Top 5 Worst Performance Mods - VE/VF Commodore

This video shows you the top 5 worst performance mods to avoid making to your Holden VE/VF Commodore. Our top 5 worst modifications include choosing the wrong size exhaust, 20 inch wheels, non-functional aerodynamics, car stereos and poor maintenance routines. Making the wrong choice with these top 5 worst mods will cost you money, time and will often decrease the performance of your Holden VE/VF Commodore.
Performance modifications don't always need to be expensive and you can get big performance gains for your Holden Commodore with simple and inexpensive mods that we have profiled in our earlier video.
#carmods
#top5worstmods
#vfcommodore
#vecommodore

[@pedroangelo4244]

Agree with your top 5. If you extend to a top 10, you could throw in tinted headlights, chev badges and maybe rear window stickers!!!

[@martinkopp8759]

Dont forget the huge reverse cowl on the bonnet, fibreglass of course with no hole cut in the bonnet.

[@ClunieGarage]

Nice one Pedro, yes tinted lights are a classic. Up there with neon lights underneath the car!

[@ClunieGarage]

@@martinkopp8759 well said mate.

[@jeffreybamford7365]

Chev badges they are chevs to begin with what the fuck I've got em looks better than the none company logo

[@pedroangelo4244]

@@jeffreybamford7365 The VF was exported to the US and sold as a Chevy SS. It is not a chev to begin with.

[@GregoryShtevensh]

Hey I love you vids! I just wanted to add one thing... Its not that you want backpressure... you want as little backpressure as possible really... But what you still need is velocity! If the pipe is too wide, the gasses will slow down, reducing the suction effect next time the exhaust valve opens. If its too thin, you'll have too much backpressure. The ideal size, is thin enough to keep gasses moving quickly, but thick enough to keep backpressure low. Kind regards

[@snapperhead1355]

Watched a few of your educational videos mate, great work and I subscribed, look forward to more vids, I've got a VF R8 so your mod ideas are perfect for me 👍

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, thanks for the sub and glad you like our latest video.

[@MelodyMan69]

Changed the AM FM Radio CD Player when the CD stuffed up. 2007 VE had pretty basic system Pioneer DAB Radio, CD/DVD, Reversing Camera, USB. VERY HAPPY..

[@tysonrichards2011]

Very informative, that's why I subscribed :-)

[@ClunieGarage]

Awesome, thank you!

[@ThomasT56]

Awesome video! I've got 18s on the way and a 2.5 inch exhaust, with headers and high flow cats on the way. I daily my car so I have upgraded my stereo because I love music in the car, if I ever track it I'm not gonna be blasting music though!

[@stevenchandler4218]

Yes Fred I agree about the stereo systems. If you have a good strong engine the music is under the bonnet. Why would you want to listen to anything else man.. Good Advice.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Steven, you betcha, all the music you need is those 8 cylinders at full noise.

[@Wazza722]

Couldn’t agree with you more about 20” wheels! I put 19’s on my vz calais and it used to bounce and loose traction around corners and the ride was terrible! Went back to 17’s with 60’s!

[@dhowison6052]

What’s the deal with Z series using 19’s??

[@shaggz20022002]

I agree if you're going for a track setup. But if you're going for a mean cruiser look then there's nothing wrong with big wheels and a stereo. I've got full hurricane system 3inch on my VF2 redline and the factory 19s so they go over the 4pot brakes. The exhaust system sounds amazing especially with a mid size cam.

[@ClunieGarage]

Nice one mate. Yes, we are all about mods for the track as opposed to cruising. All good.

[@CurtisLSA]

Agree with the dont delete cats or the likes . I have a 3 inch exhaust with 2 inch headers for my GTS . Sounds great and is suppose to be better for the cam upgrade i am getting

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Curtis, yep good idea stepping up exhaust for bigger displacement and supercharged applications. When do you get the cam?

[@CurtisLSA]

@@ClunieGarage unfortunately due to the banks and the covid thing getting around it’s difficult to get a loan nowadays and paying off my house I will have to now save up for it with will be a few months

[@ClunieGarage]

@@CurtisLSA sounds like a plan. Keep saving and you will get there. Will be worth the wait!

[@OG_Zenny]

Great vid! Since you guys are on the topic of performance, maybe a mythbusters about strut/tower braces with the ve/vf platform? Unless it's already been done!

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Zenny, we have never fitted strut braces to the VE-VF platform so we can't talk from personal experience. In fact, I can't recall ever seeing a brace fitted to a VE-VF. Are you thinking about stiffening your front end?

[@OG_Zenny]

@@ClunieGarage Once upon a time i was thinking about it, but research through various forums was pretty sporadic. Couldn't get a real answer, and thought maybe you guys had come across this, or tried it yourselves. Most people just say a good swaybar and links is the go but yeah, thought id ask!

[@SussNit]

There is a kit for the VF made by whiteline. The towers require drilling. 3 holes each tower. In the earlier models vy/vz in friends cars that had the braces, it definately made a difference to body roll, the front end was more responsive and stiffer.

[@johnoloveshis89vnformulavf49]

@@SussNit now I have always wanted to know how good it would be fixed to my VF aswell. But don't know if I should or not because I've been waiting. For good feedback or more information about how well it would work for the VE/VF platform guys. Does anyone know or have they had any mates that may have already got their cars done with a set of struts and the braces set up???

