As experts in aftermarket air intake systems, we often get asked why someone would want to modify their air intake system.  The short answer is better performance, better looks and sound and sometimes better fuel efficiency.  Want more detail? 

Your Air Intake System
Your engine runs on a combination of fuel and air.  The air intake is the system that delivers the air to your engine.  An air intake system is made up of an air filter, air filter housing, and tubing connecting the air filter housing to the engine.  The best air intake system will have the least amount of restrictions deliver cold air to the engine and protect the engine from dirt and debris. 

Since air is one of two parts that make an engine’s power, you would think that automotive manufacturers would optimize the air intake system for performance and fuel efficiency.  While performance and fuel efficiency are important to automotive manufacturers, they must also look at cost and sound when designing the air intake system. 

Automotive manufactures can save money by installing an air filter that is adequate to meet the minimum requirements but not optimal for filtration or performance.  They can also save money by re-using air intake tracts and air filter housing.  You will often see an air intake system originally designed for a six cylinder placed on an eight cylinder engine.  This cost cutting measure can reduce performance and fuel efficiency. 

Many modern day stock air intake systems contain large mufflers and resonating chambers.   They are designed to keep your engine quiet.  They are also a restriction on air flow.  We have seen up to twenty horsepower gains and two mile per hour increases by eliminating these mufflers and resonators.