Cold Air Intake FAQs

[Old Guy]

Since I've taken over this section, I decided in order to alleviate the repeat posts of questions I would put together a few FAQs that would answer most questions that have already been covered in previous threads. If you have anything you can add or correct on the list just post it here in and I'll add them as we go along.

Hope this helps the new people out :)

Cold Air Intake FAQ


1. What’s a CAI?

CAI stands for Cold Air Intake

2. What does it do?

A CAI funnels colder, denser air into the throttle body usually through the fender well.

3. Is a CAI better than Ram Air?

On the Grand Am I would have to say yes only because of the restrictive design of the Ram Air system and the fact that the engine is transverse mounted and doesn’t allow a straight shot to the throttle body.

4. Is a CAI better than a WAI?

Plain and simple, yes. A WAI (Warm Air Intake) sits in the engine bay where the temps will be as much as 200 degrees hotter than the outside air causing heat soak.

5. Will I have to cut anything to put in a CAI?

It depends on which car you have. In a 99+ Grand AM there is no cutting necessary depending on which CAI you buy.

6. Can I make my own CAI?

Yes you can. There are several ways to do it but the most popular and least expensive would be to use a Civic intake. The instructions for it and the removal of the stock intake are here (http://www.n-body.net/tech/index.php) under performance.

7. What kind of HP gain will I get with a CAI?

Up to about 10 HP at the crank, but this will vary depending on what other modifications you have done. When High Performance Pontiac (Dec '03) did a combination CAI and Exhaust and dynoed before and after, they came up with a before of 141whp (stock) and after 158whp on a GA with a 3400 engine.

8. Which filter should I use?

Any cone filter with a 3" opening will work, but remember that there isn't a ton of room in the fender well so 5" is almost the largest you can put in. I recommend a good quality filter such as a K&N. It may be more expensive on the initial purchase, but it will last 100K miles with regular cleaning.

9. Can I suck up water into the intake?

Although it doesn't happen frequently, there is a possibilty especially in the areas that get a lot of rain or snow. Since the filter sits about 2' from the ground I would avoid any deep puddles. Sucking the water up into the intake can cause water lock and seize your engine, but just getting the filter wet will not cause any real damage except for causing your car to sputter until it dries out. A shield can be made in front of the filter to stop water from spraying on it if that's a problem.

10. Where can I buy a CAI for my car?

There are several companies that make CAI's, but I would recommend one of our site sponsors, Custom N-Body Intake Systems (http://www.geocities.com/nbodyintakes/) who has a very high quality intake at a very resonable price.

There is also a list of compnies here http://www.gaownersclub.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=17260

11. Can I keep my Ram Air and still have a CAI?

There have been a lot of guys who have tried to come up with a combination of Ram Air and a Cold Air Intake (I'm one of them), but to my knowledge there hasn't been anyone that has seen an advantage. Some guys will remove their fog light at the track to allow more air flow, but when I did it I didn't notice any real advantage. Basically it's one or the other until someone comes up with something that shows a noticable gain.

________________________________________________

Cold Air Intake Manufacturers submitted by Aaron


Many companies manufacture a CAI for the different Grand AM engines.

This only covers the 3400 and 2.4L engines. If you want to see different engines added here email me: aaron@senisub.com

3.4L Engine:

N-Body Intakes by Keith (support a gaownersclub.com member)

RSM Racing

Doctorspeed.com

N-body.net how-to section, follow the Cold Air Intake install link. It's a how to which tells you how to use a civic intake which is usually in stock at a pep boys, and make it fit in your car.

EBay Search: Grand AM Intake. Be careful using ebay, you never know truly what you're going to get.

FDP Performance

APOC

2.4L Engine

RSM Racing

AleroSpeed.com

Induction Dynamics (full CAI, goes down behind fender)

Ecotec CAI

AEM http://www.aempower.com/ or http://www.highrevmotorsports.com/c...roducts_id=1099

www.Induction-Dynamics.com

www.rsmracing.com

Those are all trusted manufacturers of a quality product, all with the exception of ebay I'm positive have been used by at least one person on this board, and if you have a specific product on your car, maybe you can comment on this post leaving a "review" of the product, either positive or negative (I assume it will be positive though )

If I missed any, or you want yours listed here, again you can email me (aaron@senisub.com) and I will add you to the list.

[damgrandam]

i have a quick question, can i use a short ram air intake to do the civic cold air intake mod, or does it just need to be a regular one?

[Gimli]

The Civic CAI mod uses a Civic CAI. The short ram air intake is different.

[95GAinFLA]

how about 2.3L intakes? :(

[badboy 2.4]

what year civic cai can be used on a 97 2.4?

[Old Guy]

The civic intake mod is for 3.4s. I don't know if there is one for the 2.4.