[@SussNit]

@@johnoloveshis89vnformulavf49 i wont be doing it for the simple fact I'm not willing to drill the body of the car end of story. Its a pitty because its a great thing to have on the street let alone the track upgrade.

[@MrClemmo13]

Great vlog and great advice! My VE SSV (G8) 2010 has only driven 48631km. 🤦🏻‍♂️It’s now got Lifter problems. It’s making a loud tapping sound. The cheapest quote I had to replace the Lifters was $3800

[@angry9901]

At least you get to throw a nice cam into it while your there. Money well spent!😁

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Clemmo, so sorry to hear about your lifter noises. Check out videos on DoD delete and saving your LS. Sounds like it might be a bit late though...

[@MrClemmo13]

@@ClunieGarage Thanks for that. I’ll definitely check it out

[@ssvr3dl1n38]

Get yourself a nice cam upgrade kit put in (mild cam, push rods, springs, etc) and while there, pay the extra to have LS7 lifters to replace the stock set.

[@Jdawgmateface420]

Solid info!! I have a VE GXP manual sedan and I’m looking to give her some love. she has a walkinshaw build and nice coil overs( a bit too low) on 19 semi slicks, I’m starting to here some rattles here and there, any tips on redoing bushes and other running gear? she’s rigid enough I just want her sounding tidy again... Also if I decided to put some work into the diff or gearbox what would be recommended or is certain services appropriate? Ohh also they have odd size rotors on the GXP, any tips on replacing rotors and pads? as I’m sure they aren’t far off. And when I went looking it seems they aren’t many options? If it wasn’t rare as hens teeth I’d just sell it but this time around... I’m keeping it! Btw your channel and attitude is amazing keep it up!!!

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Josh, you are in luck! We just posted a video on a full suspension bush upgrade to our VE SS ute. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXOzpn5_d8t3jNE These bushes will tighten everything up and make it feel like factory again. Not cheap, but worth it to get the most out of your coilovers and hour wheel alignment will stick. Diff and gearbox servicing just requires oil changes normally, but in terms of a performance upgrade, have you thought about fitting 3.7 diff gears? With brakes and rotors, get the exact measurement and there are heaps of aftermarket options out there for replacements. Try DBA (we have them fitted to our VF and VE), in different rotor sizes and we are trialling Hawk pads. They are amazing and well worth it. We have videos on both of these mods on the channel. Hope this helps mate and please let us know how hou going go.

[@Jdawgmateface420]

@@ClunieGarage absolute legend! Yeah I have 4/11’s I like the feeling of always needing to control wheel spin, it’s like an LSA when ya can’t afford one.... And it seems to cope ok in 5th n 6th in the rain, she gives way better fuel economy around town than the factory ratio Hahahah it’s always driven in 4th... and it holds wheel spin through 2nd into 3rd in the dry, and 4th if ya greedy, all this fun just with 4:11 and a good clutch. I’ll jump on and check out the videos, now :) on bushes! Can you use any particular high grade oils that are better than oem or recommended for HP setups? Still looking for rotors FK it ... I need to do a measure up, and call around... because the GXP is not listed in the parts catalogue much, if I get the disc measurements I’m sure I’ll find something in USA under the Pontiac listing. hawk uses the G8 Pontiac GXP setup but I’m not sure if it fits the calliper/rotor that Holden fitted to the car. More investigation to be done. As I’ve ordered them before and didn’t fit... do you have a rotor recommendation I’m happy spend money? Thanks again for all the info, and I’ll pop in and see ya if I’m eva in ya area.

[@michaelcinar1452]

Excellent video well done.

[@ClunieGarage]

Thanks Michael!

[@PBMS123]

I went to 18" from the OEM 19" because I prefer the look, and also wanted a little more sidewall for cornering and power. Good to know that I made the right choice.

[@FredmChoice]

Well Said and Agree. 2 Thumbs up

[@ClunieGarage]

Thanks mate, glad you like it!!

[@jamestehuna5915]

Yeah perfect top 5 I agree even though I have them 20s and after market head unit but I am getting them black ESR SR01 18inch great content again men love it

[@ClunieGarage]

Thanks James

[@zoozu2067]

Agree with everything, not a fan of huge stereo systems either. Nice to have tunes in the background but stock stereo at modest volume is the go.

[@ClunieGarage]

You betcha, thanks for watching.

[@gizengar111]

Only change stereo when the speakers or amp shit out on you.

[@souldrummer818]

Interestingly I took off the two rear mufflers off a VE 3.0 wagon that I use for work. It has made a big difference in better fuel economy. I do a lot of highway driving. Did the same to my SS ute, just sounds nice, not to loud. Great show by the way just discovered your channel. Use to do track days myself at sandown in a RX8, brilliant handling car with good set of springs and tyers. Keep up the good info guys 👍

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, thanks for tuning in. Yes, some muffler deletes are OK, I guess we just draw the line at full straight throughs. I hear that Sandown is going to close to make way for a massive housing development. How sad...

[@souldrummer818]

@@ClunieGarage wow didn't know that, that shouldn't be allowed,the government is robbing us from any joys in life.

