How to Compare Cold Air Intake and Short Ram Intake Systems

A short ram intake system is one of the most simple and basic types of cold air intake systems. With an appearance like a simple metal pipe with an attached air filter, a short ram intake system lowers the temperature inside an engine compartment by injecting colder air into the engine block. Short ram intakes are not necessarily beneficial to every type of vehicle, so you should compare all intake systems before making a purchasing decision.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Compare conventional cold intake systems with a short ram intake for use on vehicles that have turbochargers and superchargers. A short ram intake system may be preferred for use on cars that use these methods of forced induction, since other types of cold intake systems cannot compete with the higher engine temperatures. A short ram intake can apply cooling closer to the engine block, since the distance of the piping is reduced.

2. Choose a cold air intake system based upon the use of mass airflow sensors in your particular vehicle. A short ram intake system may be incompatible with the use of certain sensors due to the increase in turbulence through shorter distances. This can cause the airflow sensors to react negatively to such vibrations, producing improper readings that can cause the temperature in your engine compartment to rise.

3. Listen to the exhaust note of the engine when you compare a short ram intake system to other types of cold intakes. Short ram intake systems can produce louder engine noises, which could violate local ordinances in your area. While you may find this characteristic desirable, you may want to consider the effect a louder intake system will have on your neighbors when you roll into your driveway late at night.

4. Compare the ease of installation when you look at a short ram intake system. Most short ram intakes are available in a kit form, with all of the mounting hardware included. In some cases, a short ram intake system can be mounted in your car in well under an hour, and the installation is easy enough for even inexperienced mechanics.

5. Check with the manufacturer of your car when you compare cold intake systems with a short ram intake installation. It is possible to void the warranty of your car by installing certain aftermarket products, so you will need to find out what type of cold air intake is recommended for your particular vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• When used with a forced induction engine, a short ram intake may produce a loud hissing noise when the boost is increased.