Corvette C5 Supercharger | Why I removed it | 8yr Z06 story inside
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- čas přidán 16. 12. 2019
- This is going to be one of the most in depth C5 Corvette stories on CZcams with video of all years. 8 years, 3 states, 6 shops, a supercharger, a widebody, square setup, suspensions changes, starting over again and more to come! This is the full story like you won't see elsewhere. If you're a C5 or C6 Corvette lover, check out my channel and follow along in this C5 Z06 story that is still being written.
Check out my videos mentioned in this video:
6000 miles to buy a 4k dollar Corvette
• 6k miles to buy a $400...
Factory Five GTM story from the Speed Channel GTMalan perspective
• C8 Corvette vs C5 ME C...
Titanium custom bypass and exhaust build
• C5 Z06 Titanium Super ...
Nardi Dish Steering wheel install on C5 Corvette
• C5 Z06 Quick Release S...
C5 Z06 moving to Las Vegas
• E350 Ford Camper Van B...
Getaway in Stockholm 2 480hp Supra and 450hp Ford Cosworth Escort
• (HD) Getaway In Stockh...
Video shot with Sony A5000, H1N external recorder with wireless lavalier
Merchandise, Headlight Kits and more
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KnightDriveTV
2251 N. Rampart Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89128
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Email me for business inquiries: Damian@KnightDriveTV.com - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Folks, check out the KnightDriveTV triple light sleepy eye headlight kit in development at this link!
czcams.com/video/V7UxmSM8SJM/video.html
Thanks for sharing and presenting an informative, realistic, and down to earth perspective on performance. The best thing to realize is less is more. A solid 450+-500 whp is good enough. Or being stock is just as good. Less problems to worry about. Awesome presentation 👌
IMHO you are absolutely the best C5 Z06 channel on You Tube. Your information and experience bring so much to the channel!
Thank you!
Doin my best man. Building crazy things aheqd for the C5Z...dont wanna just be all yotube talk and no action...lol! We gonna bring action shortly...you keep an eye out!
As a current c5 Z owner I totally understand where you're coming from in this video. Great content.
Lots more to come. 2020, I am going to show the Corvette world the C5 can still be a contender. I have lots coming.
@@KnightDriveTV you are definitely become a household name with C5s at this point. Like rob dahm with RX7s, overall just rotaries, and Diablos and Ed from VINwiki with Murcialagos and etc.
As a c6 full set suoercharged mods, c7 owner I have to tell you don't go for the hype. The C5 is a formidable warrior and the best bang for buck of any car out there.
I watched this entire thing. I think the best part about building a car is the love you put into every aspect you mod to make it your own. Which essentially makes you love the car more.
Yeah, there is just something about us car folks man...putting your hands on ever part, tearing it apart, but building it back up, changing it....it's definitely a close relationship. I remember a friend of mine from years ago...I fabbed a lot of his forced induction system, but he was a machinist and used that skill to make parts and pieces for his car...he loved the process of drying and spray detailing his car. He would say it felt so complete for him, because he'd touch every inch of it, know what ever part of it feels like and inspect it. Definitely is awesome to know a complex machine inside out, as you build it and rebuild it, etc. Crazy I've kept this car as long as I have...but...I never finished the goals I had for it...so...here it remains!
Awesome, I just stumbled across your channel, I love the way you break down every mod that you did, and your honest evaluation of the mods. I appreciate how you don't seem to let your ego get in the way of your evaluation of the mods. You are obviously a perfectionist and want to make your C5 the best that it can be and I have the same vision for my C5. Keep up the good work and the great content.
Thanks for findin me! I do a lot with the Corvettes and throw in some other projects as well. Lots ahead for Corvette, so keep an eye on KnightDriveTV!
Great content!
As a future c5 buyer and planning to mod one, this was quite informative!
Great video! Real stories always make the videos much better.
Thanks, appreciate it. Workin hard on these vids...lol
awesome testimony!
Appreciate the story man 👍🏼
Awesome video! I own a c5z and you gave great insight
This was super insightful! Thanks for sharing! I grew up in TN by the dragon and looking to get a c5 - really appreciate hearing the perspective on power vs balance, super helpful! Thanks man!
For sure. There is a great balance of purity these cars can give. Inused to hit the roads of northern Ga, Helenring and others. With the proper mods, a lot of grip, braking, balance, etc...the car will outperform most drivers even at the stock outout level. I always like more chassis than power and these cars, as you get that chassis dialed more and more, then the NA power mods can just elevate it. I look at GT3RS and ViperACR...naturally aspirated, a lot of chassis capability and potent as a result. Thanks for watching!
Amazing content as usual ! Can't wait to see more, especially the C5Z info and build updates. Just checked out an old thread on the corvette forum, when you were adding the C7Z arch extensions. Excited to see what's coming, you're very talented!
Thank you for that. Once I can get things established here in Las Vegas (still looking for shop space), I will be kicking the evolution of things into high gear. I have parts for this car...some unique things, all waiting. I even have carbon one off parts waiting.....It's coming in 2020...just need to make some deals here and partner with a local business for some space.
@@KnightDriveTV That's very good to hear, good luck with everything. I'm looking forward to all the new content that will be coming for 2020. Cheers my friend.
Loved the origin story of your c5!
Thank you for watching it! Been a long, long run...but I think the best is yet to come.
Awsome steering wheel upgrade!
Great videos. It wasn't too long. I appreciate the details. You have made me rethink getting a C6 ZR1 over C6 Z06 due to NA over the supercharger.
I actually talked to Jim Mero for about 30min in 2013, about driving the C6ZR1 vs C6Z06. He liked the Z06 a lot more at Nurburgring...just said it was a more engaging car, lots more mid turn grip and off corner acceleration. Theres a reason C6Z06 did 7:22 and ZR1 only pulled 7:19 despite that much more power. ZR1 adds mass, plus struggles to put the power down. As much as the C7Z06 appealed to me, the supercharger just wasnt the car I wanted. C6Z06 Carbon Z07 will stack up to be one of the greatest Corvettes ever built imo.
I have c6 z06 I would take the zr1 over it anyday! To be fair never drove one but I did have a gen5 zl1 that has the same motor
"enjoyment of Driving a slow car fast"...Well said. Exactly how Ive been feeling for awhile. I have a Procharged Ws6 trans Am that has come so far, just needs a tune, but Ive been having the feeling of being just sick of all of the modding and thinking of just putting it back to stock. Its nice to know that im not the only one feeling like this. Some of the best times Ive had was driving a slow car fast, was my senior year in high school in a 1988 corvette with 3000 miles on it, it was tight and torquey and just fun for a 14 second car. We had a blast in it.
Never watch the “too long” videos. This video was well done and informative. Especially because I’m looking to sell my Coyote and get into a C5 Z06. Thank you.
I know some people get bored with it, but there are people looking at these cars, that I assume will want to know details of whats possible and whats out there. I just wanted to give people a well structured glimpse into my path with it. I have the best ahead though. More C5 stuff coming in the short future.
crodrc51able good luck and pick a winner! Now is the time especially with the C8 coming out. Some will be looking to unload their z06’s for one. I got one last year
I agree. I have a 2013 coyote and just bought my dream car(03 C5Z) last month, so this video is VERY informative.
I actually had more fun with my C5 Z06 when it was just pfadt coilovers, their comp swaybars, borla exhaust, and NT05's. When I added Headers, and HCI (470rwhp) and Mcloed RST (too noisy) or tick MC (too much effort) it became too much of a beast.
It's easy to cross a line. Not many people will undo something but...sometimes you just have to. I'll likely go back up in power again but, I have somewhat of a "dream" LS build I'd like to do for it, with sponsorship (If I can grow this channel effectively anyway).
Same here man. My C5 Z was the best experience of all my z's.
