Following are some pictures that I took while installing my AEM CAI today. Based on other posts, I knew that the instructions/pictures that came with the kit were lacking and therefore decided to take pictures in case someone else needed a second view or clarification. The entire install took ~1.5 hours and is really not that difficult. I had a friend come over and that helped considerably (he did most of the work and I took pictures and told jokes). You could do it yourself, but that could add time and aggravation.

I did not plan on replicating all of the instruction pictures, but did ended up only leaving only three or four out. Each picture has the corresponding step/picture that is referenced on the instruction pages. 2 equals disassembly and 3 equals assembly. There are also a couple of items that the instructions mentioned that I did not comply with:

- I did not need to remove the "Strut Tower Bar".
- I did not disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- I did not need to jack the car up or take a wheel off.
- I did not need to let the car cool down for 2 hours.
- I was not familiar with "emission related components" and
- I did not refer the installation to a professional.

The highly specialized tools that were used for this job were:

-A combo flathead/Phillips screwdriver (4 heads)
-A 10MM socket and ratchet
-A nut driver (forgot the size)
-A pair of pliers
-Probably another wrench or socket that I forgot about.
(Note: a hammer was not required or contemplated during this project!)

As far as performance difference, check the other threads. I have only driven the car a couple of miles since it was installed, but I did notice a difference in sound and some performance improvement but never really got to test it out (small town, small streets). As far as a V2 version coming out, there is nothing listed on AEM's website as of today (May 3rd). Again check other threads for information.

I have decided to post each pictures in it's own frame in case anyone has a particular picture/stage they have a question on. Also I would always fear that someone would "quote" the entire post resulting in ~20 additional pictures having to be downloaded).

I hope this helps somebody. Good luck!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is what you should end up with!

 

its always awesome to see people work on their own cars rather than take them to shops for stuff they could easilly do themselves. something like this should help a lot of people with that. thumbs up!

 

great post! but is it more is there a step missing? how did you get the filter onto the end of the pipe if you didnt pull the wheel or liner?