Quoting DR1665:
You might be able to pick up a stock SRT4 FMIC for under $100. Spend another $200 on piping and couplers?
That's my plan.
I know this is an inexpensive way to go. A lot of people do something like this or an Evo 8/9 Intercooler, but I don't actually like this idea for several reasons.
First, plans change. We start with the idea we want a 300 HP DD GVR4 and then suddenly we are balls deep in a fully forged motor build. Getting a setup like this (SRT4/EVO IC) is damn near a minimum requirement and any car north of 300 HP is going to outgrow that setup.
Second, Cost. It's not that cost effective. A good used name brand setup is only a few hundred more and has much more potential. Instead of buying the same thing twice, just buy the correct one the first time.
Third, Quality. Honestly, the difference between the aftermarket bar/plate cores and the OEM tube/fin cores is significant. On my Evo, with no change to the map, I picked up 25hp/37ft/lb's just swapping to a Bar/plate FMIC over the stocker. This was only at around 275 WHP on a Dyno Dynamics brake dyno. the power levels were within the efficiency range of the stock IC, but the custom aftermarket core I put on, was far superior. With more tuning, at the same boost, I could have added more timing and got more power out of it. Yes this is an anecdotal bit of evidence, but can be verified time and time again if need be.
Short end of things, save the cash and get the one you need for your final build, not the build you have at the moment.
And I am not picking on your DR. Your comment just provided opportunity, so thank you.
/brox