I agree almost 100% I'm n/a 410whp on coil overs, 330mm steering wheel, seats, this confirms to not s/c . I like that you brought up the nose weight too 👌
I just discovered your channel a few days ago, and I'm really enjoying it. You and I have similar mindsets, have strong motorsports backgrounds, and we've both learned some of the many downsides to modifying cars. I spent 32 years in the Atlanta area, regularly taking my cars into the mountains to the north. The Appalachian mountains contain some of the best sports car roads in the world, and I often regret leaving that area just for that reason.
True there for sure. I often went to what locals called "Helenring" up by Helen, Ga...great sets of roads up there that I thoroughly enjoyed. Its probably the main thing I miss here in Las Vegas; driving roads. Nevada has tremendous topography to have the most insane roads anywhere but no development dollars or roads being built in the mountains. Its a shame, because Nevada could really be a destination for driving roads.
Damn, I watched the whole video. Nice work bro!
I've only done a few mods to my C5Z so far. The air intake and cutout exhaust. I cut out the 1.5 din stereo set up and re-did the whole sound double din Android head unit with a 12 inch woofer. Love how the car rides lowering it on the stock bolts. After watching the video I'm going to limit my hp increase and most likely do naturally aspirated mods to keep the car balanced. Appreciate the videos!
They're great cars stock, even despite their age...just have to move slowly and really think out the mods ahead.
I’m new to your channel and probably the best thus far! I’m a car nut and I’ve owned three vetted in my life! Life does happen and I can’t wait to drive another C5 Z06! I still have all my bolts ons including CCW’s, JL sound system, Billy Boat Exaust system and so on!
Thank you, lots more coming just ahead. Big pause because of this covid bs but about to be rollin
I owned a 03z and it was plenty quick stock because of the light weight. Miss that car! Good video!!
The satin white pearl wrap on this Z06 with the black wheels...is simply stunning👍🏻
Yeah, it looked pretty awesome...gotta get to the next look though...gotta push ahead!
Appreciate the video. I could not wait to put the widebody on my '03 Z. But after listening to how it upsets the balance..I'm rethinking it. I'll pay attention to the channel..good stuff!!
Nothing wrong with the widebody, just dont do rear only like so many on the forums do. L5 does make fronts to balance the look, but no lie...there is no current aftermarket body solution for these cars. If I could rally an investor locally, which I am attempting to do, I'd put a myriad of pieces to market. I am just not in position right now.
KnightDriveTV What would something like this cost (not including marketing and whatnot; just the physical production cost to produce, say, 200 pieces)
You've got me rethinking engine mods to my C5Z. I do enjoy the linear build of the power accelerating and probably wouldn't like the instantaneous punch to redline. It's currently about 410 rwhp. Thanks for the advice and video.
Its a great power level to be at with these cars. I could see another 50whp maybe, to be really really well balanced as a drivers car. Of course more power is great, but these motors just make huge torque as it is, add forced induction and it just changes the demeanor entirely. I'd love to do a tall deck, long rod build that still gives me 6.2+Liters but 7800-8000 rpm...and pull that torque onset down for linear delivery...thats what makes a car mega fast off the corner...adequate torque, but not an over abundance. Jim Mero said it clear...c6ZR1 way less enjoyable to drive for him..he loved the C6Z for that exact reason...
cool stuff, great video man
Thanks for watching! Lots more comin...and the videos won't be as long either...lol. Was a lot of yrs to add up. As I was editing it...despite cutting a lot of what I said I was still like...30min!!!
Great video, and no, never too long. Been busy and only just got time to listen to all of it. Regards.
Thanks for the comment man. Doin my best over here...lol
@@KnightDriveTV you're welcome and keep up the good work my friend. You're years of knowledge, experience and sharing are incredibly beneficial to us Brits with C5s 👍
Great video , nice vette !! LOVE my 01
Long video....yes!!! BUT worth watching, to me....you can see the passion you have for your Vette and that make it worth watching!
Love It!
Thanks brrrrrrrrrd. One day I am going to put all the Blaniar archives together into one big shebang. Gotta wait til the channel is large enough though...that day will come Brrrrrrd.
@@KnightDriveTV Can't wait!!!
@@jasonblaniar9500 We'll have to get you to Vegas for that shoot!
Solid video!!! Thank you for sharing!!!
More to come! Lots of corvette content ahead
Excellent video. I watched it twice. I really hope I don’t end up regretting my ECS kit that’s getting put on as we speak!
I mean, its hard to dislike power...its always got its fun side. I certainly miss some aspects of it, but I think as I drove more and more cars over the yrs, I started to find this internal requirement I had for the car to feel balanced in all ways. If you look at the c7zr1, or the porsche gt2rs...these are extreme examples of how high power CAN be balanced with equally capable chassis with aero. I think for me, I could go into a higher power region now, given my square setup and suspension, etc but when I had all power and a mostly stock chassis...and especially with that wide rear tire...man, it was bad. Looked cool, people liked it, it was fun...but...just totally diminished the "z06" which was balanced performance. I would like to do a 550'ish hp NA build and increase my all four corner tire size to 315 with a one off widebody build. Thats kind of where my mind is headed now.
KnightDriveTV I’ve had the kit on now for a few months and its making 640 to the wheels. It’s fun as hell but I am kind of regretting it now, like you did. I really want to track the car more and I feel like I’m playing with fire with my stock bottom end. Heat is also a issue. I am seriously considering going back to my NA heads can setup only for peace of mind and simplicity. Thinking about going with the same wheels as you in a square setup and adding JOC shocks, I already have the sways and they have made a huge difference..
@@dominicvenuti2674 not sure wether this is relevant or not anymore but the IATs on the ECS kit are trash without meth and damming. The A&A intercooler is far mor effective. I own their ECS Novi 1500 with a low compression TSP 427 on an 8 rib with a 3.25 pulley making 704RWHP at 10psi on a mustang dyno. It traps 137 spinning. It was tuned without the meth and I loose power running it but feel safer. V7 YSi billet wheel with a 3” pulley is in the mail soon. Heat is definitely a big problem and meth helps but damming my front with hand bent sheet metal dropped IATs by 30% on the logs. Going to do the T1 hood vents now and hope it prevents some heat soak during long pulls. I haven’t road coursed the car since the blower but due intend to once the heat is dealt with.
Oh, and my front washed out in stock trim. It’s too easy to overheat those fronts under hard breaking and then ask them to corner. The Vette has a lot of dive under breaking too on stock suspension.
Trying to keep up with a C7 Z06 in a stock C6Z on the road course was enough for me to want more. It’s definitely a hairy monster with a 100lbs clutch pedal but beating everything on wheels on the freeway feels good. Can’t wait for fourth gear to join the list of partial throttle only.
I do also own an old NA Miata to wail on so there is always joy to be had at sane speeds.
Totally agree about overpowering the C5. I have four (yes I'm one of those guys) And at best I toss a cam in them to improve the punch ,but as you now know the balance is junk with added weight hanging off the edges etc. Too much power has same result unless it's a track only car. Great compendium on your rig,well done.
Heck yeah! Watchinig thru the transitions on your dime was awesome. As a 04 C5 owner. However, the white pearl wrap did look good. But, the unvieling back to black was the best part. I have a blown 1985 SS El Camino. Love her, but have much Love for my stock C5 to. Thanks for the insight.
Yeah, its been a journey but...it aint over...lots comin
Well done video and insightful. Love the car as well. Subbed.
Thanks for that. Lots more coming, as well as the KnightDriveTV 2020 video for subs only. Working on a great C3 story as we speak. Merry Christmas.
1st video I've seen of yours, great job 👍. You have skills, sir. Subbed.
Thanks man. Lots of yrs building honda/DSM forced induction, so your username catches my attention...lol. Lots comin this yr.
KnightDriveTV I get that a lot but the JDM is simply my initials👍. I did have a 90 TSi AWD back in the day and know just how fun that platform can be. I'll stay tuned to your channel to see what good stuff you have in store.
Very enjoyable video. I appreciate something that's not a drive though fast food meal.
Fast food meal...lol...good one.
