omfgwtf.

I'm trying to figure out wtf vics does. It might only be '99-00 BP engines, it might not be. I'm willing to bet it's used elsewhere. Anyone wanna help me figure out how the fuck this works? Supposedly it has something to do with manifold pressure or something, and makes for a nice dip in power if it's disconnected (always open loop).

AUGH!

From what I've read it's like Honda's IAB system, it basically just lets more air into the intake after a certain rpm.

Why would that account for a measurable dip in power midrange if left open, then? That makes sense for the dip in high rpm if left closed..

no idea

Since I am so bored right now in the CSU, I will post about this. I didn't know that VICS was even on Mazda's that early, but I do know that all the 3rd gen protege owers HATE VICS. A few years ago Mazda found out that VICS would fail and get sucked into the engine and destroying the engine. But here are the facts:

VICS = Variable Inertia Charge System. VICS helps top end (rpm band) power by forcing more air inside the head after 5250 rpm. Unlike most of the cars out there, the Mazda Protege Intake manifold has 2 rows of runners. Lower row of runners has butterflies. Until 5250 rpm the butterflies (this is VICS system) on the lower row of runners are open to allow the air to pass through for a good amount of low-end torque. After 5250 rpm VICS system activates (that is when Butterflies are completely shut). This is to force the whole amount of air into one single set of four runners (top row).