Has anyone noticed an improvement in air flow, performance and/or gas mileage with the simple replacement of the OEM air filter in the Z06 with a K&N filter?

I don't want to spend the $200-$400 in money (+ $400-$500 for tuning), time, "installation" aggravation, nor experience possible engine error codes nor the possibility of non-compliance with smog-pollution laws at annual inspection time.

I see the logic and benefit of various hot air/cold air retrofits by the various manufacturers, but am hesitant for the aforementioned reasons.

I'm not a "racer"... just a car nut (with a 1991 BMW 850I (V12) and a 1999 Porsche Carrera C2) who enjoys the remarkable torque, horspower and "different characteristics" of the phenomenal Z06. High speed cruising across 20-50-100 mile stretches of lonely, desolate and empty desert highway, a controlled but fast trip through the twists and turns of Nevada, Arizona or Utah "canyon country", or an occasional "zip" from 0-60 on suburban streets is about the extent of my venturous nature.

So, has anyone noticed a recognizeable improvement with the simple install of a $51 K&N filter... and maybe used the simple zip tie mod for their more adventurous weekend or evening outings?

Zoom... zoom... zoom!!!!

 

I fouled my OEM filter durring a very heavy pine pollen road trip. My check engine light came on, and I called a local dealer as I was traveling. HE told me to check the air filter, and it was filty with pine pollen from the trip. I cleaned it off the best I could and cleared the light. When I got home, I put in the K & N filter. I noticed no differance, in HP, torq, of MPG. I used mine for less than 500 miles and put on a VaraRam. I would give you the K&N if you where close. Ever come to NC? I wish it fit the VaraRam as the filter it comes with is very high flowing but it does not look like it filters the air well. I do still use the K&N cleaner and oiler. My .02$ is go for it for the added protect or piece of mind.
Dave

 

This type of change is probably going to result in a gain of about -3 to +3 HP. You are not going to feel that. After reading your post I think that you should stick with the stock airbox and filter.

 

Replace with the cool blue filter from I believe Accell. Works great and cheaper than k/n. About 35 bucks.

 

You do not need to tune a car just putting in a filter. Find one you like, one that will do the job, increased air flow with good filter abilites and stick it in. I use a K&N other use Accel or Road Hog. You can check out what you want then it takes 5 mins to install and no retune needed.

 

I put the K & N filter in and opened up the stock Z06 airbox lid a bit and did not notice a SOTP difference. If there is a gain, it is probably in the single digit HP, not noticeable to the average human rear. The stock airbox must flow pretty good. I did the same thing on an LS1 Camaro SS (K & N and opened up the air box) and did notice a very nice gain. So probably more to do with how restrictive the stock piece is.

 

Stick with stock then.....If you aren't looking for every scrap of HP from the engine, then don't waste money on the "performance" parts of this nature.

Air filters such as the K&N are appealing because they are inexpensive compared to other alternatives, but does the cost justify the gains?? I dunno, still running stock myself but will be putting on the K&N FIPK unit I bought used from a forum member. I wanted some gains, not much money and easily reversible if the "smog *****" deem it inappropriate. I could just as easily gone with the Blackwing unit.