AFE CAI review Updated 2 months installed

Picked up a AFE CAI for my 2012 4.0L
Got the chance to install last weekend.
Install time:1-1.5 hrs (could be less, took some time to gather tools etc.)
Initial thoughts when opening AFE kit: Organized, well packaged, high quality finish on components:

Pros:
Hardware was nicely separated and bagged.
pretty simple installation. minor adjustment needed for proper fit/finish.
Instructions were adequate
Air injection pump bracket was included.
Throttle response.
Good sound.
Engine breaths easier.

Cons:
AFE reused some stock hardware, unfortunately my bushings on my stock intake were slightly torn/worn.
Intake box did not fully seal to fender wall. not sure if this was design intent or not?
Air injection bracket relocates system, however the air pump actually rests on some sensor/regulator.
at WOT intake is LOUD.
the intake box lid was a PIA to align and bolt down.
Flashing on tubing sleeves

Tips:
Socket extensions helped reach air injection system bolts
I added a washer to one of the intake box bolts because the nut looked like it could pull through.
If Rattle noise is a concern at WOT. I would suggest adding foam to the rear underside of intake box.
CHECK rubber tubing Sleeves for excess flash or debris!!!!!!!!!
I found quite a few strands/flakes of flash on sleeves that would have went through my engine if i didn't see them. FYI Flashing is basically excess material where (2) halves of a die meet together or where the material is injected into the mold (gate area).

Summary:
Overall I am pleased with AFE kit. It is easier to hear how the engine is responding to throttle position changes. It sounds like an actual truck now. Throttle response has improved. Although I have not towed anything yet with the CAI installed, I have the feeling that if the truck is working hard to tow, you will hear it. Quality wise, the AFE kit is on par to the quality I review everyday at the OEM I work for. If anyone has any questions or concerns on the AFE kit/install feel free to ask them hear.

2 month installed update.
Got some extra time to correct some of the installation steps I rushed.
I removed the AFE airbox and added foam to both the wheel-well and bottomside of the airbox.
Since the airbox was removed I replaced the torn rubber bushing.
I had some left over sound deadner from when I matted my interior so I decided to add it to the windshield drain channel directly above the firewall.
I think this area is often overlooked as a area to reduce engine noise.
If i added sound deadner to this area before the AFE intake i think I would have been able to notice a big noise reduction.
Results:
making these modifications eliminated the rattle I was hearing under the hood.
Now the only noise i hear at WOT is some piece of plastic resonating in glovebox area inside the cab somewhere.
Don't get me wrong the intake still makes noise but it is much more enjoyable to listen to now.
Overall I am still happy with the purchase.
I would buy the intake again just for the throttle response increase!

 

Picture showing where the smog pump is relocated?

 

I will try and get better pictures in the next few days

 

Thanks for the pictures. I didn't recall seeing the relocation kit online so I was curious.

I'm not usually a fan of spending money on intakes, but after the supercharger was installed I have a hard time imaging air flowing well through the ridiculous factory intake and flex tube.

 

If the rattle happens at wot, try tightening the bolts until it punches THROUGH the under coated portion of wheel well.
If this isn't done, the washers will "float" at high rpm.

 

Justus thanks for the tip!
I am going to pick up new rubber grommets to replace the worn factory ones I have installed now. That should remove some play and tighten up the bolt locations.
I'm hoping that should reduce vibration noise

 

Great write up OP! Pretty much spot on. I had the same problems with lining up the bolts (they don't) on the lid cover, and it seems to be a common issue.

Problem solved with the box cover made by Coupe:

 

Just added a 2 month follow-up see Original post