justjimmy

I have a few questions: I want to upgrade the air filter in my truck (2011 5.0 L). I need some "real advice".

Question 1. Do I get a K&N type drop in or go with a CAI system?

I've read lots of reviews in this regard and lot's of people say there's no real benefit going with a CAI until the RPM's are up in the high range (4-5000 RPM). In other words, normal driving - 1500 - 3000 RPM will have no benefit and that a normal K&N type drop-in would work the same.

I really have no clue what's true. There's obviously a HUGE difference in price - $50.00 - $350.00 (plus or minus).

I'm going to do something - but - I want to be smart about it and not waste money.

Can anyone clarify this for me?

Question 2. I just ordered a tuner from 5-Star and was wondering if the tunes I'm going to load benefit from either choice?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

MattN03

I always put a K&N drop in filter in my daily drivers after the original factory filter is ready to be replaced. I have a C&L CAI on my Mach 1, but don't believe I'd ever install a CAI on my DD due to driving through possible high water where we live. I believe a CAI would only help in the upper RPM range too, so for daily use, the benefits wouldn't be that noticeable IMO.

ElCid04

Dont get a drop in. I just put one in my 5.0 two weeks ago and I cant tell the slightest difference. Cant tell any difference in gas either.

You wont get much benefit from the CAI unless you get a tune for it, which it sounds like you are doing. I would wait to see if you are happy with the results with the tuner before you change the intake. Seems like the new intakes are pretty good factory.

spdmpo

Don't do either. One will only lighten your wallet and the other does a poor job actually filtering air, which an something an air filter is supposed to do well.

reward69

I have to agree, if your racing and every 1/10th counts then get a CAI. For a daily driver I change the filter every other oil change and dont look back. The only benefit for CAI's in my opinion is for vehicles that have a restrictive intake. Manfactures have gotten pretty good at eliminating the restrictive intake hoses. The sound is pretty cool if your into a good ole quadra jet kinda sound....

Personally I would get a good tune (like 5 star) or others and keep on truckin... This is a change you will feel.

02reaper

iTrader: (2)

Every engine has cfm requirements. Our engines @7k rpm and 112% VE would only require 685.09 cfm. The correct drop in K&N air filter for the 2011 5.0 is pn 33-2385 which flows 783.7 cfm. That is well over enough filter for us. I doubt an aftermarket CAI would help unless their is some type of restriction in the intake tube.

spdmpo

Not to mention, most CAI intakes are hot air intakes. The factory one is good as is, as mentioned above.

02reaper

iTrader: (2)

Yep.....