Hi all. Got an Alta CAI for Christmas and am enjoying it thoroughly. Video here for anyone who wishes to see and hear the lovely sc whine and infamous Alta CAI whistle.

So my question is should I perform the ECU reset via the onboard computer or did having the battery and ECU disconnected for the install do the trick? I am of course referring to the reset which I have seen much debate on and the "relearning" process. I would love to hear your opinions. Thanks!

 

It doesn't really matter....
Lots of debate over what can and cannot be reset from the dash vs the battery...
Much more important the instal be done right, and the tube trimmed to fit...or it will slip off...and let unfiltered air in...
Many folks pop it on...and the bottom can slip off...for many miles before it is caught.
It is tuff to reach and do it right, but take the extra time, do it right!!

 

I didn't have to trim the tube and it appears to be on very snug. I have driven about 300 miles through various conditions and have checked it probably 5-6 times to make sure it is staying on well and it doesn't appear to be moving. My other concern was water getting into the airbox from the vents near the windshield. Maybe when the hood is closed the weatherstripping blocks it, but it just seems very open and susceptible to the elements. I was giving the car a bath with the pressurewasher and became concerned about this, especially since the firewall piece is removed during installation.

 

Any other thoughts on this regarding water or the ECU reset? Just want to put my mind at ease...

 

Due to these concerns, and a whistle sound heard on some alta installs in cruise, i ended going with the dinan intake...similar to the JCW with an enclosure.
the rear panel can be modifed for some protection....
Remove it....then use a hole saw...swis cheeses it...then reinstall
Negative is slightly less sound....heck there are pre cut versions sold by mini mania for a pretty $$.
That having been said, very few cars, with the exception of very early mini's...some 02's, have had many reports of failures due to water ingestion..

That having been said, the alta/alta clones are very popular...mostly trouble free if the filters are matained properly matained, and regularly inspected.
Use the proper cleaning kit...cloth and foam kits are differant, and do not over oil..

 

Thanks a bunch, zippy!