How-To: Install the ETS TMIC for CX-7 [Archive]

Raider

02-24-2007, 11:06 AM

FYI: Installation was performed by my wife, with my assistance when needed. My girl can wrench! The intercooler we ordered is the 3".

First, go HERE (http://www.extremeturbosystems.com/Mazda-CX7-Intercoolers-and-Piping-Kits-Intercooler-Only/c4_41_48_49/index.html) and purchase the TMIC.

1) Remove the 2 snaps holding the plastic cover, attached to at the front, then pull off the cover by lifting up and pulling forward

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/1.JPG

2) Using a 10 mm socket, remove the metal TMIC cover.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/4.JPG

3) Look at that stock TMIC. So cute.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/7.JPG

4) Ok, enough about that cute stock TMIC. Let’s take off the old one. With a 12mm deep socket, remove the nuts and washers off the front 2 tabs.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/8.JPG

Raider

02-24-2007, 11:06 AM

5) With a 12mm ratcheting wrench (it will really help-tight fit), remove the rear nut, and it’s metal washer.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/10.JPG

6) *We took off the BOV as a personal preference, just to get it out of the way for the pending procedures. You don’t necessarily have to, but because it is plastic, and is only held on with 2- 10mm bolts, we took it off. You will need to locate it (see red circle), and with pliers squeeze the clamps and remove the small hose on the front, then the big one on the back.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/10a.JPG

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/15.JPG

7) With a Phillips screwdriver, loosen the rear intercooler hose all the way for maximum play. Don’t worry, the clap is held in place, and will not slide down. Do the same for the front, but you will need a shorty phillips to do it, due to limited space

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/16.jpg

Raider

02-24-2007, 11:07 AM

8) With the hoses loosened, pull up on the TMIC. You may have to grab and wrestle with the intercooler hoses to come loose. Once you get them loose, and the TMIC off, marvel at the comparison.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/TMIC1.jpg
Now take out the metal bushing in the middle of the tabs, and pull the rubber grommets out for reuse.
http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/TMIC2.jpg

9) See the neck on the stock intercooler? Take it off by removing the 4-10mm bolts.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/TMIC3.jpg

Raider

02-24-2007, 11:07 AM

10) Now you can really see the difference with the ETS Intercooler over stock

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/TMIC4.jpg

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/TMIC5.jpg

11) Now put the neck on the ETSTMIC and reinstall following these steps going back, and you are almost done. Remove the negative terminal from the battery with an 10 mm wrench. Pump brakes, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Reconnect and drive. mileage will go to crap first 50 miles or so, but go back up. We experience the traction control light coming on when we first drove it. we stopped, turned off, then restarted the car, light went away. Odd... anyway, here are the pics of it completed. It is a shame to hide it under the cover, but that is how air is fed onto the intercooler. *update: Light came on today during after the CAI install. Light stops flashing after 30 mph, and after you stop and turn off the key, and restart, the other light goes off completely.

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/21.jpg

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/22.jpg

Raider

02-24-2007, 11:08 AM

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/23.jpg

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/25.jpg

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/26.jpg

http://s93052172.onlinehome.us/pictures/Mazda Section/CX-7 TMIC/24.jpg

Oh, and yes, I know I need to wipe off the smudges. It was 33 degrees out at the completion. I have since shined it up.

Raider

02-24-2007, 11:09 AM

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t34/raiderms3/Cori%20CX-7/100_4598.jpg

vbbuilt

02-26-2007, 09:27 AM

Raider, nice post!

Now, time for the dumb question:

Why replace the Street Unit/ETS TMIC? What doe this component do and are the benefits?

Thanks, Vince.

Raider

02-26-2007, 10:27 AM

Not a dumb question at all. The ETS TMIC is bigger, Core Dimensions: 3" x 12" x 14". Bigger core means colder air. It is like having a bigger radiator. It just plain cools the air more, as well as allowing more air to flow through. That will provide the power, the cooler air and more of it. The horsepower gains are needing to by dyno'd, but estimates are in the 20's.

vbbuilt

02-27-2007, 04:09 PM

So, what happens to the warranty if the stock TMIC is replaced with this upgrade?

Vince.

Raider

02-27-2007, 07:02 PM

Warranty is not covered for the TMIC anymore. It is a simple bolt on, so if the car acts up, we will swap it to stock before going in. It is the same as any modification. I am not too worried, we have the Magnussen Moss Act (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnuson-Moss_Warranty_Act) to protect us. They would have to prove why the aftermarket part damaged the engine.

