[catchtheroadrunner]

I once saw a cold air intake that actually had pipes letting in air from where some front accessory lights sit (up front, down low at the corners). I don't see how the mass market CAI systems could possible work without this direct access to outside air. Are there particular parts of the engine bay that receive more air pass through than others?

[96Snaker]

I believe what you were describing is actually called a RAM air intake, meaning by that, the system allows airmass to increase, as a function, as the vehicle's speed increases. (lamens terms, the faster you go the more air that goes in). Most ram air intake systems are generally ok, but definitely a no-no if you drive your car in the rain as there is nothing in front of the intake's opening to prevent water/moisture from going directly into your intake manifold.


Most Cold Air systems will divert the air filter/intake opening to the fenderwell area to gain access to cooler air (as engine heat in the engine bay is not good for creating hp). So in that sense, they do work. But gains typically aren't too noticeable, but the systems are cheap so it's a great many people's first mod.

[acmillr]

I wouldn't waste my money on an air kit until you have many other mods that demand more air (i.e. ported heads, cams, etc.). Unless you have installed components that provide more than stock air flow, you will only get a sound change, which some people mistake for a performance gain.

[stanglifemike]

No mistake..the JLT cai with the SCT tuner WILL give you more horsepower

[acmillr]

Originally Posted by stanglifemike No mistake..the JLT cai with the SCT tuner WILL give you more horsepower

OK, I will admit, expect 5-10 HP from the tuner and 2-3 from the CAI. At best, you are looking at $48 per pony.

[catchtheroadrunner]

I saw it on Spike TV. I don't believe they ever referred to the setup as a ram air system. I believe it was simply high capacity snorkel. Although obviously it's placement would generate some ram effect. Pictures of different intakes other than conventional scoops would be cool if anyone has them.

[TheUNZippee!]

Do some inet research on CAI's from C&L & JLT. In conjunction with a tune, they absolutely do work. They are not only about cooling down the air, they also alter the path the flow of air takes, smoothing it out.

[cohnhead21]

S is $48 per hp Expensive? If you buy a S/c (roughly 5k with or without service) it ends up that u get 104 hp out of it with $48 per hp.. Whats the fasted cheepest easiest way to get h.p. as a first mod?

[Coltdog]

With these modular motors, the "old school" bs doesn't apply. Adding port and polished headers, x-pipes, and axelbacks, and a stage 2 or 3 cam may give you an additional 25-30HP. This isn't cheap either. You'd have AT LEAST 3K in parts and the install.

A C&L CAI with X-Caliber tune (93 Octane tune) will provide 22 - 28 RWHP, Brenspeed or BamaChips are two of the best to provide the tune. The reason there is such a broad range is because all cars are not equal from the factory. Dyno testing has reported 260 - 280 RWHP. Therefore, the tune will affect each car a little different.

The best bang for the buck with the 3V modulars is the C&L with tune, underprive pulleys, and a Charging Motion Delete Plate. You should pick up between 35 -45 horsepower with a lot less money than the heads/cams/etc.

Add some 4.10 gears from Ford Racing and you'll have a rocket. The gears (approx. $200) and install should total around $500.00. Just make sure somebody who knows what they're doing does the install.

I wouldn't upgrade the exhaust if performance is what you're looking for... the factory exhaust is surprisingly free flowing. Performance gains are minimal with aftermarket parts. You may gain 3 -5 HP with some good axelbacks if you're looking for sound.

[TheUNZippee!]

A CAI, tune & exhaust are the cheapest way to get your initial horsepower gains. If you consider it costs anywhere from 5 to 10 grand for a complete blower or turbo setup, which will add 100 - 300 horse (yes I know it can azdd much more, I'm talking about your average street application) suddenly a few hundred bucks doesn't sound so bad for a good CAI, another couple hun for a tuner, and a few hundred for a good axle back exhaust, all of which will net you roughly 30 - 50 horse & even improve your mpg & driveability.