Subject says it all. Will the K&N air filter give me a HP boost? I know that the CAI gives about 10hp and adds noise to the engine but it is that much better than just upgrading your air filter? I don't think my dad wants me to put a CAI in, but he wouldnt mind me puttin in a K&N Air Filter so if that will give me a minor performance boost I'd definately do it. K&N Filter roughly $40? and CAI roughly $150? correct?

 

I put a K&N in mine, and I think it feels a little better. Maybe that's just wishful thinking. Since your dad may not like the idea of a CAI go for the K&N. It should be an easy sell, because its life is much longer than a standard air filter.

 

There is a difference between the CAI and K&N in terms of power and performance. I just installed the AEM CAI on my CL type S last night. today I had more of a chance to test things out and there is a difference that can be felt. I previously had the K&N panel filter. The sound, as you mentioned, is much different. Not so much at low-RPM cruising speeds, but when you drop it down a couple of gears into VTEC range, you'll know there's something going on under the hood.

If you'd like, you can read my review on the CL forum (www.acura-cl.com). I'm hoping even more of a change can be felt when the weather and humidity start to change as we move toward fall.

 

I've had mine for a week now. It seems to be a little quicker, but it could be my imagination. I drive a mixture of city and highway and noticed that my gas mileage jumped from 22mpg to 24mpg, but it's also cooled off quite a bit so the AC has been on less.

I guess the jury is still out. I'll have to give it more time before I make a final decision.

Mine cost $37 at a local shop. It was in stock and I had no problems putting it in.

I think I did notice a power jump when I put the K&N sticker on the air box.

Kidding of course.

 

will the K&N keep the noise level down??? or will it increase it like the AEM CAI???...

 

With just the K&N in place you won’t hear much of a difference. If you take the resonator box off then the difference will be much more noticeable.

 

Sorry for the dumb question, and...
I suppose it will be obvious when I go look at the air filter, but where (and what) exactly is the resonator? Does it serve any purpose other than quieting the engine?

 

Excellent question! The short answer is YES! It can also increase air flow, contrary to most people's understanding. Turbulent air is not optimal for air flow. A resonantor can "tune" the frequency to eliminate noise, and also reduce or eliminate turbulence, or drive it up or down to a frequency that minimizes bad effects.

The physical principles were developed by Helmholtz, and practically demonstrated (and still used) in models called Helmholtz resonators.

Loudspeakers with vents (ports) owe much of their efficiency and bass extension to these principles.

Do a web serach on Helmholtz to find a layman's deeper explanation.