12 Facts About Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews To Make You Think About The Other People

12 Facts About Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews To Make You Think About The Other People

Boosting the Beast: Comprehensive Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews

The Dodge Ram, now known just as RAM, has actually long been a titan worldwide of pickup. Whether it is the legendary 5.7 L HEMI V8 or the powerhouse Cummins Turbo Diesel, these trucks are developed for efficiency, towing, and sturdiness. However, even a maker as finely tuned as a Ram can take advantage of aftermarket improvements.  Dodge Ram 1500 Mods  of the most popular, cost-efficient, and impactful modifications an owner can make is the installation of a Cold Air Intake (CAI) system.

By replacing the restrictive factory air box with a high-flow system, drivers can open concealed horsepower, enhance throttle reaction, and even improve the engine's acoustic profile. This article offers a thorough evaluation of the leading cold air intake systems readily available for the Dodge Ram, analyzing their features, benefits, and efficiency metrics.


The Science Behind Cold Air Intakes

Before diving into particular product evaluations, it is essential to understand why a cold air intake is helpful. The main goal of a CAI is to move the air filter beyond the engine compartment or isolate it from heat, permitting the engine to breathe cooler, denser air.

Oxygen density is important for combustion. Warmer air is less dense, including less oxygen particles per cubic inch. Cooler air contains more oxygen, which, when blended with fuel, creates a more powerful explosion within the cylinders. This leads to:

  • Increased Horsepower: More oxygen results in more power production.
  • Enhanced Torque: Crucial for pulling and off-road maneuvers.
  • Better Fuel Economy: An engine that breathes simpler operates more efficiently.
  • Enhanced Sound: Most CAIs replace baffled factory tubes with smooth, open pipes that let the "growl" of the engine be heard.

Leading Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews

1. S&B Filters Cold Air Intake

S&B has actually built a track record for providing high-quality intake systems at a mid-range rate point. Their sets for the RAM 1500 and 2500 are particularly popular due to their precision engineering and aesthetic appeal.

  • Design: S&B utilizes top-quality silicone for their filters, couplers, and seals. This material transcends to rubber as it resists breaking and can stand up to temperature levels up to 400 ° F.
  • Performance: The signature clear window on the air box permits simple assessment of the filter. Users report an obvious enhancement in mid-range torque, making it an excellent option for those who regularly tow trailers or haul heavy loads.
  • Filtering Options: S&B offers both "Cotton Cleanable" (oiled) and "Dry Extendable" filters, giving the owner the option in between optimum airflow and simple upkeep.

2. K&N 63 Series AirCharger

K&N is maybe the most identifiable name in the purification industry. The 63 Series is designed specifically to decrease intake limitation and smooth out air flow.

  • Design: Unlike enclosed systems, the AirCharger often utilizes a heat shield rather than a full box. This enables huge air flow but can be a little more susceptible to engine bay heat soak during stationary idling.
  • Power Gains: K&N is transparent with its dynamometer results, typically revealing gains of 10 to 15 horse power on a stock 5.7 L HEMI.
  • Toughness: Their filters are well-known for being "Million Mile Filters," needing cleaning just every 100,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions.

3. aFe Power Momentum GT

For the Ram owner who wants the pinnacle of engineering, the aFe Power Momentum GT stands apart. This system is created with a special one-piece real estate that includes an integrated "sight window."

  • Style: The kit includes a huge 1,000 cfm (cubic feet per minute) air filter. The CAD-designed, roto-molded intake tube is formed to achieve optimal power gains while keeping a best fit.
  • Performance: It is known for having an extremely aggressive noise profile. When the throttle is pinned, the Momentum GT offers a deep, throaty holler that HEMI owners discover addicting.
  • Effectiveness: The sealed real estate ensures that just the coolest air from the front grill or fender well reaches the engine.

4. Mopar Performance Cold Air Intake

For those who prefer to "keep it in the household," the Mopar CAI is the factory-backed efficiency upgrade.

  • Style: This system often includes an open-top heat guard with a signature blue dry-media filter. Because it is a main Mopar part, the fit and finish correspond factory standards.
  • Guarantee Compatibility: One of the biggest draws of the Mopar system is that it is typically considered more positively by dealerships throughout guarantee claims, as it is an authentic device.
  • Visual appeals: The polished aluminum or high-gloss black tubes include a premium seek to the Ram's engine bay.

