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Back To Back Test: CAI Intake On A 2016 Camaro SS

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Performance cars are built with high quality parts, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t room for improvement. The sixth generation Chevy Camaro SS is already an impressive performer. It comes stock with a 455hp 6.2-liter V8 that can launch it from 0-60mph in just 4.5-seconds.

It can also cover the quarter mile in just over 12-seconds. That’s quick even for modified V8s. Bad Bowtie Productions decided to take their 2016 Camaro SS to the dragstrip to find out what it would do stock. Then they installed a CAI Cold Air Intake to see whether it made a difference. Read on to find out.

Stock Runs

First off, they did three stock passes to get a baseline:

  1. ET 12.03@116mph
  2. ET 12.01@117mph
  3. ET 11.99@117mph

The baseline average works out to an elapsed time of [email protected]. Those are pretty healthy numbers for a bone stock Camaro SS. Clearly the track surface and car were as good as it was going to get. The car was left to cool down for an hour, during which the CAI Cold Air Intake was installed. The entire process took just 15 minutes with basic tools.

It was then driven straight to the drag strip without waiting for the ECU to recalibrate to the additional airflow.

CAI Intake Runs

The Bad Bowtie Productions crew then did three passes with the new CAI kit installed and reached an average elapsed time of [email protected]:

  1. ET 11.91@117mph
  2. ET 11.94@117mph
  3. ET 11.93@117mph

Every run was quicker than the fastest stock time, and while the overall improvement was just under 0.1-seconds, that should equate to a 10-15hp increase on a car like the Camaro SS. Not bad for a 15-minute upgrade that also enhances the intake sound in the process.

The Cold Air Inductions Difference

There are plenty of cold air induction kits on the market. What makes CAI stand out is the attention to detail and quality of every product we sell. Every kit is supplied with everything you need for a hassle-free installation. We use OEM-quality fittings and keep all original sensors.

  • Inspection window to check reusable air filters
  • Powder-coated aluminum parts to reduce intake temps and enhance performance
  • Air boxes designed to maximize cold airflow and OEM sensors are reused
  • OEM-spec fasteners and connectors
  • Superior intake sound to OEM intake
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Real-world testing for real-world performance

Order Your CAI Intake Kit Today

Upgrading to a CAI Cold Air Intake is quick and easy thanks to our custom designed products and simple installation procedure. Our intakes are designed to last, and the reusable air filter element will save you money, too.  Our popular 6th Gen Camaro intakes include:

Whether you choose the Elite Carbon Series  intake systems like Bad Bowtie Productions did for their Camaro SS, or the Elite Series intakes, CAI products are the perfect upgrade for any OEM setup.

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.

Five Simple Chevy Camaro Aftermarket Upgrades

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If you’re a proud owner of a Chevy Camaro and looking to enhance its performance and style, upgrading certain components can make a significant difference. From boosting horsepower to improving aesthetics, these upgrades can transform your Camaro into something unique.

Among the various options available, a cold air intake from Cold Air Induction (CAI) stands out as the top choice, but other things may also improve your Camaro, including suspension upgrades, new wheels/tires, body kits and window tint. Let’s delve into the benefits of each upgrade.

1. Suspension Upgrades: A Better Handling Ride

Image Credit: LSXMag

Upgrading the suspension of your Chevy Camaro is a surefire way to enhance both handling and ride quality. Performance-oriented suspension components like upgraded shocks, struts, springs, and sway bars can minimize body roll, improve cornering ability, and provide a more responsive and comfortable ride. By investing in a quality suspension upgrade, you’ll experience improved stability and control during aggressive driving, making your Camaro a joy to maneuver on the road or track.

2. Wheels and Tires: Amping Up Style And Performance

Swapping out the factory wheels and tires for high-performance counterparts can not only elevate the aesthetics of your Camaro but also enhance its grip and handling. Performance wheels made from lightweight materials reduce unsprung weight, leading to better acceleration, braking, and cornering capabilities. Pairing these wheels with high-performance tires engineered for improved traction and grip completes the package, allowing you to fully exploit your Camaro’s power and performance potential.