[badboy 2.4]

thanx anyways:(

[Manny1117]

With the CAI, do you lose pick up? One thing i like about GA which is part of the reason i bought it is the pick up of the ram air. Even at 80mph, you step on the gas and the car goes. Is this lost with CAI?
I'm asking because i replaced my ram air with a cone filter which may be putting out more hp (I don't know) but i've lost the pick up. I mean the car now sounds like a mustang which is cool but there's now that delay which is not cool.

[Old Guy]

With a CAI you shouldn't lose anything. A cone filter inside the engine bay would be closer to a WAI which is going to give you very little increase in power.

[Manny1117]

Alright. I just ordered some on ebay

[JoeyK]

I need to know what the outside diameter of the throttlebody neck is. I see it's oval shaped, will a 3" rubber coupler fit over it? It's too darn cold out there w/out a heated garage to pull it the hose off to measure. Any help would be appreciated. Tanks:)

[Old Guy]

Yeah Joey, it's 3". Heat up some water in the microwave and put the coupler in it to soften it before you put it on.

[Manny1117]

I just got the CAI I ordered off ebay, but I cant figure out how to get the rest of the ram air parts off so i can install the CAI pipe. I mean the one coming from the fender well, behind the battery and beside the wiper fluid container. Can anyone help me?

[Shift]

hey old guy...i have a 1994 grand am gt and it has a 2.3L quad DOHC...ive been looking around and i cant find a CAi anywhere...can i get a CAI for my car?

[Brandon]

Originally posted by Manny1117
I just got the CAI I ordered off ebay, but I cant figure out how to get the rest of the ram air parts off so i can install the CAI pipe. I mean the one coming from the fender well, behind the battery and beside the wiper fluid container. Can anyone help me?

Got to take of the front drivers side wheel, and the fender well cover. There should be atleast one 10 MM bolt holding the peice up there that should end right behind the battery. Then there is a couple more peices down in the fender which from under neath wont be much of a problem. If you take out the whole air duct theres a nother peice up around the headlight with a 10 MM bolt that is kind of impossible to see unless you take the light out... or if you just did it like me run your hand up there and find the bolt then shove the socket on there and take it out...

here is the thread about mine... should give you a couple ideas of what you are looking at... although some of the pictures no longer work because my website crashed and burned over the 4th weekend.

[kkatjsh5]

hey old guy. i have an 03 grand am GT with the 3.4L engine and ihave been tryin to find a cold air intake but they are usually for the 2.4L engine and i was wonderin if there was one for my car. Could u help me out here?

[Bjornboy81]

dude....look at the original post near the end under "Cold Air Intake Manufactures" in big bold lettering...it spells it out.

[blurredvision]

ok well ive been looking for a cai for my ga but i can not find one for a 3.1 its a 96 ga and i can only find them for a 3.4 and the newer model grand ams i was wondering since they run to the same place will the newer ga cai work on my 3.1

[a-brat]

I just ordered a short ram intake. Why did it not come with a piece to hold the snsor in position in the pipe? I have it riged up with a rubber washer gasket from a garden hose? what is the correct thing to use?

[Vince]

I have question, DO you need to raise your fuel pressure a bit when you increase the airflow, I have a CAI and a Borla Cat-Back? The reason I ak is one time I floored it, and then all of the sudden it just bogged down, almost shut off, but didn't. I turned if off and on and it was just sputtering and would barely move. Si I leftit alone over night and it wotked fine the next day. This was just after I installed the Borla, already had the CAI. now I do have a adjustable Fuel pressure regualtor on it, but haven't changed it. Do I need to raise it?

[Old Guy]

Very simple answer. No you don't.

[Matt95GT]

Originally posted by Vince
now I do have a adjustable Fuel pressure regualtor on it, but haven't changed it. Do I need to raise it?

No, you should remove it and put the stock (fixed pressure) FPR back on. There is no reason to adjust fuel presure for light modification to promote air flow. (they also don't come pre-adjusted, the initial setting may be way off) Do you have wideband or EGT? Or at least a fuel pressure gauge in the car? If not you are tuning blindly, only bad things can happen.

Also, these types of questions should be asked in a new thread, not in the FAQ's. Thanks.

[ChevelleSSLS6]

if anyone wants a good CAI made by a fellow forum member (instead of some guy in china on Ebay) PM Red99GAGT, the more people we get involved the less expensive they'll be.
-matt
applications: 99+ GA/Alero with the 3400.

probable applications:I'm pretty sure it can be modified to fit most anything with a 3100/3400 (base impala for example)

[FlyingAce]

ordering my Dr. Speed stage 3 tomorrow!

