DIY: Steeda Throttle Body Spacer Install

Drizz-OH!

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2005 Mazda6
This DIY will show you how to install the Steeda Throttle Body Spacer (TBS).

Steeda Throttle Body Spacer:
v6_tbs_550.jpg


Supplied Gasket & Hardware:
v6_gaskets_550.jpg


It is available for both the 2.3l 4-cylinder and 3.0l v6 engines via Steeda's website:
http://www.steedafusion.com/store/Induction-&-Tuning-Steeda-Throttle-Body-Spacers/c72_92/index.html

Steeda's Description of the TBS:
Steeda's Billet Aluminum intake spacer is designed specifically for the new Ford Fusion. Made from Billet 6061 aluminum it is designed to give you more plenum volume for increased horsepower. The swirl design helps promote airflow by breaking the surface tension of the incoming air. An increase of horsepower and fuel milage can be seen with this part. Kit includes instructions, gaskets and mounting hardware.
Yes, the Ford Fusion has the same engines as the Mazda6 as they are built from the same platform.

Product Benefits
Increased horsepower and torque
Increased fuel economy
Made from ultra-high quality materials

Before we Begin...

How Difficult is it to Install?
I would rate this as a very easy to install piece. Most beginners should be able to tackle this with no problems.

How Long Will it Take to Install?
Steeda says this mod should take approximately 45 minutes to install, although it only took me 20 minutes to complete this project.

Tools Needed:
Steeda Throttle Body Spacer (Comes with new hardware & gaskets)
Socket Wrench
10mm Socket
5mm Allen Wrench
Phillips or Flat Head Screwdriver (Depending on Intake)

Note:
This mod should only be performed on a cool engine. The throttle body gets very hot while the engine is running and it might burn your fingers if you install this while the engine is warm.


Let's get started.

I performed this mod on my 3.0l V6. The install will be different, but similar for the 2.3l.

Here is what the throttle body looks like. There are 4 screws that must be taken out in order for the TB to be removed (3 are pictured here, the other is hidden by the intake piping).
DSCN2819.jpg


Step 1:
Remove the intake piping (I used a flat head screwdriver because I have the CP-e CAI)
DSCN2820.jpg


Step 2:
Using your socket wrench and 10mm socket, remove the 4 bolts securing the throttle body in place (Note, removing the lower bolts first is easier so that the TB isn't hanging on them while trying to remove it).

Step 3:
Here is what the throttle body looks like once all 4 bolts have been removed:
DSCN2821.jpg

You can see that the Steeda TBS can only fit one way in between the Intake Manifold (IM) and the Throttle Body.

Step 4:
Place one gasket on each side of the Steeda TBS (Note, the fit perfectly so if they aren't lining up flip them over and try again). You don't need any silicon, the torquing of the TB screws will keep it in place securely.

Step 5:
This is the step where we have to insert the TBS in between the TB and IM. The easiest way I found to do this is to insert two of the extended bolts (that come with the TBS) into both holes on the top of the TB and slide the TBS (w/ gaskets) over them until it is flush with the TB (the Steeda stamped text on the TBS should be facing the engine cover), then use your fingers to tighten the bolts. Once the TB is supported with just the top bolts, insert the bottom bolts and tighten.

Your view should now look like this:
DSCN2822.jpg


Step 6:
Reinstall the intake piping (or accordion tube). Here is a picture of the completed install:
DSCN2823.jpg


Step 7:
After removing all tools from the engine bay and double checking that all bolts are tight, turn the engine on and allow it to idle for ~10 minutes. Avoid from pressing on the gas pedal to let the car get used to the increased airflow.

Step 8:
Go for a drive and enjoy your smoother idling, better shifting, more powerful automobile!
 
Good write-up. Any comments after driving with it for a few weeks? I might look into this.
 
Mostly just a cool sound. Car does idle and drive a bit smoother though. Throttle response and shifting have also improved.
 
Did this today, took me about an hour, 20 minutes of that was finding the tools I dropped! Let the car idle and went for a drive. Didn't really do much except make a chirp every time the throttle plate opens. I did notice that acceleration was smoother however. I did this mod because I picked it up cheap, but I don't see spending $80 for this product, save your $.

EDIT: After driving with it for a while, my gas mileage has improved 1.2 MPG!
 
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