AEM Intake Opinions?
 

Hey guys,
Im new to the forum, new to the rotary, and new to the RX8... I got one about 2 weeks ago and I just got it completely serviced at teh local dealership (Mazda Gallery in Boston)...
This thing is a rocket, but Im still looking for more... Im about to buy an AEM intake but thought I would ask you guys for your opinion on it? I read some posts and seems like a good buy, but if you guys can answer a few of my questions id greatly appreciate it...

First off, can you really feel the difference in the car once i install this intake?
Second, will the rain/puddle affect the fact that its so low to the ground? (Perhaps it may suck up water into the engine?)
Last, is there antyhing i need to know before throwing it in? Something that people usually miss out on...?

Thanks again for any help in advance... Glad to find such a forum!

1. No you will not feel the difference.. you will hear a change in sound, that is all.

2. There have been instances were people sucked up water through the MS/AEM intake and fouled their MAF.. so yes it is possible.

3. Don't do it, save the $300 and get a supercat/midpipe if you really want to gain some power that may or may not be noticeable.

What about the K&N Intake? does that ever suck up water? And i just tried googling Supercat or Midpipe but couldnt find anything... can you elaborate?

the rp supercat

(rotary powered)

http://www.rx7.com/store/rx8/rx8exhaust.html

midpipe/race pipe/test pipe are just straight pipes replacing the catalytic converter

that sounds logical... well two questions... i JUST got my cat converter replaced, so will this STILL make a difference? also, how would i "simulate" the O2 sensors?

with a rp supercat, no o2 foolers are needed. it will not shoot up cel's

with a midpipe, you could just swap with your cat before inspection.

either set up will provide an increase in performance. maybe not a lot but an increase none the less.

yeh i know that, but im not looking to invest in a supercat... if i put in the midpipe my engine light will come on due to o2 sensors... correct? how can i fix this?

Cobb AccessPort.

will mask cel's caused by exhaust related issues.

o wow, that sounds risky, not to kean on that... i guess a supercat is gonna be my option... About filters though, what is preferred? K&N or AEM?

I noticed a difference in throttle response. After I had my MazdaSpeed (AEM) CAI installed I wrote this review: https://www.rx8club.com/rx-8-discussion-3/mazdaspeed-cold-air-intake-review-120714/

I love my Mazdaspeed CAI, who cares if it produces gobbs of power- it sounds great!! I live where it rains 7 or 8 months of the year and have never had a problem with it. Half the pleasure of driving a sports car are the sounds it makes!!

$328, shipped, and I have a bunch in-stock.

its the RP supercat exhaust.

I have the K&N, its very very loud and doesnt give anything for gains. I bought it bc I love the way it looks. Its a big hit when I pop my hood, everyone loves the carbon fiber air filer :lol: . I also picked my up for cheap.

Have you considered just 'gutting' the stock box. I thought that a CAI would do something for my performance, but it really doesnt do ANYTHING.

I have a midpipe and a typhoon intake and the only difference is a check engine light, flames, my car stinks, and its really loud at WOT.

All of these questions were already posted (about 10 threads below this one) and answered by numerous ppl who have had the AEM/MS and K&N.

https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-aftermarket-performance-modifications-23/k-n-aem-intake-160112/

The K&N will not suck up water because it is in the engine bay.
The AEM/MS can because it is right behind the grill and in front of the radiator. It rained this weekend in CO and my 8 drove fine.

I have had both and personally like the AEM/MS better. The K&N was a little to loud for me (makes the dash board vibrate:Eyecrazy: ). Also the AEM/MS keeps the IAT low and as close to AMB as possible.

Reread the posts in the link above.....

i drive 8 hour days and i live in south florida, i need a cai

The AEM intake is dyno proven in horsepower gains. Yeah, you probably won't feel them, but you will gain a few horsepower (3 to 4). Couldn't tell you if I felt a huge difference (I got mine over a year ago and had been driving the car for only a few months), but I love mine. It doesn't add huge horsepower gains but no bolt-on for this car will. The sound is awesome and I have yet to come across a person who didn't go "whoa" in some shape or form when I opened my hood. The intake comes with a sleeve you place over the filter that prevents most water from getting in. If you're on stock springs the filter is still several inches off the ground and I've never had a problem driving in the rain with it. There are mods out there that provide more horsepower gains, but this is still a good buy IMO.

i just ordered mine lastnight for $305, that was the best deal i can find for the blue one, this car has the best sounds so why not make them sound better

you know that plastic peace under the oem intake? do they make after market plates to get that nasty thing off that builds up sand for the AEM
http://i312.photobucket.com/albums/l...n/Untitled.jpg