[FlyingAce]

ok, I have a question about CAI bypass valves...I'm thinking about getting one (simply because I live in michigan), but I was wondering if they take away from the "performance" end of the CAI

[Old Guy]

It doesn't affect performance at all it's just a precaution in case you draw water up the CAI.

Just a note though, it won't do anything unless you submerse your intake.

[FlyingAce]

cool, thanks old guy

[LordRayden]

are the Weapon R Cold Air Intake or the iceman cold air intakes any good? I have a '99 2.4 se?

[LordRayden]

and will my car sound any differant with a cai?

I'm ordering an Iceman CAI tommorrow i'll be installing it this weekend

[Matt95GT]

Originally posted by LordRayden
are the Weapon R Cold Air Intake or the iceman cold air intakes any good? I have a '99 2.4 se?

Yes, but neither are true "cold air" intakes (don't extend into fender) and neither eliminate the restrictive right angle / silencer box attached to the throttle body.

Originally posted by LordRayden
and will my car sound any differant with a cai?

I'm ordering an Iceman CAI tommorrow i'll be installing it this weekend

Yes, much louder... you'll hear the deep tone of air getting sucked in.

[LordRayden]

which one is better the Iceman or the Weapon R? they cost about the same

[Matt95GT]

Not much of a difference between those 2.

[LordRayden]

I decided not to order the iceman intake, instead I have taken Matt's advice and ordered the induction-dynamics "true CAI" and had it sent home, so when I get back home in 2 weeks I'll have a CAI and new rims to install, I'll be sure to post some before/after pics for u guys

[Ithic]

I bought a cold air intake off ebay with a cone K&N air filter.....
-installation: i decided to leave the front part of my ram air intake on (cuz it looks cool :P). Was a little tricky taking off the air filter box (big black box) cuz it was in there almost air tight. after finally pulling it out we reolized the real fun began. We had to jack up the car and take the front driver side tire off. Then we had to take the wheel well off. Since i didnt have any spare plugs i had to make sure they remained intacked. If you kno what im talking about, you kno what a bitch this is to do. Well after slowly pulling those plugs out, i was able to take out the remained ram air componets. Then i fit the pipe into the car. (took a little muscle, is very snug). after that all i had to do was tighten all the joints togeather and i was ready to go (i recommend atleast 2 people for this job).
-performance: at first i was dissappointed. On the initial drive i noticed little acceleration gain, and same engine noise (it was january and my windows where up). sooo i just kinda shrugged it off and went to school the next day (im still in high school). I asked my friend to listen to my engine for any difference. So he stood outside and i squaked to tires and accelerated quickly. his reactions, and i quote "jesus christ, sounds like a V8" After this i went to our downtown district (close building, tightly togeather) and lowered my windows. I must say i was amazed, my engine reverberated off the buildings making a deep, loud roar while accellerating. It will make this noise at as low as 2200 rpms.
-after thoughts: if your buying a CAI for performace...don't waste your money, the 10hp is almost undetectable. But if you want a muscle car roar, its the best thing you can buy ;) (its very intimidating to other drives :P )

[wushdishmeen]

So wait a second...which is better, the stock Ram Air induction or getting a Cold air intake?

If you are driving air is being "Rammed" into the front of the car and being sucked in the ram air ducts but a cold air intake is in the wheel well and doesnt seem like it would pick up as much air. I hear the sound is better....

Im confused, do i get a CAI or just leave my ram air? Which is truly better.

I have a 99 grand am gt 3.4

[Brandon]

cai.

its not as restrictive. plus its not ran in the engine bay untill almost the very end... which helps keep it cool. plus the nice noise it makes and the whisteling noise it makes when you let off the pedal....

it still gets plenty of air in the fender... if you took out part of your "ram air" from the factory the part where you can easily get too, youd be left with the piping that already runs in the fender area.... so your not loosing anything.... just sucking more in from there.

[AAS SC/T]

I just sealed up the front ram air scoops to get all the air into the airbox. Then remove the headlight to get access to the little horn on the end of the tube in the fender you want to talk restrictive it turn 180 degree or more. (see picture) then the air can go right in from the fender like the cold air intake.

[91Grandayyyum]

are there any companies that make CAI for a '91 2.5L? id like to somehow do a K&N CAI system but i dont think that they have any systems made for my car. it also is a TBI (Throttle Body Injection) motor. my question is if there are any systems out there for my car and if not can i make a CAI myself?

[lowrider2962]

ok so heres my question...i have a 2.2l ecotec enginew and i know that the ford cavaliers and cobalts have that engine too. first of all could i use a CAI built for one of those cars. second would it be possible to make a flexible CAI with 3" vacume hose. basicly the stuff used on shopvacs. that way it would be practicly universal. just bolt the filter were u need it on almost any car and ur ready to go. its just a thought. its also dirt cheap, like $1.25 per foot on the hose + the price of wat ever filter u buy.

