Finally installed my SSIM today.

Had the UIM ceramic coated. Thanks to KRRZ350 for finishing up the port work for me. I only had to do some final wetsanding around the port holes before installing it using Aaron's spacers and block-off plate. The install was easier than I thought. The spacers fit perfectly and WOW, how they keep everything so much cooler!!!

No dynos as of yet as I am desperately in need of a tune. It is true what everyone said about the loss of torque. I can definitely feel the difference, although at around 4 grand the gain in HP makes up for the loss in torque. IMHO, the loss in torque was not as bad as I thought. Timing advance and tune will definitely make a bigger difference.

I recommend this mod to anyone out there who is looking for a cheaper alternative to a Kinetix manifold.

I still have the occasional hesitation between 3 to 4K RPMs. I am not sure if that's because of the fact that it is running rich or because of something else. I will continue to research this. I found a TSB in Mitchell regarding this problem and will address it soon.

Anyway, here are some pics. (Yes, my engine bay needs cleaned).

Roy


http://www.flickr.com/photos/33426245@N08/?saved=1

 

My guess would be getting the spacers (which according to the dyno seems to pump up the midrange) is why you didn't get as much low to midrange torque loss as expected. My only real concern with the SSIM vs just the block off plate is what it might do to freeway gas mileage and throttle response especially with an automatic. Based on what you say though, seems like the spacers do help alleviate that issue to a certain degree.

Let us know what a tune and timing advance do to both midrange and top end.

 

Due to the fact that I own a 6-speed, freeway gas mileage should be better than autos.

I suspect that a reflash from TS may improve throttle response.

Can't wait to see what my AF is sitting at these days. I know it's running rich as **** from the looks of the build-up of burnt fuel inside the ports of the heads. Good thing I run 91 octane gas!

 

man that looks clean. i was talking with aaron about the ssim when i was buying the spacers, anyone have pics of what it actually looks like maybe a before and after.

 

nicely done...CONGRATS.......I Wish i could get a decent engine cover for me 3.0

 

I actually don't plan on putting the engine cover back on it, hence ceramic coating the entire UIM.