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The Best Chevy Colorado Cold Air Intake

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Our cold air intakes are one of the easiest and most rewarding upgrades you can do to your vehicle. To demonstrate the benefits of our Elite Series Cold Air Intake for the Chevy Colorado, we sent a kit to HorsePower Obsessed to try out:

Why Cold Air Inductions?

Horsepower Obsessed hadn’t really considered installing a cold air intake on their V6 Colorado because most kits required the engine cover to be removed.

But that’s not the case with Cold Air Intake’s kit as it was designed to work specifically with the Colorado. Unlike some of the generic solutions from other suppliers. So, we decided to send them a kit to demonstrate just how effective our CAI cold air intake can be.

The Chevy Colorado Intake Kit

Our cold air induction kit for the Chevy Colorado is specially designed to work with that model. It uses all the original fasteners, OEM sensors, mounting points and connectors. This makes for an easy install that fits perfectly. The intake system includes:

  • Insulated Aluminum Air Box
  • Air Box Lid with Clear Inspection Window
  • Thermal-Coated Intake Tube
  • High-Performance Air Filter
  • Installation Instructions

Our Chevy Colorado intake system also works with the following trucks:

  • 2015 – 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6-liter V6 and 2.5-liter inline-4
  • 2015 – 2022 GMC Canyon 3.6-liter V6 and 2.5-liter inline-4
  • 2016 – 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 2.8-liter Turbo-Diesel
  • 2016 – 2022 GMC Canyon 2.8-liter Turbo-Diesel

The Installation

Installing the kit was extremely easy. It took just a few minutes and required just a couple of tools.

“I would definitely recommend Cold Air Inductions. The intake install was extremely easy.”

– Justin, HorsePower Obsessed

Tools:

  • T20 Torx screwdriver
  • Philips head screwdriver
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • 8mm and 10mm socket with extension

Removal Process:

  1. Remove MAF sensor with T20 Torx screwdriver
  2. Use 8mm socket or flathead screwdriver to remove pipe between intake and manifold
  3. Remove stock airbox with Philips head screwdriver.
  4. Take out stock filter and bottom air box section. Two 10mm nuts hold it in place.

Installation Process:

  1. Slide MAF sensor into new intake tube.
  2. Install new airbox using stock grommets and connectors
  3. Connect new intake tube between airbox and intake manifold. Reattach MAF harness
  4. Install air filter and fit new airbox lid

And that’s it. The process is simple, and the new components fit as if they came from the factory.

Scientific Testing

Every system we build is tested in real-world conditions to deliver real-world results. To test our claim Horsepower Obsessed did before and after dyno runs and sound tests.

“I can definitely hear a lot more intake noise.”

– Justin, HorsePower Obsessed

The sound from the engine bay before the new intake was hardly noticeable. Once it had been installed, it transformed the intake sound. Every press of the throttle released a far deeper and more impressive sound that really transformed the truck.

“It does give us some additional power, which is awesome.”

– Justin, HorsePower Obsessed

The dyno tests also showed minor, yet consistent improvements to both power and torque levels. Wolfpack speed Dyno runs:

  • Best of 249hp and 228 lb-ft with stock intake
  • Best of 251hp and 230 lb-ft with Cold Air Inductions kit

The 2hp and 2lb-ft improvements were small, but like with any modification, a tune would really allow the Colorado to make the most of the colder air being sucked into the motor.

Upgrade Your Truck With The Best Chevy Colorado Cold Cold Air Intake

For an immediate boost in performance, economy, and intake sound, the Colorado Cold Air intake kit is tough to beat. As HorsePower Obsessed found, it’s easy to install, sounds great, and can save you money thanks to the reusable air filter and potential for better gas mileage. Other benefits include:

  • Small power gain – could be increased with a tune
  • Potential gas mileage improvement
  • Much better engine sound
  • Reusable air filter saves money
  • Extremely easy to install

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed air box intakes since 2004. Our products are built to last and come with a lifetime warranty. Each kit is designed and tested to work with your vehicle.

Our real-world dyno testing procedures show real-world benefits. Get in touch with our team to order your CAI cold air induction kit today.

