Custom CAI??

[techmen17]

So like most everyone else, I would love a CAI for my 4runner...

But has anyone ever made a custom CAI?? I tried searching around here, but haven't found much.

I always see those cheap spectre parts at auto zone and other auto parts stores. Like the tubing, connections, elbows, even mass air sensor connections.
So why not use those parts, (tubing is tubing right??) and throw on a K&N conical filter or AFE filter on the end?? Done the math, and it seems I could build it all for just under $120---> 1/3 of the price of brand name CAI systems.

So am I going down uncharted waters here?? Can you guys think of problems one could run into?? If not I guess I can be the test pilot...

 

[Nuke]

Since the T4R's are not as finicky about the MAF and airflow as some other cars, I suppose you could self-assemble a system but I'd think the problems with fit and finish would lean me towards buying an aftermarket system that's tried and proven. I bought my TRD CAI on ebay for $280 with free S&H. Let us know what you do and how it went.

 

[chaz]

you'll have trouble mounting the MAP sensor, unless u mod the tube with a flat spot for it.

 

[audiqtr]

has anyone tried swiss cheesing the box?

 

[techmen17]

There's actually a seperate small tubing section that has the holes and mounts already in place for the sensor that I think will fit...I guess I'm just going to have to try this one out and see how it goes

 

[chaz]

good for u, let us know how it turns out.

 

[12guns]

has anyone tried swiss cheesing the box?

Funny you should ask. I was messing around one day and found that I could prop open the airbox lid w/ a small block of wood. The wood pushing up on the filter so all air still passes through. I cut a notch in the wood so it sits on the airbox and is secure. Sounds AWESOME. Probably just like a CAI but cost only about 5 mins of my time. I'll try to get a pic later.
Not sure any MPG gains. Minimal if any, but certianly didn't hurt.

 

[jetboy1975]

Another option is the deck plate mod. Do a quick search and you should be able to find step by step directions. It's a $10 part and will give you similar results. (more direct air, just not tubed to a colder location)

 

[techmen17]

Another option is the deck plate mod. Do a quick search and you should be able to find step by step directions. It's a $10 part and will give you similar results. (more direct air, just not tubed to a colder location)

I considered something like that, but I have the v6...and don't have the nice large airbox.

 

[blkexp98]

Something that may or may not help is to cover the stock tube in that thermal wrap. Then cover the airbox with the reflective insulating material and tape it n place with the metal DUCT tape. That would atleast help the air that was coming in not ge as heated from the engine compartment. I wonder if ayone has activly or passivly tried to cool the intake air? What i mean is a cooling elemate of some kind. It may not be worth the effort though.

 

[txzaphod]

I always see those cheap spectre parts at auto zone and other auto parts stores. Like the tubing, connections, elbows, even mass air sensor connections.
So why not use those parts, (tubing is tubing right??) and throw on a K&N conical filter or AFE filter on the end?? Done the math, and it seems I could build it all for just under $120---> 1/3 of the price of brand name CAI systems.

I was looking at the same setup (individual parts), but I would only use them if I was removing the Intake silencer box and keep the original air box and deck plate mod.

I've also been looking at the Spectre kit with a one piece intake tube, filter and shield that I've seen online for < $100 including shipping.

Decisions, Decisions..