vararam installed finally

[mpostr]

1139ok- so before anyone gets ill about the fact that Vararam has pre-released ten units (mine being the first) understand that I am local and have been dealing with Patrick for a long time. My car was essentially the first box stock 09 that he did and he wanted to make sure everything was the same on this car as on the 08's. There were differences but nothing that will slow the release of this system. The install went well, 15 minutes and the unit was on the car. It looks great (typical of vararam products) and sounds great as well. There is a nice grunt the intake makes but not intrusive at all. My findings are as such and so you know I also have a cortex that i removed for some stock comparisons and we will do data logging next week. My car will also go to ARD in houston to have an official tune done to it in the next upcoming two weeks. THIS THING MAKES POWER! Knowing a little about intake characteristics this has been worth the wait and all of you that have been waiting will be impressed and it is definitely going to be worth your time waiting and the money spent. When leaving the shop, it was the first time that my car side stepped from a dead stop and nailed second so hard that the suspension feels completely inadequate. this was with traction control on btw. On the freeway it is very impressive as well, building huge momentum and literally feeling the suspension twist hitting third and fourth gear. I have now reinstalled the cortex tune and it feels even better but I need to drive the car a little more for all the learning curve to take place. I am open to questions and will post some pics later! You are all in for a big treat!!!!!! sorry about the pics - i will get some better later:flame:1136

1137

[99-LS1-SS]

Only thing I'm ill at is the pictures not working.

[GeorgeInNePa]

You get a Vararam and post tiny little pics, barely bigger than the thumbnails?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v320/GeorgeInNePa/Comedy/failcat.jpg

:spank:

[-Ray-]

They work, they are just postage stamps. LOL

[R.Penguin]

Only thing I'm ill at is the pictures not working.
Click the $%^()(&^@^^$*&%^ guys sig. :P

[-Ray-]

What sig?
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t16/ElecBlueG6GT/avatars%20and%20icons/frigginminivararam.gif

[R.Penguin]

You get a Vararam and post tiny little pics, barely bigger than the thumbnails?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v320/GeorgeInNePa/Comedy/failcat.jpg

:spank:
Egggzackly!

[R.Penguin]

What sig?
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t16/ElecBlueG6GT/avatars%20and%20icons/frigginminivararam.gif
Where did you get the idea that penguins have a brain?

That little thingy you clicked on. :p

[mpostr]

you guys are brutal - going to get more now for you guys:poof:

[-Ray-]

LOL You know it!

[mpostr]

1140

1141

1142

1143

and one bad ass chevelle

[MANOFSTEEL69]

I still say it looks like a Kirby vacume cleaner....lol!

[99-LS1-SS]

I can't see the images unless I click them.

http://forum.grrrr8.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=1140&d=1236472329
http://forum.grrrr8.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=1141&d=1236472329
http://forum.grrrr8.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=1142&d=1236472329
http://forum.grrrr8.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=1143&d=1236472329

[G8GXP4now]

What holds the radiator in place now?

[-Ray-]

Is that a pop rivet or a screw sticking out of the left side of the intake?

[GRRRR8]

Is that a pop rivet or a screw sticking out of the left side of the intake?

Latches.

[-Ray-]

This is a latch?

[GRRRR8]

No its not. That looks like the pins that attach the scoop, but I havent seen the final product yet.

[norm8332]

Wasn't there a problem putting that little filter on there. I saw it somewhere..Here:


http://www.forum.grrrr8.net/showpost.php?p=17226&postcount=17

Or is this different?
__________________

[GRRRR8]

It will be plumbed in on the released ones and his will be changed.

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

It looks good in the pics. I'm interested to see the results with the Superchips tune and the Vararam installed.

[r33pwrd]

very cool! Glad to see they are fully testing them before shipping product around the country!

[99-LS1-SS]

It looks much cleaner than the prototype. Good job Vararam! Now send me mine!! LOL!

[mpostr]

This is a latch?


