The 2002 6-liter Vortec engine was originally introduced in 2002 in a number of different vehicles, including the Cadillac Escalade and the GMC Sierra. In stock form, the large displacement V8 produces 345 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. While these are more than acceptable performance figures for the majority of owners, those looking to extract all of the possible horsepower from the engine have a number of relatively inexpensive bolt-on options that all provide increased horsepower and, in some instances, improved fuel economy.
Replace the exhaust system connected to the engine with a more performance-oriented aftermarket model. Aftermarket exhaust systems improve the flow of exhaust gases and reduce the overall back pressure in the exhaust system through the use of wide-diameter piping. Improved exhaust gas flow and reduced back pressure both lead to increased horsepower output. In addition to improving horsepower output, aftermarket systems give the vehicle a more aggressive exhaust note tone.
Connect a performance chip to the electronic control unit responsible for controlling the engine's functions. The performance chip will alter the engine's software so that more horsepower is produced. Additionally, many chips raise the rev limit and introduce new fuel and ignition maps for increased overall performance.
Replace the factory air intake filter with an aftermarket model designed to increase the flow of air into the engine. In addition to increasing horsepower output, the increased flow of air into the engine will result in better fuel economy.
