DIY Network

Toyota Matrix: Intake and Exhaust Enhancements, Part 2 From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-102

Host Andrew Totolos performs modifications to the air intake system on this XR model Toyota Matrix, including installation of a short-ram intake.

In this segment of Tricked Out, work continues on the Toyota Matrix with the installation of an enhanced air-intake system. This upgrade, in combination with a high-tech engine-control unit, will make a big difference in terms of acceleration, overall engine performance and fuel economy.

DIY Difficulty Rating for Repair: This computer and exhaust project is fairly straightforward in terms of installation. We gave it a difficulty rating of 2 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. All of the modifications simply bolt on or plug in.

Materials needed:

This product requires only the kits and parts installed, and standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.). An air-compressor and set of pneumatic tools is optional, but may help speed the assembly process. A door-panel removing tool also comes in handy for one of the steps in the procedure

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.

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• Remove the three bolts that secure the lower air-box. Pop out the wiring harness using a door-panel removal tool (figure A).

• Tricked Out Automotive Tip: A door-panel tool is not just for doors. It's a great all-purpose releasing device, and can be used in tight quarters to pop out wire harnesses and a variety of fasteners.

• Using a socket and extender, remove the single bolt that connects the evap canister close-valve to the air-box (figure B). Then you can push out the air inlet duct from the fender side and lift out the factory air-box.

  Figure A

  Figure B

  
  
• Once those parts have been removed, the air-intake tube will be visible (figure C). In some cases, this tube may need to be removed in order to make room for the new intake. On our vehicle, the existing tube could be left intact since it won't interfere with the new short-ram intake.

• Install the T-bracket using the supplied rubber-mounted stud. Use the stud to secure the T-bracket to the factory air-cleaner mount (figure D).

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  
• Attach the evap OBD canister valve to the bracket using an 8mm cap screw.

• Attach the C-bracket to the rubber-mounted stud, but leave it loose for adjustment.

• Attach the PWM vacuum-switching valve (originally mounted to the factory air-box that was removed earlier) to the new intake. In order to do this, you'll need to move the vacuum line from behind the cruise-control cable to the front, attach the valve to the vacuum line (figure E) and slide it onto the T-bracket (figure F).

  Figure E

  Figure F

  
  

Important: Included in this segment are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of repair-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection, and follow proper safety precautions, when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.

RESOURCES :

Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guide: Import Cars (Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guides)
Author: Joe Pettitt
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Voyageur Press (October 2000)
ISBN: 1884089526

Toyota Performance Handbook (Motorbooks International Performance Handbook Series)
Author: Pat Braden
Publisher: Motorbooks International
May 1990 ASIN: 0879383208
To order this book from Amazon.com, click here.

Supercharging, Turbocharging, & Nitrous Oxide Performance Handbook (Powerpro)
by Earl Davis, Diane Davis
Motorbooks International
December, 2001
ISBN: 0760308373
To order this book from Amazon.com, click here.