[@jamesalbrecht418]

I did the same on my 3.0 wags as well as removing the resonator of the intake and just Fab a Aluminium pipe left the Stock air box with a K n s panel filter and set up a catch can because I was finding a lot oil residue in the intake now IV been catching a lot crap in the catch can I think that has also helped fuel economy keeping my octane level higher

[@grantreid3031]

@@jamesalbrecht418 The oil residue is because you are using a K&N filter they allow a lot of dirt through causing ring and bore wear which cause the blowby that gives you the oily residue and of course severely shortens the engine life. It may be to late but bin the K&N and go to a paper filter and just change it more often.

[@AJS86]

@@grantreid3031 I'd say the pcv system wasn't working right. To be getting oil at the air intake sounds like the oil isn't getting out properly & pressure building up. The Alloytec V6s were notorious for getting clogged as the outlet was too small for how infrequently the oil was changed. Leading to sludge and timing chain issues 15,000km 12 months was far too long an interval. There's always going to be some blow by and such. But a lot comes from the rocker covers too. I've got 330,000 on my Alloytec LY7 SV6 have a small catch can and empty it once a year and have used K&N filters for about 200k of that.

[@georgepanagiotakakos8706]

Great video! I know it's probably a bit of a long shot, but if you were to upgrade an exhaust on a 3.0L VF evoke, whats the way to go? How can I get a bit of extra performance/nice engine note, but no drone?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day George, we don't have any first hand experience with exhaust mods on the 6 cylinder VFs unfortunately. Your local exhaust shop may be able to help with a header and twin exhaust combo that will free up the flow and add a note. Try to stick with mild steel systems and good quality mufflers to avoid the dreaded drone.

[@Wazza722]

Change the rear mufflers to a free flowing muffler. Too much back pressure from the standards. Leave the rest you need velocity!

[@efrenarnold5379]

Good video mate . Just wondering , can I use or should I use 10W 40 on my V.E SS? Thanks for your time and effort

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, from memory 10W-40 was the recommended oil for LS1s across VT-VY V8s. I am pretty sure 5W-30 is the recommended oil for VE SS V8 engines but double check your oil cap and vehicle manual.

[@efrenarnold5379]

@@ClunieGarage thanks for replying and the info . Across the road where I work I guy owned a VF SS and he reckon he used 10-40 for his SS . That’s why I thought I should ask the experts . Thanks for your advice very simple but accurate answer

[@lizardspawnofdeath]

I'm very happy with my stainless twin 3" exhaust. Maybe having an OTR and tuned headers has something to do with it

[@michaelsawley6569]

I have the same with Xforce 3" catback with Varex and extractors, mafless OTR and tune to go with the mild cam with mid 220 duration. It’s a great package, very responsive and great on the highway and city

[@michaelheath374]

Cheers for the 18s recommendation I was thinking 20s but now I’ll stick with 18 or 19s

[@ClunieGarage]

Nice one mate. If you are looking to take your car to the track, you won't regret going 18s. Better selection in semi slick tyres and forged wheels.

[@dallascowboy23]

I reckon changing the name of the video to "worst track/race car mods" would eliminate about 90% of the comments on here saying "my 3inch rims stereo is awesome" Bravo on even attempting an internet video telling people their mods are the worst!!!! Brave man ;)

[@frankwren8215]

>backpressure Amazed this myth persists to this day

[@jasonstranthon7571]

So for 18" wheels what brakes would you recommend? Almost all upgraded brakes from a stock SS ive looked at require 19"+ wheels to fit them ? Like anything the size of SSV brakes need 19" they keep telling me. Are you saying I should go a custom set ? Any recommendations ? I know I can fit better calipers (more pots etc) without 19" wheels but what about the discs? Supercars run on 18" wheels afaik or at least used to, but they have ducted cooling and I haven't done that yet, tho plan too in the future basically following your vid for doing it :)

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Jason, I have managed to fit my VF Redline brembo brakes under my forged Koya 18s. Have profiled this on a video on the channel. Also, Harrop sell forgeline wheels in 18s that clear their ultimate big brake kit as profiled on their Monaro 427 project build.

[@hoonaticbloggs5402]

Your wrong about the exhaust back pressure. About 1 foot of pipe after the extractors is proven to be optimal for power, but for street use, agreed. I totally agree on 18’s and can’t stand oversized wheels

[@garrygoode1265]

great advice!..... agree with every one! ;)

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, glad you like the vid and thanks for watching.

[@bradenfalconer5772]

Not everyone takes their car to a track, most of us just take them out for a cruise or have some fun

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day, yes I get that and that's why I mentioned that the video was focused on performance mods with track use in mind.

[@IRONSIGHTxx]

Oi! I totally agree with everything you've said here and love your videos, But- the black wheels on Black Betty look pretty huge?? Just curious.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day and welcome to the channel. The black wheels we have fitted to Black Betty are acthally on loan from our VF race car. They are the original VF Redline SS 19" black gloss wheels. We have Koya semi forged wheels fitted to the VF, so the black factory wheels are now spare. They are much lighter and look better than our VE wheels.

