With 1000 you can do a lot. I would suggest:

CAI(cold air intake)- i just got a K&N CAI... I love it. price 250

Exhaust - i have an axleback, most people go with cat back but i've had great results from the axleback and it's cheaper. price 300 w/ install

Tint your front windows... this is a must! Price 100

I would save the remaining 350 for Springs but not until you get your wheels, I have tein s and i love em. Price 190

The remaining 160 you can use for small things (all the DIY) like:
Break caliper paint, headlight bulbs, graphics, GAS! These little things are inexpensive but will definately help turn heads.

If you dont plan on getting new headlights, clear your corners, it makes a huge difference.

GOod Luck man!

 

Start with the $150 Progress or TRD rear swaybar- it radically improves handling, no matter whether you drop the suspension or not...

The TYC Euro tail lights look great on any color box, and the rear bumper applique is very useful...

After that, maybe the TRD shifter kit, if it's a 5 speed, TRD or aftermarket axleback muffler (careful, some are ridiculously loud), floormats of your choice, TRD or similar performance air filter ( california legal on a 2006) and, if you're willing to put out the effort, $300 worth of Raammat bxt and ensolite (or similar) will help any sound system a lot, while killing road noise...

That's not $1000, but it's a start...

 

Intake/Header/Exhaust. don't buy the cheapest thing you find. You will end up replacing it later. Have fun.

 

Go to www.edesignaudio.com and buy a system!

 

Wow. You guys are awesome... Some great suggestions... In regards to the wheel/tire combo, I already have it... It is the MOD GFO 17"... But, I dont have the tires yet... Any suggestions on that and the DROP KIT... WHO and WHAT DROP AMOUNT... Also, should I change the struts/shocks while I am at it...

I TRULY APPRECIATE ALL YOUR HELP, as there is so much to do, it is amazing...

I will update pics as I get them done....

BRIAN

 

Any other thought comning in on the drop kits??? I've read the reviews, but does anyone have a "REAL ANSWER" as to which LOWERING kit works best with 17" wheels without sacrificing ride quality... California has some really bad roads..

BP

 

I would go with the Tanabe NF 210's with the monroe struts. It's a nice drop, not too low and the monroe's make the ride a lot better.

 

OK, Tanabe Nf210... I have tried to find the Monroe, but no autozone, kragens or others aroubd me have them... Is there a specific part # for them??

BP

 

Fsck the stereo/subs, why would you spend money on crap that will make the car slower? Put your money on all performance stuff.

 

The part number for the rear Monroes is 5879. Word is that chagning the front struts doesn't make nearly as much difference as just changing the rear shocks.

 

Skip the NF210s from Tanabe and go straight to the DF210s. They drop just over 2" and still give you a great ride. My wife and I live in Central California and she drives the car every day without issue. She likes the ride so much she won't even let me get new Monroe shocks for the rear. If you want to smooth out the bumps though, the part number listed above is good. Or just tell the parts store you are looking for rear shocks for a 2000-2002 Echo.

 

get a nice set of coilovers