I am seriously considering trading in my 03 civic si for a blue cobalt ss/sc...theres a new one coming in and i'd like to come to a decision whether or not to put a deposit on it pretty quickly..

anyways, just wondering what chevy has done to beef up the 2.0L ecotec to handle the boost.. I've read a few things but most of the articles just say ''and so on and so on'' so if any of you guys know what the "so on and so on is" i would appreciate it!

also, i know the ss/sc's haven't been out that long so there's probably only a handfull with higher mileage but how have yours held up??

the cars nice and fun to drive, just concerned about the quality and reliability of it down the road

Thanks in advance to everyone who helps me out!

 

Welcome would prolly be a good start. lol..

GM doesn't really need to do anything to handle the boost that the 2.0 is putting out. Once you start dropping pulley sizes then you will create heat issues which can be compensated for with a Cobra Heat Exchanger and/or Meth Injection. Just as long as you follow through with other supporting mods.

Actually, the aftermarket for this car is growing on a daily basis. The motors are quite strong, and we all have put some decent miles on em. Axles and clutches are the biggest concerns because of wheel hop causein them to have issues, but if driven appropriately, you may not have to replace those for sometime.

Quality is pretty decent. I have had my 07 SS/SC for maybe 4 or 5 months and I have about 9500 miles on her already and she still out smokin Stang Gt's. These motors repsond nicely to CAI and exhaust upgrades as well as slight pulley drops and a good tune. Hell, we have guys running bone stock 14.1 in the quarter mile.

There are a couple companies doing Turbo swaps for us and another company working on a Supercharger swap. So...I would say go for it, but then I'm GM biased.lol Good luck on your decision

 

ive had my 05 since brand new, it was one of the first off the line and has 70,000 km on it. it was fine intell i started to mod it the only thing thats gone wrong was the idler pully melted and fuc# my belt (and that was prob my falt ,i dident change the tensionerwhen i droped down to a 2.8 so i think it had too much slak) , oh and the streo fuc#ed up but they fixed it. i think the only bad thing with this car is the dealerships and how they handel warrenty. test drive one i garrenty that you will sell that civic

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ward%27s_10_Best_Engines

By the way, GM's 2.0 that's in the SS/SC and the Redline made it on Ward's Top Ten Motors for 2006. The newer Cobalts around 05 had some issues which is to be expected when you first come out with a new vehicle line, but as far as I have noticed the quirks have been worked out. Less rattles, less issues, and over-all a pretty decent platform to build on.

 

your thing says vancouver is that canada or washington??

 

Canada

 

2007 Ecotec 2.0L I4 SC ( LSJ )
Type: 2.0L I-4 supercharged
Displacement: 1998cc (122 ci)
Compression ratio: 9.5:1
Valve configuration: dual overhead camshafts (4 valves per cylinder)
Assembly site: Kaiserslautern, Germany
Valve lifters: hydraulic roller finger follower
Firing order: 1 - 3 - 4 - 2
Bore x stroke: 86 x 86mm
Fuel system: sequential fuel injection
Fuel type: premium fuel recommended
Air Delivery Eaton Helical Roots M62 Supercharger @ 12 psi Boost pressure
Applications: Horsepower: hp ( kw )
Chevrolet Cobalt SS 205 hp (153 kw) @ 5600 rpm
Saturn ION Red Line
Applications: Torque: lb-ft. ( Nm )
Chevrolet Cobalt SS 200 lb-ft (272 Nm) @ 4400 rpm
Saturn ION Red Line
Fuel shut off: 6500 rpm
Emissions controls: three-way catalyst
MATERIALS
Block: cast aluminum with cast iron cylinder liners
Cylinder head: cast aluminum
Intake manifold: aluminum
Exhaust manifold: cast iron
Crankshaft: forged steel with induction hardened fillet
Camshaft: cast iron
Connecting rods: forged steel
Additional features: high pressure ( 56 psi ) fuel pump
extended life platinum spark plugs
extended life coolant
electronic throttle control
Individual coil on plug high energy ignition
hows that .....btw i just broke my foot in vav 3 days ago i love it there

 

You would be quite pleasantly surprised as to how well the Cobalt reacts to bolts ons. An Injen CAI is dyno'd to add 17hp alone. You could start off with the GM stg2 which includes a smaller pulley, 42lb injectors, smaller belt, and a computer flash that will give you the 7K redline and slightly higher idle.