Raider

03-01-2007, 12:58 PM

I am not worried about the warranty withthe stock TMIC. If I need to, I can put it back on in an hour. Only thing this bolt on upgrade does is make the engine more efficient.

Leeep

03-09-2007, 11:54 AM

good post. That appears to be alot easier than I would have thought.
What's a decent price for the new TMIC? You didn't mention if you can feel the difference or see it at the gas pump.
Are you considering further intake upgrades? Cold-air, BOV, that sort of thing. It's nice having someone else be the guinea pig!
I'd be interested in seeing pre and post dyno runs too. I'm pretty picky for a guy that hasn't spent a penny or done any of the work, huh?

Raider

03-09-2007, 12:29 PM

Well, we have the Cold Air intake as well, and we love it. The TurboSmart BOV arrives next week, and in a couple weeks, heavier duty intercooler hoses. Possible a downpipe might be in our future, we have to see.

As for a dyno, well, no stock dyno run, but eventually we will do it. We do not live near one, so it is tough. On the speed3, the CAI gained 23hp. TMIC is approx 20 hp gains as well. The butt dyno says Zoom Zoom, as we dust Lexus SUV Owners at the line. :)

good post. That appears to be alot easier than I would have thought.
What's a decent price for the new TMIC? You didn't mention if you can feel the difference or see it at the gas pump.
Are you considering further intake upgrades? Cold-air, BOV, that sort of thing. It's nice having someone else be the guinea pig!
I'd be interested in seeing pre and post dyno runs too. I'm pretty picky for a guy that hasn't spent a penny or done any of the work, huh?

atticus1398

04-01-2007, 12:41 AM

Hey Raider....I just traded in the MSP today for a white GT. Any noticeable gains with both the TMIC and the CAI?

Raider

04-01-2007, 11:22 AM

atticus, I think I remember you from the ol mazda forum! I was RaiderMP5 there, before the trade in and moving off of there.

Yes, we noticed a lot of gains. Butt dyno (a real dynojet to come) feels the power, a gained hearing the turbo, and the BOV (which you will want to swap out when you do the mods, of course. It leaks and it is flimsy plastic).Power gains are felt though. Since we installed both within a day of each other, we only know how they interact together. We did the TMIC first, and felt power right off the bat. 2 days and 200 miles later, we installed the CAI, boy it rocked. We also get between 20 in all city, and 25.5 MPG all highway. I would love for someone to do these mods and get similar results.

We have thicker intercooler hoses on order, they are in production, just waiting for that to be finished. We have a BOV on order, waiting for flanges to attach our TurboSmart BOV. It can run VTA, Recirc, or a hybrid. I am 90% sure we will run in full recirc. I need to learn more about how the hybrid works first.

If you plan to get them both, give Cullen as Street Unit a call at 321-251-6124, and let him know your plans. He can help get the right stuff for your car. Of course, all the mods to the Cx-7 are because my wife heard a Speed6 with a BOV. Now all that I got on order for my speed3, she has for her CX-7.

I am also trying to get a motor mount developed for the CX-7. We just need to show a demand for it, and I can have it made. If interested, post interest. :)
http://www.mcx7.com/showthread.php?t=532

fat tony

04-08-2007, 10:10 PM

So, what happens to the warranty if the stock TMIC is replaced with this upgrade?

Vince.

Nothing unless they take that hunk of plastic off.....;)

Or the computer chucks an error DOH and I'm guessing warrenty null and void

:cool: Great Post RaiderMS3 :cool:

cheers

A

oops didnt move to page2

Raider

04-08-2007, 10:45 PM

lol. Yeah, our local service manager actually loves our car, will not void our warranty for the mods. Getting the ECU flash soon on it for the hesitation in the lower RPMs.

Raider

04-23-2007, 09:24 AM

Just thought I would give a cool update. We drive the CX-7 to a Mazda Club BBQ yesterday. Drove in traffice on a county road, then opened it up to wide area, 70 MPH. Drivein, parked, popped the hood, and immediately took off the plastic TMIC cover, and I was able to put my hand directly on the intercooler. It was cool to the touch. Very nice, as my stock speed3 was too hot to touch. I have a 3.5" on order for my car.

CRD

10-03-2007, 08:22 PM

What happend if I remove the plastic scope and use my stock tmic? Can I get more cool air to it?

Raider

10-03-2007, 09:33 PM

Plastic scope?

CRD

10-04-2007, 01:46 PM

Plastic scope?

My bad , i was playing Counter Strike Source and i was using a scope, I meant Scoop, the plastic cover on top of the intercooler.

