Ram air vs. open element

[badmix]

I currently have an open element air filter on my Blazer with a K&N prefilter thingy around it. Ive been thinking of going with a dual ram air utilizing the stock pieces up in the grill and running hose to a dual ram air filter system. The kit I can get will cost $250bux, this includes the complete dual ram air filter assembly, hoses and clamps. I dont want to junk yard or piece this together, I can do the one stop shopping for these parts. But does the dual ram air have major benes over the open element.

1) Will HP increase or decrease with Ram air over open element. There is less surface area for air, but the air coming in should be cooler

2) Ram air vs open element for off roading applications such as some water (not enuff to need snorkel), dust, rain, mud etc. Im running clutch fan if that matters for slinging dirt and mud inside the engine bay.

3) Will the air indeed be cool coming thru an ram air design? Wont the air filter housing be heated up by the engine bay and thus heating the air coming in?

Thanks

 

[bigblock72]

If you use a an airbox similar to what ramairbox.com sells you'll only gain power and consistency. I don't remember exactly what the cost is on their boxes but it would be worth getting one. You would probably be able to reuse your existing 14" base, element and lid which would save you a few bucks. Just run dryer duct from the rad support to the box.
Pullling air off of the front side of the radiator will always be cooler than sucking hot air off of the fan. The air box is fiberglass and won't absorb much heat.
If you get into a wet or muddy situation just simply slide the hose off of the airbox.

 

[K5dreamer]

the open air element is really just for hot rods and t-buckets. its probly the worst way to feed air to an engine that has a hood over it. all youre grabbing is hot air right off the engine. the cold air setup will make more power (even if its only 5 hp), it will run better, and yes the air through the ducting will be colder than what comes in the open air element. dont think so? turn on your stove, try to hold your hand over it, now put your hand inside a ducting tube, and i bet it dosnt feel so hot. now to be even more accurate, hook a fan up to blow air through that tube with your hand in it. see where im goin with that?

 

[Big Blzn]

I just posted this same question earlier this week with not much feedback. I think it would be a great idea. Check out my second post in the attached thread. I think they would work great and look pretty damn sweet as well. When I get time I'm going to do it. Her you go.

http://www.coloradok5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=209784

 

[ntsqd]

What they all said, but I'll add that the stock TBI bits that go on the core support are pretty well thot out. Short of major mudding or deep water crossings I think they'd serve nicely.

 

[WRENCH-HEAD]

I have been running the ramair box unit for about 5 years now and have not looked back. I love it. The problem I have now is that I upgraded to an 89 to 91 grill which has no provisions for the ducts. I am now trying to figure out where to install them, but I am going to wait until after the 454 swap.

-Alex

 

[Big Blzn]

I have been running the ramair box unit for about 5 years now and have not looked back. I love it. The problem I have now is that I upgraded to an 89 to 91 grill which has no provisions for the ducts. I am now trying to figure out where to install them, but I am going to wait until after the 454 swap.

-Alex

Any pics you could post? I'd love to see what you did. Pics Please.

 

[badmix]

Any pics you could post? I'd love to see what you did. Pics Please.

Id like to see pics as well. Come on, ya know ya wanna show em. lol