This is a great video for any C5/C6 owner thinking they need more power for spirited road driving. As both a BMW (08 535i Sport COBB Stage 1) and C5 Corvette (98 convertible 6 speed) owner, I'm always trying get the C5 to handle (turn, stop, shift, ride, balance, feel) more like the BMW and get the BMW to accelerate and have the engine character of the vet. Thank you for telling your story.
I know exactly what you mean and its very much why I've modded and gone the routes I have gone. I've had a myriad of BMW's, as well as an air cooled Porsche, NSX, and driven many others. From all that data, it really grows an appreciation fpr what Corvette does provide, but highlights in some ways what it doesnt. Those things being steering precision namely. I think the Corvette is extremely balanced architecturally, but the engineers tuned that out through the suspension (spring and roll rates, tire size/width selection). Restoring immediate handling balance isnt difficult I've found, though it does require some changes. The harder part has been the steering. I've gone to a smaller diameter steering wheel, increased front tire width, but until I can increase the rate and rack stiffness, it will never be an e46 330zhp or s2k rack. The car can get there though. My square setup video outlines what basically woke up my Z06, in terms of front end feel and turn in grip. BMW's are fantastic, but when you get into that E60/E92 and forward range, diagnostics and repair requires a lot of investment, which keeps me away. I'd love an E60 M5 but man, it comes with a mountain of risk due to that engine.
I love the c5 z06 I had a 2001 in red now I have 07 c6 z06 in blue. It would love to have both at the same time!
Great video as always and very enjoyable even though you are talking throughout the video. I'm more or less surprised you didn't do a cam(or heads for that matter) since you went back to a naturally aspirated setup. Keep the videos coming.
I try to mix it up, in terms of talk/overlay/analysis/story vids versus shows/races/events and work on the car. I am going to try a variety of things moving forward. Do you dislike taliing vids altogether or any suggestions of what I could improve or change?
@@KnightDriveTV video actually was fine the way you did it. I would love to see interaction with more local Corvette owners. Maybe feature their car and talk about the history of it. Could be a mix of the local scene and not necessarily all Vettes. Vehicles that have been modified in some way.
Something I haven't seen, review C1-C8 all on one channel.
Another idea would be talk about the history of the midengine Corvette from the early period to where we are today.
Showcase some of the shops out your way. Shelby automotive is cool, but not sure if they would let you film inside.
Barrett Jackson goes to Vegas among other auctions I imagine. Be cool to see if you can predict what certain cars will sell for. Showing a little of the leg work with you showcasing different ways on how you assess the "value" of a vehicle.
Maybe out of your realm, but they have some badass gun shops out your way. Maybe talking a little about various firearms or even a cars and guns episode.
Hotspots of Vegas with your reviews of must see places when people visit. For example the mob museum and you could mix in a little Vegas history.
All great ideas...definitely some of that in the plan, just working on building some relationships locally first. I needed some solid analytics data to present to a few places. I'm working with connecting with a big Corvette shop out here, to have access to those cars like you describe. I've owned C2-C6, but having the car on hand helps.
On the shelby side, check my channel...I went inside Shelby in my Ford vs Ferrari video.
Thanks for the suggestions and input...I plan many things for 2020. I'm going all in on this channel until Nov 2020, then I'm going to assess if I can financially justify going further. Doing even 2 vids a week is generally a 40 hr job, so...balancing other parts of life is tough. Luckily I had great ad revenue last month from that damn Tesla video...lol. If I can do a few mainstream vids (like the Tesla) here and there, it can support my efforts enough to continue so...that's got to be woven in.
I have some corvette connections now, via instagram, of some local cars. I'd like to add an audio setup for dual wireless lav mics and I'm working on getting another camera as well, so that's all part of that effort. I'm gonna get there bro! I'm trying to do something not currently done on youtube...just gotta put in a yr to make it happen. thanks for the suggestions.
I'm digging your idea about buying a car from furthest away and roadtripping. I love vettes
Check out my recent video...I bought a 3500.00 BMW and traveled 7k miles!
Video time was fine, very informative. I am really enjoying your content. Get the wide body done. I will drive from Florida to Vegas to see it. I love horsepower, but I definitely understand your thinking. Thank you
Thanks for watching! NA power is the plan ahead, as is the widebody. Just waiting on the custom wheels to get here from Japan...eventually. Been almost a year. Once they're here, the design phase begins.
Great video
I went down the rabbit hole with a C3 and vowed I would never do it again, God rest its soul. However, recently began thinking about supercharging my C7. Great video because it gave me some negative considerations. Think I'll just drive my C7 Z51 and enjoy it. Thanks for the great video. Yes, it was long, but I enjoyed the honest insights.
FIRST! Great video bro, loved the progression and seeing the clips of your ripping the parkways. Im a fan of long from stuff. I think that’s where the CZcams venue is killing it. As always keep it up!
Thanks Craig! Been a hell of a saga over these years. Thanks for watching it man, appreciate your comments.
Great story on an amazing car
Thanks man! More comin! All kinds of Corvette stuff ahead
Thanks for the video I have an 2003 Z06 and was thinking of putting on a supercharger but now after hearing the sound and your take on the missing rpm pull I would miss what makes this car so much fun is the rpm pull from 5000 up let alone the balance to weight ratio
For the sake of editing out excess length, I eliminated the part where I mention that I had a built LS7 engine at my shop. I was opening a restaurant, at the time, and initially wanted to swap the LS7 but felt time would be an issue.
The LS7 had an nearly unstreetable cam in it, plus I wanted to do the reluctor wheel change. I opted to put the supercharger in and definitely regretted it later. If I could go back, I'd have absolutely put in that LS7.
I think vs supercharger, just starting with an LS2 (or L92/L94/L9H block) and building a motor is a better option. Go with large bore and use a smaller/streetable cam that allows linear torque delivery. To run a supercharger and put the power down, you have to want to be a straightline guy and run rear drag radials or something to focus the car into going straight effectively and putting the power down effectively. It's just not something I personally wanted for the car.
Great vid. The breakdown of your c5 journey made me rethink my goals for my FRC.
That's awesome man. I intend to do a lot more and explore a lot more with the car. I have unfinished goals due to moves and interruptions. Lots ahead.
Thank you for the video buddy !! Don’t apologize for the long video, good stuff!!
Subbed. Well done video - appreciate the story thanks for taking the time to put this together I am sure you have a TON of time into it and it shows! Not sure I would ever remove my supercharger though (600HP is addictive) (:-). It does add some weight to the front - perhaps move the battery to behind the rear wheels to help offset it a tad. C5's are now cheap enough you could have a NA car and a SC car??
Thanks man. Yeah, all things I considered of course. I can remove a lot of mass from the car, in area, to get the cross weights and bias positioned better, but end of day I realized I wanted to do an N/A build. So, from here, after I do some more chassis, and some body stuff, I intend to finish it off with an LSx build with internal geometry not many have seen or used. Then I'd like to focus on obtaining 51-52% rear bias with 315's on all four corners beneath the widebody. I'm gettin it done this year damnit!
Installed MagnaCharger, 493 hp to the wheels now. Put 18’s on the front. Definitely overpowered in 1st gear but great power with balance from second gear up. Keep the stock exhaust. Great daily driver with a little extra punch when you are so inclined.
I am in the same boat and in the mtns of WNC. With these roads I like to have the setup like you said with more chassis than power. Love my C5 z06 and it’s a great car for this kind of driving. I’m going to have to check out the Helen ring and the gauntlet. I went for a rip yesterday around the mtns and it’s the best therapy.
Sounds amazing man. I am out here in Vegas now and no driving roads, whatsoever. I have been doing more track days, but I miss just runnin the mountains.
Great content.
Appreciate that. Working on a lot of Corvette things, plus Corvette based stories and content ahead. Check out my other vids if you get a chance. Doin my best!
Holy shit I actually watched the whole video only bc he was interesting and informative I just subbed so plz make a lot more vids about the c5 z06 bc I might get one!!
