLP made a cold-air induction kit for the car and if you browse the forums at thirdgen.org you might find a decent one at a used price.

If you want cheap mods, I'd suggest you keep your eyes open for some used runners and a used aftermarket intake manifold. Once you find them, upgrade and then port the plenum.

Probably the cheapest and most effective mods you can do right now is a full tuneup. New cap, rotor, plugs, & wires. Remove the throttle body and clean out the soot from around the idle air control servo motor. Check and replace all vacuum lines. Check and properly adjust the TV detent switch to the transmission. Once you check out the sensors and make sure that they are doing their job, buy some new O-rings for the fuel rail and injectors and go have the injectors cleaned up & flow matched.

After that, you'll have to start spending some money. I'd suggest a different torque converter, and a mild cam upgrade with new valvesprings and valve stem seals.

That ought to at least bring back the perfromance to as-new or even better than new.

 

If it is indeed a WS6 it will have the 9 bolt like mine, its said that they are stronger than a dana 44. They do have a few kinks with them, if they are abused cheap simple parts break inside them. SO if it has been beaten like a dog have it checked and reasseble it with strong parts and youll never have to upgrade. I'm running 3.27 gears, you are as well i bet, they are great for cruising and i can still smoke the tires off the car. Cam, and ported stock heads are a must on these cars. The stock cam is a lame one, port the heads, and get a good cam and it will run alot harder. Gains on a stock engine have been upwards of 100HP with worked stock heads and a cam. The top end really is a bottle neck on these cars. www.9bolt.com also has gear sets and FAQ on the rear end. If you need any more info hit me up, I've had to play driveway mechanic on mine quite a bit so i can probably help ya out!