What is the main difference between the CAI's on ebay for 30 and 40 bucks and brand names like AEM and Injen that sell for 150-250? I mean i've heard that the AEM's have mounting bracket problems, like they break or somthing. If so, isn't getting a generic one and spending some extra cash for a K&N filter the same as getting AEM or Injen?

 

Yes it is, I talked to a few guys on the CL site that have done this exact thing. Not like you get any customer service from AEM or Injen anyway. I mean its just a pipe with a filter on the end. I plan on doing this (like I said before) and getting the K&N filter and putting the extra $100 in my pocket.

 

Some would say airflow, warranty (not really needed), Filtering, brandname, cool colors/designs.

But if you think about it, Saving $100 and getting a kikass K&N filter its definetly worth it considering you're sacrificing 1/30th hp...if that 'cause nobody has proves.

 

ya I mean I would get an AEM or Injen if I had the money, but I know that I can save money and get a generic CAI then a good filter and call it good.

 

If the goal is to save money, then don't even buy the cheap stuff on ebay. Pull out the lower resonator and replace the stock filter with a K & N for $45 total.

 

Could do that, but then you dont have the shiny intake thats the first thing you see when you open the hood. If you look at the generic and the brandname pipes, there really isnt any difference, the diamters are same, only one comes with a sticker you can put on your car, so its not even about the money, but about practicality. Anyone done this mind telling us the exact K&N to use?

 

heh, if you really wanna be cheap, Get the Generic one, with a good K&N filter and then get an Injen or AEM Sticker and put it on that fucker!

 

i was on ebay looking at the cai's, and i was thinking the same thing!

 

i vote injen but i got mine used. just remove the intake resonator by the bumper. there isn't that huge of a difference in sound.

 

getting or making your own CAI isn't a problem, just make sure the construction of the tubing your using don't attract heat that will build up in the engine bay!! THATS pretty much why AEM and INJEN costs more. supposedly, their material doesn't allow as much heat as a regular tube from Home Depot. IMO, find some good insulation to cover the pipe with or else it would defeat the purpose of even spending $100 bucks on a "home made" CAI.

 

Wrap alumin paper around it

 

haha

 

thats exactly what is done since it prevents heat from getting in/out. they even have places out there that sells protective aluminum sheets to insulate the pipe from the interior heat of the engine.

 

I know. You can always to this and keep it there with some lead tape and MAN you got one cold air intake!