No it is a screw - This is why you guys are still waiting - Mine and yours will have hand turn pins this week. We improvised to check the product on an 09

[stryker g8gt]

This thread is like going to the strip joint with quaters in your pocket......It does not get you anything but a hard on!!!!!!!

I would like to see dyno numbers......

[GRRRR8]

This thread is like going to the strip joint with quaters in your pocket......It does not get you anything but a hard on!!!!!!!

I would like to see dyno numbers......

Thats one way of putting it! LOL!

[mpostr]

This thread is like going to the strip joint with quaters in your pocket......It does not get you anything but a hard on!!!!!!!

I would like to see dyno numbers......

unfortunately the real gain will not be shown on a dyno unless the car is put in a windtunnel with a dyno and I dont think I can afford to be dynoed there (unless Charlie will pay for it) lol -Any true ram air system needs to have a massive amount of air being shoved in it to show true numbers - im not saying a gain wont be seen but it certainly will not reflect real world conditions - i am getting my car tuned and dyno'd here soon in Houston and will have an extra cortex for sale if anyone is interested - but please dont hijack the thread for that just pm me and we will work something out when my tune is done.

[camoeto]

This thread is like going to the strip joint with quaters in your pocket......It does not get you anything but a hard on!!!!!!!

Not that you couldn't put enough quarters to good use...

[The Commodore]

I think it would be reasonable to say that it should show the same gains as a NEP OTR on the dyno. But on the street/track it will see some better gains.

[avintegrator]

Here's my newbie question of the day. Since it looks like this is going to be my 1st performance upgrade this year, do I need to have the car tuned or can that wait until after I decide on my exhaust setup?
My thought is vavaram, cat back exhaust then tune to get beat performance but if I put both of those items on the car will I HAVE to be tuned right away?
BlackBerry8100/4.2.1 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/100

[BigRob]

not necessarily, you will just get the most out of your mods with the tune. many say to wait till you get all of your upgrades done before tuning, to make sure you dont pay to have it done time and time again with a new mod. there are some handheld tuners that are good as well for light bolt ons (CAI and catback) but anything much more and a dyno tune will be the best bet. there are many threads on tuning you should check out to figure out what is right for you

[wyldman]

Any problems driving in the rain?

[jbradG8GT]

Any problems driving in the rain?

No problems with rain. I've had mine on for 8000 miles and never had any issues.

[ThugHunter]

No problems with rain. I've had mine on for 8000 miles and never had any issues.

That's because it never rains in Texas. Not sure about the Katy/Houston area, but that's the case in Central Texas.

[jbradG8GT]

That's because it never rains in Texas. Not sure about the Katy/Houston area, but that's the case in Central Texas.

lol...that's been the case lately...we need some rain around here....a couple months ago I was driving back from Louisiana and did get the luxury of driving through rain, sleet and snow all in the same hour.....na the only way you would have problems with water is if the water is at your hood and I think you'll have much worse problems on your hands to worry about than the intake.

[wyldman]

lol...that's been the case lately...we need some rain around here....a couple months ago I was driving back from Louisiana and did get the luxury of driving through rain, sleet and snow all in the same hour.....na the only way you would have problems with water is if the water is at your hood and I think you'll have much worse problems on your hands to worry about than the intake.
ROFL I think your right about that. Nice looking set up. I cant wait to get mine.

[r33pwrd]

It will be water tested the first day one lands in Seattle :) I dont think it will be an issue as there are a ton of guys running the vararam on their vettes around here.

[mpostr]

No problem in water - car did just fine - see picture to verify:)

[CanadianEh]

The only thing that has me concerned at all is the radiator... I know it has to be tipped back. What holds the top of it in place after it is tipped?

Might have been answered somewhere and I never picked up on it.. if so my bad

[r33pwrd]

The only thing that has me concerned at all is the radiator... I know it has to be tipped back. What holds the top of it in place after it is tipped?

Might have been answered somewhere and I never picked up on it.. if so my bad

I would ASSUME there is something on the bottom of the intake holing the radiator in place??

[r33pwrd]

Post 13 3rd picture it looks like the intake pinches the raditor to hold it in place?? Again these are just my findings from looking at some pictures.