Depending on the year that you are looking at, you may be able to get the Recaro seats as well as the LSD. Early 07's had both as the G85 option, the latter 07's have leather seats and you can opt for the LSD. The Recaros are HOT!! If you can get em, I would recommend it. If you have any more particular questions, there is mucho info on here and we would be more then happy to help persuad you into buyin one..lol

 

thanks man... van is sweet, lived here my whole life and still love it

where's spruce grove?

 

2007 Ecotec 2.0L I4 SC ( LSJ )

ECOTEC 2.0L SUPERCHARGED I4 (LSJ) CAR ENGINE
2007 Model Year Summary


• Rate-Based Internal Diagnostics
• Vented Starter Solenoid


Full Description of New and Updated Features

Rate-Based Internal Diagnostics
The Ecotec 2.0L SC’s P12 Engine Control Module (ECM) applies a new, rate-based monitoring protocol sometimes known as run-at-rate diagnostics. Rate-based diagnostics improve the robustness of the Onboard Diagnostics System (OBD II) and ensure optimal performance of emissions control systems.

With rate-based diagnostics, the ECM applies a new formula to manage OBD II. Essentially, new software increases the frequency at which the ECM checks various Ecotec 2.0L SC systems, and particularly emissions-control systems such as the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors. Rate-based diagnostics more reliably monitor real-word operation of these systems, and allow regulatory agencies to more easily measure and certify emissions compliance.

With introduction of the run-at-rate protocol, the Ecotec 2.0L SC’s control software has been recalibrated for overall drivability and even better throttle response from idle.

Vented Starter Solenoid
A new starter solenoid helps ensure starting performance in extreme cold temperatures. The solenoid case now has a micromesh-covered vent and an O-ring between the case and the starter motor. The mesh protects the solenoid from debris particles but prevents moisture buildup in the case. When the Ecotec 2.0L SC is warm, any moisture on the solenoid evaporates through the vent. The vented solenoid virtually eliminates the possibility of cold-start problems associated with solenoid icing. The 2.0L SC’s starter is now common with those on other Ecotec engines.


Overview
The punch practically rushes out of this engine. It is the best compact-performance engine at its price and can stand against many engines in much pricier vehicles.

That’s how panelists summed up the Ecotec 2.0L SC in choosing this inline four-cylinder as one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines in 2006. Launched in 2004 in the Saturn ION Red Line, the Ecotec 2.0L SC has since been introduced in the all-new Chevrolet Cobalt line as power for the Cobalt SS Supercharged coupe.

The 2.0 SC starts with GM Powertrain’s innovative Ecotec four-cylinder, and all its premium, durability enhancing features. It adds an Eaton M62 supercharger and air-to-liquid charge cooler, perfectly integrated with precise intake and exhaust tuning and some of the most sophisticated control electronics in the class. Bottom line: A true high performance sport-compact engine that generates more than 100 horsepower per liter, or nearly 1.7 hp per cubic inch of displacement, and an equally impressive 200 lb.-ft of torque.

Just two years after its introduction, the Ecotec 2.0L SC has proven itself in drag racing, Grand American road racing and on the Bonneville Salt Flats, where its land speed records include one achieved in straight factory configuration. Equally appealing to sport-compact enthusiasts is the 2.0L SC’s suitability for tuning, or modifying for even more horsepower. Performance kits from GM Goodwrench and aftermarket tuners can easily push the 2.0L SC beyond 300 hp.

