S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake InstallationThere are many elements in the horsepower equation and air is the most basic variable. One method is to improve the stock air intake and the resulting airflow it produces. In this instance, a cold air kit from Tuneable Induction will assist in getting cool, dense air into your late-model Ford Mustang. StangNet.com is proud to present this illustrated technical article demonstrating the installation of a cold air induction kit. This write-up gives a real-world overview and interpretation on how to perform the install on a 2005 Ford Mustang GT. StangNet Staff member bigcat shows us just how it’s done.

S197 CAI Install

Tools required:

  • flat and phillips screwdrivers
  • T20 Torx screwdriver or bit
  • 10mm socket and ratchet

Factory air box removal

Locate the MAF sensor plug on the inlet tube, near the air box. Unplug it by sliding the red locking tab back, pressing down on the clip, and then pulling it away from the tube. A small screwdriver works well to release the retaining clip.

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

Locate the PCV valve on the passenger side of the inlet tube, near the throttle body. Release the locking tab by pushing the green tab back, and pulling away from the inlet tube. No tools are required for this step.

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

Follow the same PCV line to the passenger cam (valve) cover and release the clip from the cam cover. Pull off the PCV line. The DeMolet Tunable Induction CAI comes with a new PCV hose, so you will not need to reuse the factory PCV line.

Next, locate the 10mm bolt at the driver’s side rear of the air box. Remove it using a 10mm socket. You will reuse this bolt, so put it in a safe place.

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

After the sensors, hoses, and the air box bolt are all removed, loosen the clamp on the inlet tube at the throttle body. Gently pull it forward, away from the throttle body. Remove the factory air box.

CAI Installation

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

The CAI main body for this model comes pre-assembled. However, you do need to transfer the MAF sensor from the factory tube to the new CAI tube. The stock sensor uses T20 Torx screws, while the CAI has its own phillips screws. Remove the MAF and install it in the new inlet tube, making sure you install it in the proper position. There is an arrow indicating direction of flow. Make sure the open end of the sensor faces the filter. Snug up the screws for the sensor, but don’t over-torque them.

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

Install the inlet tube for the CAI onto the throttle body. Lightly tighten the clamp using a socket or screwdriver. Not too tight, you may need to adjust it in a few minutes. Slide the heat shield over the end of the inlet tube, and then loosely attach the filter. Make sure the clamp is on the filter before you slide it onto the inlet tube.

After you snug up the filter clamp with a socket or screwdriver, install that 10mm bolt from the factory air box in the same location as stock to secure the heat shield. Leave it loose and check for fitment of the CAI. Make the necessary adjustments for a satisfactory fit, and tighten up all clamps and bolts.

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

Reinstall the MAF sensor plug, and secure the red locking tab by pushing it toward the sensor. It should click when engaged properly.

Using the new PCV hose from the kit, install one end on the cam cover. Then, route the hose to the connection on the backside of the new inlet tube. If you route it on top of the tube, it may contact the hood insulation. If you route it under the inlet tube, be sure to properly secure it. The belt and other moving parts are directly under the inlet tube and you don’t want the PCV hose to come in contact with any moving parts. I recommend using a zip tie and securing the hose to the TOP of the metal bracket directly under the throttle body. Double check to make sure the hose will not contact the belt.

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

This CAI needs a tune to operate properly, so re-flash your computer according to the manual for your tuning device. This CAI comes with an SCT XCAL2 tuner. Once the tune is installed, start the engine and review your work. Check for leaks, and double check for fitment. If everything is fine, you are now finished.

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

DO NOT run this CAI without a tune. Without a professional tune, your engine will run lean due to the larger inlet tube. If you run the engine without the tune, you can damage your engine. With the addition of the intake and tune the throttle response is much improved, throttle lag is gone, and power has increased noticeably. You may think you are driving a completely different car, the difference is that big!

2 thoughts on “S197 Ford Mustang Cold Air Intake Install

  1. Greg Parks says:

    Hi, I have an 05 mustang gt with your CAI and SCT tuner I have installed the Demolet offroad program and seem to have some trouble
    when I first start the car it wants to jump up and down with the rpms and if I do not let it set thier and warm up it acts like it is trying to die. What do you think?

    • Ken Mason says:

      This could be a number of things. Hass your check engine light come on, if so, have a check of which codes were set off. Have you had the TI CAI on your car for a while with no problem or is this a new install? It could be as simple as a vaccum or air leak in the CAI assembly, vaccum line, or pvc hose. Double check the TB elbow, pipe, filter, etc. connections. Check that the maf meter sensor has not come loose from the two mounting screws in the intake. Check the intake plactic pvc conncetor and rubber pvc hose connections and that it has not rubbed against the serpentine belt or a pulley causing a hole. Your maf sensor could be dirty. It can be removed and cleaned witha air sensor cleaner from auto parts store. Good luck, ken

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