i've searched this and found some stuff but not really what i am looking for, which is actual gains. I may have just missed it though. I'm not great with a computer. I have an 06 2.4 SS, it is stock. What gains will a full exhaust, CAI and a tune give me? Would it be a seat of your pants difference? Thanks.

I'm not a 100% sure (never saw a dyno sheet for one) but I would assume that its atleast 25-30whp gain. But I could be wrong. It also depends on what parts you get like GMPP or ZZ Performance, Magnaflow, etc. All equal different gains.

30whp, 20-30tq is a good estimate. A lot depends on how aggressive of a tune you run

Thanks a lot guys, thats what i was looking for. I saw a GMPP exhaust setup on youtube that had duals and it sounded really good. I dont know if anyone around here tunes. I live in WV but I dont mind to travel, so i'm sure I'll find someone. I'll probably go as aggressive as possible. I dont really care about gas mileage.

search in this section for Red07SSNA's walkthrough 18whp tune. pretty good

here's your answer, in details:

https://www.zzperformance.com/cobalt_ion/latest_news1.php?id=175

ZZP tested each mod 1 by 1

Thats some good info, that definitely shows that the simple mods do help but don't expect miracles it seems.

That is a lot of cash for the HP return or small HP return. That is not good.