Yet this Ecotec is more than a thrill a minute. It is impressively smooth and tractable in street driving, and like every Ecotec engine, it has been subjected to the toughest, most comprehensive validation process ever carried out at GM Powertrain. It has passed every dynamometer and vehicle test traditionally run by various GM organizations worldwide, not just in North America. It has completed the Thermal Cycle test, during which the 2.0L SC was run up to maximum operating temperature and then flushed with ice-cold coolant to shock the engine and its components into contraction. Additionally, the Ecotec 2.0L SC underwent another battery of tests by GM Performance Division, including a wide-open-throttle, top-speed run for one full tank of gas, and 24-hours nonstop around the Milford road course at race speed.

The Ecotec 2.0L SC is compact and lightweight compared to many two-liter engines. The M62 supercharger uses a helical roots compressor and integral pressure control to generate up to 12 psi induction boost. The boosted intake flow is cooled with an air-to-liquid charge cooler and fed through a specially tuned, SC-specific intake manifold. The compact single-track, six-rib supercharger drive belt features a linear tensioning device to enhance durability. Powertrain’s P12 engine control module orchestrates supercharger operation, fuel delivery, direct spark and the 68-mm electronic throttle.

The aluminum cylinder head is cast with advanced semi-permanent mold technology for high strength and improved port flow. Stainless steel intake valves are undercut to improve flow and reduce weight. The exhaust valves have sodium-filled stems that promote valve cooling—a technology developed for the Corvette V8s that delivers longer valve guide and seat life and more thorough combustion. The camshafts are driven by a single, compact roller chain. Sequential port fuel injection and a 380 KPa /19.0 g/s returnless fuel delivery system help keep fuel cooler for more efficient combustion


Pistons in the 2.0L SC are cooled and lubricated by targeted oil jets that keep their underside, along with the cylinder wall, in a continuous oil bath. The large 23-mm piston pin provides a larger bearing surface to better handle the increased loads of a supercharged engine. Compared to other Ecotec’s, the SC’s connecting rods incorporate a larger forged I-beam section for added strength. The crankshaft is a forged steel, with induction heat treated fillets and cross-drilled chamfered oil passages for racing-grade lubrication characteristics. To ensure high-performance lubrication—particularly critical in a supercharged engine--the Ecotec 2.0L SC has a seven-quart oil sump and crank-driven oil pump. It’s also fitted with a block-mounted oil cooler


In the lab, on the track and over the open road—Ecotec 2.0L SC testing extended to the most extreme climates, like Death Valley, the thin air of the Rocky Mountains and around GM’s winter proving grounds at Kapuskasing, Ontario, Canada. For the customer, the benefit of this arduous validation is an engine that offers extended life, high reliability and low operating costs.

Factor in 40 percent more power than a normally aspirated 2.0L Ecotec, impressive smoothness and tractability, good fuel economy and low emissions, and you get one of the best engines in the world.

its in alberta right next to edmonton

 

Welcome Elrod, glad to see another from the lower mainland, im from White Rock btw

I also went from a honda to chev and let me tell ya, hondas will always be the longest lasting cars and very well built but these SS/SC's are somthin else i have nothing but good things to say

 

Actually, not all of that info is correct. Our motors are also made in NY. Oh and if the 205hp doesn't sound like quite enough for you...That is 205 at 5600 not redline which she pulls the whole way up. We are actually dynoing anywhere from 210-225hp to the wheels bone stock. GM highly underrated our cars, which is nice because those that are ignorant to the actual info don't know what we are actually pushing to the wheels. By adding the GM stg2 you would be up to about 245hp alone.

 

This one i am looking at is at the train station waiting to be unloaded but our railroad workers are striking so there's no telling when it will arrive at the dealership...the recaro's are an option but i really liked the leather seats with the ''SS'' embroided in them...

The car felt very solid and smooth throughout the RPM's... pretty good power band aswell

 

not trying to start anything but yah all that info is correct its str8 from gms web site
http://media.gm.com/us/powertrain/en...EC20LI4ENGINES
and i have the leather ones they are very slipy id go for the recaros they look better too

 

<----- PoCo and thanks for all the helpfull pointers and research!

im getting more and more persuaded with each post lol

 

You are correct, but GM has done with the Cobalt like they have done with many of their other vehicles, they have under-rated the performance numbers. Yes, it does put out 205hp at 5600rpm, but she keeps pulling all the way to redline. Which means, that we are actually getting anywhere from 210-225hp to the wheels. And once the car reaches full break-in point, you should also see about 12.5psi of boost stock. It's only half pound more then posted but..eh..