I have a few other vids featuring the car quite a bit. The driving videos for heel-toe and hand position have some Z06 action in them, as does the titanium exhaust mod video, which has some various drive bys and good corvette stuff inside. I aim to make all my vids with quality and a lot of content packed in. Not all vids are talking vids like this one; many are out and about like the Square setup video, etc. Definitely have more coming though...i have some parts installs, a custom headlight mod and I have plans to do a carbon one-off widebody this year, from clay design mockup, to finish what I'd started before. Thanks for watching.
KnightDriveTV alright that’s cool man and I appreciate your vids and feedback!!
New to your channel and new to the LS life, great video! I’ll be looking out for a black c5z with huge brakes.
Sorry I missed your comment here...thanks for watchin!
I still have the GIS videos on my hard drive from long before CZcams. They are classics for sure. It was neat to see the clips of your mini version. I watched your whole video and it's very intriguing. You remind me a lot of me only I have worked in Aviation my whole life and cars, truck, motorcycles were always my hobby but they come in second. Now that I am nearing 50 with an auto immune disease that fuses the spine I hope to flip flop this. Hope to meet you down in Vegas some day Damian. Love your car. We like to make it down for SHOT show in January but will likely have to skip this coming Jan.
Well thanks for watching and the comment my friend. Sorry to hear about your difficulties. Life has tossed me many curve balls...seems never ending but, this particular car always gave me something to stick to for some reason. Email me anytime, if youre ever in Vegas; my contact info is in the description.
@@KnightDriveTV No worries. I've been dealing with it since I was a teenager. Starting to slow me down though and when you're a hands on person it kinda messes with your mind about the future a bit. Anyways, enough about me. Keep up the good work and crank out some more Vette vids. Like I've commented before, I'm I very technical person and I would love to see you show more technical stuff. :)
Can you elaborate on technical? Would you like more technically deep discussions on aspects of the Corvette as a brand, or the C5 specifically? Do you mean technical in terms of working on the car specifically? I do aim to do more specific work to the car, but am shopless at the moment for the first time in 15yrs. That should be resolved soon. I have a lot in the pipeline, just getting it all done and managing life...CZcams takes a tremendous amount of energy. This video alone was approx 25hrs to shoot, edit, promote, etc. This game aint easy...lol!
@@KnightDriveTV I'm a very technical person and have been working on Airplanes, Helicopters and Cars my whole life. I love watching your expertise in putting a video together but I know you have the technical ability to put out videos on stuff you may be working on. Whether it's fabrication or building something, or just maintenance. Would love to see that aspect of yourself to your channel. Not full time, but just in addition to what you are doing now. I've had a half assed CZcams channel for like 12 years now (pre google) and I've never put in the effort to grow it as I know my personality and what it takes to get huge. I have a full time job (which pays well and is easier) and a small business so I continue to just putt along mostly to show what I am up to. I am always pulling for guys like you to say eff it, I'm doing this full time!
yeah...I said eff it alright...about 20yrs ago...and I'm not sure yet if that was the right decision or not...lol. Issue I have, at the moment, is I don't have a shop space. This is the first time in 15yrs I don't have a shop, so I'm working on that at the moment. Once I get things established here in Vegas over the next 4-8mo, I'll be rolling with it.
Here I am watching it again. Drawn in lol.
All part of my plan hehehe.....lol.
Subbed. Great video.. here from C5 modified face book page
Awesome, thank you! More to come soon! I have an interesting headlight conversion coming...still pop ups, but lighting I have never seen used. Gonna experiment. Also have some engine mods coming, corner balancing, etc
came for the supercharger talk, stayed for the stories :D
Nice...thanks man!
LOL me too. Interesting story man :)
Love the direction your going with the corvette and great advice, definitely would like to see how the car handles on the track and are you planning on doing any interior mods?
Lots planned, just these relocation's to new states really disrupts things for me. The pace in which I've done this car has been tremendously slow mostly due to life changes, disruptions, etc. I have a vision for the car though, absolutely.
I'm hoping 2020 is the year to really get a big step forward with it, in terms of creating a C5 like hasn't been seen or done before. All things are on the table...from interior to exterior to engine, mass reduction, and more. I'm committing a year to this channel to see if I can make it sustainable. If the return starts to be where it needs to be, it'll enable a level of video/sub interactions/Corvette builds etc. Just have to see if I can make it happen.
Thanks for watching...time will tell!
Certainly you have to build a car for the way you want to use it, I can see the grin still on your face as you relive those street racer moments in your head. That's why I have a C5 convertible with heads and a cam that's getting a supercharger from A&A right now. The front weight is significant, my battery is getting moved to the rear, I am working on lighter brakes and wheels. I wont do any track days, I will do some days on the 1/4 mile and most of the time I will just be tearing up the Georgia roads that you mentioned.
Its very important to build a car for what you want. You wont be happy any other way.
Absolutely. I always encourage people to build what they want, not what the internet wants. Some guys go after big power or crazy builds and they lose all the joy along the way. Someone will always be faster, always have more...just gotta build for happiness and if other ppl like it, good. If not, no loss...lol
I was 711hp to the wheels in my c5 Z06, just sold my supercharger. Went back to naturally aspirated. Crazy that I ran across this video, I literally have a widebody Z that i just pulled the widebody off of mine (front and rear). as far as I know there isnt another kit like it.
You gonna go a diff build direction or parting out to sell it?
KnightDriveTV I’m just going a different build direction. I use it for Rally North America on MavTv. It’s just to the point with all the horsepower it was unreliable. I think I’m going to keep the rear widebody just because my rims are offset for it. I will lose some handling just because of the push, but we will see how bad at Ohio speedway this year for the TV show
My favorite mod so far was getting rid of the emblem on the front. Could never keep it clean and always has wax residue until it was removed... now... nice and clean
Yeah, I left the debadging mention out of it actually...lol. That trunk and front bumper emblems were gone with the wrap and never returned...lol. That trunk one is the most awkwardly placed emblem. Never made sense to me. That trunk emblem now loves inside my custom built pc actually...lol.
Very informative video!
I’m in the process of making a decision to pro-charge my 2001 Zo6, which is in dang-near perfect condition both inside and out, as is the stock LS6 engine with right at 58K miles. Car looks and runs like new.
This vid has certainly given me more to consider than I initially anticipated. Would love to see what the added 150-200HP feels like but being a life-long Corvette purist, perhaps it’s not the way to go after all.
Now I’m REALLY confused, LOL!
Well, best I can tell you is, it really depends on your mode of use. If you're an occasional street driver and the real exhibitions for you are on ramps, or from a red light...expect to manage a lot of wheelspin and make a bunch of noise...its fun and the car handles it fairly well.
That being said, if you like balanced capability, I'd look to so bolt ons, then maybe take that extra step and do heads and a fast intake. Just keep the cam subtle that it doesn't kill the streetability. I personally think this option, enhances the "Z06" side of the car, while keeping it light and focused. One can absolutely get to 440whp, which is approx 90whp beyond stock, and still retain 100% reliability and streetability with little compromise.
KnightDriveTV
Excellent advice and over the last day or so was re-grouping and thinking the EXACT same thing!
We have a shop we feel comfortable with already picked out and this is a project I’m hoping to move forward with soon.
Thank you! And perhaps I’ll reply with an update, post-changes.👍👍
Before my '04 C5 Z06, I had a Backdraft Racing Cobra with an all-aluminum Dart-blocked 427 Windsor stroker by Keith Craft. 612 hp/615 tq in a 2300 lb car... it was a beast, and fatiguing to drive for more than an hour or so. I found the C5Z MUCH more practical... and comfortable... and economical... Like you, I really appreciated the balance of the C5Z. Mine is pretty much stock, & has only 9400 miles on it (yes, you read correct). My daily is a '17 Ford Focus ST... which really gave me a taste of the whole "slow car fast" thang... which I totally get now. The ST is so nimble... yet so planted... and just the right amount of power. If it sounds like I prefer the ST over the C5Z... maybe I do... mostly because I do not have ground clearance issues with the ST. The C5Z is just SO low... the frame rails scrape when backing out of my driveway... and the front air dam scrapes on the slightest of bumps. Yes, it's lowered (slightly) on stock bolts. I may return it to factory height just so I can enjoy it more. Enjoyed watching your journey tho!