[G8GXP4now]

I'd say just call over to vararam, but they haven't been answering their phone lately. Maybe they are just screening calls and are avoiding me.

[r33pwrd]

I'd say just call over to vararam, but they haven't been answering their phone lately. Maybe they are just screening calls and are avoiding me.

I think they are more of a performace shop that a marketing place :) thats fine with me! like I have said before I know they will not make something that is a joke or crap. I spend 40 minutes looking for a complaint about their product and cant find one!! I check my PM's every 10 minutes hoping to give out my CC info :)

[Darkside]

I think they are more of a performace shop that a marketing place :) thats fine with me! like I have said before I know they will not make something that is a joke or crap. I spend 40 minutes looking for a complaint about their product and cant find one!! I check my PM's every 10 minutes hoping to give out my CC info :)

I'm second on the list. I'll post as soon as I hear anything, if I can beat Charlie that is.

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

More than likely they include brackets that mount to the radiator and the radiator support just like the NEP OTR.

[matthewo]

no, i called last week no radiator brackets are included, they told me it doesnt move. i guess im going to zip tie mine down just in case. when i get it.

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

I'm sure it would be simple for me to make some brackets then.

[r33pwrd]

no, i called last week no radiator brackets are included, they told me it doesnt move. i guess im going to zip tie mine down just in case. when i get it.

If the intake is mounted down I dont see the raditor moving based on the pictures.... My only concert would be rubbing but until I have one on my car Im not going to guess about it.

[mpostr]

it does not need brackets. When it is tilted back the design of the intake housing allows for the radiator to stay put without complicating things or moving the radiator. It is a very clean fit and finish and Vararam, being the engineers that they are have thought of allof this and I can asssure you it is badass and functional. Again, thiese are the reasons they have prereleased some local units to make sure there is real life testing before you get one of there intakes. I am not a marketing agent for them but I would be in a heartbeat with there all of there products. You wont find complaints on any of their products and this one is no different - see you in my rearview

[stryker g8gt]

it does not need brackets. When it is tilted back the design of the intake housing allows for the radiator to stay put without complicating things or moving the radiator. It is a very clean fit and finish and Vararam, being the engineers that they are have thought of allof this and I can asssure you it is badass and functional. Again, thiese are the reasons they have prereleased some local units to make sure there is real life testing before you get one of there intakes. I am not a marketing agent for them but I would be in a heartbeat with there all of there products. You wont find complaints on any of their products and this one is no different - see you in my rearview


Now there is more then one out there......It's just not fair........LOL:hang:

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

Relying on the plastic intake housing to hold the radiator in place doesn't seem like a good idea. For people in the northern states and Canada, the plastic will get brittle in the winter and could crack or break.

[r33pwrd]

Relying on the plastic intake housing to hold the radiator in place doesn't seem like a good idea. For people in the northern states and Canada, the plastic will get brittle in the winter and could crack or break.

all depends on the plastic used... dont see many plastic headlights cracking back there do you?

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

The headlights aren't supporting the radiator either. Plus they are made from an impact resistant plastic like Lexan.

[SLA]

it does not need brackets. When it is tilted back the design of the intake housing allows for the radiator to stay put without complicating things or moving the radiator. It is a very clean fit and finish and Vararam, being the engineers that they are have thought of allof this and I can asssure you it is badass and functional. Again, thiese are the reasons they have prereleased some local units to make sure there is real life testing before you get one of there intakes. I am not a marketing agent for them but I would be in a heartbeat with there all of there products. You wont find complaints on any of their products and this one is no different - see you in my rearview

Not trying to start a fight or argue, but I have found plenty of complaints about some of thier previous products. And I do plan on getting this intake. In fact I need it before this friday before I go get retuned for my headers.

[99-LS1-SS]

I would like to get mine too. I'm hoping to either get my bumper fixed this weekend or get headers put on the car. I'm leaning towards headers.

