Breathing Fire: The Ultimate Guide to Ram 1500 Air Intake Upgrades
The Ram 1500 has long been a titan in the light-duty pickup section. Understood for its class-leading interior, smooth ride quality, and the legendary power of the HEMI V8 or the efficiency of the EcoDiesel, it is a car built for both work and play. However, even a truck as well-engineered as the Ram 1500 goes through the restrictions of mass production and strict sound policies. One of the most significant bottlenecks in its factory setup is the air intake system.
For owners looking to open hidden horse power, enhance throttle action, and provide their truck a more aggressive acoustic profile, an aftermarket cold air intake (CAI) is typically the very first adjustment on the list. This guide supplies an in-depth take a look at why an air intake upgrade is beneficial, the various types offered, and how to pick the best one for a Ram 1500.
The Science of Airflow and Combustion
At its core, an internal combustion engine is basically a huge air pump. It draws air in, blends it with fuel, sparks it to produce power, and pushes the exhaust out. The more oxygen the engine can consume, the more fuel it can effectively burn, resulting in increased power.
Factory air consumptions are created with 3 main goals: low production cost, easy-to-replace paper filters, and maximum noise reduction. To attain the latter, manufacturers utilize "baffled" tubes and enclosed boxes that develop a circuitous path for the air. While Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake System keeps the engine quiet, it produces air turbulence and heat soak. An aftermarket system changes these restrictive elements with smooth, high-flow tubing and premium filters, allowing the engine to "breathe" more freely.
The Benefit of "Cold" Air
Cold air is denser than warm air, suggesting it contains more oxygen molecules per cubic inch. By drawing air from outside the engine bay (or from a shielded location), a cold air intake guarantees that the air goes into the combustion chamber at a lower temperature level. This leads to a more powerful surge throughout the combustion stroke, translated directly into horsepower and torque.
Advantages of Upgrading the Ram 1500 Air Intake
Updating the intake system on a Ram 1500 isn't practically the numbers on a dyno sheet; it transforms the driving experience in a number of ways.
1. Increased Horsepower and Torque
Depending on the particular engine (the 3.6 L Pentastar V6, the 5.7 L HEMI V8, or the 3.0 L EcoDiesel), an intake upgrade can provide gains varying from 5 to 15 horse power. While these aren't "race vehicle" numbers, the increase in torque is often felt instantly when hauling or overtaking on the highway.
2. Improved Throttle Response
Many Ram 1500 owners grumble about a small "lag" when pressing the gas pedal. Since an aftermarket intake lowers the range and resistance the air need to take a trip to reach the manifold, the engine reacts faster to chauffeur inputs.
3. Enhanced Engine Sound
The factory intake smother the natural noise of the engine. An upgrade removes those silencers, replaced by a deep, throaty grumble throughout velocity. At travelling speeds, the sound remains subtle, however under heavy load, the HEMI's signature holler ends up being far more noticable.
4. Much Better Fuel Efficiency
By making it much easier for the engine to draw in air, the engine doesn't have to work as tough to keep speed. While the gains are often limited (usually 1-- 2 MPG), over the life of the truck, this performance can spend for the expense of the intake itself.
Types of Intake Systems for the Ram 1500
When shopping for a Ram 1500, owners will come across several different system architectures.
- Confined Box Systems: These are highly suggested for truck owners who drive off-road or in dirty environments. The filter is housed in a sealed box that draws air from a particular port (generally behind the headlight or through the fender). This safeguards the filter from engine heat and debris.
- Open Element Systems: These include a heat shield rather than a complete box. They offer the most aggressive noise and maximum airflow but may be more susceptible to engine bay heat soak when the truck is idling.
- Ram Air Systems: Some high-performance packages utilize a hood scoop or a specialized duct to "require" air into the intake as the automobile moves on at speed.
