Will a missing cold air intake make the engine run warmer? That is, the air intake is basically hot air off of the engine and not from outside.

 

I would guess no as warm air has less O2. So the Air/Fuel would be richer and a richer burn will not make the engine run as hot if you are in open loop.

Of course the computer may change the Injector pulse as to the information it is getting from the O2 sensor if you are in closed loop. You would also have less power.

 

Warmer air reduces power output as it is less dense. Colder air being more dense makes more power.

So the warmer the air the harder the engine has to work to produce the same power.

Now is under hood air warm enough to increase engine temp, I say no but it may be pointing to an existing cooling issue.

 

Hey Pstrung, I love the picture of the 56 Meteor. I remember seeing these up in Newfoundland when I was a kid while spending my summers there. I really remember the Tri-Colors that the hardtops and sedans use to have. yeah!, you should of, not sold it !!

 

I was bought by a guy in Halifax so it is closer! Unfortunately the money talked!