3. Performance Intakes: Boosting HP And Sound

One of the most gratifying upgrades for any Camaro owner is a cold air intake system. A high-quality intake kit optimizes air flow, allowing the engine to breathe more freely. This results in increased horsepower and torque, accompanied by a more pronounced engine sound (especially when you step on it) that exudes power and performance. Besides the performance gains, a well-designed intake kit can turn heads and give your Camaro engine bay an stand-out look. You can check out Cold Air Inductions high-quality intake intake kits for Camaros here.

4. Window Tint: Enhancing Aesthetics And Comfort

While not directly related to performance, window tinting is an upgrade that adds to the overall appeal and comfort of your Chevy Camaro. Tinted windows provide several benefits, including blocking harmful UV rays, reducing glare, and enhancing privacy. Additionally, window tinting helps regulate the interior temperature by minimizing heat buildup, ensuring a more comfortable driving experience, especially during hot summer months.

5. Body Kits: A Sleek And Unique Look

Body kits are meticulously designed to reduce air resistance, allowing the car to achieve better speed and fuel efficiency. They also help in channeling airflow in a manner that can keep the vehicle more grounded, providing enhanced stability at high speeds. Adding components such as front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and sometimes even a spoiler, provide a more aggressive and sporty look to the Camaro, making it stand out on the road. Besides the functional benefits, a body kit can significantly increase the resale value of the car, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a customized appearance.

Camaro Cold Air Intake Kits From Cold Air Inductions

Cold Air Induction systems are designed to provide noticeable performance improvements for the Chevy Camaro and come with a lifetime warranty. Our cold air intakes replace the stock intake with a more efficient design, drawing cooler air into the engine and increasing both horsepower and torque. By optimizing airflow, a CAI system helps your Camaro breathe easier and perform at its peak, improving throttle response and overall engine efficiency.

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

The First Performance Mod You Should Do On Your Truck

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Cold air intakes are an inexpensive way to increase your truck’s performance, providing better towing and gas mileage while improving its sound. The key is finding a high-quality system that cools and improves airflow.

That’s why GuitarmageddonZL1 chose an intake system from Cold Air Inductions and says it should be the first performance mod on your truck. We’ll cover the highlights of their video in this post and explain what makes our cold air intakes stand out from the competition.

Cold Air Inductions Chevy Silverado Intake Install

GuitarmageddonZL1 installed a Cold Air Inductions cold air intake on his new Chevrolet Silverado, which was the first performance modification he did on the truck. In the video, he comments on the simplicity of the installation and the noticeable sound differences.

“The cool thing about this intake is it does not require a tune so it’s literally just bolt-on-and-go.”

– GuitarmageddonZL1

Our cold air intake not only changes the throaty sound of the V8 but helps the engine make more power. Each intake system is built for a specific vehicle, allowing it to provide the ideal amount of airflow for the engine. This allows more efficient combustion in the engine, leading to improvements in horsepower and fuel economy. Even though most V8 trucks already provide great power to the wheels, the extra performance comes in handy when pulling a trailer or hauling a heavy load.

Cold Air Induction’s Performance Is In The Details

There are many great-looking air intakes on the market, but nothing matches the performance and engineering of our intake systems. That’s because each kit is designed and tested to fit a specific vehicle and provides a tight fit to keep the engine compartment’s hot air out of the intake.

“They measure with a scaled 3D measurement, so it fits perfectly – it’s a tight fit because of that and takes some finesse – but once you get it in, it’s awesome. A perfect fit.”

– GuitarmageddonZL1

Additionally, each system comes with the following:

  • OEM-spec tubing, fasteners, and connectors for the crankcase breather tube
  • High-quality, reusable eight-layer cotton fiber air filter
  • Plexiglass inspection window
  • Powder-coated aluminum components to reduce intake temps
  • Perfectly insulated air boxes to maximize cold airflow

In most cases, it only takes a few tools and 15-20 minutes to install one of our cold air intakes. However, you’ll immediately notice the improved power, throatier sound, and increased fuel economy.

Why Choose A Cold Air Inductions Intake?

Chevy trailblazer intake

Cold Air Inductions are designed and engineered for specific vehicles to deliver noticeable improvements over stock performance. Every one of our kits is tested to verify performance gains and comes with a lifetime warranty.

