Throttle Body Performance Question

[96GSTLA]

Just want to get some opinions from everyone...At what point is a good time to put on a larger throttle body? Does it make any difference with a relatively stock engine (minus intake filter and exhaust)? Or is it better to wait till upgrading the turbo? Thanks...

 

[XakEp]

The only real performance you'll get is slightly quicker throttle response. Other than that, assuming your turbo is well matched for your setup, you wont see any other gains.

 

[GVR4592]

The only real performance you'll get is slightly quicker throttle response. Other than that, assuming your turbo is well matched for your setup, you wont see any other gains.

That's not accurate. The throttle body can be a major restriction if you are flowing enough air.

 

[GVR4592]

The throttle body can be a major restriction if you are flowing enough air.

 

[Diplomat]

"Does it make any difference with a relatively stock engine (minus intake filter and exhaust)?" - 96GSTLA

The difference would be hardly measurable, even on a dyno. Once you've made 600+ whp and you're running out of things to upgrade, then it's time to consider things like larger throttle bodies.

If you're car is unmodified as indicated in your profile there are many other things you can upgrade/modify that will net you larger gains. The suggested upgrade path (Tuning Guide) is always a good place to start. The tuning guide isn't chisled in stone but some folks make the mistake of ignoring the advice of those who've come before us and go upgrading things out of order which can end up costing you time, money and performance.

 

[CodeMonkey]

The difference would be hardly measurable, even on a dyno. Once you've made 600+ whp and you're running out of things to upgrade, then it's time to consider things like larger throttle bodies.

If you're car is unmodified as indicated in your profile there are many other things you can upgrade/modify that will net you larger gains. The suggested upgrade path (Tuning Guide) is always a good place to start. The tuning guide isn't chisled in stone but some folks make the mistake of ignoring the advice of those who've come before us and go upgrading things out of order which can end up costing you time, money and performance.

I agree with the main substance of your post (follow the upgrade path), but that 600+ WHP remark is misleading and just plain false (especially for a 2G).

Unlike you 1G DSMers us 2G'ers are stuck with a tiny 52mm throttle body. Once you upgrade all the piping to the throttle body (including elbow) you should upgrade. The cheapest solution is a 1G throttle body (must be 91 or later) which is 60mm.

At around 300hp it's starting to become a restriction, before that it's not a big deal. Keep in mind you'll have to do some grinding on your intake manifold so the hole will be big enough.....