intake question

[patriot9879]

I just joined here a little bit ago. I have a 98 K1500 Z71. I have spent the last few weeks reading up as much as I can, but I still have a basic question. There is alot of discussion about which intake kits are best, and there is also a lot of discussion about the benfits of cold air and such. My purpose with this truck is to maximize the everyday performance and hopefully increase the fuel mileage. So, my question...What is the actual difference in either power or fuel mileage that I can expect from either a K&N type "cold air" system or a simple K&N type drop in filter. I ask this, because I have observed that the filter in my truck is fully enclosed and the box actually pulls air from behind the fender (just like the aftermarket stuff does). Any thoughts?

[97Chebbie]

The stock airbox has a pretty good design, but the actual intake tube that goes into the throttle body is restrictive. Both K&N and Volant are good, but I got the Volant because the build quality seemed better than the K&N. Also, some people have complained about fitment problems on the 5.7L engines (ie. the intake moves around on the engine or doesn't stay on well). Here's some pics.

http://www.fullsizechevy.com/gallery/data/500/10319engine_side-med.JPG
http://www.fullsizechevy.com/gallery/data/500/10319engine_front-med.JPG

[98cepektahoe]

a drop in filter wont do much for you if thats what youre asking.

[calzoneguy]

I had the K&N on my 2000 OBS 5.7 for about a year. Where I was satisfied with the way my truck performed, I was NOT satisfied with the fit. The box was always moving a bit, many times I had to retighten the fittings, and the last time on along side the highway in the rain....that did it for me, I sold it and bought the VOLANT. Great made product, same gains on performance, great fit!

Also, if you going to do a body lift, I dont think you can use the K&N, however there appears to be enough flex in the Volant to do so.....Im not positive, just an observation.

[CKTA]

Shameless plug......

http://www.fullsizechevy.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=76548