just a filter vs. a system

[NC bubba]

I am thinking about getting a better flowing filter or a intake system for my 4.0L Ranger but would like to know if the extra expense of the intake tube is worth any power/economy gains. I know with a system there is a sucking sound and i really don't want that just better performance with the least amount of investment.

[Beechkid]

If you do an online search for “air filter test” there is a lot of very good information. IMHO, the CAI units are NOT WORTH THE $$! Unless you are talking about a system that was specifically designed for a specific application there are very little hp/tq gains actually achieved in a street use vehicle and there are very few docs that these mfg’s can produce that actually show an increase in hp/tq in the power-band range of a relatively stock street vehicle.

I would avoid oil impregnated filters. While they have their purpose in off-road applications, Ford/GM/Dodge all have “watch-out” bulletins where the oil has contaminated intake sensors. - they even have a training video for the techs on this (flatratetech.com) .

If you look at the flow data, WIX HP filters flow 98+% of K&N and have a much smoother flow post filter plus excellent filtering, for a fraction of the price!

Recently, Testand Corporation conducted an ISO standards test on automotive air filters which can be viewed at this link: http://www.dieselbombers.com/chevrol...r-testing.html

[spastik monkey]

A cai kit is only good when you're going to something like a ram air or a true vehicle specific CAI kit. Otherwise, just get a quality aftermarket filter.

[RAPR]

Read this:

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/11...r-air-aid.html

Different engine, same story