Winter is finally loosening its grip, and that means one thing in the garage at Sledgehammer Performance — it’s time for spring upgrades.
After a long stretch of cold weather and limited driving, I’m getting ready to start the next round of modifications on the C7 Corvette. This season’s focus is all about improving the car’s sound, appearance, and overall presence on the road.
The three upgrades planned for this spring are:
Performance exhaust
Side skirts
A new rear diffuser
Each one brings something different to the table, but together they should transform the car both visually and audibly.
One of the biggest changes coming this spring is the exhaust. The LT1 engine in the C7 Corvette sounds great from the factory, but there’s definitely more character hiding in there.
Upgrading the exhaust should give the car a deeper tone, more personality, and a more aggressive sound under throttle without being overwhelming for normal driving. The goal isn’t just noise — it’s refining the sound to match the performance of the car.
There’s something satisfying about firing up a car after installing a new exhaust and hearing the difference immediately.
Side skirts are one of those modifications that can dramatically change how a car looks without altering the core design.
Adding side skirts helps visually lower the car and gives it a more planted and performance-oriented stance. The C7 already has great body lines, but the right skirts really sharpen the look and tie the front splitter and rear diffuser together.
It’s a subtle change, but once they’re installed, the car looks noticeably more purposeful.
The rear diffuser is another piece that can make a big impact on the overall look of the car.
A more aggressive diffuser gives the rear of the C7 a race-inspired appearance while complementing the new exhaust setup. It adds depth and structure to the rear bumper area and helps balance the more aggressive styling coming from the side skirts.
When all three upgrades are installed, the car should look lower, wider, and more performance-focused.
One of the things I enjoy most about working on cars is the process itself. Planning upgrades, installing parts, and seeing the transformation come together is a big part of the fun.
For me, cars have always been more than transportation. They’re something you can improve, personalize, and take pride in. Doing the work yourself in the garage also gives you a deeper connection to the car.
That’s what Sledgehammer Performance is all about — working on cars, learning along the way, and sharing the process with others who enjoy the same thing.
If you want to hear more about the plan for these spring upgrades, check out the video below.
Copyright 2026 Sledgehammer Performance - All Rights Reserved
