Another new owner! Hi Forum

[RSG]

Hey everyone... I have this 2002 I35 for 6 months now and been taking good care of my baby~! (Sorry didn't have a great pic... will take better ones)

Factory basic warranty is now out and I am thinking to do some upgrades... So should I start with K&N filter and a performance muffler? Need suggestions... ^^

BTW, it is due for an oil change. Dealer wants $40 + tax... worth it? If not, any suggestions on place and type of oil to choose?

[MinisterofDOOM]

Welcome! Nice I.

I recommend a new y-pipe and new shock/spring combo as first mods.

As for the oil change, I do them all myself unless it's too cold or I don't have time. $40 dollars for a simple oil/filter change is incredibly expensive unless they're using full synthetic. If you're looking to own a 100% factory maintained car for resale purposes or something like that, it might be worth it. Personally, I'd rather get under the car and get my hands dirty--and save some money while I'm at it.

[Beancooker]

The Minister has spoken. I agree fully. However when you do get an intake, screw K&N, get an AEM dryflow. They don't need oil, no mess, no worries of MAF damage, and they filter out more fine particulate than K&N.

[RSG]

You guys are awesome!

I am a newbie to mods, sorry if I am asking silly question.

For AEM Dryflow, what are the requirements to install them? A quick search online reveals many different models, what do I pick the right one for I35?

As for shock/spring combo, what is the advantage here? Is it for better handling around corners or more shock absorb (less vibration); therefore more stable ride?

Side note: My OEM tires have 40k miles on and is time to go bye bye... What do you all think of the Yokohama AVID V4S?

[Beancooker]

AEM Dryflow's fit aftermarket intakes. I've yet to see one for a stock airbox. For the standard replacement of a CAI filter, with 3" piping use the 21-203DK.Struts/springs, lowers the center of gravity and stiffens ride suspension to handle better around corners, less nosedive in heavy braking and less a$$drop in heavy accelleration. All around better control of your vehicle.Tires, I run Falken FK451's and can't say enough good about them. They are a soft tire that doesn't slip or skid and hook-up very well under heavy accelleration. Especially for a Z rated tire. They make all different ratings, I just prefer a Z rated. Very affordable, $120. ea. installed at Discount Tire Co. FALKEN FALKEN FALKEN FALKEN FALKEN FALKEN FALKEN FALKEN

[RSG]

Beancooker I am from WA too and totally agree with your earlier comment on WA road!

Thx for the tips so far... Here is the piority of mods

1. New tires

2. Y-pipe - Did some reasearch and looks like the Cattman YG6 for $399 is the only choice for 02. CE new ones (04 - 06) would not work for my model, correct? What is the impact of using y-pipe on Federal Emission? Don't quite understand...

3. AEM Dryflow's with new intakes (any recommendations?)

4. Cattman Cat-Back Exhaust? Better to mix and match with other B-Pipe and Magnaflow muffler?

5. Eibachs and Illuminas shock/spring (any concerns?)

So am I looking at around $2000, lol

Any recommendations on performance garage around WA?

[Beancooker]

Y pipe look here:http://www.warpspeedperformance.com/nissan.htmIntake look here:http://www.cosmoracing.com/productlist.asp?cid=188 For your $$$ this is a good and inexpensive intake.I prefer the sound of the Magnaflow, I don't want to piss off my neighbors and I hate the sound of a ricey HondaAs far as the Eibach and Illuminas, I got the Eibachs from drivewire, (lots of searching, best price) and the Illuminas from motorsports direct:http://www.motorsportsdirect.com/products.htm (lots of searching, best price beat out everyone by $100+) Have to order over the phone but they shipped on manday and I got them on Thursday.As far as problems, I-5 around Federal Way will keep you on the edge of your seat. I went to sae tac airport on Friday and where they milled the roads there were some bumps that really pi$$ed me off.Performance garage:http://www.axiommotorsports.com/ Talk to Kyle. they kick a$$. For your struts, Y-pipe, and intake and any brake repairs and other small stuff, a 6-pack of Pepsi, a box of Marlboro Lights, and lunch will get it done in my garage at my house. You have to help but it's actually really easy. The only mod on my car I paid to have done was the exhaust, and tires, of course!!! If you live in Renton I'm only an hour os so south. Let me know.
Modified by beancooker at 2:15 PM 8/1/2006

[RSG]

You are da man beancooker!

Thx for all the tips so far and the offer to help; I might go check out axiommotorsports this weekend...

No problem with 6-pack of Pepsi, a box of Marlboro Lights, and lunch, lol...

For Y-pipe, what is the difference between Aluminized "Y" & 304 SS MIG "Y"?

[Beancooker]

Aluminized steel is like your typical muffler, steel with the rust resistant coating. SS is stainless steel. Personally I'd save the $$$ and go w/ aluminized, however then you have the potential for rust, and it's not pretty like the SS.