Contrast Table: Popular Ram 1500 Intake Options
| Function | S&B Filters Enclosed | K&N 63 Series AirCharger | aFe Power Momentum GT | Mopar Performance Cold Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Type | Fully Enclosed | Open (Heat Shield) | Fully Enclosed | Open/ Semi-Enclosed |
| Filter Type | Oiled or Dry | Oiled | Oiled or Dry | Oiled |
| Main Benefit | Optimum Protection | Maximum Sound | Maximum Durability | Warranty Friendly |
| Install Time | 60 - 90 Minutes | 45 - 60 Minutes | 60 - 90 Minutes | 45 - 60 Minutes |
| Best For | Daily Driving/Off-Road | Street Performance | Heavy Towing | OEM Enthusiasts |
Picking the Right Filter: Oiled vs. Dry
Among the most disputed topics among Ram lovers is whether to use an oiled or a dry air filter.
Oiled Filters
- Pros: Usually offer a little better air flow and can be cleaned and re-oiled indefinitely. They are outstanding at trapping extremely great particles.
- Cons: If over-oiled throughout upkeep, the oil can get onto the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensing unit, potentially triggering check-engine lights.
Dry Filters
- Pros: Much much easier to keep (normally just vacuumed or blown out with air). No risk of sensing unit contamination.
- Cons: While they stream considerably much better than stock paper, they may have a somewhat lower overall airflow capability compared to high-end oiled versions.
Installation Overview
Updating the air intake is one of the most popular "DIY" projects due to the fact that it requires just fundamental hand tools and no long-term adjustments to the vehicle.
Tools Needed:
- Ratchet set (10mm, 8mm sockets)
- Flathead screwdriver
- Allen wrenches (generally offered in the kit)
- Trim removal tool (optional)
General Steps:
- Disconnect the Battery: Always security initially when working near engine sensing units.
- Remove the Stock System: Loosen the clamps on the throttle body, disconnect the air temperature level sensor, and unbolt the factory air box.
- Transfer Sensors: Carefully move the air temperature sensor from the old tube to the new aftermarket tube.
- Assemble the New Box: If utilizing an enclosed system, assemble the box and filter real estate.
- Install the Intake Tube: Secure the brand-new tube to the throttle body using the supplied silicone couplers and clamps.
- Protect the Filter: Place the filter onto the tube and tighten the clamp.
- Reconnect: Plug the sensor back in, reattach the battery, and look for any loose components.
Will This Void the Warranty?
A common issue for late-model Ram 1500 owners is the car guarantee. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealership can not lawfully void an automobile's warranty just since an aftermarket part is set up. The dealership must prove that the aftermarket part particularly caused the failure in question. For example, if the power window motor stops working, the intake had absolutely nothing to do with it, and the guarantee stands. However, to be safe, many owners select the Mopar Performance Cold Air Intake, which is a main accessory offered by Chrysler/Ram.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does a Ram 1500 air intake upgrade need a "Tune"?
For many "bolt-on" intakes, a custom-made ECU tune is not needed. The truck's computer is capable of changing the fuel cut to represent the increased airflow. Nevertheless, a tune can assist take full advantage of the gains from the brand-new intake.
2. Is the "Hemi Tick" impacted by a cold air intake?
The notorious "Hemi Tick" is normally associated with exhaust manifold bolts or lifter concerns and is mechanical. A cold air intake will not trigger or repair the tick, though the increased engine sound might make it somewhat less visible during acceleration.
3. How frequently should I clean the aftermarket filter?
Many manufacturers suggest examining the filter every 15,000 to 25,000 miles. If driving in extremely dirty conditions (building websites or off-road tracks), it needs to be inspected every 5,000 miles.
4. Are cold air intakes legal in all states?
Not necessarily. States like California require aftermarket parts to have a CARB (California Air Resources Board) EO number. Before getting, owners need to examine if the particular intake package is "50-state legal."
5. Will I see an immediate distinction in 0-60 times?
While there is an enhancement, it is normally within the tenths of a 2nd range. The most noticeable distinction is in the "butt-dyno"-- the feeling of the truck pulling harder through the mid-range RPMs and the enhanced noise.
An air intake upgrade is one of the most economical methods to improve a Ram 1500. It uses an uncommon trifecta of benefits: enhanced performance, much better sound, and an increase in efficiency. Whether the objective is to make the HEMI V8 seem like the beast it is, or to squeeze a bit more pulling power out of the V6, a high-quality intake is a foundational adjustment that sets the phase for any future truck develops. By choosing a respectable brand and choosing in between the protective qualities of a confined box or the raw power of an open component system, Ram owners can ensure their truck is performing at its outright finest.
