Well, I've done a lot of searching of the forum as far as CAIs and heat shields go, and what I seem to find is a couple options: 1) just leave it stock, because it rocks already, or 2) buy a cone intake and construct a heat shield. However, I have a couple remaining questions: first, what about the AFE Stage 2 CAI? Is it worthy or worth it? Second, are there any companies that sell quality heat shields (I've seen Injen for cone filters), or is it better and cheaper to DIY? By the way, since this is my first post, howdy, everyone.

P.S. I drive a 2001 A4 1.8T Quattro.

 

Welcome to the forums and THANK YOU for doing some research before posting your question.. You have no idea how much that is appreciated. You are correct though, stock box is your best bet usually. If you want the sound from a cone intake (no such thing really as a true CAI for these engines) then youve got to make sure the heat shield is quality and effective. There is a guy on audizine that sells very good one's, or you can just get some high temp heat shielding of the net or at home depot and make sure to make a good seal for where the hood closes. Dont know about the AFE stage 2, got a link?

 

This is the AFE CAI. I haven't been able to find out too much about it, and there's not even a picture or anything, so I'm a little wary. Anyone know or heard anything?

Also, if buying a cone intake, which brand is the way to go?

[Edit]: Did a little research and found that the AFE CAI, on AFE's website, lists the application as 02-05 (B6), so it negates B5 application anyway.

 

K&N is reputable.. But really they are all about the same.. You just have to be careful not to over oil them because it can easily foul up your MAF sensor and cause running issues.
Check this site out for custom intake stuff: http://www.sfxperformance.com/catalo...let/page_1.htm

 

Okay, since I'm thinking about doing this soon, I just want to go over everything I'll need to make this worthwhile.

Cone Filter (K&N, HKS, whatever - this is the one I'm thinking)
Heat Shield (do I need anything more than 1000 degrees?)

Will I need a new MAF or a bypass valve or anything like that? Thanks again for all the help.

 

i got my heat shield off the guy on az, 90 bucks and it does make a difference, if you can construct one yourself just about 10 bucks, but i don't have the tools
i think it was 19.99 for the cone filter.... say about 10 bucks for the filter.. another dollar for the tube to hook into my secondary air pump..... and 90 for the shield(about 10 with proper tools) = 130(40 w/ tools)
my setup