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

Will Upgrading My Cold Air Intake Improve Sound?

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Upgrading your stock air intake comes with several benefits. And, yes, an improved intake sound is one of them. In this blog we will examine why this happens and how it affects your vehicle.

What Does A Cold Air Intake Do?

  • Increases power
  • Improves fuel economy
  • Enhances intake sound

A properly designed cold air intake does exactly what it says on the box. It allows cold air to be sucked into the engine.

Cold air is dense, which means more oxygen for your engine. The end result is more power and better fuel economy. And, of course, a deeper, more aggressive intake sound.

How Does The Intake Sound Change?

  • Deeper, sportier sound at full throttle
  • No drone or noise when cruising

The less restrictive design of our cold air intake systems allows more air to be sucked into the engine. This results in a more pronounced intake sound, adding a sporty edge to your vehicle.

Unlike most aftermarket intakes, there is little to no difference in the sound at part throttle or when cruising.  Our customers love the way the intake sound transforms their vehicles.

“Looks and sounds great! Very easy to install.”

– John B. (After installing a CAI kit in his Chevy Camaro)

The Limitations Of Stock Intakes

Stock intake systems are designed and engineered to meet 3 very manufacturing guidelines. They must:

  • Meet prevailing regulations
  • Be cost-effective to make
  • Be easy to install

An auto manufacturer must design an air intake that is cost-effective and easy to install on an assembly line. It must also meet regulations in the markets where it will be sold.

The end result is a stock intake that is severely restricted. Most are made of non-insulated plastic and have restrictive designs that suck in hot air and have little to no intake sound.

Why You Should Upgrade To A CAI Cold Air Intake

Chevy trailblazer intake

At Cold Air Inductions, we develop cold air intakes that work with specific vehicles. Our designs are not restricted by the traditional manufacturing guidelines outlined above. We also test our systems in real-world conditions to deliver results you can feel and hear, mainly:

  • Enhanced performance
  • Improved economy
  • More pronounced intake sound over OEM system
  • Easy to check reusable air filter with handy inspection window
  • OEM quality and look
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Real-world testing for real-world performance

Upgrading to a CAI Cold Air Intake is quick and easy, thanks to our custom-designed products and simple installation procedure. Our intakes are built to last, and the reusable air filter element will save you money over a stock system.

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed air box intake systems since 2004. We offer a lifetime warranty. Check out our range of high-quality intakes here. Then, contact our team to order a Cold Air Inductions kit for your ride that sounds as good as it performs.

Hammerdown Motorsports Installs CAI Intake On A GMC Yukon Denali

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There’s nothing like a CAI cold air intake to boost performance and unleash your ride’s intake sound. But don’t take our word for it. Rather, take a look at what Steve from Hammerdown Motorsports thinks when he installs our intake in his 2017 GMC Yukon Denali.

“This is a must-have for any vehicle.”

Steve, Hammerdown Motorsports

In this post, we cover his video review of our CAI cold air intake install. After all, the proof of a good product is how it performs in real-life situations. Watch the Hammerdown Motorsports video below.

The Yukon Denali CAI Kit

Aside from a Corsa Sport exhaust system, Steve’s 2017 GMC Yukon Denali was just as the factory intended. But it didn’t stay that way for long, as the CAI kit was the next upgrade for his vehicle. This CAI intake system kit includes:

  • Insulated Aluminum Air Box
  • Air Box Lid with Clear Inspection Window
  • Thermal-Coated Intake Tube
  • High-Performance Air Filter
  • Black Silicone Coupler / Stainless Clamps
  • Installation Instructions

After he unboxed the kit, it was time to remove the factory intake system.

