I have had the above mentioned items installed on my 5.3, here's some details and comments....
1. Volant Powercore CAI
This is the newer Volant with the filter that doesn't need as much maintenance. Cost ~300, installed myself (45 min) did NOT see any mileage gains or low end power. Made engine louder and definitely noticed improved high end torque. Not so sure it was worth the money.
2. Magnaflow Catback
Full catback system, cost 470, installed myself (1 hr). Fairly easy install, only trouble I had was with clearance from rear fascia. It is about 1/3-1/2" away, but I haven't had trouble with heat damage in the hottest part of the summer. This was put in after the CAI and I can definitely say again I noticed both low/high power increase. Mileage gains were negligible. Pretty loud, really as loud as I want it. No drone cruising unless I go over 80 and I think that's just from engine working.... Can only say that I love it!
3. Blackbear tune
I had this installed a few days ago. It cost 400 since I got extra ECM/PCM and would have only costed 200 with just the tune. I haven't had it long enough to notice any mileage gains, but I can say that I chose the mileage option and was told to expect about 2mpg increase. You can actually choose your desired shift points and if you don't tow things, you can change your tow button to an aggressive shift mode (a perfomance mode of sorts). I chose not to do this since my goal was better mileage, a little more torque, and I do occassionally tow. As for the torque there is a noticeable improvement even after the CAI/exhaust, and shifting seems quicker and smoother. Also, I may just be imagining this, but it seems to switch to 4cyl. faster. I can't say anything to the validity of that though. Justin was very friendly and fast in getting it done, and actually did it here in TX through an associate of his. ALL IN ALL -- WORTH IT!
I will update as to mileage gains.....hope I see them!
HOPE THIS HELPS!
1. Volant Powercore CAI
This is the newer Volant with the filter that doesn't need as much maintenance. Cost ~300, installed myself (45 min) did NOT see any mileage gains or low end power. Made engine louder and definitely noticed improved high end torque. Not so sure it was worth the money.
2. Magnaflow Catback
Full catback system, cost 470, installed myself (1 hr). Fairly easy install, only trouble I had was with clearance from rear fascia. It is about 1/3-1/2" away, but I haven't had trouble with heat damage in the hottest part of the summer. This was put in after the CAI and I can definitely say again I noticed both low/high power increase. Mileage gains were negligible. Pretty loud, really as loud as I want it. No drone cruising unless I go over 80 and I think that's just from engine working.... Can only say that I love it!
3. Blackbear tune
I had this installed a few days ago. It cost 400 since I got extra ECM/PCM and would have only costed 200 with just the tune. I haven't had it long enough to notice any mileage gains, but I can say that I chose the mileage option and was told to expect about 2mpg increase. You can actually choose your desired shift points and if you don't tow things, you can change your tow button to an aggressive shift mode (a perfomance mode of sorts). I chose not to do this since my goal was better mileage, a little more torque, and I do occassionally tow. As for the torque there is a noticeable improvement even after the CAI/exhaust, and shifting seems quicker and smoother. Also, I may just be imagining this, but it seems to switch to 4cyl. faster. I can't say anything to the validity of that though. Justin was very friendly and fast in getting it done, and actually did it here in TX through an associate of his. ALL IN ALL -- WORTH IT!
I will update as to mileage gains.....hope I see them!
HOPE THIS HELPS!
