Is CAI upgrade really worth it?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 423
Likes: 3
From: GA
Is CAI upgrade really worth it?
Old topic but I have a 10' GS and time to change air filter. Thinking about cold air induction upgrade. For those who have done this mod, was it worth it? Has anyone dyno'ed a stock LS3 after CAI upgrade for proof of any increases? 
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,626
Likes: 195
From: On the east coast we drive until we die
On a stock LS3 with no plans for future mods, in my opinion no it's not worth it. If you don't want to do heavy modifications but want something relatively inexpensive that will still get you a performance improvement, get a tune.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 6,798
Likes: 25
From: Pine Bluff Arkansas
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17-'18-‘19-'20-'21
You have a good system. I would consider opening up the cowling (actually the shroud) a little to let more cool air in, tho.
Last edited by lebvette; Nov 26, 2015 at 11:13 AM.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 14,999
Likes: 200
From: Bay Area Ca.
The tune will do much more and be about the same price.
With an auto it helps loads with the shifting speeds.
Not sure of your areas emission regulations but here the CAI is not legal. Been there done it and back to stock. I do still have a tune though.
You could do the shroud opening trick and still pass emission testing, hard to see the change visual. This will let in more debris into the engine bay area too.
Last edited by Boomer111; Nov 26, 2015 at 11:09 AM.
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Instructor
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 226
Likes: 14
From: Houston TX
I just did the Vararam install. Yes it was worth it and I will be doing more mods. No, install was not the nightmare everyone claimed it to be. Idle is stronger, pulls from a stop with no hesitation or drama. She has a much better high end punch compared to my stock intake with ZR1 filter in it. Couldn't be happier.
Racer
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 396
Likes: 5
From: Liberty Hill TX
Worth it only if you want to lighten your wallet. Other than that the one that came with your car is the best.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 923
Likes: 37
From: Green Bay Wisconsin
