1998 Toyota Corolla

BTOWLE199

MEMBER
1998 TOYOTA COROLLA
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
130,000 MILES

Dear car pros,
My 98 corolla currently has no issues. However, when I get back from Afgh. In two months I have a long list of dirtbike races spanning the entire east coast. I was just looking for any tips on what I might want to replace so I don't run into any problems this summer. I know these cars aren't particuarly made for towing :) but I work with what I've got. I haul two dirtbikes on a small lightweight trailer, totalling no more than 800 lbs at absolute max. It does just fine, but any suggestions on a bolt on to add a little more towing power? Also what would be the best way to stiffen the back end so it doesn't sag quite as much? Any tips are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

3 Replies

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,549 POSTS

Check your owners manual, they should have maximum towing capacity, if you are towing an additional 800lbs, I don't think it will cause major problems.

I would change oil, use a full synthetic like Mobil1, or Royal Purple, also change trans fluid and filter (keep an eye on the fluid color, if it turns dark and has a burnt smell, you may have to add an additional trans cooler) and if coolant has not been changed in two years, drain and flush cooling system.

Best apporach to rear, would be a stiffer spring in the strut. An air strut would be expensive and require more work.

Thanks for your service to our country. Mmprince4000

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Monday, February 2nd, 2009 AT 11:34 AM

BTOWLE199

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thanks for your fast response, and thank you for your service as well, it's not easy finding honest help in todays society. Any suggestions on a little more towing power? Im not one for hopping up a 98 corolla but would an intake or something be beneficial for my situation?

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Monday, February 2nd, 2009 AT 11:46 AM

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,549 POSTS

Additional power is directly related to additional air to the engine, more air, more fuel, more fuel, more power.

Nitrous Oxide is only used at WOT, so you would need either a supercharger, or Turbo, or performance head (larger valves, larger throttle body, larger injectors)

Adding power would increase cylinder pressure, causing the engine to work harder, so additional cooling capacity may be needed, as well as premium gas, hotter spark etc.

I would probably stick with the stock engine with changes mentioned, or slap a 572 CI big block in it :).

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Monday, February 2nd, 2009 AT 10:56 PM