[RedGrandAm2003]

Originally posted by lowrider2962
ford cavaliers and cobalts

:roflmfao:

There's stuff called "flexible tubing" what you can do is get an AEM WAI(I believe), and then put flex tubing into the fender well, then bolt the cone filter on, and you're good to go.

check out what Mike(ga5speed02) did to his... this is his sig. lol:
http://www.clubecm.com/sig-mike.jpg

[sleeper_se]

dam thats some sick tubing

[ibuiltmine-o1oo]

if anyone wants to sell their ram air parts to put on a CAI pm me and ill buy them!

[JustinBTE]

Will the flex tubing work the same way with a 2.4L on a 99 ga?

I have an Iceman Wai right now and i want to convert it into a cai w/o actually having to spend all the money on it when it wont be too much of a performance gain.

[Chuggernaut]

Hello all,

First time Poster, have a few CAI questions.

Installed a DS Stage 3 CAI this past Saturday, now my car is giving off a loud hissing sound. Is that just the air going into the cone filter? Usually at idle I can't hear it, when I give just a little gas it gets loud, then calms down as I acelerate more. I've checked each connection many times over, and everything looks okay. Saw someone refer to it as "the nice whisteling noise after you let off the pedal", just wondering how often I should expect to hear it.

Next Question.

I did not remove the ducting behind the headlight (pictured on the last page). Is it absolutely necessary that I remove it? I couldn't even figure out where air would be going into that duct, so
I didn't think it would effect anything.

Last question:

I've read about people taking the CAI out in the winter, is this necessary (in PA by the way)? If so, do you install a new WAI, or do you just attach a filter in place of the elbow pipe?

Thanks in advance!

[Bjornboy81]

1. The hissing (if everything is tight with no leaks) is the sound of the air rushing past the throttle plate...no biggy.

2. You dont' have too, but I found there really wasn't a lot of room back there with the pipe, resivoir and filter. That duct is part of the resonator of the intake...it's what prevents the hissing sound described in part 1.

3. You don't have too. I didn't and it was fine. You do run a chance of getting the filter wet while going through snow or deep water, but I haven't had a problem yet...just be aware of how deep stuff it...us common sense and you should be alright.

Welcome to the club :wave:

[97_Grand_Ham_GT]

Hey all,
I'm new to the forum, but certainly not new to cars; I've been restoring an old truck for 6 years, and my 97 GA is my daily driver these days. Anyway, I'm looking for people's input on the Induction Dynamics 2.4 L CAI. I want to hear from everyone who uses it. I drive a 97 Grand AM GT 2.4L, and I want to know if this CAI is worth it. How does it sound? Anyone ever have water issues with it? How is the shipping time from Canada? Any and ALL infomration you could give me; this is a pretty decent investment, and I want to get the best for my money. Thanks.

MATT

[nino_neg]

I was wondering if the CAI's on Ebay even compare with the more expensive CAI's from DS and other sites?

and also does anyone know where to find waterguards for CAI's??


thnx.

[sush]

hi guys,
i installed my CAI today. i had some troubles with it:

-first: the stock piping wouldnt completely come off. there are 3 parts to the stock wai. the air filter, and 2 more tubes that are seen when u take off the fender well. one of the tubes just twisted off, but the last tube goes deep into the front part of the engine and it wouldnt come off, i couldnt even find the bolt that would release it. can someone tell me if i should just leave this last pipe? or how i could take it off.

-second: does the fender well restrict the air flow? i was thinking of it off, or maybe even cutting a hole in it. but i live in ottawa, canada, and it snows like crazy here. any suggestions here?

thanks
sush.
oh. and its a 05 grand am se.

[AAS SC/T]

If your refering to the front peice its easier to take off the headlight so you can see the mounting I think its 10mm bolt. Put the fender fender well peice back on and dont cut a hole in it. If your worried about snow get a filter wrap.

[Vampyrate]

i know this is necromancy... but what year civic? ive read through this and cant find what year civic to get off fo ebay...

i just need the piping, i have an AEM dryflow filter that i want to use.

[GaOwner2004]

were can i get Cold Air Intake for a 2004 Grand Am V4 2.2L

and other parts for my car 2

[sirlicksalot44]

qustion living in new england in the winter does it make a differnce on the way the motor runs like would the air be to cold in the winter

[GaOwner2004]

I found a cold intake for my car but its so much money its 650 dollers

do you know any other place that i can get it for a cheeper price??

[bballr4567]

I installed the CAI system from doctor speed and well it sounds awesome. I cant really justify the price but it does look good and sounds even better. I got a pic of it in the member rides section so check it out if you are interested.

