I am getting what I consider a great deal. The local Acura dealer will take care of this for $300 + tax, all parts and labor included. Basically, I am getting the Icebox for $160, the filter for $60, and $80 for labor. I'll go with the factory intake. Now, the questions:

1. Does the icebox show immediate, noticable gains on a completely stock system?
2. I have plans to add a Mugen H/E sometime next year. Will the full benefits of the icebox be realised at that time?

This deal is too good to pass up, and I'll go ahead with it regardless, I am just curious about the results right away. I did a search and most people who have it report that there are noticable gains, even on a stock system.

 

The installation is really simple ... in my opinion I would not pay $80 for labor. You can definitly install it yourself.

 

I agree, the installation takes so little time and only requires minimal mechanical ability, I should know I have VERY little mechanical ability. And, isn't it fun learning about your car and actually DOING the stuff yourself? I know I feel satisfied after I complete a new mod.

Anyways I think that $80. ia a little steep especially if you're going to a real mechanic. Whats the going rate for work where you are? I'm certain it could be done for less than $80. an hour, because thats more time than it took me and it's only my second CAI install. But my first took about 1 Hour and it was the AEM model.

ANSWER #1: Yes but, nothing staggering, you'll feel better throttle response and a livlier feel but nothing drastic, Oh, and it has a nice mellow throaty sound.

ANSWER #2. Yes but again by then you won't feel anything MORE with the CAI just, different feelings with your Header right away, and since I don't have an exhaust yet I won't comment on the catback. But, remember that with the JDM header and catback you'll need a Highflow Catalytic Converter.

Let us all know what your plans are too? Are ya just doing the basic bolt ons or are ya goin full NA, FI or T? It all matters before you decide on the rest of you H & E...

IMHO: The Header is one of the first DO mods to improve HP/TQ performance. Go with one of the JDM models and you'll be satisfied. The CAI is good but it's not the same "Holy Grail" bolt on as with the other Teg's and other Hondas.

Congrats on the choice I'm sure you'll be happy with it and Good Luck,

A.

 

Icebox is definitely worth it, but as stated, you will not see the same kind of gains that you will from a header. MOST of the bolt on power on the R is in the header and cat you select, so "choose wisely". A header and cat cost much more than the average intake though.

 

i think the going rate around the bay area is 75-85 per hour so i think its a fair price. Some like to dealer install since they know whats going on with the car and everything will remain warrented no questions asked.

 

Icebox will not affect your warranty.

 

Thanks for the responses everyone. Yes, FBP_1171 is correct. The rate here in Seattle is $75/hr. The main reason I wanted to have the dealership do it is exactly the reasons you state. And I don't want them to make any excuses should I do the installation myself and in the future take it for warranty repairs. This way, it's a professional installation by them, they're an authorized Comptech dealer like all other Acura dealers, so there won't be any problems.

 

I installed mine in about 40 min. No problems. It's been in the shop for service and nothing was said. 100K warranty still there.

However, I've also been working on my own cars (all Honda) for about 12 years, so I know my way around my Hondas pretty well.


[Modified by FBP_1171, 12:43 PM 9/24/2001]

 

I agree with these guy's use the $80 towards the polished intake pipe and install it yourself. It is very easy to do and it's fun.

 

hey dude, I live in Seattle, I'll come help you install that **** for free. Don't pay $80 for something so simple.

 

You don't need the polished pipe. The stock pipe works fine, just get the filter, which comes with the elbow, and you are all set.

 

Man, all of a sudden, I might change my mind. How easy is this? My mechanical abilities are average. I can change spark plugs, install a radio, install my own alarm etc. I thought you have to raise the car and need additional parts that Competch doesn't provide to complete the installation. If it's that easy, I'd much rather buy the Mugen Racing shift **** for the $80.

 

EXTREMELY easy. If you can do those things, you can install the Icebox. You do have to raise the car, but for the most part you just need a screwdriver, a large crescent wrench and a couple of sockets/ratchet. You should not need any additional parts, everything is supplied.