Yeah, its interesting how one evolves with cars, when you go from mega fast, to just nimble or comfortable..its the small things that add up also, as you age and want a certain feel, convenience, etc. Slowly I have found that desire to hone in on that ultimate platform...ground clearance and all, myself. Its a fun journey of testing though...some people evolve to realize it isnt all about speed necessarily...but more about real enjoyment...or just having a whole bunch of different cars you barely drive....lol...
Love the content. Keep it up! I enjoy the format you have currently. Very well spoken and you balance the video well with clips, overlays and such. Nice job so far. Now on to the car content.
More C5Z...love the development of the true widebody. It is honestly making my want for a C5z even higher than it is now. When I purchase one in the coming year I will be on the lookout for any and all c5z content. I have watched your videos on the exhaust steering wheel mod, wheel and tire breakdown etc. Lots of good info for someone like myself moving to the platform.
I’m an LT1 Fbody (C4 story video was great by the way) guy as you can tell by the profile pic. But it is time to move on. The draw of an IRS, light weight chassis, and solid NA power has forced me away from my heavier SRA rattle box. I love the car dearly and will have another some day but it is time for change. Also if you have a few minutes check out my video on its origin. I share some similar concepts in my approach to modding. More chassis than power. Just ignore the “I will keep the car and won’t sell it” which actually in a sense is true because I have removed all exterior modifications many of which are custom 1 of 1 and others which are less common overall (aka properly fitted Forgestar F14’s in a square set up just like yours) So in a way the vehicle as it existed in my possession will remain as such since the vehicle is being sold in stock trim. Anyway enough rambling...great videos and keep them coming!
I'm going to get back in this groove, believe me. All these relocation's have been a disruption, but I needed to position myself for the future. Vegas is the spot...just have to get all these pieces in place and pull out the chavant clay again. I've got things coming! Stay tuned for it.
" Driving a slower car fast " Well put, I know exactly what you mean. Coming from the drag world, and now with the recent purchase of my C5, transitioning into a more " drive it " style, I appreciate a naturally aspirated motor that much more.
Absolutely...sometimes it takes a while to understand that...some people never really do. I think it's easy to always want to be fast, fast, fast, but some people come to a point where they don't mind slowing down, enjoying things a little differently. It's an acquired taste if you ask me.
@@KnightDriveTV I find it to be a different kind of high. One the one hand, you get that nitrous like burst of adrenaline. For me that was the drags, and dirt bikes. Then you have the more steady, endorphin like high , of a quick sports car, or say, Harley like cruiser. With, of course , the occasional pleasant blast to the ticker.
Great video as usual.
Featherlight settings? Soft vs firm, front vs rear. I’d love to hear your thoughts and where yours are currently set. Thanks!
I'm doing a full setup video ahead. Corner balancing, alignment, weights, etc. Car is down due to that failure I spoke about at the end, and I'm currently in transition getting a new shop space, so i'm a bit delayed here. It will come though. I can tell you that Pfadts initial settings worked for me in Ga, but definitely have not in Las Vegas. Road surface frequencies are different here, and that's something I'll discuss. I have deviated from Pfadts suggested settings for sure, due to a variety of reasons that are a bit too lengthy to go into here. Look for this video in January...it's likely the earliest I can make it happen. Despite being Las Vegas, it is "winter" here and the Michelin PSS tires aren't a fan of 40 degrees.
Good video. Can’t understand getting pulled over so much though.
Having lived all over the country, soanning 20yrs, I understand how some people would feel this way. For example...atlanta and an eastern portion of atlanta, athens clarke county...yeah, getting pulled over repeatedly required some very bad behavior or, some extremely bad luck. Cops werent focused on traffic nearly as much...same here in Las Vegas...its just not a thing.
In western Pa though, where I also worked for PD for 3 yrs, its VASTLY different. Each town in the commonwealth still has its own mayor, council, fire dept, police, etc...I am talkin 1 sq mile town, has all its own depts, mayor, etc...generally on VERY strained budgets. The dept I worked for had 6 full time cops, no training and the only way to get a pay raise, was running traffic. Many towns cant even be part of the union or afford pensions, so their cops were 32hrs or less per wk, often making 11-13/hr. Again...you want to make more money and make q living, tax the public, run traffic. So, these towns are small...you can drive through a town in 1-2 miles, often one main road is a throughway to the next town...a great area to run traffic. On duty cops will patrol that heavily, and stop a lot of people. The deal is, you get 4hrs pay for every court case, so if you get 10 cases, thats 40hrs guaranteed pay, for basically a morning in court. HUGE incentive, plus the towns make money as well. State police used to "loan" our dept two officers to run DOT and show how much money could be made, in order to give our chief and council incentive to invest is DOT training. In a broke, blue collar area, a Corvette is like a Ferrari...draws mega attention, especially from cops making 13/hr. Cops there do exceed the law, I have cop friends who are nice guys if theyre your friend but...you dont want to drive through their town the wrong kinda way. I had been pulled over for "sounding like I was speeding", etc.
Luckily, I had worked PD for 3 yrs and knew the tactics...I wasnt getting written much, but was definitely getting stopped. The corruption runs deep though...they either knew me or I knew their friend, or I'd beat them in court for lack of "pc", etc. Have no doubt, the supercharger with the BB bullets definitely sounded like war, coming down the road, so it was just fuel to that local fire. I had a Testarossa as well...I got stopped by 4 police cars and 6 officers once, with their initial claim I'd ran 3 red lights...I was legit scared that night. When you see certain incidents happening in the news, in inner cities of the rust belt...detroit, baltimore, east pgh (massive protests last yr from kid shot in the back...that was a town over from where i worked...I know the chief there...well former now), its because the construct of small towns and old cities, lack of budget for training and no police oversight whatsoever being the nature of that region...its not like the south or midwest or west coast...way way different. Those cops making 13hr...yeah, they wanted to make you pay and its a bad culture of policing, believe me. I have seen and heard things within the department walls, no one wants to know about. Its why I quit.
Interesting journey.
Will be fun to see where you end up. Doing my own journey with mine, been on that road with my Z for 18 years; since new - 2002! It never ends.
One quick question, you mentioned a few drives in your video over here on the east coast, Helen Ring? Gauntlet? I have done the Dragon a number of times as well as the Rattler but let me know where those you mentioned are. Always looking for a good day trip. I am in the southern end of NC. Thanks and keep up the journey!
Hey, I’m up in the NW part of the state (NC)
Had a few C5’s over the years
Edit: checked out your channel, I’m also into firearms, albeit probably not to your degree. Cool stuff
I clicked on this as a previous C5Z owner with the A&A kit on it. I loved that car and the power the kit made, but I agree it was tough to put the power to the ground and the extra weight in the front did impact the handling. These days I have a C6Z for a daily driver and mostly like it more in just about every way... but I do miss having a little more power in my DD and thought about doing the A&A kit again. I just can't do it, I love the N/A power for this car. I think I'm going to do the heads and cam to preserve the balance and address the LS7 head issue at the same time. I suspect you'd probably be happier with your C5Z is you did H/C in yours as well... nothing crazy, but it would definitely wake your car up a little more and probably sound better too with a little chop. The LS engines respond so well to H/C, and it doesn't add any weight to the front. Win, win.