Factory Intake Removal

Getting the original intake system off didn’t take long and only required a flathead screwdriver and a ratchet set:

  • First off, Steve unplugged the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF), removed some clamps, and disconnected a couple of hoses.
  • Then, the factory airbox was removed with an 8mm ratchet.
  • The lower section of the airbox was secured with rubber grommets, so it just required a good pull to get free.
  • Then, the brace over the coolant reservoir was unbolted (13mm ratchet) in preparation for the CAI kit 

Installing The CAI Intake

  • Once the old system had been removed, it was time for the CAI kit to be fitted.
  • The new fully insulated airbox went in first. It is designed to fit perfectly into the original airbox cavity, so no drilling or cutting is required.
  • Next up was the black silicone coupler, already fitted with the required stainless steel clamps. All the existing hoses fit straight on.
  • The thermal coated intake tube was then connected between the airbox and coupler. Steve also fitted the air filter before tightening it all up to ensure it all fit perfectly.
  • The final step was to refit the factory MAF sensor, fit the air filter cover, refit the brace, and tighten all the clamps.

First Impressions

With everything fitted, it was time to start it up. Steve immediately noticed how the intake noise sounded stock when cruising but emitted a deep growl under hard acceleration. The subtle vibration through the gas pedal gave it a whole new feel, too.

“That is a night and day difference.”

Steve, Hammerdown Motorsports

Steve loved how much better it sounded and commented that it wasn’t just great on his 6.2-liter Yukon but was a definite must-have for any vehicle. This kit is designed to fit several different vehicles including:

Upgrade Your Vehicle With A CAI Cold Air Intake Kit

“I can’t imagine driving the Yukon without it at this point – it’s so much fun.”

Steve, Hammerdown Motorsports

At Cold Air Inductions, we do real power testing and deliver real power gains. Every kit is built to the highest quality with OEM-quality fittings, and all original sensors are retained. We believe in our products, so we offer a lifetime warranty.

Our intake kits are designed and engineered for specific vehicles. This is why we deliver noticeable improvements over stock.  So, contact us today and experience the benefits of a CAI cold air intake kit.

The 5 Easiest Chevy Silverado Aftermarket Upgrades

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The Chevy Silverado is a great truck. It’s reliable, tough, and comes with plenty of options. But there are some great upgrades that you can’t get from the factory. In this blog, we look into the five easiest upgrades you can make to your Silverado.

1. Exhaust Systems

Image Credit: SilveradoSierra

Whether you have a 5.3 or 6.2-liter V8 under the hood, there’s one thing your Silverado will be missing. And that’s a free-flowing exhaust system to unleash the sound of your motor. There are plenty of reputable exhaust specialists out there that offer bespoke systems for the Silverado and offer:

  • Better exhaust sound
  • More power
  • Improved fuel economy

Make sure to get a cat-back system rather than just a replacement rear muffler. That way, you get more power and better fuel economy, too.

Keep In Mind: Some exhausts can drone at cruising speeds, so try to drive to a vehicle equipped with the system you want first.

2. ECU Remaps

Image Credit: LSXMag

The ECU in a modern car controls everything from ignition to timing and fuel delivery. Manufacturers use generic ECU settings that can often be reprogrammed to deliver:

  • Better performance
  • Smoother power delivery
  • Better gas mileage

An ECU remap on its own may not deliver a major performance boost. But it is certainly worthwhile if you have done other mods to your truck, too.

Keep In Mind: You could invalidate your factory warranty with certain ECU remaps.

3. Suspension Upgrades

Image Credit: SilveradoSierra

If you enjoy heading off-road, then upgrading the suspension with components like leveling kits or lift kits can enhance your truck’s capabilities and give you:

  • Better off-road ability
  • Enhanced protection for the underside of the truck

Installing more capable shock absorbers and taller springs will give you an edge on tough trails.

Keep In Mind: An overly stiff suspension can make for a hard ride on the road.

4. Wheels And Tires

Image Credit: DuramaxForum

A tire upgrade is often done in conjunction with suspension improvements and can:

  • Enhance the look of your truck
  • Provide more ground clearance

Larger tires will improve ground clearance. And you can choose between on and off-road tread types to enhance grip levels. Upgraded alloy wheels can also give your truck a unique look.

Keep In Mind: Very low-profile tires look cool but can make the ride hard.

5. Cold Air Intakes

One of the best and easiest upgrades you can do is to install a cold air intake. Unlike the other options here, it can be done in your driveway. Cold Air Inductions intake kits are designed to work specifically with your vehicle and will give you:

  • Better intake sound
  • Improved performance
  • Better fuel economy

This results in real power gains that you can feel. And the enhanced intake sound is just icing on the cake. The increased airflow into the engine allows it to perform more efficiently. So your fuel economy will improve, too.

