Probably a worn out question, but here goes.

What are some decent looking and performing CAI's? I know that most perform the same, but I doubt some cheapie eBay one would do as well as a Steeda (correct me if I'm wrong). I'm not a big chrome guy, so I typically prefer black plastic shields.

I already know of: Steeda, C&L, JLT, and FRPP

Thanks for any help!

-Dylan

 

Check out http://www.americanmuscle.com/bcoldairkitsb.html they have competitive prices and have fantastic customer service.

 

The first mod I purchased for my 06 was a JLT CAI, SCT controller and a brenspeed tune. It transformed my stang into a tire shredding machine. I have never looked back. Go for it. Get a brenspeed or bama tune, dont waste your money on any other tunes.

 

Perfect, right into the question I forgot to ask. What is the difference between those two tunes, since those are the best?

 

Thanks!

 

Both AM/BAMA and Brenspeed (and a few others such as VMP) write excellent tunes and have great customer service. You can't go wrong with any of their combos. And as far as differences between tunes, that would depend on what day and on who's dyno and what your heart rate is and the square of the sum of the change under your sofa.

Like you mentioned, differences between tune-required CAI's are nil. A good CAI is NOT the limiting factor for how much air the stock S197 can ingest so don't get caught up in the hype.

 

Perfect explanation! I appreciate your help.

 

Have you considered the Airaid CAI?
It is the same company that makes the CAI's for Roush.
The inlet tube and shield are both black plastic, which is better for heat resistance.

CAI
http://www.americanmuscle.com/airaid...ai-0509gt.html

CAI/Tuner combo

http://www.americanmuscle.com/airaid...er-0509gt.html

 

Cool, I definitely prefer the look of that with the black plastic instead of chrome! Thanks for thr suggestion, hopefully I can find a used one for $150 or less

 

Is there a way to get a custom tune (Bama, Brenspeed, etc.) for free, like download it online (torrent?) and upload it to the tuner? Wouldn't make much sense for me to spend $250 on a local used SCT SF3 if I have to spend $150 on 3 custom Bama tunes...