I have a K&N CAI and have not noticed any difference in horsepower at all, though I didn't really expect any. The only really noticeable difference is the deeper engine sound you get when accelerating. However, I would recommend doing some kind of aftermarket intake, whatever you are comfortable with, if you plan on doing an aftermarket exhaust. Just doing one or the other will unbalance the airflow ratio of your engine.

All that being said, the only REAL cold air intake is a snorkel setup. It is the only type of intake that actually draws cold air from outside the engine compartment. Most CAI's, like mine, suck in the same air, at the same temperature, as the stock air boxes, just at a higher volume.

Another big factor in deciding whether or not to install a CAI is what kind of wheeling you plan on doing. If you frequently wheel at above average speeds in heavily wet areas with large puddles, a CAI may not be your best bet due to the increased chance you could end up taking in water and hydro-locking your engine. Luckily, I've had mine for a year without any problems, mostly due to the fact that the K&N CAI comes with a protective metal barrier that encompasses all but the top of the cone filter. With the hood down it creates an air box-like protective enclosure that still allows a much higher volume of air to be sucked into the engine. Of course, there is always a chance, though unlikely, that water could still make it's way into the filter.

Just my two cents. Like anything else, it all comes down to usability and personal preference. Goodluck.

 

The snorkel's advantage with pulling in cold air is probably offset by the increased drag from pulling the air the extra distance through the snorkel.

 

Yeah, that's a great point.

I wish I had kept my stock air box because I would like to grab one of the RR snorkel setups. I think they are the cleanest looking. I can't really get into all the other cumbersome looking setups on the market.

 

Cold Air Intakes Mythbusted - YouTube

 

Predictable results. I think most Jeep owners are opting for snorkels for reasons other than a gain in HP.

 

I agree and have nothing against snorkels. I was just trying to show that cold air intakes are a waste of money. They dont improve fuel economy or increase power

 

Yeah, I completely agree. Unless you have your heart set on the slight difference in sound, there are so many better things you can spend $300 on.

 

I think they are a cool feel good mod! It may not do much, but in theory should, right? And for the most part don't really hurt much. If you have the money, you enjoy modding and working on the jeep then I say have at it, if for nothing else they look cool and have better filters usually. And at least you'll know in your quest for more performance, that was a stone not left unturned.

 

I think the only way(s) your going to get any HP gains is going to be by using a
Super Charger or Blower*. Notice I didn't say Turbo charger. That's bc while
the Turbo would give you gains on the street, while your off-road you would
have to be hammer down through the whole trail in order to build those
ponies up enough to be effective.
At least with a Blower You have the belt drive creating the boost the whole
time the engine is running....whether it be a little at idle or more while trying
to crest a hill....you'll have it.

(*) As a side note;
You could really push your HP gains through the roof if you decide to juice your
intake by shooting some NOX into it, but you had better be prepared for complete
engine detonation if you didn't build your engine to accept this much power.

just my

 

Well in theory the way to make more power is to have cooler more dense air but think about it most cold air intakes still draw air from under the hood which is where hot air is. Unless your drawing air from outside the engine compartment you will never see any increase in power.

The theory of cold air making more power is true but as demonstrated in the video even if you draw air from directly outside the engine bay it will still never create any noticeable difference in power or fuel economy.

As for your comment about the filter being better, I have to personally disagree. What makes them better then a paper element, just because k&n says its better does that make it better? Remember all these companies are trying to take your money and will feed you lies to take it. Watch this video they test drop is
POD Filters Mythbusted - YouTube