Oz Focus

Hi people.

With my 30000km service out of the way the time has come to look at some intake mods. I would like to hear from some Aussie people if they have done this mod, what they got, and most importantly, where from.


The products available that I am aware of from the top of my head are:

AEM Cold Air
AEM Short RAM
BMC Carbon Air Box
K&N FIPK
K&N Typhoon
PIPERCROSS Viper
UNIFILTER Rampod
VOLANT


From what I have read already, I think my first preference would be for the Volant intake, but sourcing one (without rediculous shipping costs) can be a problem.

BTW, I am not interested in a K&N panel filter. I know alot of you have them, but have any of you modified/bored or installed a new throttle body?

Please input your experiences, suggestions, criticisms to help me decide on my next focal purchase.

Timmeh

Replacing the standard throttle body with a 65mm one was one of my early mods, but after researching the idea and checking out dyno results of various replacement throttle bodies, there is no need for engines of less than 200hp. The test vehicle was equipped with an AEM cold air intake, and only measured a 1-2hp gain above 4000rpm. The standard unit does not restrict the engine for these power levels, the money (over 500 bucks for one of equal or better quality than standard) is not worth your gains unless you are going high output or forced induction.

If you haven't checked it out, get yourself a copy of a book we did a group purchase on for club members last year, I think it was, called High Performance Ford Focus Builder's Handbook. It details why replacing the standard throttle body is pointless on a mild engine.

As for air intakes, any pod filters are illegal in NSW (you'd have to check in other states on your laws) and therefore I just run a K+N Panel Filter. For those who don't care, sure, you might get 2-3hp from a new setup.

If you want value for money when it comes to power, first place to look is exhaust and the computer. Get under your car and have a look at the crappy catalytic converter and you'll see what I mean.

Tim

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brother

I too think the best place to start would be the exhaust manifold if you haven't done that already. I didn't replace mine when I got my cat-back exhaust, but the guy did say if insurance & cost weren't an issue I should do it.... but for those reasons, I didn't.

A lot of UK owners have used pod filters. I don't recall huge power gains, but apparently it makes one hell of a noise/roar.

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3-Door Focus Zetec manual, Machine Silver

Eibach Pro Kit, 2 1/4" Cat back exhaust, Tinted, K+N panel filter, Zetec mats

Leather/Aluminium Gear knob & handbrake cover, ST170 indicators

www.eurofordclub.com