 

sorry i thoght you where trying to say some hting els

 

No sir..Thems some nice info you posted up though. Some of that stuff I didn't even know, and I have tried to do a good bit of research on our rides. lol...I LOVE my Cobalt. I get excited everyday knowing that I get to put some more miles on her. An, I do love them Recaros also.

 

this is the trans the ss/sc uses
2007 GME Sweden F35 (MU3, MC2)

2007 Model Year Summary
General Motors Powertrain – Europe F35 five-speed manual car transaxle

● There are no changes for the 2007 Model Year


LOW MAINTENANCE

The MU3 uses a Castrol Burmah (BOT 0063) manual transmission fluid, and is validated as "fill-for-life". No maintenance is required for normal operation.

OVERVIEW

The F35 is a Saab-designed five-speed manual transaxle built in Saab’s Gothenburg, Sweden, powertrain plant. This extensively tested manual transmission was originally introduced in the 1984 Saab 9000, and today it is used in the Saab 9-3 and 9-5, Saturn Ion Red Line, Chevrolet Cobalt SS and on various Opel applications.

The F35 features a two-axis conventional transverse layout, fully synchronized gears, and compact packaging. It features higher torque carrying capacity than many other manual transaxles currently in use in North American small cars.

Different versions of the transaxle are available, depending upon application. Both cable and rod shift mechanisms are available, as well as application-specific clutch housings. The MU3 and MC2 are differentiated by ratios (see specs), with the MC2 available with a lower top-gear ratio.

Design features include triple-cone synchronizers on 1st and 2nd gears, and single-cone synchronizers for 3rd, 4th, 5th and reverse gears.

A limited-slip differential is available for high-output applications. This torque-sensing differential is an all-mechanical geared unit that uses no clutch packs or preloading to transfer torque from one axle to the other, and torque transfer occurs automatically when one wheel loses traction. Torque transfer also occurs gradually, without steps.

 

Well 245 not completely correct look at my mods. my dyno was 238whp with CAI and stage 2. nothing more , on a dynojet dyno. So numbers can vary from car to car!

 

Well... depending on location, equipment used, and vehicles will effect the outcome. You're not too far off though. Not to mention, your dyno I see is up to 6600rpm, if your ride had been taken all the way up, you may have gained another couple hp's..Maybe..lol

Hopin to get mine dyno'd soon with my upcomin mods. Should be some good numbers.

 

I love my Cobalt, I was amazed at the difference just the CAI made, better throttle response, and it seems like it pulls more in the lower RPM band. I've got over 14000 on mine and I've only had a problem with the sunroof, but that was fixed quickly by the dealership. Only complaint in performance is the clutch and axels like everyone's talking about. Get the Cobalt! I don't think you'll regret it.

 

I would recommend this car to anyone. I think it's comfortable, durable, easy to work on, responds well to mods, and is very fun to drive. There aren't any major issues with the car really. The only time people are running into problems is if they are really beating on it and wheel hopping the car. You will break your axles if you do that there's no doubt about it, but I don't see it as a flaw with the car or a weak component but more of a bad driver situation. If you start to wheel hop just get out of the gas ASAP.

The aftermarket for this car is great and it's getting bigger. There are lots of big power adders coming on the market right now and in the near future. I feel like the sky is the limit for this car and I think we will see some big numbers and very quick track times in the up coming year.

Good luck if you buy and welcome to the site!

edit:by the way I have 6k miles (I know not much) and my car has never been to the dealer. It runs like a champ.

 

I can't wait to get mine! I was looking at the civic si, and all the reviews I've read make the SS/SC look like a way better car.

 

thanks for all the advice, you guys are awesome and super nice guys unfortunately..........................

i found an SRT-4 i couldn't pass up!