Metal vs Plastic Intakes: Pros And Cons

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When it comes to enhancing the performance of your vehicle’s engine, upgrading the cold air intake system is a popular choice among enthusiasts. One of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to opt for a plastic or metal cold air intake. Each type has pros and cons, but metal cold air intakes offer a better solution for achieving optimal engine performance.

Read on as we explore the pros and cons of both options and explain why metal intakes are the best option. 

Plastic Cold Air Intakes

plastic cold air intake

Plastic cold air intakes are a popular accessory on many aftermarket auto part websites. These intakes are easier and cheaper to manufacture, typically using a rotational molding process. This process creates parts by pouring hot, liquid plastic into a mold that rotates, filling the void. While this process is inexpensive, it produces lower-quality parts which vary in thickness and can create air turbulence or reduced air optimization that can hinder any potential performance gains.  

Pros:

  • Cost-Effective: Plastic intakes are generally cheaper to manufacture, resulting in a lower price point for consumers.
  • Lightweight: Plastic intakes are lighter than their metal counterparts, which can contribute to overall vehicle weight reduction.
  • Insulation: Plastic helps insulate against engine heat, preventing heat transfer and maintaining a lower intake air temperature.

Cons:

  • Durability: Plastic can be more susceptible to cracking or breaking over time, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or mechanical stress.
  • Heat Soak: Plastic intakes may suffer from heat soak, where accumulated engine heat affects the intake air temperature, potentially reducing performance gains.
  • Limited Airflow: Plastic’s structural limitations may hinder airflow optimization, limiting potential power gains.

Metal Cold Air Intakes

Chevy trailblazer intake

Metal cold air intakes offer a range of advantages that make them a superior choice for performance-oriented drivers. While they are typically more expensive than their plastic counterparts, better performance gains and a more durable and longer-lasting product more than offset that cost. Typically made from aluminum or stainless steel, they are better at shedding heat and can help dress up your engine bay.    

Pros:

  • Durability and Longevity: Metal intakes are highly durable and less prone to damage, ensuring a longer lifespan and sustained performance.
  • Heat Dissipation: Metal efficiently dissipates heat, minimizing the risk of heat soak and maintaining a consistently cooler intake air temperature.
  • Improved Airflow: Metal intakes can be designed with smoother contours and larger diameters, enhancing airflow and potentially increasing horsepower and torque.
  • Engine Bay Aesthetics: Metal intakes often provide a polished and premium appearance that enhances the visual appeal of the engine bay.

Cons:

  • Cost: Metal cold air intakes are generally more expensive due to the higher manufacturing and material costs.
  • Weight: Metal intakes are heavier than their plastic counterparts, which may have a marginal impact on overall vehicle weight.

The Superiority of Metal Cold Air Intakes

CAI intake

Metal cold air intakes offer a clear advantage over plastic counterparts in terms of durability, performance, and overall value. The ability to dissipate heat efficiently, maintain consistent intake air temperatures, and optimize airflow can significantly enhance engine power and responsiveness. While they may come at a slightly higher cost, the long-term benefits and improved performance make metal cold air intakes a superior investment for serious enthusiasts seeking to extract the most from their vehicle’s engine.

Why Choose A Cold Air Inductions Product?

At Cold Air Inductions, we do real power testing that shows actual power gains. Our cold air intake systems are built to the highest quality using OEM-quality fittings and retaining all of the original sensors. At CAI we’re Tier 1 OEM suppliers, and our kits include:

  • Inspection window on certain kits – great to check the reusable air filters
  • Powder-coated aluminum components to reduce intake temps
  • Perfectly insulated air boxes to maximize cold airflow
  • OEM-spec fasteners and connectors
  • Retention of stock OEM sensors

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed cold air intake systems since 2004. All our intake kits are designed and engineered for specific vehicles to deliver noticeable improvements over stock performance and come with a lifetime warranty. 

Contact us to order your CAI cold air intake kit today.

DiabloFormula Racing Installs CAI Intake And Gains 14 RWHP

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There’s no doubt that a quality cold air intake is one of the quickest ways to boost your vehicle’s performance, intake sound, and even improve fuel economy. But with so many systems out there it can be tough to know which one is best for you.

Sometimes you have to rely on the stats the manufacturer provides. But not every cold air intake is tested the same way. And real world performance doesn’t live up to the claims.

