how can I increase horsepower in my 1988 fc N/A version

[ACERX-7FC]

Hi, ive been looking for a turbo II FC for a while and i havent been able to find a decent one for a good price. So i settled on getting the naturally aspirated version 1988 and i was wondering what kind of modfications would i be able to make on it to increase horsepower?

Thnx for tha help

[hanman]

Not a ton that you can do.
Intake and exhaust will get you the most bang for the buck. You can upgrade the ignition system, but you won't see a huge gain. I lightened flywheel will make it a little quicker. The real gain would be in having it streetported, but that will necessitate rebuilding the engine.

[ACERX-7FC]

Im not worried about streetporting right now but just trying to add some modifications on to it. Anything i can do right now to make it faster. Tho i do realize i will have to rebuild the motor sooner or later, but is it too complicated to rebuild the motor? And how expensive would it be or would it be better to have it rebuilt professionally?

[hanman]

Well, it is my personal opinion that it is better to have it done professionally. I have never rebuilt one, but I understand it is not that difficult. But, there are a lot of factors involved that swing me toward having a pro do it. You will save about 6 or 7 hundred dollars by doing it yourself, depending on what tools you need to purchase.

[ACERX-7FC]

Thanks for the info. Well another question i have is that the REX im buying is at 179k so its seeing its last days but im not trying to have to rebuild it right away. What are the first things im going to want do for my car so that It can stay running strong?

[hanman]

Normal car maintenance. Change the plugs, plug wires, fluids etc.

[patkelly1336]

I would totally agree with the others above, but you could do any of the following:
1. Cold Air Intake
2. Free Flowing Exhaust System (you don't need a CAT if its pre-1996, or unless you live in Cali (lol))
3. NGK Premium Spark Plugs
4. 10MM Coil Wires
5. MSD Ignition Coils
6. Port and Polish
7. Lightened Flywheel
8. Lightweight Driveshaft
9. Advanced Cooling System
10. Electronic Fan (kicks in when the engine heats up, will save about 4 HP and 7 torque)
11. Electronic Water Pump (draws more power from the battery, thus leaving power for the engine)
12. Removing the air conditioner