[@streetheat3366]

The whole back pressure thing is a debate that has raged for years. At low RPM you might have some issues with a big exhaust system but the higher the RPM range the better velocity, turbulence and flow. I’ve seen big and small on the dyno with V8’s and seen larger and smaller systems about 50/50 just the dB levels are different.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, agree it is a debate. We can't fault the gains we have achieved with the smaller headers and exhaust to our VE. A speed shop in WA (Street Quick) has also done a big write up on exhaust sizes and power output/track times which is hard to ignore as well.

[@ashjackson7]

Totally agree with your list, however, I must make 1 exception. My car will never see a race track, and is more so just for use as a daily, and I recently upgraded to 20" rims with staggered tyres. I have never felt so much traction or road handling in my life. I appreciate the enforced roll around a track would be best on 18's, but for a daily, 20's with wider tyres is definitely better.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Ash, nice one. Yes good rubber on a daily is the way to go. You will have to try 18s and semi slicks on the track. Awesome combo.

[@tomnewham1269]

The extra grip could be down to having wider tyres on the rear.

[@AJS86]

Definitely can't see that 20's would be very good with turning any corner. Or keeping fillings in the teeth with any upgraded suspension

[@AJS86]

I used to have 19s on the SV6 with coilovers and it was rough on the road. 18s on it now and so much nicer.

[@kalani1987]

I have 2.5" Corsa Catbacks and am thinking of getting the Harrop OTR Cai. Would I need a tune to realise any performance improvement?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day David, you will get a minor improvement once you fit the OTR as you will get more air flow and it will run a tad lean on the standard tune. Now that you have an exhaust and fit the OTR, its a perfect time to get a tune and align your AFRs to get the most out of the bolt ons. Have you thought about getting some headers as well?

[@grantreid3031]

Top gear did a track test and got faster lap times with the smaller wheels over the 20" ones you need a bit of sidewall flex.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Grant, yes we agree. That is why we have gone with 18" Koyas and semi slicks on our VF. 20" are for auto salons and those days are over!!!

[@tonyt6751]

I have a VZ SSZ Crewman, grumpy 300 rwKw LS1, that came with 18's standard. It has the slightly larger front rotors and calipers as do the Monaro's. I put on a set of (lighter) 19x8's (same offsets) as they look better (to me)....and noticed a reduction in brake performance immediately. Has to do with the larger rotating mass and ......blah blah! So... I had to spend more money putting on grooved rotors and better pads to get back what I lost for looks! Smart thinkin' eh!

[@rileyirvin8114]

G'day Fred, Where did you get your ute's rear diffuser mate? cheers.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, I picked up this bar with factory diffuser at a wrecker. It came from a later model VE apparently.

[@kevinobrien4155]

I can't remember who it was maybe harrop. But they did a video on exhausts and a stock l76 77 had gains all through the rpm in power and torque when going twin 3 over 2.5. I went with a twin 3 inch on my cammed ve would definitely recommend.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Kevin, we agree - if you start to mod the 6.0 platform, a twin 3" is the go. However, I recall SQP in WA also did some interesting tests on the stock L77 with smaller headers and exhausts vs bigger units and the results pointed towards smaller being the go. Will try and find it and send you the link.

[@truckies28]

Hi mate, what do you recon would be best option for exhaust ( not too pricey)

[@ClunieGarage]

Go for the Manta if you can.

[@davidkass3444]

I installed the big 4 piston brakes from the VE Maloo/GTS and I can't find 18" wheels that will fit over them, only 19". Do you know of any 18" options that will fit?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day David, try Koyas. We have fitted 18" Koyas to the VF that fit over the factory brembos.

[@YenZenBamboo]

I have to say that the garden edging on my 80 cruiser wheel arches are still on it from the previous owner. Lol. It’s my bogan salute. 🤟☮️😎👍

[@bevant8275]

The green on that truck is nice mate. I don't agree on stereo, I just turn it off when I want to listen to my ssv. Got to have my country tunes sometimes.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, yes the green is a custom mix I made - based on IH green with gold metallic flake.

[@megamond]

Apologies if already covered - what is the make/model of the AV towers speakers near the TV?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, they are pioneers. Will need to look up their model.

[@conpoulos7233]

Hmmm the HSVs came standard with 20s drive Fine, I think there's no issue with 19s but more then 20 is a no go... IMO

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Con, yes understand your point about HSVs but this is mainly to appease the mass volume of buyers looking for aesthetics and to clear the large brakes without fitting custom offset wheels. V8 supercars run 18s, the top semi slick manufacturers largest available tyre size is a 18 (e.g. Yokohama ADVAN AO50) and many track day enthusiasts and performance builds (see Harrop Monaro 427 Ultimate Street Car), all chose to step down a run a 18.

[@onlyfamz]

does back pressure sit the valves better or something?

[@andrewroman4982]

American, 2009 Pontiac G8 GT here. I got the car around November of 2020 after wanting it since it came to the states in 07'. I only drove it for a few months before I tore it apart in February on somewhat of a small budget. DOD delete, 1 7/8" Kooks Long tube headers, BTR stage 2 cam, E85 kit, VCM OTR intake, Summit 25% underdrive pulley. It originally started as "just" a cam swap but clearly things got a bit out of hand. What would you suggest for my next couple of mods moving forward? I may be jumping the gun a bit as currently it's still in the garage in pieces waiting on a few small parts to finish the build. Car is otherwise stock except for Solo axleback Jpipes and some 20" Camaro SS wheels put on by the previous owner (not a fan but they don't look too terrible). The car is also mostly just a weekend toy and will likely only see around 5k miles a year or so. Also, what kind of power do you think these mods will make? Build will be done probably in the next couple of weeks so I'll check back in with some dyno numbers soon! P.S. the packaging for the VCM intake was insanely over the top and way too nice for us Americans. I love it! haha Love the content. Keep it up!

