Re: The Final Word Cold Air Intake. Does It help produce power ???
After removing my grill for a close look-see, there really isn't a good way to install a true CAI on the xfire, except with a whole lotta' modification. I drove my car around for 3 hours with a Fluke DVM with a K-type thermocouple snaked under the hood and the breather snorkels removed. The TC was placed where the conical filters are usually placed in the pics I've seen. My observations were:
Ambient temp: 76 deg F
1) at idle (Hole Shot) the intake air temp rises quickly to ~145 deg F. I imagine due to the lack of wind (driving) generated cooling.
2) 30 mph. In town cruising. Leveled off at 120 deg F.
3) 55 mph. Local town road. Leveled off at 95 deg F.
4) 75 mph. Interstate. Leveled off at 90 deg F.
I have to agree with most folks here on the Forum:
A CAI on this car would really work better if the filters could be placed in the space between the radiator bulkhead and the grille.
Good luck!