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airbox mods worth it?

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Old 01-17-2014, 01:06 AM
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Default airbox mods worth it?

Just picked up a 2012 5.0 xlt 4wd and was wondering if a drop in filter like a K&N is worth anything or is it better to go right for a CAI on these 5.0's

Anyone have any real world info for me?
Old 01-17-2014, 06:20 AM
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I have a K&N drop-in. I noticed no difference in power or MPGs but I like never having to buy air filters and it makes me feel better knowing it flows more whether it needs it or not. Note: I don't oil mine. I just keep it clean and dry. Before anyone lectures me, I've ran K&Ns like this on nearly every vehicle I've owned and never had a problem. I wouldn't suggest it for dusty conditions though.

When searching originally, I couldn't find any concrete proof that an intake was needed on these trucks. The stock flows well and I didn't want a lot of extra noise.
Old 01-17-2014, 10:55 AM
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One performance company tested several drop-ins and none flowed better than stock and some were worse.
That same air box services the 6.2 so intake air is not a problem.
And real world, I have an Afe drop-in and noticed no difference at all.
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Old 01-17-2014, 12:47 PM
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Do it for the sound / growl or the cosmetics, however, do it for any other reason (power | MPG increase) and you will be disappointed - THERE ARE NO GAINS.
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Old 01-17-2014, 03:48 PM
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I do run a K&N drop in filter, just lightly oiled. I have used them on several vehicles some going for 150K miles with no problems.


I think throttle response is very slightly better. It wasn't worth the minimal increase to buy a CAI.
Old 01-17-2014, 03:56 PM
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Originally Posted by gDMJoe
Do it for the sound / growl or the cosmetics, however, do it for any other reason (power | MPG increase) and you will be disappointed - THERE ARE NO GAINS. .
Is there a noticeable difference in sound with just a drop in filter? I tried the Roush intake and Airaid Jr. Kit, but both caused too much intake drone for my taste. I'd like a little more intake sound to match my mild Corsa catback.
Old 01-17-2014, 06:27 PM
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Awesome guys,thanks for the input. I will most likely skip the CAI and just get a drop in K&N for no other reason than being able to clean over replacing a paper filter everytime its dirty.
Old 01-17-2014, 07:38 PM
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I've been doing research on this idea and honestly, everyone says don't bother with the cold air intake.
So I found a "different" twist for the cold air that might make a difference...

http://www.5startuning.com/product/s...andard-bumper/
Old 01-17-2014, 08:00 PM
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Originally Posted by Northernexposure
I've been doing research on this idea and honestly, everyone says don't bother with the cold air intake. So I found a "different" twist for the cold air that might make a difference... http://www.5startuning.com/product/s...andard-bumper/
Wondering..........how awesome this May or may not be hmmmmmm might bring intake temps down while in traffic def forced air at hw speed. Someone else try this let me know
Old 01-17-2014, 08:37 PM
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Oh I'll be trying it... once we get outta the deep freeze here. I figure for a hundred bucks... it's not a bad investment.

EDIT: It also doesn't look like it would hurt the warranty any as the original parts for the air intake are still used.... just a SLIGHT modification to the supply side. :P

Last edited by Northernexposure; 01-17-2014 at 08:40 PM.


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