Starting engine mods--where do I start?

[eclipseproject]

I am going to start modifying my engine. Where do I need to start? What would be the best brand? Here's my situation:

1998 Eclipse RS
2.0 4 cyl
53,000 miles
Do NOT want to lose gas mileage
Low budget -- less than $1000

Please help me!

[4ndrms]

i would start with an intake,exhaust,and if you have extra money get a header

[eclipseproject]

What brand of intake would you recommend? What about exhaust and header?

Thanks

[4ndrms]

i would get this

intake-AEM
exhaust-apexi n1
header-greddy

[Streetpsych]

Get an injen intake, but make sure you get the aem bypass valve incase of wet situations. Greddy makes a wicked exhaust. Go to greddy.com and check out the evolution series. And a header and maybe some nos and you should have a pretty good time.

[megadragoon]

Get an injen intake, but make sure you get the aem bypass valve incase of wet situations. Greddy makes a wicked exhaust. Go to greddy.com and check out the evolution series. And a header and maybe some nos and you should have a pretty good time.

Wuzzup 4ndrms?....anyway is the bypass valve really necessary? I heard in case you drive through a river or something, the bypass valve shouldn't be needed.