[steved13]

Real rookie question. I've seen tuners advertised and seen them written about here.

I know some of the tuners stay on the vehicle like a new guage, do others plug in change the programming and remove?

I'd like to add a cold air intake, and it seems as if the best bet is to "retune", but I don't want a gadget attached permanently.

Maybe a little on how I would use the tuner, If it is removed when done how often/when do you use it?

[oneFASTmustang]

Go here 05-09 Mustang Cold Air Intakes at AmericanMuscle - Free Shipping!
They have good combo packages for cold air and tuners that go into your car's computer do what you need them to and then your done. So there no gadget you drive around with. lol

[stlwagon]

Get yourself an intake/tuner package from one of the reputable retailers (American Muscle, Brenspeed, Tillman, Bamachips, and others). Recommend the SCT X3. You just flash the tune and remove the device.

[steved13]

Thanks for the info. If I have it correct...Tuning is plug it in, retune, and unplug. Basically it reprograms the onboard computer, and your done.

Some CAI kits say they have to be retuned, some say they don't. Are the ones that have to be retuned adding more horsepower?

I was thinking of going with the Volant CAI, It doesn't say it has to be retuned, but some info says it gives the best gains and sounds good.

Sorry for asking, such elementary questions, but when I used to play with cars they didn't have any computers.

[stlwagon]

Originally Posted by steved13

Thanks for the info. If I have it correct...Tuning is plug it in, retune, and unplug. Basically it reprograms the onboard computer, and your done.

you've got it!

Originally Posted by steved13

Some CAI kits say they have to be retuned, some say they don't. Are the ones that have to be retuned adding more horsepower?

Also correct

Originally Posted by steved13

I was thinking of going with the Volant CAI, It doesn't say it has to be retuned, but some info says it gives the best gains and sounds good.

There are better. I'd look at the C&L, JLT II, Demolet TI, BBK. Check out Mustang Parts & Performance - American Muscle, Mustang Performance Parts & Upgrades by Brenspeed, Tillman Speed Inc. - www.shoptillman.com, BamaChips Tuning;

Originally Posted by steved13

Sorry for asking, such elementary questions, but when I used to play with cars they didn't have any computers.

No problem... That's how we all learn!

[amustangrocks]

i got the jlt, sctx3, and 3 custom tunes from tillman speed for 545.00. the parts( minus the nutdriver) and installed. huge performance gains

[stlwagon]

Can't really beat that deal anywhere.

[mfasone1028]

from what i have read a CAI that doesnt need a retune should be avoided.

[steved13]

Another question...I found a local shop to do the mods for me, he likes the Steeda CAI, which seems good. My question is, the shop has a dyno and he tunes it on the dyno, and then I keep the SCT tuner. I'm thinking that's probably better than buying the tune long distance? I can always order tunes later if not.

Any thoughts?

I'm also thinking of having him dyno, before and after each mod he does for me, If it's not to costly. If I can swing it I'll post the results here.