Be On The Lookout For: How Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews Is Taking Over And What To Do About It

· 6 min read
Be On The Lookout For: How Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews Is Taking Over And What To Do About It

Boosting the Beast: Comprehensive Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews

The Dodge Ram, now understood just as RAM, has actually long been a titan on the planet of pickup trucks. Whether it is the legendary 5.7 L HEMI V8 or the powerhouse Cummins Turbo Diesel, these trucks are built for efficiency, towing, and sturdiness. However, even a machine as carefully tuned as a Ram can gain from aftermarket enhancements. Among the most popular, economical, and impactful modifications an owner can make is the setup of a Cold Air Intake (CAI) system.

By replacing the restrictive factory air box with a high-flow system, chauffeurs can unlock covert horse power, enhance throttle action, and even enhance the engine's acoustic profile. This post supplies an extensive evaluation of the leading cold air intake systems available for the Dodge Ram, analyzing their features, advantages, and efficiency metrics.


The Science Behind Cold Air Intakes

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

Oxygen density is crucial for combustion. Warmer air is less dense, consisting of less oxygen particles per cubic inch. Cooler air consists of more oxygen, which, when blended with fuel, creates a more powerful surge within the cylinders. This results in:

  • Increased Horsepower: More oxygen results in more power production.
  • Improved Torque: Crucial for towing and off-road maneuvers.
  • Better Fuel Economy: An engine that breathes much easier runs more efficiently.
  • Improved Sound: Most CAIs replace baffled factory tubes with smooth, open pipelines that let the "roar" of the engine be heard.

Top Dodge Ram Cold Air Intake Reviews

1. S&B Filters Cold Air Intake

S&B has constructed a credibility for offering high-quality intake systems at a mid-range rate point. Their sets for the RAM 1500 and 2500 are especially popular due to their precision engineering and aesthetic appeal.

  • Design: S&B uses state-of-the-art silicone for their filters, couplers, and seals. This material is exceptional to rubber as it withstands splitting and can withstand temperatures approximately 400 ° F.
  • Performance: The signature clear window on the air box enables simple inspection of the filter. Users report a noticeable improvement in mid-range torque, making it an exceptional choice for those who regularly tow trailers or haul heavy loads.
  • Purification Options: S&B uses both "Cotton Cleanable" (oiled) and "Dry Extendable" filters, providing the owner the option in between maximum airflow and simple upkeep.

2. K&N 63 Series AirCharger

K&N is perhaps the most recognizable name in the filtration industry. The 63 Series is designed specifically to minimize intake restriction and ravel air flow.

  • Style: Unlike enclosed systems, the AirCharger typically makes use of a heat shield instead of a full box. This permits for enormous air flow however can be somewhat more prone to engine bay heat soak during fixed idling.
  • Power Gains: K&N is transparent with its dynamometer results, frequently showing gains of 10 to 15 horsepower on a stock 5.7 L HEMI.
  • Resilience: Their filters are well-known for being "Million Mile Filters," requiring cleaning just every 100,000 miles under typical highway driving conditions.

3. aFe Power Momentum GT

For the Ram owner who desires the pinnacle of engineering, the aFe Power Momentum GT sticks out. This system is developed with a distinct one-piece real estate that includes a built-in "sight window."

  • Design: The kit includes a massive 1,000 cfm (cubic feet per minute) air filter. The CAD-designed, roto-molded intake tube is shaped to achieve maximum power gains while maintaining a best fit.
  • Efficiency: It is known for having a really aggressive sound profile. When the throttle is pinned, the Momentum GT supplies a deep, throaty roar that HEMI owners discover addictive.
  • Performance: The sealed real estate guarantees that only 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 frequently features an open-top heat shield with a signature blue dry-media filter. Because it is an official Mopar part, the fit and finish are similar to factory requirements.
  • Service warranty Compatibility: One of the biggest draws of the Mopar system is that it is typically considered more favorably by dealers during service warranty claims, as it is a real accessory.
  • Aesthetics: The polished aluminum or high-gloss black tubes include a premium aim to the Ram's engine bay.

Contrast Table: Top Cold Air Intakes for Dodge Ram

BrandDesignBest 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 selecting a cold air intake for a Dodge Ram, there are numerous factors to consider beyond just horse power numbers:

1. Filter Type: Oiled vs. Dry

  • Oiled Filters: Use a light coat of oil to trap tiny debris. They generally offer slightly better airflow but require a specific cleaning procedure (wash, dry, re-oil).
  • Dry Filters: Use several layers of synthetic media. They are easier to maintain (typically just blow them out with compressed air or vacuum) and are often chosen by owners who drive in very dirty or desert conditions.

2. Housing Style

  • Closed Box: Best for heat insulation. Perfect for off-roading where mud or water splashing might happen.
  • Open Element: Best for engine noise. These systems look "cooler" to many enthusiasts however can draw in warmer air if the heat protecting is not perfectly sealed versus the hood.

In states with strict emissions laws, such as California, an intake must have a CARB (California Air Resources Board) Executive Order number to be street legal. Owners should confirm that the particular package is 50-state legal before purchasing.


Setup Overview

Among the reasons the cold air intake is a favorite amongst Dodge Ram owners is the ease of installation. It is typically considered a "bolt-on" adjustment that requires only basic hand tools.

Typical Installation Steps:

  1. Disconnect the Battery: Safety initially; disconnect the unfavorable terminal.
  2. Remove the Factory Intake: Loosen the tube secures on the throttle body and remove the bolts holding the stock air box in location.
  3. Transfer the Sensor: Most Rams utilize an IAT (Intake Air Temperature) sensing unit. This must be carefully removed from the old tube and positioned into the new one.
  4. Install the New Housing: Mount the new air box or heat guard utilizing the existing factory installing points.
  5. Connect the Intake Tube: Connect the new tube to the throttle body and the air box utilizing 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 void my Dodge Ram warranty?

Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer can not void your entire warranty merely because you installed an aftermarket part. However, if the intake itself triggers a failure (such as an over-oiled filter harming a sensor), that specific repair will not be covered.

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

A lot of modern Dodge Ram computer systems (ECUs) are capable of getting used to the increased airflow of a CAI immediately. While a custom tune can assist optimize the gains, it is not needed for the truck to run securely and effectively.

How often should I clean up the filter?

For highway driving, every 30,000 to 50,000 miles is standard. If the truck is used for "workhorse" tasks, such as on construction sites or dirt roads, the filter should be checked every 10,000 miles.

Does a cold air intake enhance gas mileage?

In theory, yes. By lowering  Dodge Truck Accessories  required for the engine to pull air in, pumping losses are lowered. Nevertheless, lots of motorists find their MPG drops at first because they tend to accelerate more aggressively to hear the new engine sound.


Upgrading a Dodge Ram with a cold air intake is a satisfying project for any truck lover. Whether choosing for the high-end engineering of aFe Power, the legendary dependability of K&N,&or the well balanced value of S&B,&the advantages are tangible. Not just does the truck acquire a more commanding existence on the road through its boosted sound, but the improvements in throttle reaction and horsepower make for a considerably much better driving experience. When picking, owners need to prioritize their particular needs-- whether that be optimal filtration for dirty tracks or optimum air flow for the drag strip-- to ensure they get the most out of their RAM.