Supercharged Apex Planning Phase

[17RTXSidewinderLE]

Hey there,

I'm coming off a tuned sidewinder that ran around 290hp. I've had my eye on a few different MPI kits as I would like to install a charger on a 2012-2017 apex. I haven't found the ideal sled yet..but figured i'd gather some thoughts. I miss the sound of that 4 cylinder...I'm not opposed to swapping pistons or simply shimming the head(likely prefer a piston swap). I'm not expecting to beat the sidewinder here I just want something close...I figure if I go with the newer style I get power steering and the xtx model which should transfer well(never driven a newer one). Is this a dumb plan? I'd go turbo but the issue lies with noise and exhaust fines when I go to quebec multiple times a season...I figure with a supercharger I can stick with the stock exhaust. The goal is to be able to squeeze 100miles out of a tank which doesn't sound like it will be a problem with the PCV and autotune.

My main concern lies on what year /model apex is going to handle the added power the best? I want something to stud aggressively with triggers and actually hook up(reason for avoiding the old 121 apex). As long as my face hurts from smiling and my arms are sore from holding on I think i'll be happy with the switch back to an apex.

Truly haven't followed the apex progression as far as what models have what since I sold my 09. All I know is they now have power steering and an xtx , 141, 144?

 

[Macheater]

I like your plan as I am a fan of the Apex and s/c's. Couple things you didn't mention are the hp level you are shooting for and intended use. It sounds like you are looking to have a strong trail machine, but you also mention your 290hp SW. If you are aiming for that kinda hp there is no way your going to achieve it without going stage II. Either way (stage 1 or 2) I would be inclined to swap to an aftermarket piston as the gen 2 Apex's used a thinner skirt piston and had a reputation of being less durable under boost. Also, if you are looking to have hp above about 250, you will most likely have to look at additional fuel system upgrades. Probably larger injectors.

If lower hp levels are what your aiming for (under 250) that will be much easier and less costly to achieve. I don't know if you plan to purchase or already have the mpi kit, last time I talked to mpi (over a year ago) they still had some left. Don't know about now.

In regards to fuel consumption, s/c apex's have a reputation of being thirsty. That is the main reason I never put one on as mileage is very important to me. You mention 10 mpg which is about typical for s/c. Although it will also be determined by how much you use the power.

Lastly, putting that kinda money into what is now considered an older machine has its own issues such as resale value

Sounds like an interesting build. Keep us posted.

 

[maim]

the xtx came out in 2011 and the last model year was 2018 as a spring order sled. all where eps equipped.

the 2011-2015 apex xtx where 144" that came with an 1-1/4" ripsaw with the dual shock ck. it can take a bit of tinkering to get it set right but once set it wheelies/transfers on command and is a nice compliant trail ride.

the 2016-2018 apex xtx where 146" with either a 1-1/4" ripsaw (2016-17) or an 1-3/4" back country (2016-2018). they all came with the single shot rear suspension. the 2016-17 sled needs the up grade to either the 2018 spec fox float or the hygear coilover replacement unit for the best ride. i have the 18 spec one in mine now and am getting close on the setting for a good ride and i find it transfers fine for how much i rode it last season.


owning both a 16 and 11 with 1-1/4" tracks and riding them back to back on the trail/off trail without studs, i can offer my opinion based on my 2 sleds. the 11 handles much better trail riding because of the kick up on that suspension vs the 16 with no kick up. the 16 will hook better for launching over the 11 but it is hard to tell as i have not customized the clutching on the 16 to match the 11 yet as the 11 i dialed on how i like the clutching to perform.

 

[17RTXSidewinderLE]

I like your plan as I am a fan of the Apex and s/c's. Couple things you didn't mention are the hp level you are shooting for and intended use. It sounds like you are looking to have a strong trail machine, but you also mention your 290hp SW. If you are aiming for that kinda hp there is no way your going to achieve it without going stage II. Either way (stage 1 or 2) I would be inclined to swap to an aftermarket piston as the gen 2 Apex's used a thinner skirt piston and had a reputation of being less durable under boost. Also, if you are looking to have hp above about 250, you will most likely have to look at additional fuel system upgrades. Probably larger injectors.

If lower hp levels are what your aiming for (under 250) that will be much easier and less costly to achieve. I don't know if you plan to purchase or already have the mpi kit, last time I talked to mpi (over a year ago) they still had some left. Don't know about now.

In regards to fuel consumption, s/c apex's have a reputation of being thirsty. That is the main reason I never put one on as mileage is very important to me. You mention 10 mpg which is about typical for s/c. Although it will also be determined by how much you use the power.

Lastly, putting that kinda money into what is now considered an older machine has its own issues such as resale value

Sounds like an interesting build. Keep us posted.

A strong trail machine is the goal here. I'm not expecting to beat a stage 6 sidewinder as they are knocking on the door of 320hp now , however I wouldn't mind running a stage 2 setup with 10-15 pounds ? Not sure if that is doable with just a piston swap. I'm not worried about the fuel system I don't mind buying a fuel pump and/or injectors if need be. The goal is just to have a healthy 91 octane reliable machine that could be babied on 87 in a pinch. Locally when I run the trails I could care less about the mileage and my driving reflects that...there is a fuel stop every 20 miles at the most. My driving habits change when I'm in Quebec on a backpack trip and as long as I can get 100miles to a tank I'll be happy. Not too concerned with the resale, I always liked the apex fit and finish. I figure it would be a machine that I could keep for a long time if done right. I don't want to get into an aftermarket skid such as the zx2 like my old apex required (IMO required is a valid description).

