I know this has been BEAT TO DEATH, but looking at installing a Blackwing and wanted opinions. Ruled the Vararam out already...

 

Ive beat this to death myself. After looking at several intakes, price and quality being the determining factor, I went with the Donaldson Blackwing because of Donaldsons reputuation for quality filter products and for the extensive R&D of the filter specifically for Corvette applications. Testing showed that the Blackwing flowed more air than the leading intake filters. Quality, ease of cleaning and price was also factored in. I bought mine used for $100 (looked brand new), and to get more out of the filter, I modified the radiator shroud (similar to the C5R racecar) for more outside ambiant air to the filter. That project took about two hours start to finish with the results being a much cooler running vette,no water ingestion issues, with more power and better mpg. Recently i installed the IceBox cover (strongly suggested with the Blackwing/shroud mod combo) for a more concentrated flow path to the filter. This setup is similar to the higher priced Honker and as effective as the quality challenged VR. IMHO I would start a search for a used Blackwing filter as well as a used power duct,if your duct is OEM. Also the shroud mod because, NO INTAKE that ingests engine air exploits the full capabilities of the filter. The IceBox cover would also be a good idea as well. Buying the parts used saves some nice coin,and the DIY on the shroud mod is an added benefit as well. This is my personal choice that Im happy with and If you decide to go this route or something else is personal choice as well. Good Luck.

 

Anyone else?

 

I don't see how intakes that don't accept air from an outside source (Vararam, Vortex, Honker, etc.) actually do any good. If anyone on here can explain it I'd like to know out of curiosity. I have the Vortex and it's provided some good throttle response, but requires cutting of the shroud which sounds like it wouldn't be your thing. But out of all the "non-ram-air" intakes it seems like a lot people go with the Blackwing.

 

Anyone else?

 

Blackwing is an excellent bang for the buck. The benefit is primarily from being a low-restriction filter vs "cold air", as most aftermarket filters are. The construction quality is quite good and easy to install. Note: As shown in DARRLYSZO6s' pictures, if you can get a so-called "icebox" for it, even better.

Btw, "Donaldson" Co, a very large filter manufacturer, (and originators of the C5 Corvette "Blackwing"), sold all rights to SLP few years back, and that's why you will occasionally hear these filters referred by both names, i.s. "Donaldson" or "SLP". They are the same filter.

HTH

 

1st mod I ever did was the Blackwing, there's definitely an improvement over stock, ran 11.40s eventually, since changed to the Vararam, and more engine mods yet, but no real improvement over the Blackwing that I've found, kinda wish I didn't change....

 

I have the blackwing which was on my car when I bought it.Not sure if any thing else been done to the motor.I changed the front license plat cover and put a screen I place and cut out behind it.that did not work to much air are something car ran like crap.and to cover hole back up.Runs good now.

 

If you have a screenless MAF, put in a screen, open up the license plate opening, its all good.

 

Anybody know if the c6 blackwing will fit a c5?

 

No, it won't.

 

Thanks!

 

I preferred the Vortex unit, but the blackwing is a quality filter, and as described in post #2, you can modify your radiator shroud with the blackwing as well in order to get the same effect as a Vortex setup, Honker setup, etc.

I just liked the look of the Vortex with the clear plastic box showing the filter. IIRC they don't offer it in clear anymore.

Never cared for Vararam given some quality issues, and the absurd PITA install procedure required.

 

When you delete your stock setup, would you sell me one of the black OEM clips that hold the filter cover closed? One tab broke on mine and it won't hold shut.

Dealer has a "filter cover kit" for $100 bucks, I was hoping for something a lot more reasonable.
Thanks.

 

zip tie mod?