That’s why Cold Air Intakes does real power testing that results in real power gains. But don’t take our word for it, check out this video of DiabloFormula Racing installing one of our products and decide for yourself.

The TrailBlazer SS Cold Air Intake Install

DiabloFormula Racing has had some great results from Cold Air Inductions intakes in the past. So much so that they became a vendor for the brand. And seeing as they know just how good CAI cold air intakes are, Andy ordered a full intake kit for his girlfriend Steph’s Trailblazer SS.

Vehicle Specs

  • Chevy Trailblazer SS
  • 394hp 6.0-liter V8 (when stock)
  • K&N Air Filter
  • Rebuilt transmission
  • Stall converter
  • Modified headers and pipes
  • Upgraded cam

As a testament to how quick and easy the install is, Andy decided to do the entire job on a freezing day out in the snow. While it was snowing. Try that with a any other competitor’s product.

Cold Air Intake Kit Details

CAI intake

Every Cold Air Inductions kit comes with everything you need for a hassle-free install. And every component is built to the highest standards. We use OEM-quality fittings and keep all original sensors.

Andy also mentions the different styles of intakes available from CAI, with the option to go with a chrome or satin black finish:

“Personally I think the satin black finish looks better – it just looks cleaner because the inside of the engine bay is black and the cover is black – so that’s why we went with the satin black.”    – Andy, DiabloFormula Racing

CAI intake kits feature:

  • An inspection window to check reusable air filters
  • Powder-coated aluminum parts to reduce intake temps
  • Air boxes designed to maximize cold airflow
  • OEM-spec fasteners and connectors
  • OEM sensors are reused

The Install

CAI intake

“[The CAI intake] is a simple set-up. It literally took 10 minutes to do.”  – Andy, DiabloFormula Racing

To start with the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) is disconnected. The plastic engine cover is removed and then the original plastic intake cover is unscrewed. The Trailblazer already had an older K&N air filter installed which Andy removed. He also took out the screen from the MAF to further improve airflow.

The next step was to place the CAI filter and housing into the engine bay. Andy was surprised at just how easily it slotted into place. Bolting it down took just a few minutes and then it was time to fit the piping and connect it to the intake manifold. Then the vacuum hose was fitted, the MAF sensor reconnected and the plastic engine cover screwed back on.

The entire installation process took just 10 minutes. And the only tool required was a screwdriver. Not bad for an upgrade that delivers 14 rear-wheel horsepower, and improves the intake sound and fuel economy.

Give Your Vehicle The Intake It Deserves

Chevy trailblazer intake

To give your Chevy Trailblazer a performance boost, check out our cold air intake kits here:

Cold Air Inductions offers the Elite Series intake systems for the perfect upgrade from an OEM setup. For the biggest gains, you’ll want our Carbon Elite Series systems. Just like the one Andy fitted to the Trailblazer SS.

Cold Air Inductions is a leading manufacturer of cold air intakes. And we stand by our products with a lifetime warranty. Get in touch with our team to order your kit today.

Cold Air Inductions On Two Guys Garage

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A cold air intake provides a quick and inexpensive way to improve the performance of your engine. But not all intakes are the same. Many are made of plastic and absorb heat, which can limit or even eliminate any performance gain.

That’s why our cold air induction systems are made from aluminum to be durable yet lightweight. And they are thermal coated to limit heat transfer from the hot underhood environment. The quality and performance speak for themselves, which is why Two Guys Garage used one in its 2010 Chevrolet Camaro V6 project.

Two Guy’s Garage Camaro Cold Air Intake Install

When it comes to cold air intakes, you have two options: You can either install a plastic tube intake and shield it off from the heat generated by your engine. Or, you can buy an actual cold air intake, like one from Cold Air Inductions, which is already set up for your vehicle. That’s precisely what Two Guy’s Garage did with their V6 Camaro.

“CAI is taking cold air induction kits to the next level…they’re really paying attention to the details.“

Two Guys Garage

They selected one of our kits because of the quality and details, which they said we’ve taken to the next level. Those details include an insulated, sealed box that isolates the intake from the rest of the engine, shielding it from heat. They also commented on our thermal-coated intake tube and how we’ve addressed the heat soak issue that robs most systems of any performance gains. These details allow our cold air intakes to provide gains of up to 18 rear-wheel horsepower on a completely stock Camaro.