Yeah, I am in a constant phase of decision making with the car...lol. I see the limit here as ported LS6 heads and a cam. I now have the fuel and clutch on board for plenty of power. Beyond that though, my next likely Corvette to replace it would be a c6z carbon edition. I watch the pricing and just am kinda waiting for that right one. I do love c5s because of the FRC and this car has a lot of sentimental value so...I woukd very much like to keep it and buy the C6Z in the future. C6Z's are great cars...shame C7 didnt continue that recipe but, GS is all we got.
@@KnightDriveTV I agree with you on the C7Z, it never did too much for me. I wasn't crazy about the looks and the big increase in weight over the C6Z. The C6Z Carbon might be my favorite C6, but they are pretty close to C6 ZR1 pricing and for that money the C6 ZR1 is likely the better investment (IMO). The C8Z looks like it will be amazing with the N/A 700hp 5.5L DOHC and DCT, but I'll have to wait 5 or 10 years for the price to come down to my acceptable price range for a DD... Hopefully they trim some weight off it compared to the base C8, but that's probably wishful thinking! In the mean time, I'll keep enjoying my C6Z! Hopefully more so with additional mods!
BTW, a friend has an auto C7Z, surprisingly it's not much faster than my tuned and minor mods C6Z... weight is a bitch! LOL
Yeah, nothing like reducing mass. Car stops better, turns better, etc. The C7Z is a pig. I have my c5z at 2980, and I can easily get another 60lbs out without any compromise. If I go hard I think I can get this car to 2800 with making carbon composite panels.
I remember talkin to Mero at Bowling Green one year. He said the c6z carbon was the favorite car he ever drove. I personally think its the car to own over the ZR1. C8 is going to be badass, buts its heavy, and same here...thats a 10yr down the road deal for me. For now, this c5z is an awesome balanced and fun canyon car. FINALLY drove it tonight after 4mo being broke. Back to new videos finally!
Should make a video on how to get a C5Z easily to a 50 / 50 weight distribution
I am pretty much there...doesnt take much. Cross weights are beyond f/r distribution but...yeah, I will be doing a video to see where mine is. Obviously you can shave weight and ballast the rear if you were detemined.
Sell me the super charger! I have 2001 Millennium Yellow convertible that it and I would drool over... Great vid and info keep the vids coming
Long sold..
Im the second owner to a 2003 Z06 that I bought in 2013 with 63K miles on it. It now has 187K miles original engine, and she still is a lot of fun, only major thing Ive have to replace which I did myself with the clutch and changed out the entire cooling system. She's been to 6 states, visually she's not a gem I drive her everyday except on rainy days. hands down the most reliable car I have ever owned and at 3.94 premium a gallon she get better gas mileage then my chevy 2500 on unleaded
Thats great stuff for sure! I have been developing new parts for C5, check out other C5 vids I have around the channel.
E30M3-style flares would be a nice change from all of the bubble flares from the other vendors. I bet it would be pretty polarizing though.... Some people will absolutely love it, and some people will absolutely hate it.
I think it could be interesting. C5 has some very flowing and soft body lines, but it could possibly work. The approach I did in clay (I purposely kept brief in this vid), in person, looked phenominal. I am getting them done this spring/summer for sure. I'd like to devise a quick method to do one offs and potentially have them share the same mounting holes. Be able to switch widebody designs on the fly with dzus fasteners or something similar. Would be sick.
Cool
I found a set of forgstars f14 18x11 the only difference is the set I found has 55 offset. You stated that you have a 53 is this a deal breaker for fitment?. I don't say this about a lot of CZcams but for some reason I trust your input. Lol
Like you I really like my c5 will be long time before I consider parting with her.
Also we live in middle Tn and considering a pacific coast hwy road trip in the c5.
And trying to knock out as many upgrades as possible before the trip sometime in June this year. Love the videos.
Wade
Well, we have to be sure we are talking about the same width wheel. If its an 11" wheel then a 55 offset is going to bring it inward 2mm. In the front, that'll have dual effects...it will being in a very slight poke, but itll put you closer on the control arm at full lock. I dont think its a deal breaker because 2mm isnt huge but you may have some slightly higher rub factors.
I appreciate the confidence and I do my best to give information based on my 20yrs building cars. A lot of bad info out here for sure...good luck ahead!
Hey, great videos and information. I just came across them and have been enjoying them. I have a '07 C6 and I have done some minor add-ons, but was wondering about Supercharger or just doing a better cam setup. What are you doing for engine mods since you are no longer doing the supercharger??
Well, as I said, I had a heads/cam LS7 back when I supercharged and I really regret not tearing that motor down and making it what I wanted. So, thats the plan shortly ahead now, I am building a destroked 8k rpm targeted, 4" bore LS engine.
Definitely appreciate your passion to stick with the project! BUT, wouldn't a C6 Z06 just make more sense? Haha
Well, hindsight is always 20/20. The point where I had that biggest debate was when I was making a decision on the supercharger or LS7 swap. I knew that I was essentially going to go 10k deeper into the car one way or another, and that differential would've allowed me to sell the C5Z and buy an earlier C6Z. I had the car widebodied at the time, wheels, tires, mods, etc. I also was really battling with getting rid of the FRC, which I prefer visually. Lace has a C6 LS3, which I drive often and frankly I like the driving position and seating height in the C5, I've also got the brakes, suspension, etc, so a C6Z, at this point really only has only the advantage of horsepower and personal preference visually. I like the unique nature of the FRC/C5Z. I often prefer to build vs buy, so the real threshold for me, at this stage, is I want to do a 468ci engine build and a full carbon widebody in the months ahead. So, in honesty...no, I don't regret keeping the C5Z vs going C6Z.
@@KnightDriveTV Your C5 is already one of the best looking I've seen on the net. I know you don't like your black paint but it appears immaculate condition and gives a beautiful wet gloss look at least on camera. It will be incredibly unique with the full wide body kit you are talking about. You thinking of doing a mild bucket seat at any point?
Hey man I loved the look of the car with the satin white pearl with a black rear. I'm actually looking at a black z06 today. Do you have any more visuals of the car when you had it like that I might want to mod it in that direction appearance wise. Thanks
Yeah I do have a lot more pics. Email me at damian@knightdrivetv.com
Finally!!!! Your C5 Z06 mod list! Love the story of your car. Please break out the scales and weigh your car. I’m still waiting for a weight reduction video. You claimed a few months ago that your car weighed less than 3,000 pounds. Prove it!
haha...I was thinking about it. Car just broke for first time ever. So, as soon as I get it back on the road, I'm doing a full corner balance/ride height/alignment video and the weight will be in there. I can guarantee it's under 3k...you'll see! I'm pullin for 2970. I'd LOVE to get this car to 2800. I can do it...just will be a process to not compromise it in any way...which is my commitment. GT3 of C5Z's...thats what I'm about!
I have an old vid now, from when I pulled the supercharger it was at 3002 with 1/3 tank gas at the time. I've done more mods since, and had stuff in the trunk then...lol. I think it'll do 2970 like I said...we'll see.
Yesss! A 2970 pound C5Z with a square setup and big C6Z brakes should be a serious kick on the track! And more track time videos from your square setup! I figure every mod I do to cut weight on my Vette will count. More grip in the corners, decreased tire wear and faster lap times. Good luck and I’ll be watching.
I'll be doing some track vids in 2020. I often want to drive a bone stock Z06 at times, just to see how different it feels. It's nice to stay connected to the original car in ways. Lots to come!
Great video, how did you like the C6 brake upgrade? Any issues? Did you have any ABS or traction control issues with a squared setup.
I appreciate your content, thanks! I’m slowly nodding my 02’ C5 Z06 for track, street driving. Currently it is all stock with pfadt coilovers and C6 spyder wheels. I have a squared set of speedline wheels. I think I’m going to go with NT01 305’s. Braided brake lines fluid and upgraded pads to start on the track.
Then I’m looking into sway bars, and bigger brakes.
Honestly, the brakes and the square setup are the two best mods I feel I've ever done to the car. More front end grip equates to just much more braking up front combined with more brake, in addition to the handling gains and balance. No issues whatsoever...all systems 100% happy with it.
