New To RX-8 Club, First Question about Air Intakes
08-07-2011, 03:51 PM
#1
SpeedbyYou
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New To RX-8 Club, First Question about Air Intakes
Hello all fellow RX-8 members, just wanted to introduce myself and my car to the forums. I have a 2006, velocity red, 6 Speed MT, RX-8. I do plan on applying modifications over time and of course will ask for guidance and feedback from my fellow threaders. I am good with electronics, but I am more interested with the mechanics of the car and better improving the overall car (even though it's great out of the factory!). Currently I have not applied any modifications or aftermarket parts, all factory parts under the hood.
So now to the question, I have been doing a lot of research, not only on RX-8 Club but also throughout the internet, and i still haven't fully decided which air intake I would "like" to put in. I have seen all three sides of the spectrum from regular CAI to short-cam and of course, just replace with the K&N filter and call it a day. BUT, for a sanity check i would like to hear what other have to say, from personal experience.
FYI, I am more leaning towards the AEM CAI. I DO UNDERSTAND that i am not going to see a dramatic increase in HP or overall power, because the stock AI is already powerful enough for the car. I guess I'm trying to clear up some space under the hood and let others hear the potential power that the RX-8 hides under the hood.
Cheers!
So now to the question, I have been doing a lot of research, not only on RX-8 Club but also throughout the internet, and i still haven't fully decided which air intake I would "like" to put in. I have seen all three sides of the spectrum from regular CAI to short-cam and of course, just replace with the K&N filter and call it a day. BUT, for a sanity check i would like to hear what other have to say, from personal experience.
FYI, I am more leaning towards the AEM CAI. I DO UNDERSTAND that i am not going to see a dramatic increase in HP or overall power, because the stock AI is already powerful enough for the car. I guess I'm trying to clear up some space under the hood and let others hear the potential power that the RX-8 hides under the hood.
Cheers!
08-07-2011, 04:34 PM
#6
40th anniversary Edition
I put the MSCAI on my 2008 40th Anniversary Edition RX8. It and the AEM are the same part, but the Mazdaspeed one will keep your Mazda warranty. AEM's testing (with the sock) yields from 5-13hp (it will vary and depends on the ambient temp and the humidity). It is a longer intake than the REVI (it positions the filter w/sock lower and further away from the warmer air in the engine bay.) The shorter CAI like the REVI will give you a fraction of a second faster response since they are shorter,and the air has a shorter path to go, but they can never make the same HP as the AEM and MSCAI because the shorter CAI still get their air from higher up and closer to the warm engine bay. (remember your physics, warm air rises) .
I have driven easily a million miles in my owned seven rotaries since 1973,including all three generations of RX7. I have had NA and turbocharged engines in my stock and heavily modified street and race RXs. The MS or AEM CAI is a safe way to add some modest power, better throttle response and better breathing. Don't let others here pooh pooh the CAI. If you drive your RX without one ,then add one, you will know the difference the first time you drive it, and it does sound great.
I have driven easily a million miles in my owned seven rotaries since 1973,including all three generations of RX7. I have had NA and turbocharged engines in my stock and heavily modified street and race RXs. The MS or AEM CAI is a safe way to add some modest power, better throttle response and better breathing. Don't let others here pooh pooh the CAI. If you drive your RX without one ,then add one, you will know the difference the first time you drive it, and it does sound great.
Last edited by gwilliams6; 08-07-2011 at 05:18 PM.
08-07-2011, 04:41 PM
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Monica(I assume),
While not directly associated with your intake question.............I do this to quite a few new people.
Read your owners manual, and the might wanna check out some of the links below, and the search(which I linked for you).
New and Potential Owner’s, Start Here:
https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/new-potential-owners-start-here-202454/
Congratulations, you got an 8:
https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/congratulations-you-got-8-a-202548/
New Owner FAQ’s:
https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.ph...&highlight=FAQ
FAQ’s:
https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/rx-8-faq-please-read-before-posting-959/
Above all, please don’t make threads on subjects that have been covered a thousand times, use the search function on this site, or click this link that might work better for you -----> Search rx8club via Google
Ray(Charles) is correct of course and if you read up you may change your mind in going after the intake first.
While not directly associated with your intake question.............I do this to quite a few new people.
Read your owners manual, and the might wanna check out some of the links below, and the search(which I linked for you).
New and Potential Owner’s, Start Here:
https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/new-potential-owners-start-here-202454/
Congratulations, you got an 8:
https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/congratulations-you-got-8-a-202548/
New Owner FAQ’s:
https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.ph...&highlight=FAQ
FAQ’s:
https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/rx-8-faq-please-read-before-posting-959/
Above all, please don’t make threads on subjects that have been covered a thousand times, use the search function on this site, or click this link that might work better for you -----> Search rx8club via Google
Ray(Charles) is correct of course and if you read up you may change your mind in going after the intake first.
