K&N Filter, Cold Air Intake, Both, or Something Else?

[hankmaggard]

Ok I just got my PT Cruiser (2001 Limited 2.4L non-turbo 25k miles) and I'm wanting to do something to increase HP a bit and improve gas mileage without affecting the dependability of the vehicle. You who have experienced it before.....which would be better:

1. Buy a K&N Air Filter
2. Add a cold air intake system
3. Both
4. Or something else

I have read to get better plug wires and get better spark plugs, but can you also do something else from the previously mentioned items that will actually work?

Thanks,

Hank

[Hooligan]

Either 1 or 2 plus Performance Wires and Champion Plugs.

[hankmaggard]

Thanks! So do you know how much HP and MPG increase you got from that?

[Mean Green]

Originally Posted by hankmaggard

Thanks! So do you know how much HP and MPG increase you got from that?

2-3 hp on the intake so you won't even feel it and zero, nada, none, zippo for mpg.

[hankmaggard]

Ok that's cool. Thanks for the up and up on that. Does anyone know anything about using computer chips on the 2.4L non-turbo and if that helps out considerably on HP or MPG?

[37plymouth]

Seems that gas mileage is a worry to everybody lately. Probably the best way to get more performance AND better mileage is to remove weight out of the car. If you don't need the rear seat and seat back all of the time, take it out. You can get very creative with the weight you remove. This is the same principle as driving a very small car, they just weigh less so it takes less power to move them.
You could also install smaller orifice fuel injectors if mileage is first and foremost, but you will lose power at W.O.T. (wide open throttle).
Good luck with your cruiser!

[quicksilverdon]

Here's real-world info on a chip:
PTCrew.com - Learn it or Burn it.

and for mileage, the simplest, best thing I've found is to put 2-3 psi over what the sticker in the door says, and check the pressure often. I've gotten to where I can feel when the tires are 3-4 psi low!