Ok, let's just take a look at basic physics.....
The2013 Mustang 5.0 V8, for example if close to stock (assuming 6,800 max rpm& 90% volumetric efficiency- note that is race car spec and likely higherthan reality) can only suck in a maximum of 535 CFM, and the OEM flat panel filter ( 12.375” x 9.675”) will flow 718cfm, ....so how can just a CAI force more air into an engine thatis already injesting everything it can? It can't plan & simple- basic lawsof physics without a forced induction system. What many view as an issue (is the plastic intake tube withits noise canceling design) actually increases air pressure. It is the samehydraulic concept used by fire fighters creating water supply where psi is low.By having the air cross the path at a 90 degree angle, the pressure isincreased proportionally. Fire fighters use what is called a “4-way valve” or“Blake Valve” at the hydrant where the water is cycled through the fire engine(pump) and sent back into the valve crossing the water flow at a 90 degreeangle. In this case it also acts as a sound canceling device! At low speeds,this can reduce the flow a tad (which is what most “feel”), but in terms ofpeak hp/tq, a good high flow filter is all that is needed....again, basicphysics.
There is simply no way any CAI on a relativelystock engine can increase the air flow enough to exceed the ECM’s ability toadjust and maintain the correct fuel mixture. The only reason for the “custom” program to support the CAI is becausethe design is poor resulting in false readings from the air intake sensors, etc….period! The OEM software system is designed to adjust the fuel mixture up to 10%(25% on the 2000+ mod engines).......that’s more than enough to handle fuel mixture adjustments up to 7,000 foot elevation change! (for high elevations 8,000+ there are oem software programs for those specific applications).
This is reinforced by both Arlen Spicer and Ford.....
Testand Corporation conducted an ISO standards test onautomotive air filters which can be viewed at this link:
http://www.dieselbombers.com/chevrolet-diesel-tech-articles/16611-duramax-air-filter-testing.html. All I can say is this explains in detail thereason for
(Arlen)SPICER wrote,
“Now that I am not doing the tests and my objectivity is not necessary, letme explain my motivation. The reason I started this crusade was that I wasseeing people spend a lot of money on aftermarket filters based on the word ofa salesperson or based on the misleading, incomplete or outright deceivinginformation printed on boxes and in sales literature."
In 2012 on jay Leno’s garage, when inquired, Fords
Mustang Chief Engineer DavePericak specifically stated that the use of an aftermarket CAI will do nothing to gain any power.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LXYK4rR7Sw