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Upgrades and Modifications

A list of some of the upgrades and modifications done to my DeLorean.

A partial list of the upgrades and additions to the DeLorean.   These range from replacement parts through upgrades to custom additions.  This is a partial list at best.  Dates before 2012 are approximate. Links to detailed pages in the Repairs, Maintenance and Modifications section can be found here as well.


Detailed Projects

Pages linked here contain detailed information about a project, how it was done, the parts and tools, and as much information as possible so that others can reproduce them if they desire. Related posts and further details can be found at the Repairs, Maintenance and Modifications.

2.8L EFI Conversion Notes

Notes on converting from the stock Bosch K-JET CIS fuel injection while retaining the stock intake manifold.  This is incomplete, as a hole in the block led me to 3.0L upgrade, but the information here is still useful, like choosing fuel injectors, using Owen's (Spittybug on DMCTalk) fuel rails, and the necessary adaptors and hardware to hook things up.

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3.0L Engine Swap

My 2.8L EFI conversion got cut short by the discovery of a hole in the appropriately-named valley of death.  I decided the best course forward was to swap the entire engine and upgrade to a 3.0L from an 1989 Eagle Premier.  This swap is chronicled in the Repairs, Maintenance and Upgrades blog over a number of posts as I figured out how to do the swap, solved problems that arose and finally installed the engine.

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Assorted Upgrades and Modifications List

Just a list of upgrades and modifications and about when they were done.  Many I have done myself, while some of the older ones were done by shops.  Feel free to contact me if you would like any more information about any of these.

Installed Modifications

  • Lockzilla Door Lock Module (2002)
    Replaces the original, unreliable lock module.

  • Wings-A-Loft Door Opener Actuators (2003) from DeLorean Parts Northwest. Actuators are currently installed, but the remote module is not. The doors are sticking against the weather seals, limiting the function of the openers.

  • Ignition-Switched Headlights (2004)
    So that I wouldn't forget to turn them off.

  • Marker Lights as Turn Signals (2006)
    For improved visibility and safety when turning. Currently only configured on the front markers.

  • Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror with Temperature, Compass and Map Lights (2003)
    Installed by DeLorean Motor Center. A Genetex model, similar to this one.

  • Atoto Head Unit (2022)
    Featuring a large touch screen, Apple CarPlay, and a steering wheel remote.

  • Amplified Hidden Antenna (2018)
    Mostly because I thought my power antenna was broken, when really it was just disconnected. However, the new head unit raises the antenna even when I’m not using the radio, so I leave the hidden antenna connected. Not quite as good reception as the power antenna, but I mostly play audio through my phone anyway.

  • Dual Temperature Heated Seats (2006, 2022)
    Originally a set from Sports Imports Limited, both driver and passenger seats. Replaced in 2022 when I recovered the seats.

  • Power Inverter (2006, 2018)
    Stored in lock box behind the driver's seat, with its own high-amperage ignition-switched relay wired directly to the battery. Upgraded to a newer model with its own accessory-switched relay in 2018.

  • Second Fuse Box Under Driver's Side Parcel Shelf (2006)
    Wired directly to the battery and switched with the accessory relay, for further electrical modifications.

  • Extra Cabin Power Ports (2006, 2017)
    Passenger-accessible power ports for phones and other accessories, mounted under the right driver's side kneepad and passenger kneepad. Includes both cigarette lighter style and USB ports.

  • Engine Compartment Louvre Brace (2006)
    helps reinforce the louvers and provides a notch to hold up the open engine cover.

  • Clip-On Digital Speedometer (2019)
    Really more of an electronics project and workaround for my perpetually failing angle drive.

  • A/C Idle Up for MegaSquirt (2019)
    Reduces the chance of a stall and low RPMs when the A/C is running.

  • Windshield Water Flow Redirector (2013)
    To keep water from ruining my fuel pump again.

  • Cup Holders (2002)

  • Front License Plate Holder and External EZ-Pass (2006)
    For DOT compliance and convenience.