Two Guy’s Garage also liked the Cold Air Induction kit’s ease of installation, commenting on the details like the fasteners. Our cold air intake system directly replaces the OEM air box, making it easy to install without modifications. Even the OEM washer bottle remains in the stock location.

Selecting An Air Intake From Cold Air Inductions 

Our cold-air induction systems are designed to work for your specific vehicle, optimizing airflow with minimal turbulence. Each cold-air intake is engineered as a complete, closed system, from the aluminum housing to the air filter. That’s why we’re confident the power we claim is the power you will feel every time you drive your vehicle.

“It’s a really nice, high-quality system.“

Two Guys Garage

Since 2004 CAI has manufactured the highest-quality air intakes in the industry, delivering real, measurable power increases. Check out our testimonials and customer reviews to see what people say about our intakes.

Click this link to contact us if you have questions or want to know more about our products.

Chevy Silverado Trail Boss Cold Air Intake Install

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Looking to unleash the full potential of your Silverado 1500? Installing an intake from Cold Air Inductions is a step in the right direction.

Trail Boss Intake Install

We all know the Chevrolet Silverado is one of the most popular and dependable trucks on the road today. With its powerful engine, rugged design, and impressive towing capabilities, it’s garnered a loyal following from truck owners. Silverado enthusiasts are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their truck’s performance. That’s where a cold air intake from Cold Air Inductions comes into play. Check out the video below from ZachAtak Customs and see first-hand some of the gains that can be enjoyed by installing a CAI intake on your Silverado:

Performance Gains

Silverado air intakes from CAI are specifically designed and engineered to improve performance. The main purpose of any cold air intake system is to increase the amount of cool, dense air flowing into the engine, resulting in more efficient combustion and greater power output. In fact, installing this cold air intake on your Silverado can result in an increase of up to 11 horsepower (measured at the wheels) and a marked increase in fuel economy.

“When I get on it, I feel it…the engine sounds louder and has a really nice growl to it now – so I’m pretty pleased with that.“

ZachAtak Customs

In addition to these gains, intakes from Cold Air Inductions provide a more aggressive throttle response. This means that your truck will accelerate faster and more smoothly, enhancing your overall driving experience. Installing a cold air intake can lead to a more exhilarating engine sound, giving your Silverado that unmistakable growl that many truck owners crave.

Easy Installation And Upkeep

Installing a cold air intake from CAI is a relatively simple process that most Silverado owners can complete on their own in about an hour. Detailed instructions and all necessary hardware are always included. CAI intakes also require minimal maintenance – simply recharge your intake air filter every 4,000 miles with our air filter cleaning kit. 

Cold Air Intakes From Cold Air Inductions

Why do truck guys need an upgraded intake? According to Trail Boss enthusiast ZachAtak Customs, 

“As truck guys, we love lift kits, we love oversized tires, and (in my opinion) you need more power – whether that be an aftermarket exhaust or a cold air intake – to combat the loss and sluggishness you get with lift kits and bigger tires. I like to combat that with options like a CAI intake.“

ZachAtak Customs

Installing a cold air intake from Cold Air Inductions on your Silverado offers numerous benefits. It’s a simple and cost-effective modification that can make driving your truck more enjoyable. Check out ZachAtak Customs’s install and review and contact us today if you have any questions about ordering an intake for your Chevy.

Why Does My Camaro Cold Air Intake Whistle?

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We’ve seen feedback on some of the Camaro forums about a whistle people have noticed after installing a cold air intake. As the first company to develop and market a cold air intake for the Camaro, we wanted to clear the air on this issue.

The bottom line is this: Some cars, including the Camaro, have a whistle that occurs under moderate engine load. On the Camaro, the engine’s factory intake manifold is the cause of the whistle, not the air box, filter, or air tube from the cold air intake.

But we don’t want you to just take our word for it, so we’ve provided the video below.