It was kind of a pain in the butt to install because of the battery in my car. Some idiot car place put in the wrong size battery and it doesnt sit flush so i kinda had to force the piece that fits around the filter into place. That isnt DS fault so yea. It took maybe an hour and is very very easy to install.


EDIT!!! So I just filled up my car tonight and with the new plugs, wires and CAI from DS and I get 9.1% (22.6 now, 20.6 then) better gas mileage now!!!! I was really freakin surprised that I would get that much better. Thats all city driving too with so Im really interested to see how much better I get on the highway. Thats pretty awesome if you ask me.

[coupe]

Originally posted by GaOwner2004
I found a cold intake for my car but its so much money its 650 dollers

do you know any other place that i can get it for a cheeper price??

$650!?!?!? I gotta see this!

[2K SE]

Maybe its gold plated. lol.

[GaSe05]

i got a qustion whats the differnces in ebays stage 3 intake with a k@n and doctor speeds stage three.http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1,1&item=230033586554&ih=013&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT


http://www.doctorspeed.com/grand_am/grand-am-intakes.html

i was wounder whats differnt cus they seem the same but have a big price differnt.... thanks dave

[95GT]

I was wondering, Would I have to make my own custom CAI for my 3100 or are there some out there? I've got a '95 GT sedan, Automatic 3.1 V6. Any help would be good.

[Matt95GT]

Originally posted by 95GT
I was wondering, Would I have to make my own custom CAI for my 3100 or are there some out there? I've got a '95 GT sedan, Automatic 3.1 V6. Any help would be good.

Search for "tranzgenic"

[BlckDethV6]

This is my first post. Im really digging the K&N CAI i put on. Though at first i was dissapointed that i was getting horrible gas milelage(gas light would come on around 175miles). and also i didnt notice any gain in hp. But after having my fuel injectors cleaned, thats when i saw a great difference. i went from filling up every 175miles to around 240 miles, also the acceleration and sound came around. Ive only raced once since i put it on(burned a brand new malibu with exaust). I think it was worth the 200 dollars, then the labor for the shop to put it on.

[coupe]

You paid a shop?

[BlckDethV6]

Yes because i know nothing of taking a car apart. I can prolly change the oil, thats it. I just drive darn it.

[coupe]

You dont have to take the car apart to install a CAI.

If you cant handle something as simple as installing a CAI then you really shouldnt be modding a vehicle at all. Its one the EASIEST performance mods there are to install. Even a novice could install it in 30 minutes with very basic hand tools.

[GaSe05]

yea i just put a stage 3 with a k@n from crome intakes and it rummbles a little more like when u give it gas its realy nice i love it.

[BlckDethV6]

well maybe i should have paid attention to my dad because he has worked on many a car, i just think its boring working on a car, no offense, all the time and effort so i take the quick way out. besides i cant blame myself if something gets screwed up.

[NickGT]

i have a 1996 GT and wann know if i should change other componints at the same time i do CAI

[coupe]

no

[Rainbow1616]

Which cai would you recommend for a budget of about $125?
Im looking for a little more power and a little better gas mileage. Would the cold air box be enough or should I plunge into the stage 3?

Thanks. The car is 2004 GA GT with the V6

[GaSe05]

i paid about that much for mine off ebay at chrome intakes. i got a stage 3 with a k@n with them u can get it cheaper depending on what u want .................

[Rainbow1616]

Thanks, I'll check out ebay

[Rainbow1616]

Is there a difference between the Stage 3 from Dr Speed and the stage 3 K&N from Chrome Intakes off ebay??? The price difference is pretty substantial 106.98 vs 199.00?
Anybody??

[spikedsteel]

Hi i just found this secret weapon Intake for 190.01 +30 s/h is that a fair price?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Secret-Weapon-Intake-Pontiac-Grand-Am-99-03_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ38634QQihZ010QQitemZ 200046410884QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

[bballr4567]

IMHO no. Thats a heck of a price to pay and then thats a huge shipping charge.

[loud2kse]

look at item number 230060594603

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/99-00-01-04-GRAND-AM-Alero-V6-COLD-AIR-INTAKE-3p-K-N-F_W0QQitemZ230060594603QQihZ013QQcategoryZ38634QQr dZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[spikedsteel]

Originally posted by loud2kse
look at item number 230060594603

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/99-00-01-04-GRAND-AM-Alero-V6-COLD-AIR-INTAKE-3p-K-N-F_W0QQitemZ230060594603QQihZ013QQcategoryZ38634QQr dZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I was lookin at that one but sometimes the stuff thats cheeper on the list scares me dont wanna get burrned but I seen a few people talking about that one now and saying its just fine and i guess all it really is is a pipe that relocates my air filter. Did you have to cut anything to install that one? Im not big on cuttin and drilling.