How did you fit a square setup on there and not have any asm or traction control problems?
When i did the square setup I labored over the exact choices and fitment. The offset choice and the tire choice was specific. I have no rubs, no issues under full dive, no traction control issues/active handling issues, nothing.
I looked at a LOT of square setups. The OEM rears on the front (10.5's and wrong offset, they rub the lower control arm). I looked at guys with 315's sticking way out. I looked at various offsets time trial guys ran in scca. I concluded that for appearance reasons you had to have limits with the tire. 18x11's with et53 offset in the deep series concave cleared my brakes (by 1/4" if that), clears the lower control arm (by 1/4") and then the tire size became critical. Beyond just using the 295/35 spec, I looked at the manufacturers actual contact patch data, sidewall height, etc. The michelin pss is 11.1" wide and the shoulder of the tire allows the setup to look proper.
Lastly, was alignment. It's my belief that many people run into issues, when they go with a square setup, because they may already have an underlying issue which is affecting the active handling. For instance, just a slight misalignment, causing the steering position center to be off a few degrees, will push toward the active handlings limits and potentially disable the system. I aligned the car, run 2.2 degrees of camber up front and the square setup barely, barely pokes at all. It's the best looking, best fitting square setup for the C5Z, period. I wouldnt' change a mm.
The myth of needing a larger rear tire really doesn't make sense, because at any given time, rotation speeds of each individual wheel vary. If anything, I'd say the active handling allows me more slip and loss of traction before intervention. Frankly though, one of the mods I'd like to develop is a small electronic module that automatically engages competition mode upon startup, to allow me more freedom with just a small margin of protection.
KnightDriveTV thank you so much for that valuable information! I’ll be sure to mention you on my channel when I upgrade the wheels on my future c5!
Man.....i could listen to you for hours
You dont have a link for those fender extensions by a chance?
No links at the moment...you referring to the C7 fender spat extensions or the entire widebody from clay? I got the C7Z spats on ebay.
@@KnightDriveTV fender spats, i'll buy them if you're selling them
I actually sold them to a guy on the Corvette forums. He ended up putting them on his car. His instagram name is @boostedfury
@@KnightDriveTV no worries, thx, where can i look for them? They looked real good on your car
Like I said, run a search on ebay for "C7 corvette spats" ...they're about 88.00/side. Takes some cutting of the mounting material from the spat and you have to be handy, but they'll fit. The arch is almost the same, you just have to be innovative to get it mounted to the fender right.
I will never give up my F1A. MORE BOOST
You dont need to. After 12yrs of forced induction and countless builds, I was good to remove it...lol.
Hi good video was great. Your skill-set and handiness is out of BOXES !! ( You are Very Good ) believe you could make up something for the guys that has a C5 ZO6 . can bolt on or snap-on . I have a ZO6 C5 is it possible that you can make up some C5 splash guards + plus flairs that's like the C6 ZO6 have . like the C6 that would actually work better and flexible for C5 z06
My design wouldnt follow C6Z, it would be more evolved and more functional aerodynamically. I am seeking a local investor for that product line, and am in talks with several people.
Thank you for replying back I will be looking forward to seeing more of your updates on the on the flares with a front and back . I'm hoping that it will be easy to install snap-on or slightly bolted on and look like similar as the ZO6 C6 has or better I thank you
What shop did you use in Georgia? I was thinking of going the supercharger route and a good friend with a lot more LS experience put it on pause for me. Thanks for the confirmation.
I did this all myself on this vehicle. The tuning was done in North Carolina, at the time. Vengeance Racing outside Atlanta is reliable and good to go though...lots of Corvette experience.
Yep, when I bought my 2007 Z51 it had a a Maggie. Totally stupid. It would break the rear loose at 70 on the freeway - with NT-05's. There is such a thing as over powered.
I agree. Its fun having something that overpowers the chassis but...I am enjoying where its at for now.
Great content. Out of curiosity, what do you do for a living?
Owned several performance and custom fab shops, now manufacture Corvette aftermarket parts
Live in Athens, which roads or routes do you suggest for riding/driving?
Google "helenring". Its a series of roads up by Helen Ga. VERY good roads to drive. One is two lanes just north of Helen, then you go west from that road to a route that returns to Helen and is a single lane downhill. Many caged/canyon build cars up there all the time for sure. Living in Vegas...damn I miss those roads.
@@KnightDriveTV awesome! Thanks for the quick reply. Love the content on this channel!
How did you remove the fenders without destroying the roof?
You can slip a very skinny T15 in there, with painters tape on the shaft. At an angle, you can get to the screw and loosen it enough. GM slotted them so they do slide out once the fastener is loosened.
My c8 spot bumped now to 2021, never been a vette guy, but have always loved the c5 z06, coming from a Hellcat sold in fall, would nice, low miles, stock c5 z06 be enough "fun" to tide me over until 2021 for c8? Would appreciate your opinion. Great video, great experience, shop...thank you.
Want to keep resale value of stock c5z vehicle for sale in 2021, hard to imagine a summer (2020) without a cool car.
There's no question the C8 is going to have performance metrics, out of the box, that will exceed the C5 Z06 but it's not going to be by a massive margin. Typically C5 Z06's on the used market at least have a small, typical set of mods (intake/header/tune) which puts the car at a weight/power output (3050lbs/380whp-390whp=435-450hp crank). So, do the numbers there...for the C5Z that's 7.09lbs/hp, in the hellcat's case with curb weight and stock hp 707hp, they have 6.22lb/hp and in the C8's case 3550lbs/495hp that's 7.27lb/hp. C5Z is far more nimble than a hellcat, and on the street from a dig I've beaten hellcats...on a road course a hellcat doesn't have a chance vs a C5Z. Don't get me wrong, I think Hellcats are awesome as hell as a street driver...they're just big cars.
C8's advantage is going to be weight distribution, traction, the DCT..it's going to FEEL a hell of a lot faster but, the facts are the facts, C5Z's are still winning Optima Ultimate Street car events vs GenV Vipers, newer Corvettes, etc. C5Z's are light, affordable and with the right mods, you're still a force to be reckoned with. There are guys on the forums that ran 11.90's bone stock in C5Z's on stock goodyear tires. With mild mods, mid 11's are there and frankly...that's right in line with most new cars...again due to the C5Z's low weight and fantastic aerodynamic advantages. Other advantage is, the C5Z's are pretty much bottomed...your cash will pretty much stay there...buy it, resell it in a year, you prob won't lose...especially given the current circumstances...used prices may take a hit this summer and rebound the following summer. The interior will feel basic vs new stuff...sure. It's a "cheap" feeling car inside vs new stuff...but that's also why it's so light. It's minimal to go fast.
@@KnightDriveTV Thank you very much for that fantastic, and thorough reply, basically with that, and my c8 order not in site until 2021 now, you may seem to agree the c5z great option, mildly modded, or not..affordable, excellent option for some summer fun. I also feel these cars are not a common site, c5 zo6, and still very respected among most enthusiasts, and who knows..may end up wanting to keep for a while after this year! Thank you again, also will be subscribing and supporting your channel.
@@KnightDriveTV One last question, I thought about after watching your video this am, which I will watch a second time tonight. Color wise, you mentioned not liking the black, white varient looked good too, but mentioned changing, I like red best for classic vette color, i talk myself in..and out of the Millennium Yellow almost daily...silver almost too subdued, no on black as well, what are your thoughts on colors...others, for your self? From others as well you have spoken with your in experience in the car tuning world, even though color can be such a personal choice?
@@russmode I personally like just about all of the C5Z colors, including black (looks less dated as it hides the lines a little more IMO). The blue looks nice, but kinda rare. White is the most rare, I seem to recall they only offered it in 2001 (which had a little less hp).
Did you end up buying one?
Good content. As an aspiring shop owner how do you get and keep momentum to open a shop in a niche market?
