Dunzvett81
Well-known member
Would a Hypertech performace power chip for the 81 ECM (stock engine, carb, exahust) be worth it? make any differance? has anyone done this before?
Performance Chip for an 81
- Thread starter Dunzvett81
- Start date
- Moderator
- #2
- Joined
- Feb 25, 2002
- Messages
- 4,316
- Location
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Corvette
- ZZ4, 700R4, Steeroids rack & pinion, VB&P Brakes
Admittedly, I chuckled a little at the question. 
I highly doubt a "performance" chip is going to do anything for your car, if they even exist for the '81 vette. There's really not much 'performance' to be had from an '81 until you start changing really big parts. (That's why I chuckled.) The computer on the 81 is very basic and AFAIK doesn't control a whole hell of a lot. On newer cars that are all computer controlled, yes they can make a small difference. But overall, your money is better spent elsewhere.
Save your money and put it towards noticeable upgrades like exhaust. And there's another 2¢ to help defray the costs.
I highly doubt a "performance" chip is going to do anything for your car, if they even exist for the '81 vette. There's really not much 'performance' to be had from an '81 until you start changing really big parts. (That's why I chuckled.) The computer on the 81 is very basic and AFAIK doesn't control a whole hell of a lot. On newer cars that are all computer controlled, yes they can make a small difference. But overall, your money is better spent elsewhere.
Save your money and put it towards noticeable upgrades like exhaust. And there's another 2¢ to help defray the costs.
- Thread starter
- #3
Dunzvett81
Well-known member
Thanks. I think I will start making some upgrades. i am glad you got a chuckle!
Sensei
Well-known member
I've done a fair amount of upgrades (I'm between 350-400hp). I have a Hypertech chip. For $120, why not? I think it gives you a little better timing advance curve. God bless, Sensei
Jay,
One alternate way you can get some power and save some money is to pull the L81, save it, and place a more powerful motor. A screaming 400+ Hp engine will get the Vette to move pretty quick....if that's your fancy, but just think of the economy you can enjoy with the 8.2 to 1 compression ratio.
Just get it tuned as best as you can, and get the initial timing between 10 and 12 deg. Get a high-flow cat and mufflers, and tighten the suspension a bit with better springs and shocks. This will get you a nice seat of the pants sensation, and the satisfaction that you won't have to pull-over at every gas station.
GerryLP:cool
p.s. when it comes to horsepower, it is never enough...ask any Z06 owner..
One alternate way you can get some power and save some money is to pull the L81, save it, and place a more powerful motor. A screaming 400+ Hp engine will get the Vette to move pretty quick....if that's your fancy, but just think of the economy you can enjoy with the 8.2 to 1 compression ratio.
Just get it tuned as best as you can, and get the initial timing between 10 and 12 deg. Get a high-flow cat and mufflers, and tighten the suspension a bit with better springs and shocks. This will get you a nice seat of the pants sensation, and the satisfaction that you won't have to pull-over at every gas station.
GerryLP:cool
p.s. when it comes to horsepower, it is never enough...ask any Z06 owner..
Similar threads
Corvette Forums
Supporting Vendors
Dealers:
