When I came across a clever C6 modification on a popular Corvette-dedicated Facebook page the other day, I couldn’t resist sharing it with you, our faithful CorvSport audience–it’s our number one hack! And after seeing the creativity, it got me thinking about other relatively cheap hacks that make our Corvettes look or sound better. One exhaust hack in particular, developed by yours truly, created some community buzz (and heckling) when I featured it in my first-time C5 owners guide, so sit back and enjoy. [Author’s Note: This article is FREE and not behind a paywall. Yes, FREE! If/when any pop-ups appear, please click to dismiss them and continue enjoying the article. One may require two steps–first, the arrow on the left, then the x on the top right.]
It’s possible some of these hacks may have you laughing, either with me or at me, and I’m fine with either scenario. Today’s hacks focus on the C5 and C6 Corvettes; if you can think of others, please reach out to us at CorvSport. Now, without further ado, let’s jump in!
#5
Blacked Out Halo & Roof
This is just one example you can find on one of the most popular Corvette Forums. In this case, Corvette Forum member “detaildude” had the roof and halo wrapped in 3M 2080 high gloss black. I’ve included his forum discussion and another that may be helpful below the pictures.
Additional Resources:
- Discussion from “detaildude”: Halo/Roof Wrap
- Discussion from “GuyQ”: Roof & halo wrapped, glass tinted, InfiRai taillights on yellow 07 Z06
#4
Cheap Cold Air Intake
While I can’t take credit for this one, as I saw it nearly two decades ago on the Corvette forum, it’s one of my favorite tricks that I’ve used on at least two of my C5s over time. And yes, I know, it probably doesn’t add many ponies, if any, to that glorious LS engine. However, it’s a cheap hack and certainly looks like it’s breathing easier!
For the cost of zip ties and, if you’re feeling frisky, a $100 K&N drop-in filter, you can have a cheap “cold air” intake. This setup pictured below was from my 2000 FRC (yes, I had a bra on her!) It’s tempting to spend considerably more for a “true CAI,” but the risk of hydro-locking your engine is real, especially with the CAI systems that require you to cut the radiator shroud. In 2001, I destroyed the LS1 on my nearly brand-new Torch Red Coupe in a flash flood that caused suction under the shroud.
The process for this cheap conversion is fairly simple. First, disconnect the stock system from the throttle body. Then, pull the pins from the air bridge fasteners, remove the other three connectors (MAF, etc), and pull out the system so you can remove the restrictive top from the air intake. At this time, you can also pull the nipples off the front of the frame if you desire a cleaner look. Once the top is off, use the zip ties on each side to hold the frame and filter in place, and replace the system.
#3
Lowering Your C5 at Home For Nearly Free
If you have some basic tools and rank your wrenching skills around a 5/10, this lowering hack is right up your alley. Many people are unaware that the C5 (and C6) actually comes with an adjustable suspension from the factory, which is why you’ll see some examples with the “4×4 effect,” featuring gaps of more than 4 fingers between the fender and tire.
I’ve lowered well over 10 C5s in my lifetime at home for zero cost (aside from the alignment), and it was one of the first things I did when I acquired my FRC in 2023. If this hack looks enticing, you can view my full how-to feature here.
BEFORE
AFTER
#2
How to Make Your Stock C5 Exhaust Sound Like a Corsa for $0
Okay, Corvette enthusiasts, sit back and get ready to chuckle, because this is the hack that seemed to get a rise out of owners when I initially featured it in 2023. Unlike newer generations, I feel like GM really dropped the ball with the fifth generation, as it’s just way too quiet for how formidable the LS1 is. Most enthusiasts don’t want to spend upwards of $2000 on an aftermarket cat-back type exhaust, so I experimented with this modification years ago. I liked it so much that I did it on my last Corvette. If, after watching the before-and-after videos, you’re tempted to try this inexpensive exhaust hack, all you really need is a drill and a bit, and possibly some bandages if you’re like me and accidentally hack your knuckle! Click here for my full 2023 how-to exhaust feature.
BEFORE
HALFWAY DONE…
AFTER
- Call me crazy, but the higher rev range really resonates like the Corsa exhaust, no?
#1
C6 Headlight Hack
After the Modification: Sinister
C6 Corvette Nation member Mack L. posts a template he found, then jumps into the project himself.
Mack L. notes that it’s messy, so make sure to wear a mask!
C6 Corvette Nation is a vibrant community with over 87,000 members–you can join the full discussion on this modification here. C6 Corvette Nation is a private group, but joining is free and easy if you’re already on Facebook.
Do any of these hacks/cheap modifications look enticing to you? Or, were you mainly laughing at me? Are you CORVETTE OBSESSED like we are? The team of renowned authors and contributors at CorvSport hopes you sense our passion for the iconic Corvette, and our vast database of articles and guides should prove it–5000+ features since Scott Kolecki founded CorvSport over 15 years ago! Join the fastest-growing Corvette community on our Facebook page, with over 171,000 followers (52,000 since January 2023!). Meet other hardcore enthusiasts and say hello. This is Douglas B. signing off–click here if you would like to view more of my features.
