S&b Vs K&n Ram 1500: Which Cold Air Intake Delivers The Most Power?

What To Know

  • Two of the most popular cold air intake systems for the Ram 1500 are the S&B Cold Air Intake System and the K&N Cold Air Intake System.
  • The S&B Cold Air Intake System and the K&N Cold Air Intake System both feature a high-flow air filter, a mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube, and a heat shield.
  • The S&B Cold Air Intake System uses a heat shield that is made of a combination of aluminum and plastic, while the K&N Cold Air Intake System uses a heat shield that is made of a single piece of aluminum.

When it comes to upgrading your Ram 1500’s performance, one of the most popular modifications is a cold air intake. A cold air intake system replaces the restrictive factory air box with a less restrictive intake that allows more cold air to reach the engine. This can result in increased horsepower, torque, and fuel economy.

Two of the most popular cold air intake systems for the Ram 1500 are the S&B Cold Air Intake System and the K&N Cold Air Intake System. Both systems are well-made and offer similar benefits, but there are a few key differences between them.

In this blog post, we’ll compare the S&B Cold Air Intake System and the K&N Cold Air Intake System to help you decide which one is right for you. We’ll discuss the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each system, as well as their respective prices.

Features

The S&B Cold Air Intake System and the K&N Cold Air Intake System both feature a high-flow air filter, a mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube, and a heat shield. However, there are a few key differences between the two systems.

  • Air Filter: The S&B Cold Air Intake System uses a dry air filter, while the K&N Cold Air Intake System uses an oiled air filter. Dry air filters are generally easier to maintain, but they can be less efficient than oiled air filters.
  • Intake Tube: The S&B Cold Air Intake System uses a mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube, while the K&N Cold Air Intake System uses a roto-molded plastic intake tube. Mandrel-bent aluminum intake tubes are generally more durable than roto-molded plastic intake tubes, but they can also be more expensive.
  • Heat Shield: The S&B Cold Air Intake System uses a heat shield that is made of a combination of aluminum and plastic, while the K&N Cold Air Intake System uses a heat shield that is made of a single piece of aluminum. The S&B Cold Air Intake System’s heat shield is generally more effective at blocking heat from the engine, but it can also be more difficult to install.

Benefits

Both the S&B Cold Air Intake System and the K&N Cold Air Intake System offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Increased Horsepower: Both systems can increase horsepower by up to 15 horsepower.
  • Increased Torque: Both systems can increase torque by up to 20 pound-feet.
  • Improved Fuel Economy: Both systems can improve fuel economy by up to 2 miles per gallon.
  • Better Throttle Response: Both systems can improve throttle response, making your Ram 1500 more responsive to your inputs.
  • Aggressive Sound: Both systems can produce a more aggressive sound, giving your Ram 1500 a more sporty feel.

Drawbacks

There are a few potential drawbacks to installing a cold air intake system on your Ram 1500, including:

  • Increased Noise: Cold air intake systems can be louder than the factory air box, especially at high RPMs.
  • Reduced Engine Protection: Cold air intake systems can allow more dirt and debris to enter the engine, which can lead to wear and tear.
  • Potential Warranty Issues: Installing a cold air intake system may void your Ram 1500’s warranty.

Prices

The S&B Cold Air Intake System typically costs between $200 and $300, while the K&N Cold Air Intake System typically costs between $250 and $350.

Which One is Right for You?

The S&B Cold Air Intake System and the K&N Cold Air Intake System are both excellent choices for Ram 1500 owners who are looking to improve their truck’s performance. The S&B Cold Air Intake System is a good choice for those who are looking for a high-quality system that is easy to install. The K&N Cold Air Intake System is a good choice for those who are looking for a system that produces a more aggressive sound.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which cold air intake system is right for you is to consider your own needs and budget.

Alternatives to S&B and K&N Cold Air Intake Systems

If you’re not sure whether the S&B or K&N Cold Air Intake System is right for you, there are a few other options available. Here are a few of the most popular alternatives:

  • AFE Power Cold Air Intake System: The AFE Power Cold Air Intake System is a high-quality system that offers similar benefits to the S&B and K&N systems. It typically costs between $250 and $350.
  • Volant Cold Air Intake System: The Volant Cold Air Intake System is another high-quality system that offers similar benefits to the S&B and K&N systems. It typically costs between $200 and $300.
  • Air Raid Cold Air Intake System: The Air Raid Cold Air Intake System is a good choice for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option. It typically costs between $150 and $200.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which cold air intake system is better, S&B or K&N?

A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best cold air intake system for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, both the S&B and K&N Cold Air Intake Systems are excellent choices, and they both offer a number of benefits.

Q: How much horsepower can I expect to gain from a cold air intake system?

A: Most cold air intake systems can increase horsepower by up to 15 horsepower. However, the actual amount of horsepower you gain will depend on a number of factors, including the type of cold air intake system you choose, the condition of your engine, and the modifications you’ve made to your truck.

Q: How much torque can I expect to gain from a cold air intake system?

A: Most cold air intake systems can increase torque by up to 20 pound-feet. However, the actual amount of torque you gain will depend on a number of factors, including the type of cold air intake system you choose, the condition of your engine, and the modifications you’ve made to your truck.