I opened my first 2 shops namely by setting an example in the market I targeted...i.e...do the best work I could on my own project. In my case, I swapped and put a nitrous kit on a pretty plain honda in 98 and was beating a lot of guys at the local street races. Soon, as people noticed they came asking questions, and I just moved into providing services. For me, I always pushed to keep ahead...I began importing engines through a company as an affiliate. I then started building swap harnesses and wired a few local swaps cheap. Starting in a niche requires being in the scene often, guerilla marketing basically. What really propelled me forward was just doing the mods that people wanted but few could execute well...forced induction, tuning, etc. I have tons of tactics for cheap marketing I used to do. Post an ad of a gt40r turbo or a part a lot of guys want... for 600 bucks (no intention on selling), take the pic with my whole shop and cars visible in the background. People would call the ad asking about the shop and not the turbo. I would take tons of project photos and my name/phone number would be in the background on the shop walls...this way I avoided being a "sponsor" or getting banned. I'd just talk about my own stuff and let that number be visible if you zoomed in. No promo language though. I put together huge car shows also...using corporate money, not my own...restaurants and their parking lots, race tracks, you name it. I could write a book on it...lol
KnightDriveTV nice brother. I wish I had marketing side. I can’t sell myself to save my life lol. Gotta learn it! I feel ya on the execution. I have always thrived on making the difficult look easy. One thing my career gave me that I didn’t expect was a lot of years trouble shooting dc controls and robotic type stuff that applies to my hobby with cars almost indefinitely. There’s literally nobody around here I trust so I just got into tuning. Bought hp tuners and could deff see the business side wanting to come out. I’ve avoided for 15 years of traveling and chasing a check. Feel it more than ever that it’s time to come home and do what I always wanted to. Anytime you feel like wanting to drop any financial side on me I’m all ears. I’ve got a little capital and strong credit. Just scared of making the jump from no strings paychecks to accountability for every dollar that goes and comes back. I enjoy the channel and content man. Look forward to anything you bring to the c5. The markets there. As far as scene, I miss the days. Maybe I’m just not around enough now, but when I had my 04 cobra and hayabusa 7-10 years ago it seemed 180 degrees different. Maybe I just don’t have my finger on that pulse yet. Anyways! Thanks for taking the time to reply! Have a good one bro!
Well, its all definitely changed. For me I also changed through numerous cities, so I decided to move into the online facet of it again. In mid 00's I fabbed a lot of headers for forced induction and shipped. Frankky the service side of the business...the B2P in person side...its tough. I tuned and did installs, fab, mods, etc. I wont repeat that side of it again personally. Youre married to the business and its just too immersive. I will say, tuning was more cut and dry versus long term builds. I often preached limited customer interraction time to people. The shorter you make that timeframe, the higher the success/approval rate. Growth with a service shop doing custom/high perf is hard because of the lack of skilled labor. You then invest and train, and they quit or abandon mid project. If you can install kits or just do tunes...something predictable and repetitive its far more manageable and predictable...and scalable. Goin on the hustle is always a risk of course but...that challenge often lights a fire partially based upon fear of loss. If you can grow the base layer of the business in tandem with your day to day, it takes a lot of risk away. Today, there are many more online marketing strategies and social media funnels I would exploit today vs how I did things 10yrs ago. Really depends on the locale, but finding some locals doing builds that you know will get visibility or are in a network themselves...helping them for cost or less profit in exchange for referrals is big. Its a tough game though man...very competitve, a lot of drama...lol...I dont miss it...lol. When we got the deal done to build turnkey cars and go more private...man...huge gane changer. As i said...could write a book...lol...no one reads books though anymore...haha
KnightDriveTV I just bought engine management: advanced tuning. There’s a few of us dinosaurs around that can appreciate text and long form conversation lol. Thanks for the knowledge. It’s not taken lightly. I’m about to try and make a real estate deal. If that can happen in a few years I should be able to open the small shop doing what I want and between managing the properties and the garage I will be double busy but infinitely more happy being driven by my success rather than a business or a union that I helped build but can’t control. I’m either planning to model after upper echelon builds that draw people to my remote area or move to a better place to manufacture and sell the parts I build with. I’ve followed a few guys rise to success that have done those. If you find fulfillment i think you can find the money. Just what I’ve come to believe the older I get. Work life balance is nonsense. Your life has to include your work. Nice talking to someone that’s done it and can talk about.
Really enjoy your channel man, How do you like living in Vegas?
Man, I love it. I have lived all over the country and Las Vegas just isnt what people think. This is a good city man...great weather, tons of mountains and outdoor awesomeness. We have Lake Mead..crystal clear water and private beaches you can camp on. Vegas has skiing up at Mt Charleston. I lived in New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Dallas, Atlanta, parts of Mississippi...Vegas is it man. As long as this covid bs doesnt wreck this city for good, its an awesome choice. I am very happy here so far. Weather is amazing as well. 9 mo of the yr its like the perfect experience. 3 months its toasty but low humidity makes it very easy to endure. Very glad I did it despite the cost/sacrifice it required
@@KnightDriveTV Yeah, I figured. I passed through Vegas when I was a kid and thought it was pretty awesome back then. I have a buddy who I served in the military with that lives there and I am planning on visiting him later this year after all this craziness has passed. He is the only person that I know there. I will look you up when I am there.
Also got a quick z06 question. Have you ever had the "service active handling" light come on? I have seen guys on youtube pull out the ecbm and repair it but I am wondering if replacing the ecbm is a better option. I spoke with a chevy dealer that told me it wasn't that critical and I could just drive it as is.
There is so much that can contribute to that alert. It can be anything from skewed alignment (steering wheel and yaw sensors disagree), to bad/faulty grounds, to the know ebcm issues. Best thing is to use a tech2 and scan the module data. You can get the china tech2 for like 250.00 and itll cover gm for lots of yrs. Have to really be sure with diagnostics, I never throw money at issues until I am positive. Good diagnostics is worth every penny of investment. I am going to do a vid on the cheaper version for tech2 that I use on laptop. Man...such a great tool for the money.
@@KnightDriveTV I appreciate the info on the tech2 scanner. I will have to look into one of those. What is your opinion of getting a cold air intake? I have heard mixed feedback on whether they are really worth putting one on. I already have long tube headers with cat deletes and msd ignition system on my c5 z06 which has added some power.
Air in/air out...always leads to more power but you really must get a tune. Once you change the intake your maf calibration needs corrected for proper fueling and to avoid a lot of fuel trim correction which then impacts your open loop pcm function. Theyre worth it but def get a tune. I have vararam but there are many different options.
Video starts at 3:20
Thank you for your service
Lol funny I just sold my f14 and I bought the C6Z06 rims and I also have the L5 fenders were you running spacers ?
I was running 1" spacers and stock c6z06 offsets
KnightDriveTV did your car have a powered antenna ? If so how did you do it
KnightDriveTV which stubby do you have
Actually content starts at 3:35
Last question sir
How was thst c4 as daily? I can get one really cheap now and im really considering it,
No hated was intended about that china tips, was kidding
Pretty good honestly. I had the LT1 car, with the ZF gearbox..that's the combo to own if you can (91-96). I tend to like the design of the pre 91 cars better though. C4's don't have the interior storage space that C5's do, so that factor was a big improvement for me. C4's have their squeaks and rattles, but are generally pretty reliable (except for optispark in LT1). L98's have a few woes but they're well documented online. I will have to say C5 is a definite step up...LS motor, much better chassis, etc, but if the C4 is cheap...can't really go wrong in my opinion. The early C4's had a real stiff suspension (with Z51) in the early years, so they at least do handle like a summbitch.
@@KnightDriveTV thank you, im looking at 91up
Do you happen to still have the supercharger kit and if so, would you be willing to sell it? 😁
Long sold.
How much does it cost to wrap ?
450 or so in material. If you paid labor, probably look somewhere around 1700-3500 depending on your locale and expertise, and of course color. Color shifting and chrome colors tend to add a bit to material cost and complexity of install.