I've been considering the aFe CAI for my 2003 Cooper. I was wondering if anyone has done a DIY for the installation. I'd like to see how it's done before I purchase the unit. I was hoping for any tips on how to install. I've been known to break a few of those MINI plastic clips and would like to avoid that
Thanks in advance.
Ken

 

Hey there, I've got the aFe and like it quite a bit. I installed it myself and it was really easy. I don't have photos or anything, but it's just a matter of removing a few bolts, taking out the old airbox, dropping in the aFe heatshield, clamping on the filter, and putting the bolts back in. It took maybe fifteen minutes from start to finish, and I don't have much mechanical experience.

 

Hi Dan, Thanks for the reply. Did you have to remove any wires or connectors? The battery box bolt seems hard to get to (behind the air box) Any suggestions?

 

No problem. I don't think I had to disconnect anything. I think I had to use a long socket to get to the bolt near the battery box, but nothing needed to be unplugged.

 

Hey man. I have the thread for you! I did this swap a few years ago and made a picture how to thread. let me dig it up

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...e-afe-cai.html

There you are. Some of the pic links broke over the years. Hope it helps though! DM me if you need anything else!

 

That's just what I needed! Thanks much. Now that you've lived with the CAI, how do you like it? Do you get much of a benefit below 3500 RPM's? Also, I don't like the wires you disconected just hanging around. I prefer they had a new secure home. Any problems with the wires dangling there?
Thanks again.