[bballr4567]

Nope you just got to unscrew a few bolts and screws. Its rather straight foward plus you got all the help of the GAOC!!!

Its a good intake. Go for it. Youll save $100 right off and then you can go buy a K&N if you want to.

[spikedsteel]

Cool ill have to order this. seems like a straigh forward thing for a first mod. The GAOC has already helped me so much insted of the car commin with a manual it should just come with a link to this site.

[loud2kse]

it says that it comes with a k&n. that's pretty sweet.

[bballr4567]

Originally posted by loud2kse
it says that it comes with a k&n. that's pretty sweet. Yea I just read that. That is a pretty sweet deal. I thought they didnt.

[Rainbow1616]

Thats the one I was looking at as well. Thanks I think I will go with this one as opposed to the Dr Speed stage 3 and save some green.
Thanks!

[TayCole03]

I have a 1994 4cyl. 2.3 liter Grand Am. What cold air intake systems would work on my car??

[Matt95GT]

Originally posted by TayCole03
I have a 1994 4cyl. 2.3 liter Grand Am. What cold air intake systems would work on my car??

There are no full 'cold air' intakes on the market for any 2.3 application. (Many 'warm air' style ones can be made to fit though, including many for the 2.4's in Cavy/Sunfire).

I did a rough mockup of the Induction-Dynamics intake (for 2.4 99+ GA) - it can be made to fit with modification, but at $200+ you can build better for less than 1/3 of that.

It's not hard to make one... read up, get some piping/filter/couplers, and grab a dremel...
http://www.gaownersclub.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=28925&highlight=CAI

[Alexandrino]

does the SE version of the generation 5 GA come stock with the Ram Air induction? Or am I right in thinking that only the GT does?

[bballr4567]

Originally posted by Alexandrino
does the SE version of the generation 5 GA come stock with the Ram Air induction? Or am I right in thinking that only the GT does? Nope. SEs didnt come with it. Im also not sure if it was standard on the GTs but I do know that you could only get it on them.

[spikedsteel]

I was thiking of paint my c.a.i. Just the pipes on the stage three but iIwas woundering if it will pass anything hot so I would have to use higher temp paint? I dont see it passing anything that hot but I thought I would ask before I get a funny smell.

[GaSe05]

u should be fine i herd about people use normal paint on brakes so on a cai should be grate

[Hawkeye65]

I was thinking about getting a CAI for my 99 GA SE and i do do alot of city driving so i dont spend to much time in the higher rpm ranges and thats what they said the CAI's really inhance, so would a CAI still be a good buy or should i get something else. I saw these Cold Air Boxes at Doctorspeed.com and i was wondering if that would be better or if the CAB was just a gimmic cause to me it looks like it is just a Short Ram with a plastic plate and still taking air from half of the stock system in the bumper, but idk.

[bballr4567]

I have the CAB from Dr Speed and its not just a plastic plate. It completely replaces all of your stock intake system and then puts a piece of metal between the filter and the engine to make the "box." There is a difference in the temp of the air between the piece of metal and the engine but its hard to tell if its really a big difference.

Also the CAB does give a more rapid throttle responce through out the whole powerband which is what I wanted. If up to you if you want to spend the money on the CAB though seeing how actual CAI are on ebay at a much lower price.

[KenGT200]

so i should get rid of the ram air to make room for the CAI? If so,should it be a short one?

[GaSe05]

yes deffently peopel say all the time they take out ther ram air and put in a stage 3 intake and get so much more

[Rockfan1815]

will this cold air intake work for my 96 ga 2.4
http://www.induction-dynamics.com/sunfirecavaliergrandamalero24l.html

or should I just get a wai and extend it into the fender well. For cheaper i can get this.
http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=AVM%2D22%2D446P&N=700+4294908153+4294869663+4294819504+4294925239+ 4294813803+115&autoview=sku

[Shadoz]

I am looking for a place to purchase a Cold Air intake for my 1998 Grand Am GT with a maf. I had found one at Trangenic.com but it seems they are not in business any more. I would welcome any and all help.

[Zero]

I'm having the same problem to Shadoz. For some reason, I can find a cai either can someone help.

[spikedsteel]

use e-bay its your best bet lots of people on here use these guys Item number: 230074871145

[UCF713]

What is the major difference between the 1 piece, 2 piece, and 3 piece CAIs from Chrome Intakes on eBay? Is there a great performance increase in each?

[GaSe05]

not realy i have a three and i was woundering the same so i just put the fliter on it and it was ok but when its a 3 in the fender u give it gas and it just makes this sexy noice and it give some balls with a stock car its amezing its up to u u car start with like 2 pice but should go to a 3 see the other thing with a 3 pice that kinda sucks any time u wanan get to it u need to take the tire off and the inside of the fennder me i think its worth it.......................

