FRAM Boost Performance Air Intake System
Getting more power out of your engine
Most of you have probably heard of FRAM, they are one of the largest automotive filter manufacturers in the U.S. and have been around for over 70 years. If you do any type of work on automobiles, chances are you have used a FRAM product. Being that FRAM is a leading force in automotive engine filtration, it was only a matter of time before they expanded from replacement filters to performance air intake systems. FRAM has recently launched a cold air intake system for Trucks and SUV's called the FRAM Boost Performance Air Intake System. After learning about this new product, we had to take a closer look. INSTALLATION
At first I was a little skeptical about a performance cold air intake from FRAM. With so many other companies out there already claiming to be the leaders in air intake systems, why would anybody want to take a chance on a new product? Plus, this filter uses dry filtration technology, while most of the performance filters out there use oil. Can dry really be better? I had several questions, but the assurance of the FRAM brand kept me wanting to still go forward with it. So I gave them the benefit of the doubt, and ordered a FRAM Boost Performance Intake System for my truck.
After taking possession of the FRAM Boost Performance Intake System, I opened up the bright orange box like a kid on Christmas morning. The system came well packaged and insulated from any damage during shipping. A set of instructions included made it easy to figure out what parts I was looking at. One of the things I was impressed by from the start was the amount of detail the instructions had. They were well illustrated with step-by-step instructions and images showing the installation process. As if that wasn’t enough, the instructions were application specific, so the photos looked like my engine, making it a great tool for me to use as a comparison during the installation.
The main components making up the FRAM Boost Performance Air Intake System are as follows: • DRYFLOW Filter
I looked over my bill of materials and all the parts were there. Already the FRAM system was looking good. I took a closer look at the intake tube, and noticed that that the pipe was well formed with no blemishes or bad welds—it was seamless. The finish on it was gunmetal like powder coat that really makes the piece look trick. The heat box has a nice black finish to it, with clean bends and smooth edges.
I read over the installation instructions provided, and then started ripping into the OE air box. There were a few wires I had to remove like the MAF sensor, but besides that, it was just three screws and two vacuum hoses. Half way there, and I was only about 10 minutes into it.
The installation of the FRAM Boost intake requires the use of the OE MAF sensor, so I made the switch and added a nice set of grade 8 Allen bolts included with the kit. I replaced the OE vacuum hoses with the larger ones included in the kit. Next, I assembled the heat shield box and added the intake tube with the DRYFLOW filter.
I double-checked everything, and tightened all the bolts and clamps so they were snug. I re-attached all the wiring and the truck was ready to rock! After washing up and getting the dirt and grime of my hands, I jumped in the truck and took it for a run. Wow! I was truly amazed with the increase in power and throttle response. This truck was already pretty well powered, but the FRAM Boost Intake really took it to a whole new level. It was different truck. There was a big smile on my face, and a sense of excitement as I raced down the street.
I hit the gas pedal again after coming to a complete stop and was immediately shot back into my seat. The engine was wide open and I could hear it revving up. The open-air box created by the FRAM Boost not only opened the engine intake right up, but it also added a much deeper tone and performance sound to the truck.
I got back to the house and had to get my wife to try it. I said, “Honey you have to check this out.” I kept quiet as she jumped in the driver seat and accelerated away. I just watched her smile after being shot back into her seat. She was really impressed with the increase in power, and liked the new aggressive sound the truck had. It's not loud, but it does take it up just enough to give it more of a performance grunt.
REVIEW
I am very impressed with the system FRAM has put together. My truck has gained more power, and has much better acceleration. I have gone on the FRAM Boost site and confirmed the increase. According to their testing, results from the dyno show an increase of 11 HP and 13 torque Ft/lbs. Not bad for a quick and easy upgrade that took less than 30 minutes to do. It’s evident that the R&D was well done. This system works great, and all the parts fit like a glove. I didn’t have to fabricate or tweak anything to make it work. FRAM delivered on everything they claimed. No hype—just raw power. I look forward to driving the FRAM Boost equipped truck around some more, and taking it off-road. The DRYFLOW filter technology should help with increasing gas mileage, and also horsepower and torque.
We’ll see how it does in the dirt, but I’m confident it will do well. I have used many FRAM replacement filters over the years, and they have never given me any problems while off-roading. So whether you are looking for more horsepower, torque, or a new bolt-on for your Truck or SUV, you owe it to yourself to experience the FRAM Boost. With increases up to 21 HP and torque up to 37 Ft/lbs (based on the Ford F150 5.4L supercharged V8), it’s time you un-lock your engines potential.
For more information on the FRAM Boost Performance Intake System please visit: http://framboost.com/index.cfm
Photos by E.J. Coleman
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