Customizing your car's air induction system can offer a significant increase in horsepower. Modified intakes offer increased airflow over the stock system. They allow the engine to breathe colder, denser air. The result is increased horsepower, improved fuel economy and overall engine performance. To avoid the high price and sometimes complicated installation of aftermarket cold air induction kits, you can modify the stock air box on any vehicle and see many of the same performance benefits of an aftermarket intake.
Replace your vehicle's stock air box filter with a higher-flowing, aftermarket unit. Installation requires removing the air box lid, generally held in place by hand-removable clamps or screws. Remove all fasteners and the lid will lift free, allowing access to the air filter. Take out the stock filter and insert your aftermarket replacement. Reinstall the air box lid.
Purchase flex pipe ducting to piece together a custom cold-air duct. Flex pipe for use in air intakes is offered by numerous aftermarket manufacturers in various diameters. A 3- inch inner diameter is desirable for high airflow.
Fit the custom flex piping to your vehicle. This process will vary depending on make and model. You want the flex pipe's end to be in the path of oncoming air, for example, in the bumper's radiator opening.
Route the other end of the flex pipe to your air induction's inlet. Again, procedure will vary depending on make and model. A direct route to the air box will be possible on some vehicles, while others will require routing around other engine components. If the radiator area of your vehicle is too cluttered for a clean installation of the flex pipe ducting, consider installing it in your vehicle's fender well area.
Cut the end of the flex pipe so that it rests approximately 2- inches from the intake box's inlet. This will allow the ducting to supply the stock intake with ample, cold air from outside the engine bay area.
Secure your custom cold air ducting with zip ties. This will require large, high-strength ties to fit around the diameter of the flex pipe and keep it tightly secured during operation. Ensure that the entire length of the flex pipe is held tightly in place by zip tying to sturdy locations on your vehicle. Viable options include the front bumper grill, radiator stays, and stock intake mounting locations.