Raider

10-04-2007, 01:54 PM

Oh no, you still need it. It directs air on top, and you will not get the cold air over the TMIC without it, unless you make custom ductwork, or a hood scoop.

rexercx7

10-04-2007, 03:25 PM

My bad , i was playing Counter Strike Source and i was using a scope, I meant Scoop, the plastic cover on top of the intercooler.

As another CX-7 owner who uses the ETS TMIC, the 3" model (for some reason, another CX-7 owner here has a 3.5" TMIC which I do not recommend as it compresses the TMIC cover too much), I can assure you of increased drive-ability, better performance & engine efficiency, and it's a perfect fit for the stock TMIC cover.

Like Raider wrote, the TMIC cover is an absolute necessity to use after installation: there is no other way to get cool air to the intercooler at this time other than to use the OEM TMIC cover. Just an aside...I often pop my cover off and make sure there's no debris on the intercooler, which can be leaves, bugs or moths or butterflies (found all the above there at some point). You don't want that stuff there, and depending on your driving conditions and climate those items, and perhaps others, can accumulate on the TMIC since we've dispensed with the heat shield/protector of the stock setup.

Here's a couple pictures of my setup, so you can see how the whole bunch of Mods looks when finished:

http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2641650/2

Note that I've notched the TMIC cover to accommodate the TurboSmart Dual Port BOV, but that otherwise it fits the ETS TMIC perfectly.

Kindest regards,
rexercx7:cool:

Raider

10-04-2007, 05:06 PM

WE still need to verify how much space is left in that cover with the 3.5" before we know it is bad. If there is still decent space, it is a great option. I just have not confirmed the spacing available with the 3" to compare with the 3.5"

CRD

10-04-2007, 11:55 PM

I have taken my scoop off several times and I always see, big butterflies or big insects. I can start making a collection of them.

I would love to see a Hood with a scoop for our cx-7, something NICE not to ricey.

Raider

10-05-2007, 12:09 AM

Yeah, me too. Everyone I talked to has told me there is no market, or the price would be high.

CRD

10-06-2007, 12:29 AM

Yeah, me too. Everyone I talked to has told me there is no market, or the price would be high.

I would love to see this types of styles on a hood for the CX-7

http://blogs.edmunds.com/.ee9740d/cmd.233/embedded..ee97410

OR MAYBE THIS TYPE

http://z.about.com/d/cars/1/7/6/c/gm_08g6gxp_scoop.jpg

Raider

10-06-2007, 08:41 AM

You oughta post this in a new thread and see if we can catch the attention of an aftermarket supplier. I like the Dodge, BTW.

rexercx7

10-07-2007, 12:17 AM

Yes, I agree, those are GREAT pictures that are posted here. Our market share in the SUV field is so small, compared to other makes though, that it's difficult seeing a manufacturer come in and market a carbon fiber hood with integrated scoop for the CX-7. But who knows? Anything is possible, I guess.

Just look at what CP-E is doing for us in the motor and exhaust department, and the TurboSmart BOV's being used, and ETS making great TMIC's. Those are all quality companies that have made a commitment to our market, and they are selling their products handily, and I assume making some $$$ from it.

Kindest regards,
rexercx7:cool:

astraelraen

10-15-2007, 11:12 AM

Install tip:

Tighten all the hoses back down, or else it makes a lot of noise and drives terribly. :)

Raider

10-15-2007, 05:05 PM

um, yeah. Good call!

MadMax

10-16-2007, 11:13 AM

CRD

10-29-2007, 10:28 AM

Just to mentioned, I'm using a scangaugeII tool to monitor my cx-7 and one of the things I monitor is the air temp into the engine. I can say with the TMIC upgrade the temps are never more then 5 degs hotter then the ambient temps.

Not sure what the stock ic did, but i doubt it performs as well.

my .02,
madmax

I want to buy the scangauge II for my cx-7 , I had the version 1, but it didn't work on my CX-7. Are all the funtions funtionals? some cars the trip computer doesn't work and in ohter cars the reset of the PCM to erased codes doesn't work either.

I think is a great tool for the price, I just want to know if it works complete with the CX-7.

Raider

10-29-2007, 10:46 AM

Might want to take that to Private Messaging so we can keep this thread on topic. :)

CRD

10-29-2007, 11:42 AM

Might want to take that to Private Messaging so we can keep this thread on topic. :)

Ops :D , I just pmed him.

mancx7

11-07-2007, 08:07 AM

Ok i just installed the 3.25" ETS TMIC and it fits perfectly.
i reckon 3.5" is pushing it, because the 3.25" fits JUST quite snuggly. i dunno how the other guy managed to get his 3.5" on, must of been a tight ass fit!

