AFE CAI Question

[4RunnerNashville]

I've got a 2010 TE 4R that I am finally getting around to adding some mods too. Ive decided on the toytec 3" Lift W/ Bilstein 5100 Height Adj Coilovers FJ/4Runner, a stage 2 aFe CAI, and 285-70-17 B/F-stone Destination A/T's to get things started. Very excited to see the new look, and will be ordering everything later this morning. I have arrangements with TN Off Road to help me install the lift kit, but I am going to try to install the CAI on my own. I've read on here that its pretty simple, but was wondering if anyone had any specific advise to give? I have very limited experience, and thought this might be a nice "easy" way to start learning more about what's under my hood. Thank you!

 

[GrantK]

I installed my aFe CAI myself. My advise is to read the instructions until you know them by heart and take your time.

On mine, the location were the MAF sensor mounts on the tube between the air box and manifold needed trimming with a Dremel to make it seat properly. If you do anything like that, make sure you get every last spec of cuttings cleaned out of the tube before you mount it or they'll end up in the engine!!! They build up static when cut and stick to the tube pretty good.

 

[Ducmonsta]

I can't specifically remember on my AFE, but k&n makes the MAF (mass air flow) sensor fit 2 ways. You need to pay particular attention on the orientation of that sensor. Install it backwards, you'll have no power until you get on it. But in any event, a simple fix.

 

[mikey's2010SR5]

Take your time and follow the directions. You should have no problems then.

If you do get stuck, just post up the community will help.

 

[Hawaiian4runner]

I've got a 2010 TE 4R that I am finally getting around to adding some mods too. Ive decided on the toytec 3" Lift W/ Bilstein 5100 Height Adj Coilovers FJ/4Runner, a stage 2 aFe CAI, and 285-70-17 B/F-stone Destination A/T's to get things started. Very excited to see the new look, and will be ordering everything later this morning. I have arrangements with TN Off Road to help me install the lift kit, but I am going to try to install the CAI on my own. I've read on here that its pretty simple, but was wondering if anyone had any specific advise to give? I have very limited experience, and thought this might be a nice "easy" way to start learning more about what's under my hood. Thank you!

For me, only difficult part was getting the rubber seal onto the box. Someone recommended using a heat gun to soften the rubber. Could not find my heat gun so cannot confirm. Struggled for 30 minutes trying to get it to seat properly and stay in place. Ended up using a little electrical tape to keep the ends seated.

 

[kenski]

This was one of my first mods and I'm not very mechanical. On a scale of 1-10, I'd give it a difficulty of 3. AFE includes pretty good instructions so that was helpful. I had the same problem as Hawaiian with the rubber gasket / seal at the air intake. I searched for help and found somewhere (can't remember where exactly, I think on the taco forum) someone had just skipped that step since the gasket doesn't even sit flush anyway. (Might not make sense to you now but you'll see exactly what I mean by this once you get to that point in the install.) I ended up having to trim the gasket to size then used cement glue to hold it in place. Try not to let it kick your a$$.

 

[runnaz]

I know there is on going debate, but how does CAI affect the 4R? Is it worth it? Will it improve anything or is it just for looks and make a good conversation piece?

 

[Hawaiian4runner]

Good question! No good answer.

I know there is on going debate, but how does CAI affect the 4R? Is it worth it? Will it improve anything or is it just for looks and make a good conversation piece?

I don't think anyone actually "dynoed" their ride. Mine seems to have better off the line throttle response (partial throttle). Has a nice sound when you step on it and it does look cool. Issue I have is gas mileage. Seem to have lost about 1/2 mpg and I do try my best to drive the same way I always did. So many factors involved so I cannot say for sure but bottom line, I really like it! Pricey, probably really not doing much but WTF, it's worth it to me.

 

[SC0TT]

I installed my aFe CAI myself. My advise is to read the instructions until you know them by heart and take your time.

On mine, the location were the MAF sensor mounts on the tube between the air box and manifold needed trimming with a Dremel to make it seat properly. If you do anything like that, make sure you get every last spec of cuttings cleaned out of the tube before you mount it or they'll end up in the engine!!! They build up static when cut and stick to the tube pretty good.

x2

I had to grind the intake tube a bit to fit the MAF sensor. Other than that, it was a simple install.

I know there is on going debate, but how does CAI affect the 4R? Is it worth it? Will it improve anything or is it just for looks and make a good conversation piece?

Buy it for the sound,the look, and convenience of filter cleaning.

I did not notice any power gain or change in mileage.

 

[TOYSTRY]

Waste of money IMO. Search my post as I was one of the first to install one (TRD). Your paying $300-400 for looks, no real performance gains.

 

[jspagna1]

Waste of money IMO. Search my post as I was one of the first to install one (TRD). Your paying $300-400 for looks, no real performance gains.

I put a K & N CAI on my 97 because that thing really needed it. But I think with my 5th Gen. I'm going to hold off. It's definitley has more power than my 3rd gen has.
Although the look and sound is nice.