Posted: Jan 11 2010 at 8:35am | IP Logged

Matt - your question prompted my first post on this site.  I have a 2004 S/C (crew cab/long bed).

In the previous 2 weeks I installed a Gibson cat-back exhaust (approx $350 w/shipping) and a K&N Cold Air Intake (approx $320 w/shipping).   I am by no means a mechanic but was able to complete both procedures pretty easily. 

EXHAUST: I had minor issues getting the exhuast pipes to separate after removing U-Bolt fasteners.  *I ended up using a long (3ft) pipe wrench? (looks like a long clamp) with one grip on the forward facing part of the muffler, the other on the axle - then turn the knob on the thing until the pipes separate.  I recommend hitting the U-Bolt fasteners with PB Blast/Liquid Wrench 1-2 X per day beginning 3 days before the "procedure" as this really helped alot.  Total install time: 1 HR.

Findings: Immediate power gain, awesome sound, smoother ride - but louder in the cab  (I personnally do like the sound of the engine in the cab).  I estimate gas mileage improved by 1-2 MPG dependent on your driving style.

Recommendation: DO IT. 

K&N COLD AIR INTAKE: Fairly straightforward procedure.  The directions that come with the kit are right on the money.  I halfway expected to have to guess my way thru some of this process (like a Haynes/Chilton manual) but this was not the case.  Even a caveman can do this one.  *mine was shy of a couple nuts, so when you get yours make sure everything is there.  I was able to work around that with ones I already had on hand in the garage but be prepared to make a quick trip to the hardware store for some .15 cent parts just in case. Total install Time: 2 HRs (at night in the dark using a crappy Ikea lamp).

Findings: Engine now sounds just plain STOOPID - kind of like a jet engine at times.  It's truly remarkable to say the least.  Power increases are VERY EVIDENT.  Truck runs much smoother, has way more "get up and go", sounds crazy and I estimate another 1-2 MPG increase based on your driving style.

Recommendation: DO IT

Hope this helps!

Best regards,

Scott

Posted: Jan 11 2010 at 4:59pm | IP Logged

Thanks for the response.  I plan on getting at least the cat back if not more.  Then I may have to get creative and make a functional  hood scoop and the cold air intake. 

I want to put some good plugs and plug wires in but I don't know if they are differant than the stock ones.  Same problem with the exhaust/headers are also listed as not for SC models and the chiltons manual is not for SC models.

Any more input would be great.

Thanks

Matt

Posted: Jan 17 2010 at 11:23pm | IP Logged

get a smaller pulley on the charger