I'm looking at a K&N kit that would run me about $160.

Is this mod worth it? Or would it be better to just drop in an OEM replacement K&N filter? Has anyone installed the K&N (or other brands) cold air intake on their 22RE motors? What is your experience so far?

 

If you're getting a cold air intake, I'd say the K&N kit is one of the best versions - simply because they at least make an attempt at separating the filter from the hot engine bay air. its still lacking though since it's not a complete seal like the stock airbox, but better than all the other commercial units.

Some people just make their own sealed filter box to surround a cold air kit. IMO one of the best setups I've seen involved a battery/intake swap, then they made a box around the cone filter that had a lid and it was vented to the fender for intake (see 2nd link below). I'm sure you could even get a Supra AFM because they supposedly are larger ID = potentially more air.

Couple variations here:
http://www.toyotaminis.com/forum/thr...2/#post-215076
http://www.toyotaminis.com/forum/thr...2/#post-215076

 

There is no benefit that can justify any expense at all for these so called CAI's.

In addition, even slight over-oiling of K&N type filters has been known to foul VAFM's.

VAFM's are expensive, and rebuilt ones are often no good out of the box.

Don't ruin what ya got.

Junk, junk, junk. Stay OEM with your air intake and dry air filter element. You don't have a race car.