08-07-2011, 04:58 PM
#8
SpeedbyYou
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First, Let me clarify...the car's name is monica lol, and I am a male. I appreciate the guidance and the links provided. i will do some more reading, but i myself prefer the longer intakes over the short. i will keep posted once i actually make a decision/install! Thanks!
08-07-2011, 05:16 PM
#9
40th anniversary Edition
O f course there are other mods you can do to make the car faster, like adding a lighter flywheel (that could add a few HP), taking any weight off the car, and of course forced induction , but again I say if you have actually driven a RX8 without a CAI and then the same car with a AEM or MSCAI you will know the difference every time you drive. The proof is in the actual driving, not postulating. BTW in the FS threads there are folks parting out their cars, and selling AEM CAI.
Last edited by gwilliams6; 08-07-2011 at 05:20 PM.
08-08-2011, 08:14 AM
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First, Let me clarify...the car's name is monica lol, and I am a male. I appreciate the guidance and the links provided. i will do some more reading, but i myself prefer the longer intakes over the short. i will keep posted once i actually make a decision/install! Thanks!
But.....at least I threw in the (I assume) part!
08-08-2011, 09:57 AM
#11
Given that the factory ignition system is weak, even when new, that the coils are generally weak enough by 30k miles to destroy your factory catalyst, and that damaged catalysts can lead to engine failure in the long term, your first mod may best be the BHR Ignition System.
After that, the AccessPort from MazdaManiac is a great second investment.
Both of these products will retain 80% of their resale value, they will improve the driveability of your RX-8, and they will improve the longevity of your engine.
Your subsequent modification priorities are wholly dependent on your particular concerns, but they are generally the following;
Performance midpipe.
Lightweight flywheel.
Stiffer swaybars and adjustable dampers.
Lowering springs.
Cat-back exhaust.
Performance brake pads and rotors if yours are in need of replacement).
Axial Flow short shifter.
Performance tires in the 245/40-18 size (if you are on factory wheels).
Eneos transmission/differential fluid.
Removal of the two inner panels and one screen from your factory intake box (aftermarket intakes merely add noise).
For power-adders, you have nitrous oxide and forced-induction.
After that, the AccessPort from MazdaManiac is a great second investment.
Both of these products will retain 80% of their resale value, they will improve the driveability of your RX-8, and they will improve the longevity of your engine.
Your subsequent modification priorities are wholly dependent on your particular concerns, but they are generally the following;
Performance midpipe.
Lightweight flywheel.
Stiffer swaybars and adjustable dampers.
Lowering springs.
Cat-back exhaust.
Performance brake pads and rotors if yours are in need of replacement).
Axial Flow short shifter.
Performance tires in the 245/40-18 size (if you are on factory wheels).
Eneos transmission/differential fluid.
Removal of the two inner panels and one screen from your factory intake box (aftermarket intakes merely add noise).
For power-adders, you have nitrous oxide and forced-induction.
08-08-2011, 01:31 PM
#12
Im in the same situation u are. Ive done a lot of research. The only one Ive actually heard in person was the K&N Typhoon. I have heard a lot of bad things about these and that u actually loose power, any thoughts?
I really like the looks and the sound of the mazdaspeed CAI. but i heard in bad weather it doesnt do to well (snow or rain) because it comes down so far.
I thinkk im leaning towards th RB CAI. what do u guys think about that? also do u think i should get the air duct?
Does anyone have RB intake and exhaust? thats what I would really like to do down the road. Really love that tone.
I really like the looks and the sound of the mazdaspeed CAI. but i heard in bad weather it doesnt do to well (snow or rain) because it comes down so far.
I thinkk im leaning towards th RB CAI. what do u guys think about that? also do u think i should get the air duct?
Does anyone have RB intake and exhaust? thats what I would really like to do down the road. Really love that tone.
08-08-2011, 01:37 PM
#13
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Given that the factory ignition system is weak, even when new, that the coils are generally weak enough by 30k miles to destroy your factory catalyst, and that damaged catalysts can lead to engine failure in the long term, your first mod may best be the BHR Ignition System.
After that, the AccessPort from MazdaManiac is a great second investment.
Both of these products will retain 80% of their resale value, they will improve the driveability of your RX-8, and they will improve the longevity of your engine.
Your subsequent modification priorities are wholly dependent on your particular concerns, but they are generally the following;
Performance midpipe.
Lightweight flywheel.
Stiffer swaybars and adjustable dampers.
Lowering springs.
Cat-back exhaust.
Performance brake pads and rotors if yours are in need of replacement).
Axial Flow short shifter.
Performance tires in the 245/40-18 size (if you are on factory wheels).
Eneos transmission/differential fluid.
Removal of the two inner panels and one screen from your factory intake box (aftermarket intakes merely add noise).
For power-adders, you have nitrous oxide and forced-induction.
After that, the AccessPort from MazdaManiac is a great second investment.
Both of these products will retain 80% of their resale value, they will improve the driveability of your RX-8, and they will improve the longevity of your engine.