I guess i'm truly after the Apex due to the gross amount of tuned sidewinders floating around. Something different that could maybe still give a little surprise? We will see , first I need to find a good sled... I figure I will go with the stage 2 mpi kit.

 

[17RTXSidewinderLE]

the xtx came out in 2011 and the last model year was 2018 as a spring order sled. all where eps equipped.

the 2011-2015 apex xtx where 144" that came with an 1-1/4" ripsaw with the dual shock ck. it can take a bit of tinkering to get it set right but once set it wheelies/transfers on command and is a nice compliant trail ride.

the 2016-2018 apex xtx where 146" with either a 1-1/4" ripsaw (2016-17) or an 1-3/4" back country (2016-2018). they all came with the single shot rear suspension. the 2016-17 sled needs the up grade to either the 2018 spec fox float or the hygear coilover replacement unit for the best ride. i have the 18 spec one in mine now and am getting close on the setting for a good ride and i find it transfers fine for how much i rode it last season.


owning both a 16 and 11 with 1-1/4" tracks and riding them back to back on the trail/off trail without studs, i can offer my opinion based on my 2 sleds. the 11 handles much better trail riding because of the kick up on that suspension vs the 16 with no kick up. the 16 will hook better for launching over the 11 but it is hard to tell as i have not customized the clutching on the 16 to match the 11 yet as the 11 i dialed on how i like the clutching to perform.

Interesting thank you very much for the information based on that I will likely look for a 11-15 which would also help keep the cost of the project down and/or focus the money where it counts reliability/power wise.

 

[Macheater]

A strong trail machine is the goal here. I'm not expecting to beat a stage 6 sidewinder as they are knocking on the door of 320hp now , however I wouldn't mind running a stage 2 setup with 10-15 pounds ? Not sure if that is doable with just a piston swap. I'm not worried about the fuel system I don't mind buying a fuel pump and/or injectors if need be. The goal is just to have a healthy 91 octane reliable machine that could be babied on 87 in a pinch. Locally when I run the trails I could care less about the mileage and my driving reflects that...there is a fuel stop every 20 miles at the most. My driving habits change when I'm in Quebec on a backpack trip and as long as I can get 100miles to a tank I'll be happy. Not too concerned with the resale, I always liked the apex fit and finish. I figure it would be a machine that I could keep for a long time if done right. I don't want to get into an aftermarket skid such as the zx2 like my old apex required (IMO required is a valid description).

I guess i'm truly after the Apex due to the gross amount of tuned sidewinders floating around. Something different that could maybe still give a little surprise? We will see , first I need to find a good sled... I figure I will go with the stage 2 mpi kit.

Sideshow Bob may chime in at some point. He had a stage 2 mpi Apex that is used primarily for drag racing these days. I'm sure he can answer many questions about the setup.

 

[Woody255]

I have the SC’d Apex from Sideshowbob which we use as a snow drag racing rig. It has been very successful locally. Many of flashed and tuned Sidewinders/Tcats have met their match with this build. I am a huge fan of the supercharger over a turbo, but both have their gremlins. Bob will be a tremendous resource on the SC setups.

 

[17RTXSidewinderLE]

I have the SC’d Apex from Sideshowbob which we use as a snow drag racing rig. It has been very successful locally. Many of flashed and tuned Sidewinders/Tcats have met their match with this build. I am a huge fan of the supercharger over a turbo, but both have their gremlins. Bob will be a tremendous resource on the SC setups.

Perfect, as long as I can accomplish a stage 2 to run happily in trail form I will be happy.

 

[17RTXSidewinderLE]

I have the SC’d Apex from Sideshowbob which we use as a snow drag racing rig. It has been very successful locally. Many of flashed and tuned Sidewinders/Tcats have met their match with this build. I am a huge fan of the supercharger over a turbo, but both have their gremlins. Bob will be a tremendous resource on the SC setups.

Do you know if sideshowbob still posts on here? Would be curious about any information he would be willing to offer.

 

[Macheater]

Do you know if sideshowbob still posts on here? Would be curious about any information he would be willing to offer.

Being mid-Summer, he may not check in much. Send him a PM I'm sure he'll respond.

 

[17RTXSidewinderLE]

Being mid-Summer, he may not check in much. Send him a PM I'm sure he'll respond.

Thanks!

 

[kinger]

Not specific to your question but I have owned all 3 sleds. SC Apex (stage 1 10-11psi ~240hp), Turbo Apex (~300hp, impulse mid mount), and Sidewinder BTX flashed 280hp. I liked them all but by far the #1 favorite was the mid mount turbo apex. Just unreal giggle factor. Not knowing your age and desire for EPS my personal opinion is i'm sticking to building the 06-09 Apex. Shim the head and leave all oem pistons, etc and run 300hp with no issues. The mid mount turbo has near SC response (not perfect but close), and top end legs like I have never seen on a sled. I put the SC apex last behind a flashed winder but again they are all amazing.

If you go 2011+ the SC kit will make for a nice upgrade, you would need pistons. I would look for a XTX. Keeping the stock exup and exhaust would be nice, it would be a very responsive sled and insanely fun to drive and easy on the arms once in twisty trails with the EPS. MPG may be a issue though. I was always 8-10 mpg but i'm in tight trails but like throttle and sore shoulders.

Long live the boosted apex!