Hello everyone !

Just a quick note to say that I've joined your ranks with the purchase of a 2008 HHR SS, 5 speed & Victory Red with all the toys, the previous owner had checked all the options, my kinda guy!

It has 63,000 Kms, and has a complete service history and clean car fax.

What would be some suggested first mods besides a CAI/Exhaust, this car is for use when I wouldn't be running the Z06, and my winter car as well.

Is the GMPP Stage One a worthwhile investment?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

 

to the forum KanuckZ06, and congrats on your new ride!

I'd say you'll find almost every SS owner here will recommend the Stage 1 modification, its a great way to find extra horsepower under the hood.

 

Welcome....

 

KanuckZ06 !!!!!

Congrats on your purchase and you've come to the right place for lots of helpful info....Any modification of the CAI could result in CEL trouble codes so if you do decide to change it, get a custom tune a la trifecta to get the most of your CAI install.....As for the GMPP kit, if installed properly ( soldered connections instead of crimped) it is worth all the money.....One major drawback to the GMPP kit is the intense pain you will experience in the jaw area as you will not be able to stop smiling when ya mash the throttle !!!!!

Once again congrats and welcome to the forum.....

Roberto

 

Welcome to the ranks. I started with the stg 1 it's how they should have made it in the first place. Mine is an auto so the kit took it from 235 to 290, big difference. While installing a new intercooler and hot side pipe I accidently found out what 26lbs of boost feels like WOW it was kinda scarry. Vince at Trifecta tells me it could be like that all the time so soon as the bumper to bumper is done I'll do it. If I had a 5sp I'd skip the wiring problems and go to Vince first it's only half as much money, for greater performance gain. He can also make it stealth, dual tune, you can run the stock tune for milage and push a button for way more GO !!!

 

fellow Canuck. You're going to love this little wagon. I would go with a Magna Flow exhaust at some time. Helps with the sound. Enjoy the ride.

 

congrats and welcome. well imo,don't worry about a cai. my mod list would be in this order:
1.motor mounts and transmission mounts.
2.intercooler hard pipe kit. alot of us,including myself,experienced this. you are better off replacing them.
3.tune. this is really an opinionated topic. since you have a used ss and warranty is something you are not concerned about, trifecta or hptuners would be the way to go.
4.exhaust- depending on your local smog laws,i would go with a catless dp and 3inch all the way back. you will get the maximum hp out of this set up.

at this point you are at or slightly over 300hp. from here on out is if you are serious about modding your car.

5.upgraded intercooler. many to choose from.
6.upgrade clutch. atleast to some sort of stage 3. i have a spec and been happy with it.
7. after the clutch upgrade,you can get a little more aggressive on the tune.so now you can turn up the boost to about 25-27psi.
8. turbo kit upgrade.your stocker would be maxed out by this point. prepare to spend anywhere from $1200-$5000.

i left off the appearance and suspension mods. those are simple.(stubby ant.,short throw shifter,springs,i suggest coilovers,depo head lights,HID's,smoked or custom tail lights,etc..) have fun with it and keep that salt off it in the winter lol.

 

 

Welcome.....