[jbradsh1]

1139ok- so before anyone gets ill about the fact that Vararam has pre-released ten units (mine being the first) understand that I am local and have been dealing with Patrick for a long time. My car was essentially the first box stock 09 that he did and he wanted to make sure everything was the same on this car as on the 08's. There were differences but nothing that will slow the release of this system. The install went well, 15 minutes and the unit was on the car. It looks great (typical of vararam products) and sounds great as well. There is a nice grunt the intake makes but not intrusive at all. My findings are as such and so you know I also have a cortex that i removed for some stock comparisons and we will do data logging next week. My car will also go to ARD in houston to have an official tune done to it in the next upcoming two weeks. THIS THING MAKES POWER! Knowing a little about intake characteristics this has been worth the wait and all of you that have been waiting will be impressed and it is definitely going to be worth your time waiting and the money spent. When leaving the shop, it was the first time that my car side stepped from a dead stop and nailed second so hard that the suspension feels completely inadequate. this was with traction control on btw. On the freeway it is very impressive as well, building huge momentum and literally feeling the suspension twist hitting third and fourth gear. I have now reinstalled the cortex tune and it feels even better but I need to drive the car a little more for all the learning curve to take place. I am open to questions and will post some pics later! You are all in for a big treat!!!!!! sorry about the pics - i will get some better later:flame:1136

1137

How is the intake noise from your Vararam, compared to a RF for instance?

[camoeto]

Enough with the porn already. Are we going to get the real thing soon or just enough updates to keep us interested?

Has anyone on the group buy list been contacted by Vararam about their intake being ready?

[Darkside]

I'm second on the list, and no I haven't been contacted yet. :(

[mpostr]

How is the intake noise from your Vararam, compared to a RF for instance?

from what ive heard of the rf it is definitely quiter but still sounds great without being too much

[mpostr]

Relying on the plastic intake housing to hold the radiator in place doesn't seem like a good idea. For people in the northern states and Canada, the plastic will get brittle in the winter and could crack or break.

they are using a military grade plastic - it wii not be stressed in canada or the north pole for that matter - santas sleigh is made out of this

[The Commodore]

they are using a military grade plastic - it wii not be stressed in canada or the north pole for that matter - santas sleigh is made out of this

I was under the impression that Santa's sleigh was made of Carbon Fiber and had Vtec.

Each reindeer equals one Vtec...I forgot how many there was but that's a lot of Vtec.

[ThugHunter]

I'm second on the list, and no I haven't been contacted yet. :(

That's pretty sad considering I received an email from Vararam early last week advising shipments will start at the end of the week (would have been last week). I figured everyone would have started to receive the intakes mid to late this week. Now I read that Vararam hasn't even been made contact with potential buyers waiting anxiously for their product. I think this just helped make my decision, NEP OTR FTW.

[Darkside]

Now I read that Vararam hasn't even been made contact with potential buyers waiting anxiously for their product. I think this just helped make my decision, NEP OTR FTW.

My clock is ticking as well. As soon as I can get into Vector, that will make the decision on which intake I go with.

[99-LS1-SS]

That's pretty sad considering I received an email from Vararam early last week advising shipments will start at the end of the week (would have been last week). I figured everyone would have started to receive the intakes mid to late this week. Now I read that Vararam hasn't even been made contact with potential buyers waiting anxiously for their product. I think this just helped make my decision, NEP OTR FTW.


My clock is ticking as well. As soon as I can get into Vector, that will make the decision on which intake I go with.

According to the people at Vararam they are going to be sending PM's out this week to the people on the list. They will be working in the order that people signed in.

[-Ray-]

That's pretty sad considering I received an email from Vararam early last week advising shipments will start at the end of the week (would have been last week). I figured everyone would have started to receive the intakes mid to late this week. Now I read that Vararam hasn't even been made contact with potential buyers waiting anxiously for their product. I think this just helped make my decision, NEP OTR FTW.

You want to be removed from the list?

