Hey im new to the forum and i have a 2001 3.8. I was wondering on what are the best mods i can add to my car without getting to expensive. I already have a cat back exhaust, a CAI and better wires and plugs. I have about 600 bucks to play with. Anybody have any ideas?

 

Headers would be the next logical step.

 

Is it recommended that after you install headers that it is necessary to get a tune? If so does the tune add too much wear to the stock engine over time?

 

I also heard that the headers wont add much performance and they tend to leak. Is that something that i will face?

 

In your case header will not add much power at the lower RPMs but I think you would feel it at the higher RPMs. If you buy decent headers with thick flanges, add some washer so you can use a longer bolt you should not have issue with leaking. My headers have about 50K on them and I have not touched them.

A tune should not be "needed" The headers flow better but they will not change the Air/fuel ratio or cylinder pressure but a tune might get another 10-15 HP. Since your exhaust and intake are breathing a little better a tune could unlock some hidden ponies.

A decent set of headers and a tune from PCMsforless should be doable for $600 if you got the installs.

 

Alright man thanks for the help!

 

Alright one last thing...So for the tune, i will take my old pcm out and just put in the new one? Will i need to change anything else?

 

My car has 94000 miles on it, does anyone think a pcm tune will harm the engine in anyway? Im new to these thing, does anyone one know from experience?

 

94k is nothing on a 3.8. Im running 188k and still going strong.

 

I added Pacesetters and a new PCM a few years back and my car had well over 150k, didn't harm anything. They also don't leak or cause an SES light.

I did both of those at the same time (new PCM was more for new gears but also for added HP) and it felt like a new car. Way more pull.