Original CAI versus open element
#1
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
Original CAI versus open element
Hey everyone
As some of you guys know I was planning to install an open element on my 77 L48.
But after some research I'm hesitating between the CAI on my L48 (one duct) and an open element.
The open element looks better and I think it has a better 'flow'. The original CAI has only one duct and therefore a less efficiënt 'flow', but on the otherside it ensures that less warm air enters.
What do you guys think?
What is 'the best' air cleaner choice for an L48 (with performer 2101, original Qjet, longtube Hooker headers and 2.5" SS true dual exhaust, no cat)?
As some of you guys know I was planning to install an open element on my 77 L48.
But after some research I'm hesitating between the CAI on my L48 (one duct) and an open element.
The open element looks better and I think it has a better 'flow'. The original CAI has only one duct and therefore a less efficiënt 'flow', but on the otherside it ensures that less warm air enters.
What do you guys think?
What is 'the best' air cleaner choice for an L48 (with performer 2101, original Qjet, longtube Hooker headers and 2.5" SS true dual exhaust, no cat)?
Last edited by Novusuhu; 04-25-2018 at 06:03 AM.
#2
I do not know what kind of look you are after. I actually do not like the open filter look so I bought this. A member on this forum sell these. I am going to use a plain lid on mine and paint it all semi gloss black. This is the best cold air intake I found. I do not like the ones that run down low somewhere with a open filter on them.
#4
I was going to use the above stock system that came on my 80 but I am installing a new aluminum radiator with fans. So did not want this system because the stock fan was gone and the curve of the oem system (to go over the fan) was not needed. The oem is the only way to go when using the stock fan. I just do not like the look of the open filter while others love it.
#6
Le Mans Master
This is a heated ( no pun intended) subject. Do you research and make your own decision. I personally use the stock system modified so that it draws only cold air. Since the attached thread I have added a second cold air duct on the opposite side of the air cleaner can.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...or-77-and.html
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...or-77-and.html
#7
Drifting
This is a heated ( no pun intended) subject. Do you research and make your own decision. I personally use the stock system modified so that it draws only cold air. Since the attached thread I have added a second cold air duct on the opposite side of the air cleaner can.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...or-77-and.html
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...or-77-and.html
#8
Melting Slicks
I have tried both systems - stock CAI and 3" open element. I even went so far as to modify a stock air cleaner housing to fit over a Holley. I found better performance with the open element. FWIW. I also have the cold air box for the L88 hood. I'm hoping to get it installed someday.
#9
Drifting
Member Since: Aug 2015
Location: NSW, Australia
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You could always feed cold air to the open element... I really must finish and paint this and take some more pics, this was during mock up. I like the stock arrangement, but it's needlessly restrictive, particularly if you have electric fans and fuel injection.
#11
Dementer sole survivor
Member Since: Oct 2015
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2020 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
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drop base L88 style
modified the CAI to set further back for the small block. I've since done away with the spark arrestor, Ive read on here about a significant air flow blockage/ HP reduction with it
#12
Drifting
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