[wyldman]

Here's my newbie question of the day. Since it looks like this is going to be my 1st performance upgrade this year, do I need to have the car tuned or can that wait until after I decide on my exhaust setup?
My thought is vavaram, cat back exhaust then tune to get beat performance but if I put both of those items on the car will I HAVE to be tuned right away?
BlackBerry8100/4.2.1 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/100

I may be wrong and I'm sure someone will correct me if I am but adding this will give you codes if it's installed without a tune. Charlie will know for sure.

[-Ray-]

The people testing the Vararam have not posted any codes. Having your G8 tuned after install will yield better performance.

[r33pwrd]

The headlights aren't supporting the radiator either. Plus they are made from an impact resistant plastic like Lexan.

Thanks for proving my point :) the correct type of plastic can hold up to just about anythig. Plastic is a amazing material if used correctly.

[stryker g8gt]

Just kill'n time waiting.....damn hang nails.......

http://ruinaudio.com/files/images/black_skeleton_sitting.preview.png

[jbradG8GT]

I may be wrong and I'm sure someone will correct me if I am but adding this will give you codes if it's installed without a tune. Charlie will know for sure.

No codes have been thrown on my car. I had it on for over 6000 miles before I got my tune.

[ThugHunter]

I don't mean to be negative about it, but just trying to be realistic. Why would Vararam be so close to shipping last week as stated in an email they sent, yet they haven't contacted buyers this week. Here's the email I received.

WE are to begin shipping the preorders later this week!!!
----- Original Message ----- From: my email
To: <sales@vararam.com>
Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 3:00 AM
Subject: Pontiac G8 GT intake


> I have heard rumors, but would like an official date of release for the Pontiac G8 GT CAi system. If it's relatively soon, I'll wait to buy a product built in Texas.
>

[wyldman]

No codes have been thrown on my car. I had it on for over 6000 miles before I got my tune.
Awesome. Glad I was misinformed. How much did the tune help? I wish we could get some Dyno #'s

[r33pwrd]

I don't mean to be negative about it, but just trying to be realistic. Why would Vararam be so close to shipping last week as stated in an email they sent, yet they haven't contacted buyers this week. Here's the email I received.

WE are to begin shipping the preorders later this week!!!
----- Original Message ----- From: my email
To: <sales@vararam.com>
Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 3:00 AM
Subject: Pontiac G8 GT intake


> I have heard rumors, but would like an official date of release for the Pontiac G8 GT CAi system. If it's relatively soon, I'll wait to buy a product built in Texas.
>

Shit happens... but like said before they are engineers not sales people.... im sure they have the intakes but need to finish up instructions for install packaging.. ect. ect. I do hope they ship this week but im not holding my breath!

[jbradG8GT]

Awesome. Glad I was misinformed. How much did the tune help? I wish we could get some Dyno #'s

As far as performance and response, the tune helped tremendously. I went from stock tune to CoW tune so it's like night and day. I'm sure dyno numbers will come out soon, just can't really dyno a prototype if it's not exactly the same as the production model. Plus as said before the dyno numbers are not representative of the full power of a Ram Air unless it's in a windtunnel. It will show great gains just not full gains. Trust me I would like to see how much power my car is making too. Hopefully soon we'll all find out dyno and track numbers. I remember seeing one guys sig showing with a OTR CAI plus a tune he got a 12.7 in the 1/4 mile. I'm sure with the VaraRam and a tune we will see better numbers than that. Kinda hard to speculate but it seems to me that a Ram Air will always put out lower 1/4 mile times than a CAI, but correct me if I'm wrong.

[h34d]

they are using a military grade plastic - it wii not be stressed in canada or the north pole for that matter - santas sleigh is made out of this

Say it aint so!!! :poof:




j/k

[wyldman]

As far as performance and response, the tune helped tremendously. I went from stock tune to CoW tune so it's like night and day. I'm sure dyno numbers will come out soon, just can't really dyno a prototype if it's not exactly the same as the production model. Plus as said before the dyno numbers are not representative of the full power of a Ram Air unless it's in a windtunnel. It will show great gains just not full gains. Trust me I would like to see how much power my car is making too. Hopefully soon we'll all find out dyno and track numbers. I remember seeing one guys sig showing with a OTR CAI plus a tune he got a 12.7 in the 1/4 mile. I'm sure with the VaraRam and a tune we will see better numbers than that. Kinda hard to speculate but it seems to me that a Ram Air will always put out lower 1/4 mile times than a CAI, but correct me if I'm wrong.

