Craig has been a long time Z33 owner and over the years we have seen him at various motorsports events and fun runs. He had kept his Z relatively stock with the exception of some sharp Nismo wheels but when you roll with other ZCG customers it’s hard to resist the forced induction bug. Craig finally made the jump to lightspeed with a full Vortech install on his ’04 LeMans Sunset Z earlier this year.
Craig got the “works” including a polished Vortech Tuner Kit, Stillen headers, JWT cams, GTM MAF and oil cooler, Aeromotive 340 fuel pump, Bosch injectors and exhaust upgrades.
On the exhaust side we started with Stillen headers, ART pipes and finished with a Bassani exhaust system:
Here are the headers, ART pipes and exhaust system installed:
Craig’s Z33 is a 2004 model with the CD001 transmission. This old unit was notorious for grinding shifts so we upgraded it to a new CD009 transmission and also installed a JWT HD clutch/flywheel:
GTM oil cooler and JWT cams(note difference in profiles) :
Instead of the common DEFI/Autometer pillar-mounted gauges, Craig went with the slick
BrockwayEngineering DGauge. This relatively new TFT-display gauge provides real-time monitoring of engine vitals in a very compact package. We mounted it in the NAV/cubby, placing it where this storage area could still be used:
We have performed countless Vortech supercharger installs and Craig’s was straightforward. Vortech really makes a great package. Here is a closeup of ZCG Cold-Air Intake and FMIC:
Below are a few NA/FI shots…aside from the shiny intake and polished blower it is a fairly low-key engine bay:
If you are like Craig and have owned/driven an NA Z33 for several years, the jump in power that forced-induction brings is one of the most gratifying experiences! On the dyno the stock Z made 233hp/230tq a the wheels. After the Vortech install and UPREV tuning courtesy of Rob, Craig’s Z made 415hp/344tq at the wheels. Peak gains of 182hp/114tq AND more power everywhere in the rev range totally transforms this car.
Enjoy the Ride Craig! We know that your journey to forced-induction was well worth the wait!
