Well, I _finally_ did it! I installed my NeedsWings CAI on Sunday. I was waffling about whether or not to do it myself, and I decided to go for it. I figured if I screwed it up or couldn't handle it, I could take it in afterwards. I don't normally spend much time turning wrenches, but I can change my own oil, brakes, thermostat, and a radiator swap or two.

I have to say that the install was a LOT easier than I thought it would be. The instructions provided with the CAI were well written and the photos were invaluable. If I made it through, then I'm sure most anyone that can read and follow directions can also.

A couple helpful hints on the installation:

1. The instructions don't tell you to un-bolt and disconnect the driver's side horn, then remount both horns with provided bracket. It is kinda obvious, but it would've been nice for those "by the book" folks.
2. The photo showing the location of the second (rear) plastic clip/rivet that holds the plastic pass-thru part next to the radiator, is too dark to tell where the clip is. Also it would be helpful to know to poke your head down behind the radiator, look forward at the part, and you can press the rivet out from the back with a small screwdriver. Be careful, as if you push too hard, you'll pop it out all the way, and it will fall off and you'll never find it again.
3. Also, for us amateurs, it would be helpful to know to wet the inside of the rubber tubes with a little water, so they slip on easy. Particularly the end that goes onto the intake manifold at the back of the motor. It was the hardest to get on.

The fit and finish of the parts was excellent. The silver powercoat finish of the CAI matches the stock air boxes. And installed, the CAI looks great. The 90 degree bend that connects the long silver tube to the intake was a bit snug on the engine side, and had to be stretched to fit over the intake port.

I didn't time the installation, but it seemed to go quickly. Maybe an hour...

After the CAI was installed, I took it for a spin. WOW! There was an obvious difference. The car seems a lot peppier. I immediately noticed the supercharger whine that people have been talking about. How cool!

The only mods I had before this were a SprintBooster and the door lock beeper.

I will post again in a week or two with some gas mileage numbers. Also I plan to run it at the drag strip this weekend, so I'll post those numbers too. Up until the CAI install, I've been averaging 19.3 mpg, and my best ET has been 13.302 @ 107.25.