I hear Chuck is amazing. Wish he was close to me. New Era's OTR is supposed to add 16hp. Surely Vararam will at least do that. I can't wait. Thanks for all the info.

[mpostr]

to all who are impatient about this not being out yet - please go buy another intake so those of who have waited and tested this for you will be able to smoke a few more g8's:butt::butt::butt:

[mpostr]

:bjob:

WTF

[R.Penguin]

they are using a military grade plastic - it wii not be stressed in canada or the north pole for that matter - santas sleigh is made out of this
Mrs. Santa has a vibrator made out of the same stuff. Now that's gotta be indestructible.:p

[gobluedave]

will vms be doing a tune for this cai?

[wyldman]

will vms be doing a tune for this cai?

I sure hope so. Wonder what stickin a big box fan running full blast in front of the car while they tune it would do? I know it wouldnt simulate high speeds but it would have to be better than nothing.

[SLA]

I sure hope so. Wonder what stickin a big box fan running full blast in front of the car while they tune it would do? I know it wouldnt simulate high speeds but it would have to be better than nothing.

It's usually common to stick fans in front of a car while its on the dyno anyways.

[Chewy]

I sure hope so. Wonder what stickin a big box fan running full blast in front of the car while they tune it would do? I know it wouldnt simulate high speeds but it would have to be better than nothing.

A Squirrel cage fan would be a MUCH better way to emulate forward motion.

I ordered mine today... Looking forward to getting it in. Then I have to get a new tune from Kirk... Dang...:nud:

[stryker g8gt]

Just ordered mine........can't wait to get it in installed and the new Magnaflow system coming in... time for an updated tune.

[stryker g8gt]

It's usually common to stick fans in front of a car while its on the dyno anyways.

they typically do a couple double stacks of those floor blast fans in front of mine.....

[jbradsh1]

Speaking of tunes, how do they tune a ram air system for higher speeds (with no wind tunnel) when all the benefit of a ram air system comes into play? Just hope the car's computer can compensate accurately?!

[blackbirdws6]

Speaking of tunes, how do they tune a ram air system for higher speeds (with no wind tunnel) when all the benefit of a ram air system comes into play? Just hope the car's computer can compensate accurately?!

From what I was told, the tune is set a little on the richer side at WOT to compensate for the additional air that should be seen at speed.

[The Commodore]

Mrs. Santa has a vibrator made out of the same stuff. Now that's gotta be indestructible.:p

Sure she would love you telling that to the interwebs...

You have a military grade condom? Wait I highly doubt you think about using condoms lol.

[The Commodore]

Need....



























...ram air

[johnh]

Any pics of the actual hole the thing breathes through?

My only concern is that its too small (eg. breathing through a mail slot)...any idea on area of the opening? Area of the filter? stock filter is 75 Sq in.

Looks like a good unit....and improvement over the NEP OTR--which in IMHO could have some issues with road water/salt getting onto the filter.

[Kirk@VectorMotorsports]

Speaking of tunes, how do they tune a ram air system for higher speeds (with no wind tunnel) when all the benefit of a ram air system comes into play? Just hope the car's computer can compensate accurately?!

Once the MAF table is calibrated correctly for the Vararam extra fuel will be added by the ECM automaticly as MAF rate increases.

[Mike@NewEra]

Any pics of the actual hole the thing breathes through?

My only concern is that its too small (eg. breathing through a mail slot)...any idea on area of the opening? Area of the filter? stock filter is 75 Sq in.

Looks like a good unit....and improvement over the NEP OTR--which in IMHO could have some issues with road water/salt getting onto the filter.

We have had reports back from over 60 g8 owners that did drive them through the winter and rain, with no issues with the New Era OTR kit. If ours has an issue, then this will definitely have an issue, being that it's ducted off to the front grills. And if they have it baffled, then iI can't see it making much more power because the baffles will be too restrictive inside the plastic where it already necks down the width and heighth of the air entry ducting and then flares back out before the air reaches the filter which is definitely not optimum for airflow.

