Air Intake
Adding power and performance to your vehicle is vital, and tuning is the best way to do just that. Numerous ways exist to maximize engine performance and vehicle handling, from the affordable to the outrageously expensive. However, adding the right air intake to your ride can have huge benefits. A cold air intake can easily replace that OEM air box and other equipment, providing you with additional horsepower. How does an aftermarket air intake work? Here's a brief rundown (you can find all the parts you need at AndysAutoSport.com).
Airflow is vital to your engine. Without adequate airflow, the fuel provided by your injectors cannot combust. The explosion of combusting fuel (powered by spark and air) is what propels your pistons and makes your motor go 'round. Your vehicle's OEM air intake does not allow your engine to maximize combustion. Remember, all aspects of a car are designed by the manufacturer to provide benefits for the average driver. Since the average driver does not require a boost in horsepower, the OEM air box is more than somewhat restrictive.
However, adding a cold air intake will give you the horsepower boost that you demand. You will find that it also adds a great look under the hood, as well as that very distinctive sound. What is a cold air intake, you ask? It is simply an intake system that replaces your OEM air box, air filter and tubing with an aftermarket device. The cold air intake usually uses a cone shaped filter, though other shapes are available. In addition, the tube for the system is available in a number of different finishes, including aluminum, chrome and even colored options.
How does the intake work? Generally, a cold air intake rests behind the passenger headlight, midway down the engine block. This provides the engine with cold, dense air from outside the engine compartment. Why does the engine need cold, dense air? Hot air expands inside the engine, providing less oxygen for the fuel to mix with; however, cold air is dense, providing more oxygen at a faster rate. This equals more combustion, more fuel burnt per stroke and greater power output from the engine. In short, it adds horsepower. There are other types of intakes available, but a cold air intake is the best option for most tuners, as well as being one of the most affordable ways to increase engine performance.
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