The Chevy Corvette is a potent rear-wheel drive, V-8 powered monster. But, owners ranging from the base model all the way to the ZR1 are always in the search for more power. There are a number of ways to get those extra ponies and sound good doing it as well. One of the most popular ways is to install an aftermarket exhaust. The most beneficial exhaust systems utilize headers, larger tailpipes, and free flowing catalytic converters to reduce backpressure and thus increase horsepower. Another popular method of increasing performance is to install an aftermarket air filter or air intake system. This allows more cool air to enter the engine and at a lower resistance. For a more modest gain, owners can purchase an ECU chip, or retune their computer chip to achieve optimal ignition and injection mapping, and configure the timing to run on certain grades of gasoline. For those looking for extreme performance, forced induction (turbochargers or supercharger) is the way to go. Although this route is expensive, it provides the biggest performance increase.
For owners that aren't just about going fast in a straight line, there are a number of options that will improve handling for the Corvette. Buying new suspension components such as springs will help to lower the car and reduce the center of gravity, making the Corvette feel more stable through corners. Additionally, owners will install new sway bars that will reduce body roll. Buying the right aftermarket exterior components such as front and rear spoilers will also increase downforce and improve handling and stability.
One of the most important upgrades to the Chevrolet Corvette is the wheels and tires. Upgrading to forged wheels will decrease weight at the wheel hub, and thus improve acceleration, decrease stopping distances, increase fuel economy, and provide better handling. These aftermarket Corvette wheels are also very durable because of their strength and are built to handle the immense power of a modified LS-series V-8 engine. Traction is also an important factor, especially with a potent engine. Tires are the only part of the car that touches the road, and by upgrading to low-profile tires in combination with forged wheels will vastly improve all areas of performance.
Whether you're looking for more power or better handling, there is a wide variety of modifications available for the Corvette ranging from aftermarket Corvette wheels to a full exhaust system. Modifying your Corvette will not only make it fun to drive, but perform better on and off the track.
Braxton Herring is a contributing writer at COR Wheels. COR Wheels specializes in forged wheels and Corvette wheels in a variety of both traditional step lip, reverse, and concave designs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Braxton_Herring
http://EzineArticles.com/?Tuning-Your-Chevrolet-Corvette&id=6329815