[GRRRR8]

No baffles, a duct that faces down. NO WAY it can suck water unless you are pushing water with your headlights.......then your an idiot! :spank:

[r33pwrd]

Once the MAF table is calibrated correctly for the Vararam extra fuel will be added by the ECM automaticly as MAF rate increases.

SO is the new tune really only to compensate for the MAF being moved?

[johnh]

Mike..I am only saying that because I can see salt/water streaks on my factory air intake, right where the filter would be. Just plain ol' water wouldn't bother me, it wouldn't be enough to matter. Just here in Michigan in the winter you get loads of salt water everywhere....

[JerzeyGT]

Any pics of the actual hole the thing breathes through?.

+1

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

John here's some closeup pics of the intake opening in this thread:

http://forum.grrrr8.net/showthread.php?t=4798

[johnh]

Yeah I saw that.....it looks like it has a small opening to get the air.

The pics could be deceiving, as it might be a decent sized opening..

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

It is hard to see the opening in those pics, hopefully someone will tilt it up and take a better shot BEFORE they install it. I think the K&N cone filter on my Spectre intake has more surface area to pull in more air than the Vararam, the opening seems pretty small.

[GRRRR8]

It is hard to see the opening in those pics, hopefully someone will tilt it up and take a better shot BEFORE they install it. I think the K&N cone filter on my Spectre intake has more surface area to pull in more air than the Vararam, the opening seems pretty small.

I think the cone K&N I saw tested vs a Vararam system flowed over 500cfm less.

[The Commodore]

It is hard to see the opening in those pics, hopefully someone will tilt it up and take a better shot BEFORE they install it. I think the K&N cone filter on my Spectre intake has more surface area to pull in more air than the Vararam, the opening seems pretty small.

But your Specte has to find air...air finds the Vararam.

[majesticix]

Mike..I am only saying that because I can see salt/water streaks on my factory air intake, right where the filter would be. Just plain ol' water wouldn't bother me, it wouldn't be enough to matter. Just here in Michigan in the winter you get loads of salt water everywhere....

Not to hi-jack this thread, I would just like to back up Mike that as far as the New Era OTR intake is concerned, salt is not a problem. I use mine as a daily driver through Rochester and Syracuse NY, which get plenty of snow, salt, rain...just about everything BUT nice weather. I've had this thing go through the car wash in 20 degree whether, driven through heavy snow, torrential rain, you name it. No problems what so ever.

I doubt either of these products will be any more susceptible to adverse road conditions vs the stock based on my experience anyway. They both look great and I look forward to other people's review of the new Vararam system. I'm quite content with my purchase, but good to see great products coming out for a great car.

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

But your Specte has to find air...air finds the Vararam.
Air is everywhere, it doesn't have to be forced into the intake for the engine to breathe better. It's not like the engine compartment is sealed up like a refrigerator. When I added the Spectre intake AFTER the Superchips tune, the car had even MORE power.!

[Mike@NewEra]

If you are going to get salt and water residue under the hood, you will also get it into the Vararam induction as well, it is sealed off to get air only from the same spot I see dead bugs after a highway cruise during summer time, plastered on the front of the radiator.

[GRRRR8]

If you are going to get salt and water residue under the hood, you will also get it into the Vararam induction as well, it is sealed off to get air only from the same spot I see dead bugs after a highway cruise during summer time, plastered on the front of the radiator.

The difference is the scoop faces down to pick up the updraft of the factory air director that is behind the LOWER grille. Thats why hot air isnt an issue and water isnt either.

[Mike@NewEra]

Then it is a cold air induction, not ram air, correct me if I am wrong.

[GRRRR8]

Anytime a filter is sealed in a box its considered ram air. I will attempt to give definitions of the popular systems available now and why.

Roto-fab - It cant be a cold air intake, as it has no place to draw cold air. If you do my lower panel mod maybe. It works because the factory system sux and is restrictive.

