I am researching cold air intakes and upset to learn that I need to retune my computer to add one. I came across the Big Daddy Cold Air Intake, which does not require a tune, and will still add about 25 horses. However, it costs about the same as a JTL intake with a tuner. Here is my question. Should I get the Big Daddy? Does anyone have experience with it? Do you use the tuner for anything else other than the cold air intake? In which case, I may want to go ahead and get the tuner. Also, I am in Denver, 5280 feet high. Which makes me think maybe the big daddy would not even work right up here. Maybe I need a tuner no matter what to optimize my car for the high altitude?
I've never heard of Big Daddy. Untuned CAI's are not AS good as the other ones. Point being......they don't move as much air. The tuner changes WAY more than just the intake. The intake part is only 1 out of the ~30 tables that the tune should alter. You will pick out more power from the tuner than you will from any of the intakes. Buy both, and get tunes for 87 and 91 octane.
If it costs the same as getting a cai & tune, definitely go with the CAI and tune. You'll gain more horsepower, but also more usable horsepower, as your computer will be remapped to take the most advantage of the CAI, along with tweaking various other aspects of your car's programming.
Started out with the package from BDP, did cost quite a bit and (my experience) caused the check engine light to come on. Sent it back and went with the C&L / Diablosport package which worked really well. There is a real difference in performance when a tuner is used that can be felt. Anyway, had LTs installed and then went with a Steeda CAI (liked the carbon fiber elbow) and SCT / tune from Bamachips. It's interesting (don't know if that is the correct term!) that you think you have done all the research you can before purchasing an item, only to find out that the reality is different than what you expected! I would go with a tune all the way, you can always revert to stock. (PM me if you would be interested in the C&L/Predator package reasonable)
There's not much point in getting a cai without the tune. The tune is what really gives the power bump you seek. The programer can reset your shift points on an automatic trans, correct the speedo for a gear swap or taller tires and let you get the most benifit from higher octane gas or make the most of 87 octane. The engine programer is basically the heart of a modded mustang.
