[c3474]

I currently have an all stock HX. I do like the idea of all stock, but I notice that I get FAR supperior MPG with warmer ambient temps. The best (via scan guage) seems to be when the engine temp is around 190-200*F and the intake temp is around 100-110*F. Morning and evenings are getting colder and my milage on the freeway is going from around 45ish to 30ish on the freeway (again via scanguage with engine temp at 188*F and intake temp at 65-70*F). It's only going to get colder in Oregon.

I'm thinking its time for maybe an 195* thermostat and a WAI or HAI. As I said, I like the idea of stock so I would like to at least be able to return to stock.

I've been debating the idea of using a short ram intake (AEM or some knock off) as the basis of a WAI and sending a Dryer vent flex tube from the filter of the AEM to the exhaust manifold. The idea being that it sould be easy (all accessable) to modify flex tube placement for daily or even hourly conditions. And since I wouldn't be cutting the stock intake box up I could always revert to stock if needed.

I'm looking for some thoughtful insight as to the pros and cons of using a "performance short ram intake" as the basis of a WAI or HAI.

Thank you all in advance!