Finally installed my C&L cai and updated with the C&L 91 octane tune. I do notice a difference on acceleration, especially WOT.
However, I'm a little concerned about the mounting bracket & bolt supplied with the kit. C&L suggests using it (but doesn't require it? anyone have any thoughts on that?), and it must be mounted by removing the front-drivers-side valve cover bolt, then replacing with the bolt they provide. First, the OEM bolt had a rubber sleeve and a thick rubber gasket--the C&L-provided bolt doesn't, so there's still some play in the bracket.
Second, I didn't use a torque wrench to tighten the bolt, partly because I'm obviously too stupid to guess at the appropriate ftlb force for the bolt, but mostly because the C&L instructions don't specify the ftlb tightening force for the bolt they provide (I don't want to snap it or crack the valve cover, but I don't want it too loose either!).
Finally installed my C&L cai and updated with the C&L 91 octane tune. I do notice a difference on acceleration, especially WOT.
However, I'm a little concerned about the mounting bracket & bolt supplied with the kit. C&L suggests using it (but doesn't require it? anyone have any thoughts on that?), and it must be mounted by removing the front-drivers-side valve cover bolt, then replacing with the bolt they provide. First, the OEM bolt had a rubber sleeve and a thick rubber gasket--the C&L-provided bolt doesn't, so there's still some play in the bracket.
Second, I didn't use a torque wrench to tighten the bolt, partly because I'm obviously too stupid to guess at the appropriate ftlb force for the bolt, but mostly because the C&L instructions don't specify the ftlb tightening force for the bolt they provide (I don't want to snap it or crack the valve cover, but I don't want it too loose either!).
Anyone have any feedback on this?
Thanks!
Moses
Hey Moses,
Can't help on the C&L, but I don't like the play in the bolt. Now you can pay the extra $$$$ for the 93 octane. I saw some 100 octane at a local Sunoco @ $5.99 gal., can I get a tune for that grade LOL. I've had people eye balling me when the 93 is lit up at the pump "what are you nuckin' futs" I fill on the half tank mostly. good luck
...but I don't like the play in the bolt. .. I've had people eye balling me when the 93 is lit up at the pump "what are you nuckin' futs" I fill on the half tank mostly. good luck
I probably should have been more clear: the valve cover bolt is very tight, but due to the absence of the rubber sleeve (on the OEM bolt), it doesn't seem flush against hole.
I was curious as to whether the mounting bracket is necessary at all. I'd almost rather not use it if possible, and put the OEM valve cover bolt back in. The MAF housing unit doesn't seem that heavy, plus its partially supported by the filter shield...
I probably should have been more clear: the valve cover bolt is very tight, but due to the absence of the rubber sleeve (on the OEM bolt), it doesn't seem flush against hole.
I was curious as to whether the mounting bracket is necessary at all. I'd almost rather not use it if possible, and put the OEM valve cover bolt back in. The MAF housing unit doesn't seem that heavy, plus its partially supported by the filter shield...
~M
When I bought the C&L inlet pipe to add it to my steeda set up (it shows it installed on the SHM web site) it didn't come w/ a brackett. I don't see the need for it. The pipe is so short and double fastened on both ends.
I attached the bracket to the body of the CAI, but did not mount it to the valve cover. I adjusted the bracked so that it simply rests on top of the valve cover bolt. This provides some support without removing the valve cover bolt. I have already read on another forum of someone who broke off the valve cover bolt by over tightening it.
I installed the C&L Performance CAI system on my '05 GT. The replacement bolt C&L sent me for the support bracket was actually shorter than the OEM bolt and would not work, so I reused the OEM bolt and it worked fine. You have to knock the OEM bolt out of the rubber grommet and reuse the grommet. Use a deep socket, place the grommet and bolt over the open end of the socket, and tap the end of the bolt lightly with a hammer. The bolt should pop right out of the grommet. Reverse the process to put the grommet back on. As far as the bolt tightness goes, I suggest you invest in a torque wrench, and torque the valve cover bolt to the proper factory spec. Otherwise, you may end up cracking the valve cover, or you could end up with an oil leak.
Alan
__________________
Legend Limer 0064
2005 GT Premium "Vert"
Legend Lime; medium parchment interior & top
Auto tranny
IUP with My Color; soft boot; active anti-theft; side air bags
Electrochromatic rearview mirror w/compass & temp; rear splash guards
Wheels: 2005 Mustang GT "Bullitts" in Arizona Beige w/Pony center caps
Aftermarket upgrades:
C&L Performance TrueFlow CAI with Diablo Predator custom tune
MagnaFlow X Pipe cat-back exhaust
Web sequential tail lights
CDC Light Bar
I installed the C&L Performance CAI system on my '05 GT. The replacement bolt C&L sent me for the support bracket was actually shorter than the OEM bolt and would not work, so I reused the OEM bolt and it worked fine. You have to knock the OEM bolt out of the rubber grommet and reuse the grommet. Use a deep socket, place the grommet and bolt over the open end of the socket, and tap the end of the bolt lightly with a hammer. The bolt should pop right out of the grommet. Reverse the process to put the grommet back on. As far as the bolt tightness goes, I suggest you invest in a torque wrench, and torque the valve cover bolt to the proper factory spec. Otherwise, you may end up cracking the valve cover, or you could end up with an oil leak.
Alan
Thanks for the information. Anyone know what the factory spec for torqueing that valve cover bolt?
C&L cai, , maf housing bracket valve cover bolt 