[93grandamv6]

does anyone know where i can get a cai for a 3.3l v6 in my 93 grandam?

[pooky]

i have a question where can you find a legit website that you can trust to send your money and get the product o time. and do you have to take off the bumper because i want CIA to be at the fender well not on top if you know what i mean.

[mattamd_xp]

Originally posted by UCF713
What is the major difference between the 1 piece, 2 piece, and 3 piece CAIs from Chrome Intakes on eBay? Is there a great performance increase in each?
The one piece is basically a WAI that just puts a cone filter right off the MAF the 2 piece puts the filter down in the fender but it leaves the black plastic piece from the throttle body to the MAF the 3 piece simply replaces the black flex piece from the throttle body to the MAF with a piece of chrome pipe. The one piece actually hurts performace because it takes in warm air from the engine compartment and the two or three piece both have the same performance, it's just that the 3 piece looks cool with the intake all being chrome

[SpoCom2nr]

OK. I need complety honesty, and don't make fun of what I'm going to say. I need to know if this is a good idea or whatever. I was thinking of buying a cone filter to put onto my stock intake system by removing the box. Stupid idea? I don't want to do it if it is... I just don't know though...

Also, if I did just that, would it make the engine sound any different? Just wondering...

Also, for those that can't find an intake. Weapon R makes one for the Grand AM. I went to their site and seen it.

[GaSe05]

i have a stage 3 intake and one time when i was bored i just took the air boxs out and put a k@n on it it sounds good and gives u a little power but with a stage 2 and three is better u just have to pull off the tire and open the fender its not to hard if u need help just ask. as far as web sites dotor speed is a good comapny to and he has a cold air box wher u dont have to take out much at all i herd good stuff about that.

[SpoCom2nr]

Yeah, but I was just going to buy the cone filter and put it on my stock air system, but remove the box... So is that ok? Cause I have to save money for skool right now, so I can't really get a CAI.

I want to get a K&N air filter. I have a GA SE 2.4 2001. Which filter should get for my car. I think I found one. Would this fit?

http://www.knfilters.com/search/product.aspx?Prod=RC-3870

[GaSe05]

oh u have a 2.4 u will allso need a pice of three inch pipe about 4 inches long as far as fliters idk i can get u the number for mine the reason why u need pipe is cus the stock hose is soft so is the fliter but if u need any more help i can help u my friend has a 2.4 the cai for that is harder to come by i am thinking of just making my own i can share my idears with u

[SpoCom2nr]

Originally posted by GaSe05
oh u have a 2.4 u will allso need a pice of three inch pipe about 4 inches long as far as fliters idk i can get u the number for mine the reason why u need pipe is cus the stock hose is soft so is the fliter but if u need any more help i can help u my friend has a 2.4 the cai for that is harder to come by i am thinking of just making my own i can share my idears with u

If you make your own let me know where you buy your parts at and stuff. :-) I want to make my own.

[GaSe05]

ok i will did u get what i ment by pipe just go to home depo and get a pice of 3 inch pvc pipe

[SpoCom2nr]

I am thinking about getting the fram air hog filter for now... But then again, if I get the pipe and then the air filter, would that just work? Or do I need brackets etc?

[GaSe05]

it would work fine .in my friends car i made some thing a lot more micky mouse in auto zone they have fleable color pipe i just used that and and put a fliter on the end u with stock hose and a fliter u would be ok

[spikedsteel]

Originally posted by SpoCom2nr
OK. I need complety honesty, and don't make fun of what I'm going to say. I need to know if this is a good idea or whatever. I was thinking of buying a cone filter to put onto my stock intake system by removing the box. Stupid idea? I don't want to do it if it is... I just don't know though...

Also, if I did just that, would it make the engine sound any different? Just wondering...

Also, for those that can't find an intake. Weapon R makes one for the Grand AM. I went to their site and seen it.

I'm pretty shur thats just a w.a.i. warm air intake.

[SpoCom2nr]

So wait. I would be ok with a stock hose and a cone style filter?

[GaSe05]

yea its a wai its hard to make a cai for a 2.4 u have to make it your self

[GaSe05]

So wait. I would be ok with a stock hose and a cone style filter?
yes i ahve see a kit some wher that just has that with a pice of pipe

[spikedsteel]

you just have to drill the sensor from the box to a small pipe after the filter or it will throw a code on you.

[SpoCom2nr]

Ok. I'm kind of confused. I can make my own intake system with a stock hose, pvc hose, and the cone filter. Or can i make it just with the stock hose and the filter?

