For DIY Vette Owners

The following "Details" are for 4 of the 23 available "Reports" on accessories and modification installation information. 

CLICK TO SEE a list and photos of all 23 items

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Dual Mode Exhaust Switch; ITEM EXS 

For Z06 and 2008 with NPP Option.  A switch to turn this function on and off when you want is a must.  If nothing else, to hear the gurgling and popping when backing off at low speeds!  The stock system shuts down below ~3000 RPM depending on year and model.  Now you are in control. 

We found a place to put the switch that is hidden from view, easily and readily accessible while driving and requires drilling one small hidden hole!  If you want to return to stock a small black rubber plug will go unnoticed (but anyone buying the Corvette will want this feature-even a purest!) The PDF shows step by step construction with photos including how we made the hidden switch holder etc.  There is no need to go to the fuse panel in the engine compartment, the fuse that operates the Dual Mode Exhaust on both Z06 and 2008 NPP option is in front of the passenger foot well.  No alterations of the panel or wiring required, just plug in an “Add-a- Circuit” the way we show you and crimp on the proper size wires to an Off-0n Switch.   Routing the wires is a snap since your not going very far and none pass through the firewall etc.  Just tuck them in where we show.  Our design maintains the 10 amp fuse and draws no current when the car is off.

Using The Switch Is A Great Way To Increase Gas Mileage!

No it's not the improvement from lower exhaust restriction, doubt if that is measurable!  It's the fact that when you hear the exhaust noise and the burbling when you decelerate at low speeds you only need to go slow!  Seriously I have found that I do not put my foot to the floor as often when I have the exhaust opened.  No need to get to 3000 rpm to get the great sound.  In fact if you wanted you could use lower octane gas and if you keep your foot out of the throttle and keep rpm's high so your not lugging the engine it may not even have to detune itself to the 87 octane program!  Yes it does have such a program and detecting a slight knock it will revert to reduced timing, for a least a short time!

Want More Information on Ways of Saving Gasoline?

YES, We're Aware A Remote Relay Can Be Used!

We were aware this control feature can be accomplished with a remote relay.  In fact such a relay was purchased well before the Corvette for another project!  Never did use it for what it was intended.  They are available from eBay for ~$15 for 15 amp capacity.  See the one we have, photo left. 

Why not use it for this project?  Using a remote is fine when next to a garage door that can be seen to open and close.  Some days that happens sooner than others.  However how do you quickly know  if the exhaust loud mode is on or off?  Can’t tell.  If going through a quiet area you want it off "NOW" – not when the remote decides to operate with a delay!  Also to avoid drawing power when the car is off (since the GM circuit is powered on when the car is off) requires more complex wiring and when the car is started is it off or on?  With a simple $3.00 switch you can see what position it is in, instantly.  Your choice.  However  for a total of about $15.00 you can add a switch by simply plugging in an “Add-A-Circuit” wired per our detailed simple instructions.   You can hide the switch in the front cup holder as we did (might as well add a useable cup holder anyway, see our reports page) or wherever you like!  We think it’s a better choice than a remote relay. My wife also likes it since the switch is accessible to her as well so she can shut off the noise!   Go to Reports Page

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Radar Detector, Visor Mount; ITEM PWR (Includes Getting Power From Mirror)

If you want your radar detector out of the way, the best place to install it is with a clip on the passenger visor.  The added benefit of that location is you can connect to the 12V power available at the mirror.  That power is only on when the car is on.  If you use the cigarette lighter and a windshield mount the power is always on and if you leave connected for a week a dead battery might greet you!  It is also not very easy to see from outside the car!

The "Report" includes  wiring instructions and routing information which keeps the fuse and wires hidden.  However there are some tricks. Our detector is the new Passport 9500i with GPS-great product!  Purchased their 10 foot extension ($10 option) since it has the wire phone plug and an inline fuse.  A great item included was the small 3M wire splice!

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Sequential Turn Signals; ITEM SDS 

The Corvette is low to the ground and especially on the highway you want to be sure folks notice you are there!  Pulsing third brake light helps (when you apply the brakes.)  Sequential Rear Directional Signals give the added advantage your intentions will be noticed.  Since the Z51 stops on a dime its unlikely anyone following closely can stop as quickly! 

I was always concerned about folks following my ’88 and ’93 Vettes.  In fact was much more comfortable driving my truck when I had it and the ’93.  However with the 1934 Street Rod and the Vette in the garage there is no room for another vehicle (the wife has hers in the third spot) so its drive the Vette wherever I go and hope folks see me!  Any extra advantage is worth the price to me.  Cheap when you consider the alternative.

Changing Oil With Only Jacks; ITEM COJ

Devised a way to change oil and filter without having to haul out the low ramps that were built to use when all 4 wheels  need to be off the ground.

This approach uses inexpensive low profile jacks to raise the car sides just enough to slip the main lift jack with home built cross brace under the front spoiler and positioned properly beneath the Vette's aluminum front cross member.  A method is shown of modifying an inexpensive hydraulic floor jack to fit properly .

Jack Stands are used to provide stability and security to make changing oil quick and easy.

Purchase Training Aids

Purchase Flow Rate Limiter