Vararam quality
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 116
Likes: 0
From: Salida Colorado
Vararam quality
A mechanic told me that i should not install a vararam CAI i purchased because it will allow sand into the engine because it does not seal "as good as the factory" is this true? if so, what can i do to prevent this?
Thanks,
Swifty
Thanks,
Swifty
Last edited by ryan.swift; Nov 18, 2006 at 05:13 AM.
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 14,285
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From: Houston, Tx Got traction?
CI 5-6-7-8-9-10 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '07-'08
Yea the vararam is lacking in quality compared to other filters. IF you spend your time, you can adjust it so it will fit correctly, however this takes time and a perfectionist.
If you're looking for a quick and easy install, look else where. If you're looking for the best performing intake, you might consider the vararam.
If you're looking for a quick and easy install, look else where. If you're looking for the best performing intake, you might consider the vararam.
Race Director
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 15,323
Likes: 2,077
From: Guelph, Ontario
Originally Posted by ryan.swift
A mechanic told me that i should not install a vararam CAI i purchased because it will allow sand into the engine because it does not seal "as good as the factory" is this true? if so, what can i do to prevent this?
Mine seals just fine, I get my oil analyzed after each oil change, and one of the things they can detect is if too much dirt is getting into the engine.
I too was a bit worried that I'd see a higher amount of dirt get into the engine, but after getting back my first oil analysis after the installation, I'm no longer worried. My engine wear numbers are still very low and so is the amount of dirt getting into the oil.
Just be sure the filter is well sealed off when you install the Vararam, with no open gaps. That holds true for any aftermarket air induction though.
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 124,322
Likes: 283
From: .... NJ
Cruise-In VII Veteran
St. Jude Donor '05 thru '19
Originally Posted by jdmvette
if you're looking for the highest quality-best performing intake, check out the callaway honker.
I am thinking of replacing my vararam with a honker. If the honker was out when I got my vararam I would have picked the honker.
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Drifting
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,799
Likes: 1
From: Dayton Ohio
Originally Posted by rws.1
Ignore the mechanic and use Cajundude 's install instruction in the archives...
A newer unit will seal just fine with the gray or (better) green filter. They may not be the eye candy that many want under their hood, but it works. Most of the bad reputation they received was when they came with a cheaper foam filter. When installing mine, I also followed Chuckser's advice and left the inside bolts out of the fog light shrouds. It allowed me to align everything much easier.
Give it a try. You'll love it.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 23,283
Likes: 906
From: Lake Elsinore, CA
Below is a shot of my throttle body after several thousand miles with my Vararam. There was no dust, residue nor any other dirt or sand on it when I wiped it with a clean rag after taking this shot so you tell me. I have the original Vararam with the foam Baja filter.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,060
Likes: 291
From: Pasco WA
I just got a Vararam, but havent' yet installed it. I have put it together since I was kind of worried after hearing years of bitching about the quality. OK, it's alot of plastic ducting, not German steel, but still appears to seal well, and be of sturdy construction. I'm not disappointed. I got it from a vendor here, Corvette Garage. First rate service, and on sale, too.
Race Director
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 15,323
Likes: 2,077
From: Guelph, Ontario
Originally Posted by TomZ
The stock filter works fine for me - no worries and I've got plenty of power.