what's a variable intake?
 

heard so many people talking abou *** but never figured out what it is

Re: what's a variable intake?
 

They're talking about a variable intake manifold. The intake manifold is the large aluminum part on top of the engine. All US 4th gens came with non-variable manifolds. Some oversees ones (japan and middle east) came with variable manifolds. These manifolds switch at higher rpms to allow the engine to breather better. They make the same power below 5000 rpms as our cars but above 5000 they make a lot more power. There are a couple of group deals out now to import these for installing on US Maximas (replacing our non-adjustable manifolds). It's not a simple install. You need to be very comfortable working under the hood, as you have to connect into vacuum lines and signal wires. The install of the manifold itself is fairly difficult as well.

Nice explanation. Thanks.

Three more questions:

How much more HP above 5000k rpm's can we expect?

Has anybody with a VI been to the track for 1/4 mile times? I feel a little apprehensive to drop $X00 on someones butt dyno results.

Also, is there a hardware difference between the VI's regarding the location you get it from? i.e Middle East, Japan etc...

Appreciate anyone's help..

str8

We're not sure exactly. Ian's dyno seemed way off, but speedtrip should have his dyno today and Mr. Cranman should have his by this weekend. Then we'll have 3 cars to collate info from.

Ian tried to go last weekend, but the track was closed. I believe he is going this weekend though.

No the parts are exactly the same. As I get more dynoes, diagrams, etc. I will post them on a page I am maintaing for John.
http://www.vanillaice.com/webmasters/hype/mrc/mevi.htm
-hype