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Step 1
Increase your engine performance by installing a short ram intake system in any car that uses forced induction, such as a supercharger or turbocharger. Since forced induction often heats the air to the point where a traditional cold intake system is useless, the smaller distance created by the short ram intake will be a more effective solution for injecting cooler air into the engine block.
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Step 2
Use a short ram intake system to experience an increase in engine performance in cases where the existing exhaust system restricts air flow. Stock intake pipes can slow a vehicle and reduce horsepower if the diameter of the pipes is not wide enough to process spent fuel. By swapping out the existing air intake system with a short ram intake, you shorten the distance the exhaust has to travel in order to be expelled from the car.
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Step 3
Select a short ram intake system with a heat shield to help reduce engine temperatures even further. A properly designed heat shield, especially those made from carbon fiber, will deliver cooler air to the front and sides of the engine compartment. Note that carbon fiber heat shields can be very expensive, and offer only a marginal improvement in performance over more traditional materials such as metal.
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Step 4
Find the right short ram intake system by choosing one that corresponds to the power curve maintained by your vehicle's onboard computer. Some short ram intake systems may actually reduce the ability of your engine to deliver power at certain speeds if they are not properly mated to your type of car.
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Step 5
Choose a short ram intake system to help increase the gas mileage you get with your car. Even if you don't plan to use a cold air intake to help on the race track, you can also extend the life of your engine, prevent overheating and ensure that your car performs more efficiently with a short ram intake.
