AEM Short Ram Air Intakes Offer Simple Performance Upgrades

An AEM short ram air intake eliminates the restrictive factory intake tubes, and sound baffling with a mandrel bent aluminum air intake tube coupled to a free flowing AEM Dryflow synthetic air filter

The goal of an aftermarket air intake system, whether it’s an AEM short ram air intake or an AEM cold air intake, is to increase power by reducing air intake restriction and turbulence. An aftermarket air intake system typically uses a larger diameter air intake tube than what comes from the factory. Larger diameter air intake tubing with smooth inner walls is capable of delivering a greater volume of air with less turbulence. When larger diameter tubing is matched with a performance air filter, such as an AEM Dryflow filter, the end result is an increase in power, improved performance, and better engine sound.

Certain engines designed for peak power near redline, like a Honda VTEC engine; will benefit more from the installation of an AEM short ram air intake

Most often, the greatest point of restriction in the factory intake system is the stock air filter box and the disposable automotive air filter. An AEM short ram air intake eliminates the restrictive factory intake tubes, and sound baffling with a mandrel bent aluminum air intake tube coupled to a free flowing AEM Dryflow synthetic air filter. The performance goal of an AEM short ram air intake system is to deliver as much unrestricted air as the engine can use quickly and with the fewest bends possible.

An AEM short ram air intake usually places the Dryflow synthetic air filter in the same location as the factory air filter box protected from the elements

An AEM short ram air intake system will most often deliver a higher performance increase in the upper RPM range in comparison to an AEM cold air intake. This is a point worth considering if debating between purchasing an AEM short ram air intake and an AEM cold air intake system. Certain driving situations, such as track racing, or engines designed for peak power near redline will benefit more from the installation of an AEM short ram air intake. During testing AEM has found that certain vehicle models and engines only respond well toward an AEM short ram air intake rather than a cold air intake or vice versa. In these instances, AEM will only offer the most favorable style air intake system.

AEM short ram air intake systems use less tubing, fewer brackets, and require less time to develop than cold air intakes which equates to a lower purchase price for the end user

An additional benefit of an AEM short ram air intake versus a cold air intake is ease of installation. Installing an AEM short ram air intake is almost always easier than installing an AEM CAI. An AEM short ram air intake is normally a simple bolt-on upgrade that does not require cutting, drilling, or additional modifications to complete the installation. In conjunction with ease of installation, AEM short ram air intake systems use less aluminum tubing, fewer mounting brackets, and require less time to develop than cold air intakes. This usually results in a lower cost to manufacture and a lower purchase price for the end user. Saving money when purchasing an AEM short ram air intake, versus a complete cold air intake system, is an advantage not to be overlooked.

An AEM short ram air intake makes sense for vehicle owners that drive in areas with high amounts of rainfall. Because traditional cold air intakes relocate the air filter outside of the engine bay, often near the front grill or front wheel, the engine is more susceptible to ingesting water. An AEM short ram air intake usually places the Dryflow synthetic air filter in the same location as the factory air filter box. This is normally a spot high up under the hood of most cars or trucks and is well protected from the elements.

When considering the purchase of an aftermarket air intake system, use the Search by Car or Truck tool to find an AEM air intake system for your vehicle. Check to see if an AEM short ram air intake or AEM CAI is available, and use the information above to determine which style intake is best suited for your intended use and budget.