Hey guys, I have the following installed in an 2003 model.

HKS Intake
HKS Exhaust
Kinetix V4 Plenum
Kinetix HFC
Alphawerks Headers

I think I might be running lean because after driving it around town for a few days, I noticed that the exhaust tips are still brand new looking. In other words, there's absolutely no carbon build up at all!!! Think I'm running lean? Either that or maybe cuz the exhaust is a true dual exhaust, it's just running that clean? What are your inputs?

 

didn't you just install the stuff?!? it may take a week or two to see carbon buildup. second, i have an hks intake, injen straight tip, helix test pipes and mine are black and a pain to clean. i'm not sure if this is the best way to determain if you are lean or not. a better way is to check your plugs. but i'd wait a few weeks to see what's going on.

 

Pull a spark plug and take a look at it. Its a quick way to look and see if you are lean or rich. Or take it to a dyno.

 

here's a good guide... http://www.dragstuff.com/techarticle...ead-plugs.html

also, the new sportZmag has step by step instructions about how remove plugs.

enjoy~

 

I was hoping to not have to check the plugs but if that's the only way, so be it. Thanks guys

 

Indeed. I have just put on my HKS exhaust about a month ago and metal in the tips is still visible. Small amount of carbon only and it seems like it's staying like that.

 

I just spoke with AAM about the situation and he said because of all my mods, I'm running extremely lean right now. I guess that just means I have to fork out $600 for a reflash. Sigh.......

 

What mods do you have and what year is your car?

 

Just the exhaust!!! I remember i also reset my ECU, hopefully that has nothing to do with why it's happening. Maybe the car just has low emissions from factory? The cats restrict alot?

 

If you are worried about running lean..I would recommend you to pick up a wideband to monitor your AFR and maybe a SAFC to add more fuel.

Thanks,
Tom