2016 Camaro Air Intake Whistle

This video shows the testing we did on the Camaro to find the source of the air intake whistle. We put the car on our rear-wheel dyno, and with the factory air box in place, we removed the air filter and recorded the sound. At partial throttle, 38 percent to be exact, the whistle occurred. We then removed the factory air box and re-recorded the sound. In both cases, you can hear the whistle – either with the factory air box in place or without any air box installed.

The Whistle Is Less Noticeable With A More Restrictive Intake

You may wonder why you didn’t hear the whistling before installing a cold-air intake. It was there, but because the factory air intake is more restrictive, it reduces the volume of the whistle. Additionally, the air intake for the factory air box is mounted below the air box and draws air from low in the grille. The whistle will be more noticeable if you listen to the airflow near the factory air inlet.

Our cold air intake systems remove the airflow restrictions, allowing air and sound to travel better. That means any sound from the engine is much less restricted and more noticeable.

Selecting An Air Intake From Cold Air Inductions

At Cold Air Inductions, we build the best cold air intakes in the business. We take quality very seriously and thoroughly test every aspect of our cold air intake systems to ensure the best fit, finish, and performance. That’s why we could quickly and conclusively demonstrate that the factory intake manifold causes the Camaro’s whistle, not our cold-air intake system.

Our cold-air induction systems are designed to work for your specific vehicle, optimizing airflow with minimal turbulence. We focus on delivering a quality system that gives you more power, better fuel economy, and a good performance air-intake sound when you really lean into the throttle. Since 2004 we have manufactured the highest-quality air intakes in the industry, delivering real, measurable power increases. Check out our testimonials and customer reviews to see what people say about our intakes.

If you have questions about our cold air intake for the Camaro or any of our other products, you can contact us through the info on this link.

Oiled vs. Dry Air Filters – Which Is Best?

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Choosing an air filter is a bit more complicated than finding one the right size for your vehicle. In addition to the quality of the filter, you may also have questions about which is better – oiled or dry air filters.

There’s been a lot of debate on this subject, including which type of filter performs better based on filtration, airflow, longevity, and overall performance. Advocates can make a case for each type of filter, listing specific pros and cons, but when it comes down to it, the filter type our engineers recommend and trust at Cold Air Inductions is the oiled filter.

The Benefits Of An Oiled Filter

intake filters

Constructed from high-flow cotton, oiled air filters are treated with oil to trap contaminants. High-quality brands use oiled filters for products like cold air intakes because they aren’t as restrictive as paper filters, which rely on the thickness of the media to block impurities.

Oiled air filters can be cleaned and reused, while dry paper filters must be discarded after each use. So while buying an oiled filter is more expensive than a paper filter, you can save money in the long run by using one. Check out the video below for more info on the filter cleaning process:

When you’re ready to clean your filter, you can find our Recharge Kits here.

Air Intake Filters From Cold Air Inductions

All performance air filters are not the same. Many of them can rob your vehicle of some of its performance. That’s why Cold Air Inductions engineers every air filter to work for each of our specific cold-air intake systems. Simply put, they are designed for optimum airflow with minimal turbulence.

All of Cold Air Inductions performance air filters:

  • Are pre-oiled lifetime filters that are ready to install and use over and over
  • Feature interwoven cotton layers with a pleat count designed to maximize airflow and minimize turbulence
  • Feature a unique velocity-stack radius to minimize turbulence as air flows from the filter into the air tube of the air-intake system
  • Have an engineered stop on the base to ensure proper installation and allow more accurate readings from the MAF
  • Come with stainless steel clamps for a secure fit and a great look

Since 2004 Cold Air Inductions has manufactured the highest-quality air intakes in the industry, delivering real power and great quality. Check out our testimonials and customer reviews to see what people say about our products.

Contact us if you have questions or want to know more about our products.

Cold Air Inductions Inc. Featured By MotorTrend And GM High Tech Magazine

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One of the keys to boosting horsepower and torque in any engine is to improve how it breathes. The easiest way to do that is with a cold air intake which eliminates airflow restrictions and keeps the air inlet charge cool. However, most cold air intakes are plastic and absorb heat, limiting or eliminating any performance gain.

Our cold air induction systems are made from aluminum to be durable yet lightweight. And, they are thermal coated to limit heat transfer from the hot under-hood environment. The quality and performance speak for themselves, which is why MotorTrend used one in its fifth-gen Camaro upgrade project.