Contrast Table: Top Cold Air Intakes for Dodge Ram

Brand nameDesignBest ForFilter TypeEst. HP Gain
S&B Filters75-5064Total Value/QualityOiled or Dry10 - 12 HP
K&N 63-1561MaximumAirflowOiled Cotton12 - 15 HP
aFe PowerMomentum GTHigh Performance5-Layer Oiled14 - 18 HP
Mopar77070044ADWarranty/OEM FitDry Media8 - 10 HP
Banks PowerRam-AirDiesel EnginesOiled or Dry10 - 15 HP

Key Considerations for Buyers

When picking a cold air intake for a Dodge Ram, there are a number of aspects to consider beyond simply horse power numbers:

1. Filter Type: Oiled vs. Dry

  • Oiled Filters: Use a light coat of oil to trap microscopic particles. They typically use somewhat better airflow but require a particular cleaning procedure (wash, dry, re-oil).
  • Dry Filters: Use numerous layers of artificial media. They are simpler to maintain (typically simply blow them out with compressed air or vacuum) and are frequently chosen by owners who drive in very dirty or desert conditions.

2. Housing Style

  • Closed Box: Best for heat insulation. Ideal for off-roading where mud or water splashing may occur.
  • Open Element: Best for engine noise. These systems look "cooler" to many lovers but can draw in warmer air if the heat shielding is not perfectly sealed against the hood.

In states with rigorous emissions laws, such as California, an intake needs to have a CARB (California Air Resources Board) Executive Order number to be street legal. Owners should validate that the specific kit is 50-state legal before buying.


Installation Overview

Among the factors the cold air intake is a preferred among Dodge Ram owners is the ease of setup. It is usually thought about a "bolt-on" modification that requires just basic hand tools.

Common Installation Steps:

  1. Disconnect the Battery: Safety first; disconnect the unfavorable terminal.
  2. Get Rid Of the Factory Intake: Loosen the tube clamps on the throttle body and eliminate the bolts holding the stock air box in location.
  3. Transfer the Sensor: Most Rams use an IAT (Intake Air Temperature) sensor. This should be thoroughly removed from the old tube and put into the brand-new one.
  4. Install the New Housing: Mount the new air box or heat shield using the existing factory mounting points.
  5. Connect the Intake Tube: Connect the new tube to the throttle body and the air box using offered silicone couplers.
  6. Tighten and Check: Ensure all clamps are tight and that television does not rub versus any engine components.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does a cold air intake space my Dodge Ram warranty?

Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealership can not void your whole guarantee just due to the fact that you installed an aftermarket part. Nevertheless, if the intake itself triggers a failure (such as an over-oiled filter damaging a sensing unit), that specific repair work will not be covered.

Will I require to tune my engine after installing a CAI?

The majority of modern-day Dodge Ram computers (ECUs) can getting used to the increased airflow of a CAI automatically. While a custom tune can help take full advantage of the gains, it is not needed for the truck to run securely and effectively.

How often should I clean the filter?

For highway driving, every 30,000 to 50,000 miles is basic. If the truck is used for "workhorse" tasks, such as on construction sites or dirt roadways, the filter ought to be inspected every 10,000 miles.

Does a cold air intake enhance gas mileage?

In theory, yes. By reducing the effort required for the engine to pull air in, pumping losses are lowered. However, numerous motorists discover their MPG drops at first because they tend to accelerate more aggressively to hear the brand-new engine sound.


Updating a Dodge Ram with a cold air intake is a rewarding task for any truck lover. Whether deciding for the high-end engineering of aFe Power, the legendary reliability of K&N,&or the balanced value of S&B,&the advantages are tangible. Not only does the truck acquire a more commanding presence on the roadway through its enhanced noise, however the enhancements in throttle response and horsepower produce a substantially better driving experience. When selecting, owners need to prioritize their specific needs-- whether that be maximum filtering for dirty routes or maximum airflow for the drag strip-- to guarantee they get the most out of their RAM.