Upgraded Parts

  • 1989 Dodge Monaco 3.0L Engine with EFI/MegaSquirt (2012-2018)
    A hole in the 2.8L engine block led to replacing it with a 3.0L engine with EFI driven by a MegaSquirt ECU.

  • Custom Exhaust with Borla Pro XS Muffler and Car Chemistry Silencers (2017-2019)
    An attempt to make a quieter exhaust. It mostly worked, running at about 80 dBi on the highway. It’s not quiet, but it’s not overly loud either. Welded and refined by Jamie’s Performance Muffler Shop.

  • DeLorean UK Big Brakes System (2018)
    A significant upgrade to the original brakes from DeLorean UK.

  • Extended Convex Heated Mirrors (2006)
    from Tom Nemczweski, improving visibility and keeping ice and condensation off in the winter.

  • R134a A/C System (Part 1, Part 2; 2018)
    More modern refrigerant and a complete replacement of all hoses and associated parts, which also fixed a leak in my A/C system. R134-compliant hoses and associated parts from DeLorean Midwest, and a 3.0L compressor from a Jeep.

  • LED Headlights (2022)
    Installed into halogen housings. Much brighter, longer life and lower power draw.

  • High-Center Stop Light (HCSL) (2006)
    AKA Center High Mount Stop Light (CHMSL). From Special T Auto, which is a Corvette C4 design, apparently. It was unpainted, which was resolved with a can of black spray paint, and is mounted on top of the louvers. Updated with LEDs in 2020.

  • LED Taillights (2020)

  • LSeat Recovered Seats (2022)
    Fixed up my ripped and damaged seats with brand new seat covers.

  • Eclipse Front and Rear Speakers (2007)
    Similar to the ones that are sold be DeLorean in Texas, replacing my blown-out rear speakers and tiny front speakers.

  • LED Door and Courtesy Lights (2007)
    Use less power than the old incandescents and do not need to be replaced as often. Removed the courtesy light delay module so that the LEDs would turn off properly when the doors were closed.

  • Magnetic Door Light Switches (2007) replacing the mechanical door light switches and improving reliability by removing any moving parts.

  • Headlight Switch Safety Relay (2008)
    From DeLorean Parts Northwest. Avoids passing the full headlight current through the headlight switch, which can damage the switch and risk fires.

  • Relay providing direct battery power to ignition during start (2006)
    To work around starting issues due to insufficient power to the starter solenoid.

  • New Fuse Box (2013)
    Fixed the melted box from overloaded stock circuits, primarily the headlights.

  • Ground Bus (2017)
    Ensures a clean ground to the entire car.

  • Fanzilla (2002)
    Replacing the original fan fail module with a lower-power, more reliable version.

  • Brass Radiator (2009)
    Replacing the original plastic one and a later brass radiator installed in 2002.

  • Wings-Be-Cool High-Performance, Low Power Cooling Fans (2012)
    From DeLorean Parts Northwest, to improve cooling performance and reduce power draw. Also the ducted cowling from Special T Auto.

  • Stainless Coolant Bottle (2003)
    Replacing the cracking stock plastic bottle.

  • Coolant Self Bleeder Kit (2012)
    From DeLorean Parts Northwest, with shut-off for diagnosing coolant system issues. Also installed their radiator bleeder valve, which is much easier than pulling the hose off.

  • Relocated Fuel Filter (2015)
    For ease of access during maintenance.

  • Fuel Pump/Sender Replacement (DMCH, 2013; 1998 Tahoe, 2019)
    Fixing the rusted-out pump. Since replaced again with one from a 1998 Chevy Tahoe.

  • Custom Front Anti-Roll Bar (2005)
    Made by a friend from a steel bar and some knuckles.

  • Upgraded Alternator
    With higher amperage output. Currently using a Jeep alternator for the 3.0L engine.

  • High-Torque Starter (2012)
    From BritishStarters.com, improving starting performance when the battery is low.

  • Optima Yellow Top Deep Cycle Battery D34/78
    for improved reliability and to better survive battery drain issues. Currently running a Red Top.