MotorTrend’s 5th Generation Camaro Upgrade

camaro cold air intake

Image Credit: MotorTrend

MotorTrend’s fifth-gen Camaro upgrade project aimed to improve the performance of a Chevy L99 motor. Stock, the motor made 345 rear-wheel horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. Adding a Cold Air Induction intake and performing an ECS tune increased output by 18 to 363 rear-wheel horsepower.

Next, the Camaro received an upgraded camshaft and a complete American Racing Headers exhaust setup. The camshaft and exhaust upgrade complimented the improved breathing of the Cold Air Induction intake, providing better all-around performance. Once everything was installed, the dyno run revealed a jaw-dropping increase of 98 horsepower from stock, for a total of 443 rear-wheel horsepower.

While the camshaft and exhaust upgrades would have added some additional power, they would not have been as effective without a high-quality cold air intake. We were honored MotorTrend chose our Cold Air Induction intake system for its Camaro project and were pleased to see the results.

Chevy Camaro Air Intakes From Cold Air Inductions 

All cold air intake systems are not the same. Many are made of cheap plastic or use restrictive air filters that can rob your vehicle of some of its performance. That’s why we engineer every cold-air intake as a complete system, from the aluminum housing to the air filter. Our cold-air induction systems are designed to work for your specific vehicle, optimizing airflow with minimal turbulence.

Since 2004 Cold Air Inductions has manufactured the highest-quality air intakes in the industry, delivering real, measurable power increases. Check out our testimonials and customer reviews to see what people say about our intakes.

Click this link to contact us if you have questions or want to know more about our products – and shop here for your new Camaro intake today.

Worried About Voiding Your Factory Warranty? Read This.

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Will Using a Cold Air Inductions, Inc. Replacement Air Filter or Intake System Void My Factory Warranty?

No. In the United States, for the manufacturer of a warranted product (in this case, a vehicle) to void or deny warranty coverage of a repair due to the use of an aftermarket part (a Cold Air Inductions, Inc. air filter or intake system), the manufacturer must provide proof (evidence) that the aftermarket part is the cause of the necessary repair. These rights are protected under the Consumer Products Warranty Act of 1975 (also referred to as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act).

A warranty is a guarantee or promise made by a manufacturer, and is included with their product at no charge when it is sold as new. “Extended Warranties” are not warranties at all, since consumers must pay money to receive their benefits. The proper name for an Extended Warranty is a Service Contract. These contracts may contain exclusions or clauses conditioning their coverages, and these may limit the consumer from using certain products (like aftermarket air filters or performance intakes) on their vehicle. Service contracts are not regulated by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, and once a consumer signs an agreement, they are bound to the terms of that contract. In the event of a vehicle repair, the presence of an aftermarket part (even if it is unrelated to the repair) could void the contract and force the consumer to pay for the repair themselves.

2017 Camaro SS Gets The Best Air Intake On The Market

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2017 Camaro SS Cold Air Intake Performance For Hammerdown Motorsports

DiabloFormulaRacing installs a 2017 Camaro SS Cold Air Inductions cold air intake system. He gives part by part feedback based on his experience with other systems on the market. Also, he gives a thorough overview on what the installed quality is for the new 2017 systems.

Diablo Formula Racing is at it on a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS. Coming from the dealer with some power, he looks for a good way to add more to Hammerdown’s white double S Camaro.  Nothing is better than more rear wheel horsepower. DFR breaks down the system from the box showing each component. He replaces the spacer in the front of the intake manifold but aside from that, just uses the parts from the box for a seemingly instant performance upgrade. Having done a few Camaros with Cold Air Induction cold air intake systems, he throws the instructions right out of the box. The car already had headers and some other upgrades. During the latter part of the video, you can hear the air going into the engine. This is a 6th gen Camaro that will be higher horsepower and with more top end torque. The video doesn’t show the side by side before and after the cold air intake install but with the extra modifications, Hammerdown will most likely be dyno testing only after some more upgrades and other projects on a well tuned 6th generation Camaro like he has. DFR estimated Hammerdown is around 440hp at the wheels with the cold air intake and the other modifications.