I am the proud owner of a 86 GXL with only 92,000 miles. It was so clean I bought it on seeing it. I have replaced the rear shocks and new tires all around. My next repair is brake lines, pads, and rotors.

My next choice is either front shocks or the Racing Beat dual exaust. I think the front shocks are good so would rather get the exhaust. If I get the latter would changes be required for the fuel?

The car is stock and an automatic (yea I know but it was in such great condition). The lady I bought it from had the shop manual and the 1985 Road and Track which featured the car.

TIA
Charles

 

Pics?

I'd get the exhaust if it's in worse condition than the shocks. What did you use as far as brand for the rear shocks?

The NA's have plenty of fuel to accomodate exhaust/intake mods.

 

Since its an NA nothing you can do short of a bridge port will cause you to nee more fuel. In most cases you actually need less.
And if your shocks are in good shape I would definately get the exhaust first. You won't be disappointed with the RB exhaust (unless you want something super loud) - it is a top quality piece with a nice refined sound to it.

 

I'd go with the shocks unless the P.O. did them. I mean you don't want your front different from the rear, and 92k miles seems like a bit. But hey, I'm a Honda fan <ducks>. Safety & reliability first and what not.

If you replace your cat be sure to deal with your 5th and 6th ports (search). And yeah, RB is super popular among both 1st and 2nd gen owners for a good reason.

 

PFSANTOS, I got Tokico shocks. I assume they are =to or > stocks. I do not intend to track or anything. Have a friend that does performance work on Honda's, Nissons, and others and it was what he recommended. He ordered me some Hawk pads, SS brake lines, and new rotors. Hope to get them installed this week. I have never posted pics on this site, but I do have some from previous owner. As far as I know front shocks are good. When I bought the car had oil and diff oil changed and while on lift saw an oil leak from passenger side rear. That is why I did that first. Pushing on the front of car I do not see an issue. It is stong. I will have my friend give me his advise.

Sideways7, thanks for the info. I think the front shocks are ok but I am not an expert. I was told that if rears were bad then probaly all were. Oh well it is just a decision to make. I have not had the car on Interstate due to these issues. Once I get them fixed I will feel better about getting some additional speed. I only live 7 miles from work with max speed of 50 mph. I may hit 60.

Ericgrau, I do not know what you mean by P.O. If I replace the cat what do you mean by dealing with the 5th and 6th port? I will do a search to see what I can find.

Thanks all for the information. If front shocks are ok I will go with the exhaust next and then the front shocks.