Bolt-on mod vs. added HP & TQ

Do you find yourself in one of these categories and asking yourself these very same questions ? well this section is meant to explain why things may not work as you were told ...

• Have you been told that a specific modification to your car will yield you 10 or 15 horsepower ? but on the dyno you lost 2 hp ?

• How about you're building a high compression all motor project and you're told to use the biggest camshafts available ? but $10K into the project you're only making 200hp at the wheels

• So you bought some production headers because an internet board said it adds 40 horsepower ? but I only saw 5 hp ...

• What is your VAFC fuel settings,  I want to use yours on my car...

• What are your camgear settings, I want to use that on my car ...

• I want to use the "Mugen" program on my ecu because it gave John and Mary an extra 20 horsepower ...

Building my stock motor from scratch - what are the best (proven) mods to add on - ask the experts that have actually tried it
 

• So you're new to the game whether you just picked up your new K-series RSX or Civic Si, or a used Integra Type R, GSR or LS. What should be the first set of mods to try ?
• I just bought a complete b-series motor swap what should I do while its out the car ?
• I only have $2000 to spend, what mods will give me the best bang for the buck ?