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Andrew, your mods so far and the platform you are working with are a great start. Will be very interesting to hear your initial dyno numbers and based on what you are saying, with the right tune 350rwkw should be possible. I don't fully understand your goals or intended use for the car, but in terms of your next performance mods, have a think about a trunnion upgrade to go with your new cam, cnc head porting, heavy duty clutch (assuming its a manual or 3.5k stall convertor if auto), 3.7 diff gears for even more poke and acceleration. From a handling perspective, have you thought about bushes refresh, coilovers, brakes upgrade? We have videos on the channel about most of these topics and we are really keen to hear how you go.

[@andrewroman4982]

@@ClunieGarage The car is mainly just used to roll around town on the weekends. I will probably take it to a 1/4 track atleast once to see what it does, though. It's also an auto, only the GXP came with a manual and the 6.2. I really wanted a torque converter to port the heads but I couldn't convince the wife to let me spend anymore money on the car. I can't complain, she okayed quite a bit before cutting me off. I see the trunion upgrade mentioned alot. How often do they fail?

[@ClunieGarage]

@@andrewroman4982 G'day mate, if you have the engine internals standard (e.g. cam), the original trunnions are normally OK. But with high lift cams and additional pressure on the valve train, then issues can arise, particularly at big revs. Cheap insurance and check out our video on it. We used the BTR upgrade kit when we did ours. Fred.

[@andrewroman4982]

@@ClunieGarage I guess I won't really beat on the car when it's running and I'll try to convince the wife to let me get the trunion upgrade next. Appreciate the input. 👍

[@turbobrian]

wheels, the BEST wheel is 18" light-weight, but the key here is the weight, the less un-sprung weight, the better. I 100% agree with the 20" issue, went 20's on my VX SS yrs ago (swapped from 17" stock) and acceleration was worse, handling was crap. Moved to drilled VE-18" wheels, the weight was so much less, and the car felt really really nice to drive afterwards. Went back to 17's for sale time, and if still felt nice, but the 18's were a sweet point.

[@ClunieGarage]

Nice one. Check out our wheels mods video for our support of 18"'s!

[@luijay8139]

Just wondering, in the snot box dyno vid, the exhaust was 2.5" but didn't it have straight through mufflers?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day, the snot box has a centre muffler and removable rear twin mufflers for the track.

[@marcelburkhardt2710]

If I’m not planning to race can I please keep my 20s? 😂 On another note what would you recommend for regular service maintenance? Eg oil change etc? Do a vid on a daily driver service plan

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Marcel, yes you can keep your 20s, all good! Funny you should mention a service maintenance video, Frankie and I were just discussing it. We will make it in a few weeks.

[@spaghetti5038]

18 is of course best for performance but cant deny 20 inch wheels look good on ve vf. No bigger tho

[@jeffreybamford7365]

I've got three and a half inch not straight through but ..sounds great I don't think it's loud enough .. tyre issue I agree with I have trouble fitting tyre's .wings are for planes personally..radios not in my car my music is my V8

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Jeffrey, we agree with you. Best sound is those 8 cylinders rumbling. If you want more noise, get some extractors and look into your cats - meow 😆

[@jeffreybamford7365]

@@ClunieGarage I've got three inch headers xflow system right through with cats and mufflers it has to be roadworthy ..it's bad enough the cops break there necks everytime they see me I live in a small town not trying to be cop bait hahaha.

[@jasonsingleton1901]

Totally agree!

[@ClunieGarage]

Thanks for checking out our videos mate!

[@jasonsingleton1901]

I’m hooked! Loving it thankyou.

[@Big-Show1]

My VFII Redline has VMC OTR Intake, My own tune, 1-3/4in headers, Twin Cat back 3" system. The dyno shows peak wheel KW's at 300.5 with gains across the whole rev range (compared to 2.5" system) Cars with 2.5in systems are getting nowhere near 300RWKW's. Actually, I haven't seen many 3" system crack 299 either.... Fine tuning the tune goes a long way in getting that 2-5 extra HP 🤣

[@lukeneill1568]

I have vf series 2 redline with ramjet triple step headers and cats with a manta 2.5 inch and harrop intake and I got 311kw atw

[@Big-Show1]

@@lukeneill1568 👍 Must be e85 or a different Dyno. The numbers are pretty consistent at the workshop I go to. Nothing NA on 98 is that high without a cam upgrade. Head and cam you're looking at 330+rwkw It's amazing how much a few extra HP feels on the road though.

[@letsputunuthasrimpon]

The garden edging does have an effect. Why do you think lakes cars run rubber skirts? Cleans up underbody airflow and aids with diffuser action by lowering overall pressure underbody. Also theres plenty of good 20" tyre options in 2023 considering the shear amount of high end vehicles tgat run them. It can be done better than you have.

[@joshuajardine2124]

Where did you get the btr banner I want one

[@xXMrFreshIceXx]

Is it worth getting sway bars cause I want to improve the handling of my vf series 2 sv6

[@ClunieGarage]

Yes, upgraded sway bars are important if used with a set of coilovers and wheel alignment. Don't set them up too hard though or your car will handle worse.

[@davidbaird23]

Could you do a video on the vz commodore?

[@csr2racer598]

Hi mate I am late I got a 2011 commodore ve do you reckon it will be a good idea of bucket sets/maybe a sv6 body kit and blacked but rims?

[@csr2racer598]

*Out*

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, they sound like good mods if that is what floats your boat! What are your goals for the 2011 Commodore?

[@dizzystj]

I bought my 1st v8 in 2017 as a 40yr old.i bought the ssv redline ute and love it I deliberately chose white and have done no mods.but if you have suggestions that would good or should I just leave it alone.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day and congratulations on buying your redline. Values have gone through the roof over the last 12 months and you now own part of Australian automotive history. In terms of mods advice, what is your intended purpose for the car? If it is a daily driver, I would be inclined to leave it alone and maybe just consider a simple intake, exhaust and tune to give it more sound, driver engagement and response. If you want heaps more power then I provide more detail!

[@dizzystj]

@@ClunieGarage thank you so much for your reply. I don’t drive my Ute much in fact iv only put 12000ks on the clock and kinda want to keep it factory and a daily driver but would love to get some more grunt out of her but also keeping the mods safe for the engine

[@Michka1001]

I run 18s on my VF as I just stick to the stock rims (just not stock from my model). Only reason I've been considering upgrading to 19s is to try and fill the wheel well out a bit, the 18s look so small on it 😅

[@Phymatic]

Get meatier tyres IMO. More meat on the wheels looks mean. I only run 20's because my clubby came with them from the factory but I don't race the car at tracks either. I did size up the tyre in the rear anyway for a little more meat.

[@kriscreamedonu2221]

Put VF 18s on my ve only downside is council's don't fix potholes so expect pot hole abuse

[@Michka1001]

@Phymatic I've sold it since, I got sick of fixing issue after issue with it. Still love the VF, but mine was a total lemon.

[@Michka1001]

@kriscreamedonu2221 even my 4x4 struggles on the roads here on the south coast, most 4x4 tracks are smoother 🤦‍♂️

[@kriscreamedonu2221]

@@Michka1001 that suks most ve or vfs usually are reliable

[@makagio]

I think 20inch alloys with at least a 35 profile are fine for day-to-day driving (crusing) I wouldn't want to bring 20inches to the track though.

[@ClunieGarage]

Yep agree. We have fitted 18" Koyas for track use - largest size for Yokohama Advans as well which says a lot!

[@throttlegalsmagazineaustra7361]

Loud pumpin' music giving everyone GBH of the earhole also means you can't hear sirens of ambos and fireys.

[@ClunieGarage]

So true. Am not a fan at all. Thanks for tuning in!

[@john-hv4yh]

Quick question I have vf ss wagon put mild cam headers otr hiflow cats has 3inch dual exhaust Dod delete but no permits am I up for yellow sticker ?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day John, not too sure what you mean by yellow sticker. As in defect sticker?

[@john-hv4yh]

@@ClunieGarage yes a defect

[@czr7j9]

i've got a 2.5 exhaust and thought i was the only one. The reason being the 3 inches i heard would drone at about 2.5 rpm. It is a HM header exhaust who also supply walkingshaw(or did 10 years ago), who then mark them up substantially. good advice here

[@lukeneill1568]

I have 3 inch on my maloo doesn’t get driven as much is obnoxiously loud though no worries about drone being a ute. Have a 2.5 on my vf series 2 note is deeper. Sounds more refined and no drone. Makes all the noise you want when you open it up.

[@khg8519]

NZ The wheels: are of a known and reputable brand, and would be considered an appropriate fitment for the vehicle type by the wheel manufacturer, and are not modified, and do not have spacers or adaptors fitted, and have a load rating acceptable for the axle rating (or vehicle GVM where axle rating is not available). Note: Spare wheel is often OE and can be used for comparison. Tyres the tyres: have an outer circumference that is no more than 5% greater than OE, and are an appropriate selection for rim width (see the LVVTA's Tyre size to wheel size compatibility guide, and have a load rating suitable for the axle (or vehicle where axle mass is not available) have a speed rating suitable for the vehicle the tyre tread does not protrude beyond: in the case of a vehicle that is not a class NA or class MC vehicle, the unmodified original body panels or factory fitted mudguard extension/flare; or in the case of an class NA or class MC vehicle, 25mm outside of the unmodified original body panels, provided that a flare or wheel arch extension covers the full width of the tyre tread.

[@khg8519]

what im getting at is the rim section do what ever you want then the tyre section says your screwed

[@crunchied8]

I am wondering what about power cruise events just a nice upgrade sound system than stock since the old ve vf car systems are horrible thanks

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day, I recommend for the best sound for LS engine to go with DPF-Manta headers and mild steel systems. They seem to have the best design and muffler resonances as well as performance.

[@crunchied8]

@@ClunieGarage could you go with stainless than mild steel because mild steel rusts so quickly also i was trying to stero and speakers just to upgrade stock speakers and stero with better ones that aren't out of date

[@quincismajors4986]

I put a rotofab intake on mine...is that bad?

[@grettagrids]

Over here in the USA. Its fart can mufflers and loud booming stereos that are pretty. Silly, all noise and no power boost.a launch control tune. I can understand but they race on the highways and feeways. Right past speed traps cops hide. At.. i dont understand this two step mod so many use here at all. Good way to blow a turbo..

[@TotaLDeath187]

@Clunie Garage. At 4:44 I literally almost wet myself. That was fu*king gold.

[@brianwalsh9672]

Hi there I have vf Calais v 2014 v8 sometimes when I start the car it says fail to connect an fail to update what does that mean

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Brian, give Marcus a call at Gentech Automotive in Mitchell, Canberra.

[@jamestehuna5915]

Thumbs up as soon as it started

[@ClunieGarage]

Thanks mate!!!

[@martinkopp8759]

Loud stereos playing Lamb of God or Rammstein will make you go heaps faster. None of this hip hop rap crap either.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Martin, love it classic. I always found ACDC made me drive faster! I had a big moment with Motley Crue's Kick Start My Heart blaring from the Torana in my younger days!

[@hairyscary8511]

Lot's of people set up their road cars as drag cars(we'll think they are)& wonder why it handles like crap ,better off setting up your daily as a mild touring car/ weekend track car

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, couldn't agree more! Thanks for watching.

[@mischief372]

Will 2.25 exhaust be okay for Ve sv6 manual?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, that should be heaps big enough for a SV6 - I assume its twin?

[@mischief372]

Yes it is a twin

[@banurajayakody645]

i figured out that i can double my fuel economy by turning on the radio, when i cant hear the exhausts popping, i dont plant my right foot to the floor at every traffic light, turns 2 days worth of petrol into a weeks worth

[@ClunieGarage]

Haha, nice one!

[@SussNit]

The old back pressure argument haha, I've seen 10rwkw loss from no cats on a dyno, then you hear some people say they gain or no loss. Go figure.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, long time no hear! Last comment you were giving it to some space cadet that made a disparaging comment on one of our videos!! We have tested a bunch of systems and you definitely need some sort of pressure.

[@SussNit]

I dont remember giving it to someone but im sure your right i tend to forget online stuff i prefer the face to face.

[@SussNit]

I have 100 cells on my car and im happy with it. Sounds very good without that horrible smell of straight through cats.

[@stuli6007]

Spot on Pal. I'm into old school cars but the same applies there too. Big exhaust, big wheels, aerodynamics everywhere OMG I could throw up! I look at the mods (mistakes) you mention and just laugh.........

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, thanks for watching and we agree with you. Sometimes I just shake my head. Especially when they then do a tutorial video on KZbin about it!!!!

[@nicholaskennett491]

My ve ssv came standard with 19” wheels

[@MartinJones123]

P Platers and their V6 commodores sound the worst... Crappy sounding exhausts, E-Bay 'special' mods... The list goes on...

[@ClunieGarage]

Yep, true that!

[@MelodyMan69]

I used a LUKEY when the rear muffler started to fall apart. Not loud and not stupid. Low volume 'burble'.

[@MartinJones123]

@@MelodyMan69 Eh, some of them can sound okay (just okay), but they aren't inherently great sounding, even in stock form...

[@saylahrpaaka8114]

rear mufflers delete should be alright ?

[@bblr4294]

LOL!

[@properaussie331]

20inch light weights with pirelli tyres is the way to go for street hsv’s with high HP Otherwise what you say for track is the best.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Proper Aussie, we love 18" Koyas semi-forged wheels fitted with Yokohama ADVAN A050 semi-slicks as our combination of choice for the track.

[@bryanp4827]

I think i agree about wheel size, 20's are pretty impractical...

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, yes agree with you. Not very practical at all and high performance tyre choices (e.g. semi-slicks), are non-existent unfortunately.

[@bryanp4827]

@@ClunieGarage I'm thinking of going 19's on my FG instead of 20's...

[@JamesTessa]

What exhaust would you recommend for a sv6 vf Ute. Looking for loud but also drivable ?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day James, we don't have any experience with 6 cylinder Commodores unfortunately. We typically go with DPE-Manta or Xforce systems.

[@JamesTessa]

@@ClunieGarage thanks for help mate

[@dekac011]

My VE SSV 60th anniversary came with factory 20inch wheels

[@angry9901]

Sorry to hear about that but you can always get a set of 18 inch Koya as a performance upgrade.🌞

[@4theSurf]

What 18s clear VE HSV brakes?

[@angry9901]

Saw a bloke with Enkei 18s on his VE Clubsport. Looked really good.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, Koyas will also clear them. Have a look at the Harrop KZbin channel as they have built a Monaro with massive brakes and they fit 18" Forgelines to it.

[@Treeman5744]

Everything is a compromise. I've got a cammed ve ss with long tube 4-1 headers and a 3" exhaust with 3 mufflers. Makes about 30hp more than another ve with the same cam but 4-2-1 headers and less mufflers. Did it more for the tone (not volume) but you lose a lot of ground clearance. 18s are great for the track but imo tyre sizes aren't all that great. I've found most 200tw tires are around 265/35 or 245/40 which is a bit small for my liking. I think 255/35r20 and 275/35r20 are perfectly reasonable for street duties.

[@angry9901]

What cam are you running and what sort of power does it make?

[@Treeman5744]

@@angry9901 Hi Torque performance custom HTP01. From memory it's around 224/230 @0.050°, 114 LSA, 0.6" lift. ~440 rwhp / 330 rwkw. L77 with manual trans. Closest VCM grind would probably be the VCM5SC.

[@angry9901]

Nice result right there, pretty wide LSA.

[@Treeman5744]

@@angry9901 Yeah it's still a daily most of the time so plenty lumpy enough for me

[@adrianfurniss7222]

If 20” tyres and rims are so bad why do the ve Hsv come with 20’s stock???

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day, primarily to clear massive brakes and for aesthetics.

[@secretRBRman]

Who remembers the 80s gilmer drive's fake supercharger whines! wonder if they still make them lol

[@ClunieGarage]

Haha classic, I remember them! I wonder if you can still buy them?

[@secretRBRman]

@@ClunieGarage yes apparently you can kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHrJnoyNfcqpa5o&ab_channel=CarTorque

[@TheJetadv]

Agree with everything except you saying that back pressure makes power more power on a ls..it doesn’t matter what engine it is 😂😂 it’s proven that back pressure is not a restriction no if’s or buts…it’s dyno proven not what someone thinks ✌️

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, there is a really interesting tech article on Street Quicks website about some of the testing and r&d they have done in this regard with different size headers and exhausts - check this out www.streetquick.com.au/

[@tomnewham1269]

The wrong exhaust has got to be my biggest pet hate of all time. The worse has to be exhaust mods done to V6 commodores, why oh why do P platers (they are the main offenders) think that they know better than the Holden engineers that designed them.

[@ClunieGarage]

Agree Tom! Cat deletes, full straight thru's, drilled holes in mufflers are my favourites! Not!

[@phmaximus]

functional aero.... I get what you are saying but most of the cars these days are so fake, and the VE is no exception, just look at the HSV range and the SS-V with the Pontiac front end. Functioning or not its part of the new style... dead set, if these vents and scoops were to function it would actually decrease the aero. so obviously one would assume they are for visual styling yeah? For some people a car is parts of there own personal style and they take pride in moving away from that "stock" look. you referenced a friend fitting bigger wheels to his car.... Why did he fit them in the first place???? was it for looks?? if people want to change the way there car looks or sounds, who are we to judge??? Personally I think Matt black paint jobs should of made the list but that's to ironic ;)

[@angry9901]

I get that the joke about the Matt Black paint job is funny but it doesn't hurt performance in any meaningful way.

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, yes you are right. Each to his or her own opinion and people can spend their money any way they wish. I just wanted to shine a light on mods where people can save their money if their goal is actual performance. In terms of my mate, he has always liked Simmons wheels and because neither of us have had 20s before, we had no reference point in terms of what performance gain or decrease it would make. Now we know!

[@steyer-crmg]

I know your all about performance, but the worst mod for a VE/VF is Chev badges! The VE is the first fully designed and engineered commodore in Australia, but it has a chev motor so uneducated people put chev badges on it…..Would you put Nissan badges on a VL Turbo? It’s a Nissan motor so same scenario. Rant over 😎

[@ClunieGarage]

You betcha! Chev badges on a Commodore make baby Jesus cry!!!

[@helenellsworth9556]

While I know the 07 vz isn't a ve or SS, it's still a great car, to do up 😊

[@ClunieGarage]

Nice, we have a soft spot for the VZ Commodore.

[@helenellsworth9556]

@@ClunieGarage I'm going to sell mine, where I'm going I don't need it

[@jaredmcmichael1433]

I've run 20" wheels on mine for the past year, there just not practical, I agree 18" are far better

[@ClunieGarage]

18" all the way!

[@jameskoteski7325]

What about high flow cats ?

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day James, some might argue that high flow cats are a good mod to maintain the legality of your registered vehicle!

[@jameskoteski7325]

@@ClunieGarage would you say 200 cell high flow cats instead of 100 cell then ?

[@McBurner007]

None of these apply outside of 3 and 5 in the US lol!

[@Dylmark]

2.5” full stainless gang checking in

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Dylan, long time no hear!

[@Dylmark]

@@ClunieGarage I’ve been lurking around, just not talking much

[@johnodonnell1222]

Could never drive without music

[@sarvove]

What tyre is that please

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, which tyre are you referring to? Do you have a time stamp in the video as I will be able to go over it and let you know.

[@sarvove]

@@ClunieGarage the one you talk about the semi slick on the table

[@sarvove]

4.00 Min mark on the stool

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day mate, they are Yokohama Advan A050 semi slicks. They are simply awesome btw.

[@dimetime0]

18 inch wheels look terrible on the street so...

[@angry9901]

But do they perform better?

[@angry9901]

What do you need brakes for? They only slow you down.....

[@ClunieGarage]

G'day Angry, yes they are called boat anchors for a reason 😁

[@CurtisLSA]

The coward pedal it’s called 😂