[GaSe05]

ill show u a pic from ebay give me 5

[spikedsteel]

it easy to make c.a.i. yourself get some flex exhust hose like 5 feet then bend it however ya want stick on the filter and some couplers.

[spikedsteel]

pvc hose is bad i hear.

[SpoCom2nr]

Originally posted by spikedsteel
it easy to make c.a.i. yourself get some flex exhust hose like 5 feet then bend it however ya want stick on the filter and some couplers.

And I can get the hose and couplers @ home depot?

[GaSe05]

ok i just found one i am not sure how this fits but u want some thing like this
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1995-2002-Chevy-Cavalier-2-4-L-COLD-AIR-INTAKE-CAI_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ38634QQihZ011QQitem Z320076354503QQrdZ1

number 320076354503

[spikedsteel]

lol we aint workin on your house:D. goto parts source.

[GaSe05]

i herd they have cheap cuplers at home depo havnt gone and looked yet

[spikedsteel]

ya if the couplers are cheeper its fine to get thoes there but you want metal braided flex tube stuff not the white house stuff.

[SpoCom2nr]

Originally posted by spikedsteel
lol we aint workin on your house:D. goto parts source.

But I wanted to be able to interchange parts between my car and the house! :-P Haha. Good one. So if I go to autozone, I should be able to get everything there then right?

[GaSe05]

for longer stuff yes but he only needs four inches he would be fine u should see what i have in my friends car

[SpoCom2nr]

Originally posted by GaSe05
ok i just found one i am not sure how this fits but u want some thing like this
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1995-2002-Chevy-Cavalier-2-4-L-COLD-AIR-INTAKE-CAI_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ38634QQihZ011QQitem Z320076354503QQrdZ1

number 320076354503

I don't see it. Says item has been removed.

[GaSe05]

yes u can but it cost more u can make a hole in take ther if u have the money

[GaSe05]

the link dont work u got to put in the number on ebay

[SpoCom2nr]

Allright then. I'll head up to the parts store tommorrow and see what I can do. :-)

[GaSe05]

that link i just showed u i think that one will work the onei got was s shaped and it sucksed the one i just sent u is tight to the motor

[spikedsteel]

The ones ebay are cheep in price not bad on quality too just matters if ya want custom or not.

[GaSe05]

i think them ones will work just dont get the s shape one

[GaSe05]

i just found this on ebay i can make an intake for a 2.4 with this pipe
intake pipe (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2-75-Air-Intake-Intercooler-Turbo-90-Degree-Pipe-x-2_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33742QQihZ008QQitemZ1 80080008648QQrdZ1)

number 180080008648

[GaSe05]

http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/60000086/Images/2/85-07211.jpg ok the way your looking at this is backwards your looking at it from in the car well u can take that and then on the end of that u can put a stage 2 kit from a 3.4 and have a realy good intake

[GaOwner2004]

dose anyone know were i can get an cold intake??

[mattamd_xp]

read through the begining of this thread or use the search function. Chrome intakes on ebay has a good quality product if you buy the 2 or 3 piece intake.

[GaOwner2004]

2.2L intake??

[coupe]

DUDE, READ THIS THREAD AND DO A SEARCH

[spikedsteel]

6 pages on how to build buy and install just in this thread alone.

[grande]

I'm new to the forum and just want to know if any of you have ever hydrolocked with CAI ?? It rains a lot where I am, sometimes pours, and the snow can get up to 2 feet or more before the state plows down. So far, it has just been cloudy and drizzling or hard-rain for 10 minutes.

I want to know if it might be worth the risk of getting a CAI for performance!!

[Blackhawk]

Unless the filter is submerged in water completely you shouldn't have a problem. If anything get a Snowcharger wrap. They're made to repel snow and water for snowmobile filters, but they can be used in cars.
http://www.knfilters.com/snowmobile.htm

[grande]

Unless the filter is submerged in water completely you shouldn't have a problem. If anything get a Snowcharger wrap. They're made to repel snow and water for snowmobile filters, but they can be used in cars.
http://www.knfilters.com/snowmobile.htm

Thank you! Now this is something that might push more over the edge to install a CAI

[Matt95GT]

Unless the filter is submerged in water completely you shouldn't have a problem. If anything get a Snowcharger wrap. They're made to repel snow and water for snowmobile filters, but they can be used in cars.
http://www.knfilters.com/snowmobile.htm

Actually a "DryCharger" is the proper application.
http://www.knfilters.com/wraps.htm

[Blackhawk]

Dang, I was looking for that and didn't scroll down far enough. Thanks for the correction Matt, and thanks for the advice on the tires, looks like I'll be buying them tonight or tomorrow from Discount Tire Direct.

[pjerzy]

ok so your saying that i have to have one or the other either ram air or a cai because i have been looking into getting a CAI thanks