  • Billet Aluminum Lower Control Arms (2023)
    More robust and durable than stock.

  • Adjustable Upper Control Arms (2023)
    From Timeless Steel, these are built on an SPC aftermarket muscle car control arm kit. Much more robust than stock, and adds adjustable camber.

  • Stainless Steel Trailing Arms (2023)
    From DeLorean Industries, after I discovered that one of my stock ones was completely rusted through.

  • KW Coil-Overs (2023)
    DeLorean-specific suspension upgrade adding adjustable ride height and stiffness on all four corners.

  • Rebuilt Quiet(er) Muffler (2017, 2023)
    DPI (now DeLorean Industries) headers mated to a Borla Pro XS muffler, plus a pair of three-disc Car Chemistry silencers and another pair of four-disc ones packed with stainless steel wool in the tailpipes. First built in 2017, then rebuilt in 2023 after a cat failed and to add the second set of silencers.

  • Adjustable Upper and Lower Link Arms (2023)
    Long ago I installed some adjustable lower link arms so I could fix the camber. Later, I installed adjustable uppers to fix the toe-in.

No Longer Installed

Some of the mods were nice for a while, but were removed for one reason or another. Either I had problems getting it to work reliably, the technology became outdated, or another upgraded conflicted with this one.

  • Cruise Control (2004)
    Installed by DeLorean Motor Center. Removed during the 3.0L EFI conversion. I’d like to add another one in the future, though.

  • Halogen Headlights (2004, 2016)
    Installed by DeLorean Motor Center, replacing the original sealed-beam headlights. New lenses installed in 2016. Upgraded to LED headlights.

  • Dash-Mounted LCDs for Blindspot Cameras (2006)
    Prototype for a more advanced system I plan on implementing later. The cameras are still mounted behind the rear windows, but I’ve removed the LCDs. I’ll likely upgrade the cameras and use more modern displays in a future design.

  • Backup Sensors (2006)
    Installed in the rear bumper. Mostly work, but tend to pick up the exhaust and sound the alarm unnecessarily, so they are currently disconnected.

  • Heated Wipers (2006)
    From Everblades. They worked well and kept the ice off, although I haven't used these in some time and have since gone back to conventional wiper blades. No longer installed, although the wiring is still present.

  • Sony Stereo (2002)
    Installed by California Automotive, replacing the stock radio. For a while I used a Denison Ice>Link to connect an iPod/iPhone, but due to the increased power demands of the newer iPhones I've switched to Kensington unit. I also have a small spherical remote control mounted near the shifter to more easily manage the radio. Has since been replaced with a double-DIN Pioneer head unit.

  • SPEC-I Exhaust (2012)
    From DeLorean Performance Industries, this provides a better tone and a freer exhaust flow resulting in increased performance, although at the expense of a significant increase loudness. Replaced with a custom quieter exhaust as part of the 3.0L engine swap, although I’m still using the DPI headers.

  • Ed Uding's Performance Cams (2012)
    Purchased from DeLorean Performance Industries, increasing the performance of the 2.8L engine. Removed with the 2.8L engine as part of the 3.0L engine swap.

  • Shaved Cylinder Heads (2012)
    As part of a general engine overhaul. Removed with the 2.8L engine.

  • Pioneer Double-DIN Head Unit and Backup Camera (2018)
    Featuring Apple CarPlay and a large touch screen. Replaced with an Atoto head unit.

  • Eibach Shock Kit (2007)
    From DeLorean in Texas, providing a sportier and generally better ride than the stock springs. Since replaced with a KW coil-over kit.

  • Lowered Springs (2006)
    From DeLorean in Texas, replacing the cut front springs and the rear springs. Replaced with KW coil-overs.

  • Polyurethane Bushings for Front and Rear Suspension (2012)
    Providing a stiffer ride and improved handling. Replaced when the suspension was upgraded.

  • Original DeLorean Luggage Rack
    Long since lost, unfortunately.