Your subsequent modification priorities are wholly dependent on your particular concerns, but they are generally the following;
Performance midpipe.
Lightweight flywheel.
Stiffer swaybars and adjustable dampers.
Lowering springs.
Cat-back exhaust.
Performance brake pads and rotors if yours are in need of replacement).
Axial Flow short shifter.
Performance tires in the 245/40-18 size (if you are on factory wheels).
Eneos transmission/differential fluid.
Removal of the two inner panels and one screen from your factory intake box (aftermarket intakes merely add noise).
For power-adders, you have nitrous oxide and forced-induction.
But as always...............the man knows what he's talkin' bout.
Last edited by Mazurfer; 08-08-2011 at 01:44 PM.
08-08-2011, 01:42 PM
#14
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^.........quite a few of us have or have had that combo you speak of.
K&N Typhoon = Don't do it! And......yes it can.
Mazdaspeed CAI = AEM = Not as bad as you've pointed out, but some do have issues.
RB = Personal choice, I like it and have the intake, duct, and exhaust.
As Ray has already stated numerous times. Mazda did a very good job with the intake, only real reason to change is sound.
K&N Typhoon = Don't do it! And......yes it can.
Mazdaspeed CAI = AEM = Not as bad as you've pointed out, but some do have issues.
RB = Personal choice, I like it and have the intake, duct, and exhaust.
As Ray has already stated numerous times. Mazda did a very good job with the intake, only real reason to change is sound.
08-08-2011, 02:21 PM
#15
^ Yea thats really all I want is better sound^ I think thats exactly what I want, what you have. are u satisfied with everything? do u wish u would have got a different exhaust? Have u heard Borla Greddy and everything in person?
08-08-2011, 06:43 PM
#16
To each they own...... LOL
08-08-2011, 06:48 PM
#17
Are we switching to discussing exhausts already? LOL
08-08-2011, 11:53 PM
#18
"I wanna go fast!"
Gratz on picking the fastest color.
And make sure you get the red AEM CAI like me to match your fast red car.
On a serious note... the RB is a great choice too. Go with either the RB or AEM one and youll be golden.
Then go ignition. Then lighter flywheel. Then underpulley's. Then do a cat delete.
Then get a catback exhaust. Then accessport. You will want MM to tune your car AFTER you get all your mods.
Then go cosmetic crazy... cuz the only way you will make power after all this is with FI. And if you plan on going FI later on down the road.... go AEM CAI cuz it is the only one you can still use with a FI setup.
And make sure you get the red AEM CAI like me to match your fast red car.
On a serious note... the RB is a great choice too. Go with either the RB or AEM one and youll be golden.
Then go ignition. Then lighter flywheel. Then underpulley's. Then do a cat delete.
Then get a catback exhaust. Then accessport. You will want MM to tune your car AFTER you get all your mods.
Then go cosmetic crazy... cuz the only way you will make power after all this is with FI. And if you plan on going FI later on down the road.... go AEM CAI cuz it is the only one you can still use with a FI setup.
08-10-2011, 06:24 AM
#21
Then underpulley's.
Then accessport. You will want MM to tune your car AFTER you get all your mods.
... cuz the only way you will make power after all this is with FI. And if you plan on going FI later on down the road.... go AEM CAI cuz it is the only one you can still use with a FI setup.
Then accessport. You will want MM to tune your car AFTER you get all your mods.
... cuz the only way you will make power after all this is with FI. And if you plan on going FI later on down the road.... go AEM CAI cuz it is the only one you can still use with a FI setup.
I thought the final word on under pulleys was boooooooooo worthless for any HP gain.
I know it was with the SFR Pulleys .... anyways they dress up the engine bay.
Personally I would move the purchase of the Cobb AP higher .... only because I love to look at all the operating parameters and outputs it displays about the vehicle.
Oh I might add that the Cobb AP is only available for the Series I
Edit:
Nitrous is always an option as well
Last edited by wcs; 08-10-2011 at 06:44 AM.
08-10-2011, 06:34 PM
#23
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^......well, there ya go. Screw what anybody else thinks..........opinions are like @ssholes, you know that.
As long as you are happy, that's all that really matters.
As long as you are happy, that's all that really matters.
08-13-2011, 12:33 PM
#25
40th anniversary Edition
lowering the air temp entering the Renesis engine, roughly each 10 degrees F cooler translates into another 1 hp gain (depending on humidity). The air pulled from the engine compartment can easily be 100- 150 degrees F, or even hotter. Air flowing through the radiator gets warmed and flows back to the stock intake. So the lower and further away you can get the CAI intake the cooler the air ,and the more HP you can make.
Short CAI behind the radiator will never be able to make the hp of any CAI that is pulling even cooler air from in front of the radiator and lower.
Short CAI behind the radiator will never be able to make the hp of any CAI that is pulling even cooler air from in front of the radiator and lower.
Last edited by gwilliams6; 08-14-2011 at 08:00 AM.