Performance air-intake systems are one of the few engine upgrades that remain simple, affordable, and easy to install. Aftermarket intakes are designed to increase air volume over the more restrictive stock air-intake system. Using a larger and more open filter accompanied with new intake ducting, the goal is to increase airflow to the engine, thus creating greater efficiency and performance. While superchargers and turbo kits are both excellent ways to increase air density and power, they are also not cheap.
Luckily you don't have to break the bank to buy a performance air intake. If you look at the potential fuel savings and power gains, it's generally a very worthwhile investment. We're not saying that your 4x will be beating Vipers off the line and passing hybrids at the pump, but it should net noticeable improvements over stock.
Looking to squeeze a few extra ponies from our '99 Dodge Durango equipped with the 5.9L V-8, we picked up a K&N air-intake kit and headed to the backyard to perform the install. Using a few basic handtools, the total install took right around an hour and was about as easy as they come. To see what K&N has in store for your ride, check out the website www.knfilters.com.
1. Factory intakes are often...
1. Factory intakes are often more restrictive and can rob your engine of potential horsepower. Seeking a little more performance out of our '99 Dodge Durango equipped with the 5.9L V-8, we popped off the factory unit in just a few minutes and prepped the Dodge for our new K&N air-intake kit.
2. Many of the factory intakes...
2. Many of the factory intakes pull air from behind the headlight and through an opening in the inner fender. We peeled out the factory drop-in style filter and inspected the airbox and intake ducting for any debris. While getting your new intake ready, be sure to keep the truck's throttle body protected from any trash or dirt sneaking in.
3. With the factory air-filter...
3. With the factory air-filter box removed, use the provided hardware to secure the new intake shield. The new unit protects the filter from the heat of the engine and provides a larger area for the new filter to draw air.
4. The intake tube comes with...
4. The intake tube comes with a new gasket and attachment hardware, as well as a place to reconnect your oil breather. Securing the new air ducting is a brace and clamp that keeps the tube inline with the new intake shield and helps hold everything in place.
5. The heart of the intake...
5. The heart of the intake system is the massive K&N filter. Comprised of specialized fibers and fitted with a light coat of filter oil, the heavy-duty filter is engineered to let a high volume of air pass through while still keeping the trash and dirt out. For those of you who experience dirt and dusty roads every day, the filter is easily washed.
6. The K&N intake kit for...
6. The K&N intake kit for our Mopar is about as installer-friendly as they come, complete with detailed instructions and requiring the most basic of handtools. Our 5.9L was breathing a little easier after about an hour's worth of work.
Drop In
Not ready for the full intake kit? Try using a K&N drop-in air filter. Designed to slide into your factory airbox, it's an easy way to grab a little power and efficiency, and it's reusable as well.