Keep In Mind: Only a high-quality aftermarket sealed airbox intake system will deliver these results.

Upgrade Your Vehicle With A CAI Cold Air Intake Kit

While we can’t comment on aftermarket exhausts, ECUs, or suspension kits, our cold-air induction kits are built to deliver. At Cold Air Inductions, we do real power testing and deliver real power gains. Every kit is made from the highest quality materials and crafted right here in the USA.

We don’t change OEM sensors or connections. And we believe in our products, so we offer a lifetime warranty. Our intake kits are designed and engineered to work with specific Silverado models. This is why we deliver noticeable improvements over stock. Contact us today and experience the benefits of a CAI cold air intake kit.

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.

CAI vs. K&N Cold Air Intakes – Which Is Better?

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Our cold air intake kits offer enhanced performance, improved fuel economy, and a great sound. Our customers tend to agree:

“Why manufacturers don’t install this [intake] from the get-go is beyond me.” – Lonestar Hawaiian Garage

Lonestar Hawaiian Garage installed a CAI kit on their 2020 Chevy Silverado Trail Boss and was so impressed they decided to do the same to their 2007 Silverado, too.

Check out their video of the install and test drive. And read on to find out more about why our CAI cold air intakes are ahead of the competition.

The 2020 Silverado Cold Air Inductions Kit

Lonestar Hawaiian installed one of our CAI kits on their 2020 Silverado Trail Boss and loved the results. Aside from the impressive quality and fit and finish, the truck was also more efficient. Delivering 21mpg compared to 19.5mpg with the stock system.

Stock induction kits are made from ABS plastic. The main aim is to deaden the intake sound, which also restricts airflow. Plastic also can’t shield the intake tract from heat in the engine bay. All good reasons to eliminate the stock system as soon as possible.

Seeing the improvements on the 2020 truck, they decided it was time to get a kit for their 2007 Silverado as well. This vehicle was already fitted with a K&N system, but it was time for an upgrade. So out it came.

K&N Vs. Cold Air Inductions Kit

K&N intake

Comparing the two systems, it was clear that the CAI kit was better built, and more attention had been paid to the materials used and heat insulation. Notable benefits of Cold Air Inductions Kit vs K&N include:

  • Thermal-coated intake tube and air box
  • Plexiglass viewing port
  • Better quality components
  • Way larger air filter – better filtration and air volume

The K&N system had worked well over the years, but fuel economy was actually a bit worse compared to the stock system. Once the two kits were laid out on the table, the biggest differences were in the air box, intake tube, and filament filter.

“Build quality of the Cold Air Inductions intake is super strong and super sturdy.”  – Lonestar Hawaiian Garage

Lonestar Hawaiian used his “finger science” method to compare the two intake boxes. Not exactly scientific, but the differences in quality were obvious.

  • The CAI box is clearly better insulated with thicker material. And it has a fitted, stitched-on, pre-molded edge for precise fitment. The K&N system has a simple weather strip-like rubber seal, thinner metal, and no insulation at all.  
  • K&N uses a plastic intake tube for its design. The CAI system uses a thermal-coated metal intake tube. That means lower intake temperatures and more power.
  • And finally, the most obvious difference was CAI’s HUGE filament filter. This allows more air to be sucked into the engine and enhances the intake sound.

The installation itself took a little longer than intended. Mostly due to a bracket he wanted to retain for a future project. But the results were well worth it. And like all our systems, no changes were made to the harnesses, and OEM sensors were retained.

Immediate Driving Impressions

The results from the CAI intake install were immediate – most notably:

  • Better intake sound
  • Much lower intake temps

Out on the road, the first noticeable difference was the enhanced intake sound. That’s because the freer-flowing CAI system allows more air to be sucked into the engine. The superior design also showed up in the temperature difference under the hood. He recorded between 121 and 180 degrees in the engine bay, yet the intake box was at a far lower 93 degrees.

