wanted to get some opinions on aems new bypass valve for their cai. most likely will be getting one soon,

search the forums for previous posts on this... i remember at least 2 other threads on bypass valves. (even explaining what it really does)

from what i heard the bypass valve will fall apart within time and parts can get sucked into the manifold and all. plus after you get out of a puddle, the bypass valve closes, and if the airfilter is soaked, you just killed you engine. i plan on building a box to go around the CAI so that it will protect from water.

AEM had a safety recall on their early bypass valves, as they had a tendency to fall apart and get stuck holding the TB open (very bad). As for puddles, it takes a lot of water to kill a motor. There are some companies that sell water injection kits. If the bypass closes, allowing regular flow, then the motor is seeing enough air to keep going and avoid hydrolocking.
-=B-=

mine sucks ass, im about to take it off actually. the foam is all ripped and u can see the phlanges below under the foam. Waste of $40 if u ask me. total POS.

any suggestions on a differnt intake to use? or could i just go without the bypass?

going without the bypass is fine. Injen also makes a cold air intake for our cars.. and other companies do too, but I personally wouldn't recommend them.

Um.. you could try to make a "ram-air box" intake after just buying any old conical filtered intake. (i forget the links).

I haven't had any problems with mine at all.

i think you mite be fine without it...depends on if u have to drive through standing water or not. I have kept mine on because that way it wont be a short ram intake. I don't know if it is ok with the foam all ripped on it, so I hope its doing it's job if I do drive through deep water....

I've had my AEM CIA on since 99 and can sing nothing but praises. I got this thing before they considered offering the bypass valve and have had no problems with water. On really damp days I can notice a slight (and I mean slight) bog down on the get-up-and-go.

The foam around mine is discolored, but it has been on for about a year now. Maybe longer. No problems.

AEM had a recall or something on 3,000 bypass valves sold up until January 31 of 2001. I just saw it on their website so go to www.aempower.com if you want more information on that.

i bought the bypass valve, but never installed it. never had a problem. although, the first time i drove in the rain i was $hitting bricks. nothing happened though. you'll be fine as long as you don't fully submerge it in water, you'll be fine.