Well, can't really show proof as I've mentioned above so can only relate to my own experiences on this one. I've had a few builds and dynos in the past ('71 Roadrunner with a built 383, full exhaust, '71 GTO Judge with a 455 HO and full exhaust, carbs, '12 G37S w/ High flow cats, catbacks, long tube intakes, ECU tune...etc.) and dyno'd and carefully driven EVERY change on all of them with plenty of hits n misses.. Personally I don't go easy on what I buy just because I spent the money.. If its shit or useless, out it goes. The CAI didn't feel like a 'wasted' effort to be honest. I do feel a change, and whilst I never trust butt dynos or ears as a replacement for better means of reading power figures, I can say with confidence there is a gain to be felt for sure. Even if I'm completely wrong here, I'd still keep it for the noises.

Money throwing, on the other hand, is a problem I'll admit to..

Thanks! It is crazy out there.. definitely different than trails n all, but still fun nonetheless!

Yeah, the guy at the shop told me they did an XREAS change to aftermarket and it took them some effort.. More importantly, if it works for you as it is and your happy with it, keep it! Still drooling myself over a gobi rack and ladder.. but we'll see how it goes.