That is thanks to our state-of-the-art testing equipment, CAD engineering, and airflow analysis that each CAI kit goes through. While he didn’t get to compare fuel economy figures, judging by the performance of the CAI kit in the 2020 Silverado, it should also show an improvement

Time To Give Your Truck The CAI Upgrade

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 fit a specific vehicle. We use real-world dyno testing procedures to deliver real-world benefits. Check out some of the kits available for Chevy Silverados and Sierras here.

Get in touch with our team to order your CAI cold air induction kit today.

Do Cold Air Intakes Really Work? Before And After Dyno Test

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Performance claims are one thing. Backing those claims up is quite another. At CAI, we believe in real power testing. And only ever make real power claims.

But real-world testing by our customers is the only way to back up these claims. In this blog, we cover the installation of one of our cold air intakes into a brand new Z71 Chevy Silverado by Street Speed 717.

Check out the video below.

The Plan: More Power

Almost as soon as they had bought it, Street Speed 717 decided to treat their brand-new Chevy Silverado truck to one of our cold air intake kits. With just 433 miles on the clock, they headed out to DiabloFormula Racing to do some pre-install dyno runs.

Standard Spec Dyno Runs

The 2017 Chevy Silverado was bone stock with no modifications and still factory-fresh when it was strapped to the dyno. Factory figures of 355hp and 385lb-ft of torque are claimed. As with all manufacturers, those are measured at the crank, so a dyno run will always show lower numbers.

That said, the 5.3-liter V8 produced consistent figures over three runs with a best of 297hp and 334lb-ft at the wheels. Impressive results, but they were keen to see just what kind of improvements our CAI cold air intake could make. To restate, the original “before” test setup was:

  • Three consistent runs
  • Truck was totally unmodified
  • Best result of 297hp and 334lb-ft at the wheels

The Install

cai intake

Within minutes, Andy from DiabloFormula Racing had removed the stock intake. Our kits provide everything you need to fit the intake straight out of the box. Every sealed intake kit we sell has the following features:

  • OEM- spec fasteners and connectors
  • Original sensors are retained
  • Inspection window to check reusable air filters
  • Powder-coated aluminum parts to reduce intake temps
  • No tuning needed

The CAI intake was soon fitted, and the Silverado was ready for the next set of dyno runs.

Cold Air Intake Dyno Runs

dyno test

The benefits of installing a cold air intake include lower fuel consumption and improved intake sound. But the reason most people use our kits is for the increase in power.

“Final word is you can say that this intake will net you about 15 to 20 horsepower and same thing for torque. We are confirming REAL gains on a dyno here.”  – Mike, Streetspeed717

The first run immediately showed an improvement of 15hp and 9 lb-ft over the best figures achieved with the stock intake. After a short break, they reran the dyno, and this time they got 24hp and 17lb-ft above the stock numbers.

  • Three consistent runs
  • No reprogramming or modifications – just a CAI intake
  • Best result of 321hp and 351lb-ft to the wheels
  • Improvements of 7.5% in power and 5% in torque
  • Torque curve was smoother

No tuning, no modifications, and the exact same weather conditions. The added benefits of improved throttle response and a meatier intake sound are just icing on the cake. But not every cold air intake will deliver these kinds of results. It takes years of development and testing, which CAI does on all their cold air intakes.

Get The Best Cold Air Intake In The Market For Your Truck

Truck intake dyno

“Honestly was expecting 10 to 15 – at the wheel especially – we got 20 [at the wheel] and 25 torque. Especially [impressive for] a truck because unlike a car it’s running through a transfer case which cuts down on the power and it has a much longer drive shaft, bigger wheels, bigger tires, and a bigger differential. So, to make that much horsepower in a truck – compared to like a Camaro SS – is amazing.”  – Andy, DiabloFormula Racing

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed air box intake systems since 2004. We offer a lifetime warranty. And we use real-world dyno testing procedures to deliver real-world benefits. Check out our range of high-quality intakes here. Then contact our team to order the cold air induction kit that delivers on its promises.

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. Although they are generally more expensive than their plastic counterparts, the enhanced performance, durability, and longevity of the product more than justify the additional 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

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:

  • Clear inspection window to easily check air filter status
  • 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.