Dodge Ram 2002-2008: The Ultimate Air Intake Guide
Wouldn't you like more power without spending too much money. Well, the intake kits in this article offer you a solid bang for your back. Read and see which intake is perfect for you. Also, learn how to install it on your Dodge Ram.
This article applies to the Dodge Ram 3rd Generation (2002-2008).
The air intake system on your truck is one of the most important components responsible for maintaining the health of your engine. It filters out debris, dust, or even bugs from getting into your engine. The air flows through the air box and into the intake. When the system is clogged, the engine loses the air required to run smoothly, often causing stuttering or idle issues. Stock units are also restrictive, using smaller tubes and a series of baffles to restrict air flow (noise) and making use of an filter that has to be replace every 25,000 miles. Luckily, you can install an aftermarket intake system with reusable air filter just by following the instructions listed below.
Table of Contents
Air Filters Review
Your stock air intake system is restrictive; unfortunately, this design is usually due to saving production costs. The stock design is, in itself, reliable, but it does not allow an engine to breathe at its full potential, letting usable power sit dormant. However, installing an aftermarket unit allows you to widen the path in which air goes into the system. More air equates to more power being released and at the same time, better efficiency. The three air intake systems listed here are some of the best units offered for your Dodge Ram. Read and see which system is the one for you!
Please note that the prices listed here reflect the average for a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 and are subject to change.
K&N |
Volant |
Airaid | |
|---|---|---|---|
Price |
$275 | $260 | $385 |
Quoted Power Gains |
8.63 hp | 18 hp | 18 hp |
Pipe Construction |
Crosslink Nylon | Crosslink Nylon | Crosslink Nylon |
Filter Lifespan |
Reusable | Reusable | Reusable |
Warranty |
10-year | Lifetime | 1-year |
Best Value: Volant
K&N
Price – $275
Quoted Power Gains – 8.63 hp
Pipe Construction – Crosslink Nylon
Filter Lifespan – Reusable
Warranty – 10-year
K&N is a household name for many auto enthusiasts. These filters have a long history of being reliable and reusable for the life of the vehicle. This intake kit is no different, and packs a vehicle specific design for your chassis. Installation takes under 30 minutes and maintenance only requires you to check the filter to clean every year. This design also improves the overall fuel economy, while releasing an average of 9 hp. Recommended for those who want a reliable and cost efficient intake system.
Volant
Price – $260
Quoted Power Gains – 18 hp
Pipe Construction – Crosslink Nylon
Filter Lifespan – Reusable
Warranty – Lifetime
Volant differs from Airaid and K&N since it uses a closed-box system, much like the one being replaced. However, instead of using small sized tubes, the pipes are larger and connect via a silicone sleeve. The closed-box system keeps the air colder as it enters into the engine, producing more power. Volant estimates up 18 hp is gained using their system. The air filter is also reusable and made to last as long as it remains on the vehicle. Recommended for those who want peak performance.
Airaid
Price – $385
Quoted Power Gains – 18 hp
Pipe Construction – Crosslink Nylon
Filter Lifespan – Reusable
Warranty – 1-year
Airaid offers the most expensive kit, but it is not without its merits. Although this unit does not use a box, it has a plastic shield the separates the filter from the rest of the engine, which helps protect it against heat. Airaid claims the filter produces up to 18 hp and a whopping 29 ft-tq. Add that to its nice deep sounding tone and you have an excellent purchase. Recommended for those looking for something more powerful than the K&N system.
Pro Tip
Air intake kits are a good step in increasing the overall power output of your engine. However, if you are interested in using the full potential of your stock engine, then it would also be beneficial for you to add an aftermarket exhaust system.
How to Install an Aftermarket Intake
After choosing the air intake that is right for you, you can install it. Here is the step-by-step guide for installing an aftermarket intake to your Dodge Ram.
Materials Needed
- Phillips screwdriver
- Air filter intake kit
- 10mm Socket
Step 1 – Locate the stock air box and remove it
Open the hood and look for the filter box. It is impossible to miss; use Figure 1 as a point of reference. Loosen the screws securing the flex hose and remove the air box assembly.
Figure 1. The large plastic air box is what your are looking for. 
Figure 2. Loosen and flex hose clamps. 
Figure 3. Remove the air box.
Step 2 – Swap out mounting grommets with stock box and aftermarket unit
On the bottom of your new air filter box will be four holes. Remove the mounting grommets off of the old unit, and install them into the new box. Then, position the new box into the mounting location.
Figure 4. Install the grommets into the new filter box. 
Figure 5. Install the new box.
Step 3 – Remove the stock resonator box
- Loosen the 10mm bolts holding the resonator box in place.
- Unplug the air temperature sensor.
- Remove the resonator box.
Figure 6. Remove the resonator box bolts.
Step 4 – Install the new filter assembly
- Replace the old rubber coupling with the packaged silicone adapter.
- Install the new air intake piping and connect it to the silicone adapter.
- Connect the other end of the pipe into the air filter box.
- Connect the air temperature sensor.
- Mount the new air filter into the end of the pipe, inside the box.
- Start your engine up!
Figure 7. Install the silicone coupling. 
Figure 8. Install the new intake pipe. 
Figure 9. Mount the new air filter to the system.
Featured Video: How to Install Cold Air Intake
Related Discussions
- Cold Air Intakes - DodgeForum.com
- Installed Airaid MXP - Lost Power - DodgeForum.com
- Volant Cold Air Intakes vs Other CAIs? - DodgeForum.com
- CAI Worth the Price? - DodgeForum.com