PS. i didnt put back the plastic honey comb frame back, (no room/not an option with the ETS) did u guys?

tested: still gets warm/hot, but i can put my bare hands for aslong as i want on the lower part of the TMIC (cooler bottom) after some hard runs. BUT the top part is still fairly warm, maybe leave my hands on it 2-3 secs only.

so i am happy. definately a must for potential modders.

Raider

11-07-2007, 08:44 AM

The plastic honeycomb will not fit, except into a box on the shelf in the garage.

Odd about your temps, I wonder if it is getting cooled enough because of the 1/4" less of air flow over the intercooler. We held our hands on it for at least 15-20 seconds in testing, only too em off because we were done feeling, not due to temps.

shadow1

11-07-2007, 09:02 AM

I assume you guys are comparing temps on the cold side of the TMIC. The hot side will be hot regardless of whether it is stock or ETS.

Raider

11-07-2007, 09:06 AM

Hands were in the middle of the TMIC, IIRC.

Sablecat

11-09-2007, 11:42 PM

Stupid quesiton here under the options it has polished or standard, is the OG posters the polished one? and is the un-polished one butt ugly?

seems silly to spend 100 bucks on polished when 10% is seen

Raider

11-10-2007, 09:04 AM

The unit in the how-to is polished. It looks great! The bare aluminum will be fine for just about everyone. We bought polished in hopes we would have a vented hood so the big, plastic ductwork cover could come off.

Sablecat

11-10-2007, 11:11 AM

Thank you Raider 100 bucks is really adding up here and there! :)

Raider

11-10-2007, 11:12 AM

http://www.extremeturbosystems.com/Mazda-CX7-Intercoolers-and-Piping-Kits-Intercooler-Only/c4_41_48_49/index.html

Order it there direct from the manufacturer, and then if you want, get a polisher and buff it to a shine.

Sablecat

11-10-2007, 11:25 AM

They are no cheaper than street unit when you go to select the 3" it adds 25 so works out to be the same.. but thank you for the link I ended up purchaseing all 3 mods from SU

Raider

11-10-2007, 12:24 PM

That is interesting. The 3" was the only one released that is known to fit our CX-7. I guess the 3" cores are tougher for them to come by. I am sure they would have price matched, but hey, as long as you are happy. Enjoy the how-to, and if you need any install help, let us know.

mancx7

11-10-2007, 07:45 PM

Hands were in the middle of the TMIC, IIRC.

Mate, this is me driving HARD and on HOT days:

top part of TMIC=hot (cant touch for too long, 2-3 secs)
middle area=warm (abit longer, than the above)
lower area=warm/cooler (can leave hands pretty longish)

how hard are u driving the car? i am giving it, racing it, high reving it. at each new street i enter in or at each red light stop.

results are better ofcos at night, due to cooler temps,
but during a hot day and giving the CX-7 some hard runs, it still gets hot in that engine. no such thing as a COLD TMIC for me here dudes...if crusing or just normal driving, ofcos its cold/cooled to touch and or even sleep with it for that matter :)

with it being 1/4 sitting higher, the rubber under that plastic TMIC ducting, i still can push it up and down. (its not rubbing until its hard pressed up there) there is still a little space for a bigger TMIC if thats an easier explaination for what i am talking about. hence i can see how the other dude can fit his 3.5. (but i wouldnt recommend it either). 3" to 3.25" is just about right.

i am not saying the TMIC doesn't do its job, ofcos it will be getting more air flows and lower the temps to some degree, if comparing to the stock. I LOVE IT! and its a MUST for all modders.

TIP: with the hosing clamps, make sure tighten them again in few days time, they get loose! maybe its due to the heat...who knows but yeah ofcos double check your installation after some hard run ins. that goes for the cpe cai too.
basically anywhere with rubber hosing clamping..

Raider

11-11-2007, 09:39 AM

yeah, we upgraded the hoses, and they came with heavy duty stainless steel clamps, stayed tight.

Yeah, I was having a little fun with the CX-7 before we tested the temps. And it is HOT here in FL during the summer.

satz

01-19-2008, 03:58 PM

Raider

01-19-2008, 04:14 PM

I checked, and no, that is one thing we did not take a pic of. I am sorry!

Sablecat

01-20-2008, 01:10 AM

satz

01-20-2008, 05:31 AM

no probs Raider, thanks for checking

I'm trying to determine how much clearance there is between the engine and the intercooler. From running my hand through the gap (when it's cold!) I can feel some obstruction like a plug that's almost touching the bottom of the TMIC.

cheers

Satz

Raider

01-20-2008, 08:24 AM

Sablecat, call ETS Direct,see if they have a big backlog. http://extremeturbosystems.com/
Also note issues you are having with it.

