These are probably some dumb questions and if so please forgive me for asking them. What are the main benefits of a CAI, what are problems with them, do the positives out weigh the negatives, what type of sound change is there and finally is it a difficult installation? Again, sorry if these are stupid questions. JimmyB

 

What's a CIA? Central Intelligence Agency? What you're trying to say is CAI - Cold Air Intake.

Positives - small horsepower gain, free up engine space (easier to access oil filter), aggressive sound at WOT (wide open throttle), better throttle response (no bogging)

Negatives - possibility of hydrolocking engine (can be remedied with a bypass valve), throws off "near-perfect" weight distrubution?

An AEM CAI was the first mod I bought for my S2000. I'm happy with it, as it added more character to the car, in the form of a loud, aggressive sound. The installation is not that difficult, but you do have to do some cutting (with the AEM and Injen). Of course, there are a few other CAI's, such as Comptech and Mugen. Do some research, and make a decision for yourself as to whether the positives outweigh the negatives.

 

The primary benefit of a CAI is a reduced *loss* in HP that the stock motor experiences due to heat soak. Another great way to address that issue is the Hondata intake gasket -- the two mods complement each other nicely.

 

twohoos,
Tell us more about the hondata intake gasket? What is it and where does it fit in relation to a CAI?

 

It's a gasket that replaces the stock gasket between the intake manifold and the head of the engine. As you can imagine, the head of the engine gets very hot; the gasket attempts to isolate the heat of the head away from the intake manifold. And from what I've heard (not personal experience though), it does the job well.

 

My Injen CAI shows impressive gains, by far the best mod/$ IMHO.

 

If caught in the rain are there any risks to the engine sucking up to much water, Better way to phrase it any water. I generally don't drive mu S2000 when there is a chance of rain, but on those rare occasions when I get caught in a storm I don't want to take the chance of ruining the engine. All advice welcome!