cutting
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 11,108
Likes: 0
From: Behind The Redwood Curtain, The State of Jefferson
I hear it allows the air to flow more freely. Much the same way an open exhaust could help hp on most cars, opening up the front end so it breathes better can free up some power too. Look at what turbo chargers and super chargers do. The compress air sent into the engine allowing more fuel to be burned, right? That's my impression at least. 
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 1,428
Likes: 1
From: Jacksonville FL
A cut-lid will "marginally" inprove airflow. I have yet to see a dyno sheet that proves it but, from personal experience, mine seemed slightly quicker 0-60. Also you can hear the air rush when you get on it. With the "louvered" I couldn't hear it.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 798
Likes: 116
From: OAKLEY CA
More Power?
I cut out my lid, removed the frisbee, and changed the exhaust from the cat back to a more open system. I can feel the difference, and I like the sound better. I can't say how much more power it has, but it does take off better. It's not a huge difference, but every little bit makes it more enjoyable. To me it was worth it. Just doing the lid by itself without losing the restrictive mufflers and heavy frisbee won't change much. Your year may not have a frisbee, maybe someone else knows.
On my motorcycle I changed the jets, went to a cut out K&N filter and air box, and changed the exhaust to a 2 into 1 Vance and Hines. The difference in power was amazing, top speed increased 15 mph. So I know that improving the air flow can make a dramatic difference in most vehicles if done correctly, without internal engine modifications.
Of course, if you want real power, you need real money. HP costs money.
On my motorcycle I changed the jets, went to a cut out K&N filter and air box, and changed the exhaust to a 2 into 1 Vance and Hines. The difference in power was amazing, top speed increased 15 mph. So I know that improving the air flow can make a dramatic difference in most vehicles if done correctly, without internal engine modifications.
Of course, if you want real power, you need real money. HP costs money.