Satz, "kawwikid" put a thermal spacer between the engine and TMIC, but has not returned to show pics. There are spark plug packs that you are probably feeling.

satz

01-20-2008, 05:41 PM

I was hoping kawwikid would come back with more info...prob on holidays I guess! :-)

i was keen to put a thermal insulation between engine and TMIC but I wonder if I'll be able to with that plug pack touching right up against the IC. Maybe do it in separate pieces (on either side of the plug)

Raider - when removing the TMIC, do you think I could just undo the 3 bolts and the front hose (only) and then lift up the TMIC to put this insulation on? And then replace the TMIC? I'm trying to avoid having to remove the back hose

cheers and thanks

Satz

shadow1

01-20-2008, 07:07 PM

Order date: November 10, 2007

1 of : ETS Top Mount Bar & Plate Intercooler: Mazda CX-7 [Color:Natural Finish]

still waiting from Street Unit god they have horrible customer service on this particular order. Keep giving me the same story its on the way, its coming, oh its back ordered, oh they are in the same state you will have it in a week, blah blah..

:(
SU is giving the run around or ETS is not prioritizing SU orders. I ordered my TMIC 3" direct from ETS after Xmas. I paid the end of year sale price of 505 + shipping. I got it Jan 14. Took them about 2 weeks including a week for shipping from the West Coast to the East Coast.

Raider

01-20-2008, 10:02 PM

Satz, I would not recommend stressing out the OEM hoses. You can remove the top hose clamps on the hoses and be alright I think. That is how I would go. If you are still not hearing from the reseller for ETS, I would call and see if they have your order. Might be able to cancel the reseller, order direct from ETS and eliminate the middle man or problem. Goes for any part you can get from the source.

tdli

01-07-2009, 11:31 AM

what other TMIC options are out there besides ETS and Autoexe?

shadow1

01-07-2009, 11:40 AM

None that I know of

MAZOOM

01-07-2009, 11:42 AM

what other TMIC options are out there besides ETS and Autoexe?
TRZ has one coming out soon and StreetUnit has one. ETS will do and it can be had for almost $100 cheaper than the SU TMIC.

shadow1

01-07-2009, 11:47 AM

Any links for TRZ's TMIC

shadow1

01-07-2009, 11:50 AM

Anyone know who makes the SU TMIC. Also, unless the MS3/6 shroud unbolts from the TMIC, it will not fit the CX7.

MAZOOM

01-07-2009, 11:54 AM

The shroud is bolted onto the TMIC which is why I mentioned it.

Raider

01-07-2009, 12:16 PM

Alpha Wolf

01-07-2009, 12:37 PM

Dear raider
many thanks for the detailed guide on replacing the TMIC.

Would you, by any chance, have a photo taken of the engine after you had removed the OEM TMIC but before fitting the new TMIC?

Or..of course anyone else who might have a similar photo, please post...

thanks and cheers

Satz

I have posted a picture like that on my thread ETS TMIC Purchased.

http://www.mcx7.com/showthread.php?t=2139&highlight=TMIC+Purchased

shadow1

01-07-2009, 01:11 PM

BTW I recommend buying the ETS MS3 TMIC rather than the CX7 one. Same price and you get the NS3 shroud. That way in the future if you sell it, you can sell it to the larger MS3/6 audience.

tdli

01-07-2009, 01:18 PM

BTW I recommend buying the ETS MS3 TMIC rather than the CX7 one. Same price and you get the NS3 shroud. That way in the future if you sell it, you can sell it to the larger MS3/6 audience.

fyi, the cx7 tmic on mazda3online.com sells for $504.95, but the MS3 TMIC sells for $565.95.

nevertheless, i think what you said has a good point.

Raider

01-07-2009, 01:52 PM

Shadow is a right, the MS3 TMIC sells for about $400-475 USED. So if you do not plan on owning the CX-7 forever, keep it in mind.

BTW. my Speed 3 has a TMIC from a former CX-7 owner!

Superstretch18

01-07-2009, 02:24 PM

Street Unit outsources all fabrication, they do not release who really makes their stuff. Not sure if it is in the USA or not. Neither SU or TRZ are out yet. The TRZ is being sold exclusively from Mazda3online.com, fabbed by TRZ.

If you get an ETS TMIC with the shroud, simply unbolt it, and you can go without it.

Do you have a link to where the TRZ is being sold on mazda3online? I'm on a group-buy with PG for this intercooler on 24/7, but didn't think it was out yet. I want it BAD! CC ready and waiting!