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I just bought a 2001 Vette and want to upgrade the stock air filter. I don't want to spend a fortune but want to improve performance and looks. What would you recommend?
My take?... Stay with what was designed by the guys at C5!
Yes, this is the right thing to do. Now, if you are adding headers, performance tune, bigger TB.....etc. THEN consider a change. You stock set up flows more than enough air.
Some of those aftermarket intake filters/housings are more attractive than the stock ones, but that’s about where the benefit ends. A stock Z06 air box with a good paper filter has been flowed at 1000 CFM. That’s good for about 800 hp, so I’ll suggest some alternative methods of draining your wallet.
For improved looks have your car professionally detailed and ceramic coated, add some cool wheels, lower the suspension, or get your windows tinted. For better performance get lower rear gears (the very best bang for buck investment), a cam, headers, and a tune.
I went with the zip tie mod for a start because I couldn't decide if it was worth spending the money on a performance intake. I used a brand new wix when I did it. I've read a lot of arguments where aftermarket may not make any more power but they do look better. I think I'm going to get a K&N panel filter to use with the zip tie mod. Stock airbox sucks, z06 box is better, depends on why your doing it and what your budget is. For what it's worth I have long tubes, X-pipe, cat-back, tune etc.
I agree with others that there are much better things you could do to the car. You won't really notice a difference from a CAI in an otherwise stock car. My suggestion would be to put that money towards upgraded suspension parts such as C6 Z06 shocks, and C6 Z51 sway bars. It won't give the car any more power, but will significantly improve it's handling. This will allow you to actually use the power that you already have. If you REALLY want a CAI, I would look at a Vararam or Honker. The Vararam is known to have some fitment issues, but creates a ram air intake that will actually give you a few more horses at high speed.
Wow, lots of great input. Based on what I am hearing, I think I will hold off on air intake for a bit, but when I do it I think I will go with the Blackwing due to the ease, looks, and benefits.
What do you think about replacing the solid plastic around the fog lights with Cold Air And Fog Light Front Screens?
A mechanic from Corvette Connection recommended it. Below is a description I fond online for it.
Increase performance in your 1997-2004 Corvette and let cooler air reach your intake with this pair of Cold Air and Fog light Front Screens. It'll optimize horsepower by using the Twin Flow Air Intake or a modified stock airbox. The screens mount where the fog lamps are and it closes the existing area to fresh air from the outside because the factory part makes the car breathe in hot air from the engine. Fresh air will instead enter the area that includes the air cleaner assembly, which will increase the performance of your car.
What do you think about replacing the solid plastic around the fog lights with Cold Air And Fog Light Front Screens?
A mechanic from Corvette Connection recommended it. Below is a description I fond online for it.
Increase performance in your 1997-2004 Corvette and let cooler air reach your intake with this pair of Cold Air and Fog light Front Screens. It'll optimize horsepower by using the Twin Flow Air Intake or a modified stock airbox. The screens mount where the fog lamps are and it closes the existing area to fresh air from the outside because the factory part makes the car breathe in hot air from the engine. Fresh air will instead enter the area that includes the air cleaner assembly, which will increase the performance of your car.
I installed those in my 2003 vert and they seemed to work well. No negative aspects for me. In fact, I’m going to install some on my 2004 once the nuclear season in FL is over, along with opening up the driver side fender vent. My primary interest was/is some cooler air for the engine compartment.
Some posts have complained about increased dirt/dust in the engine bay. I didn’t have that problem, so it may be related to the driving environment.
07-02-2022, 12:48 PM
C5 Upgrade Stock Air Filter