New Era - It cant be a cold air intake, as it has no place to draw cold air. If you do my lower panel mod maybe. It works because the factory system sux and is restrictive.

New Era OTR- This system is getting cooler air then the 2 above, draws air from its heated surrondings as well as its not a sealed box.

Volant - It cant be a cold air intake, as it has no place to draw cold air. If you do my lower panel mod maybe. It works because the factory system sux and is restrictive.

Vararam - The only system that draws air from the coolest part of the air stream, the front of the car and has an inlet flowing that air into a sealed box.

Roto, both New Eras and the Vararam will without a doubt produce 20+RWHP with a tune. The Volant should, its dilema is a sealed box and drawing air from the same source as the three others. All except the New Era OTR and Vararam suck hot air when the cooling fans turn on.

I will make myself clear on this, the intake that makes my car the fastest will be on my car. I have a Roto and a Vararam and am sure I can borrow a New Era OTR as the tune will be very close to the Vararams as the MAF location is the same.

These statements are based on 25 years of experience and installing 100s of intakes on all makes and models and lots of drag strip testing back in the day.

Bottom line choose based on what suits your needs. They are all good!

[jbradsh1]

Anytime a filter is sealed in a box its considered ram air. I will attempt to give definitions of the popular systems available now and why.

Roto-fab - It cant be a cold air intake, as it has no place to draw cold air. If you do my lower panel mod maybe. It works because the factory system sux and is restrictive.

New Era - It cant be a cold air intake, as it has no place to draw cold air. If you do my lower panel mod maybe. It works because the factory system sux and is restrictive.

New Era OTR- This system is getting cooler air then the 2 above, draws air from its heated surrondings as well as its not a sealed box.

Volant - It cant be a cold air intake, as it has no place to draw cold air. If you do my lower panel mod maybe. It works because the factory system sux and is restrictive.

Vararam - The only system that draws air from the coolest part of the air stream, the front of the car and has an inlet flowing that air into a sealed box.

Roto, both New Eras and the Vararam will without a doubt produce 20+RWHP with a tune. The Volant should, its dilema is a sealed box and drawing air from the same source as the three others. All except the New Era OTR and Vararam suck hot air when the cooling fans turn on.

I will make myself clear on this, the intake that makes my car the fastest will be on my car. I have a Roto and a Vararam and am sure I can borrow a New Era OTR as the tune will be very close to the Vararams as the MAF location is the same.

These statements are based on 25 years of experience and installing 100s of intakes on all makes and models and lots of drag strip testing back in the day.

Bottom line choose based on what suits your needs. They are all good!

I thought the New Era and RF both draw air from way down in the fender well where the air is hopefully somewhat cold or at least colder than engine bay temps.

[GRRRR8]

One big thing that is not getting brought up is the heat soaked MAF. If you put an HSRK in any of these Air Intake Systems, this is almost as big a gain as the intake in hot weather.

[camoeto]

Air is everywhere, it doesn't have to be forced into the intake for the engine to breathe better.
Errr... The more air you can cram into the engine, the more power it makes. This what a supercharger or a turbo do.

[jbradsh1]

Then it is a cold air induction, not ram air, correct me if I am wrong.

I would guess that any system that allows for a pressure build up in the air box (greater than atmospheric pressure that is) could be a common sense definition of a ram air system, couldn't it? I don't think any system that has been mentioned has the potential of actually building pressure, except perhaps the Vararam and possibly the New Era cai that sits directly in front.

[jbradsh1]

One big thing that is not getting brought up is the heat soaked MAF. If you put an HSRK in any of these Air Intake Systems, this is almost as big a gain as the intake in hot weather.

Didn't know that. But I'm glad you mentioned it cause I have one!

[GRRRR8]

I thought the New Era and RF both draw air from way down in the fender well where the air is hopefully somewhat cold or at least colder than engine bay temps.

Through a hole the size of a half dollar! Like I said, with my mod it is....sort of. To use the terms of our Ricer friends:

Short ram intake - A pipe that has a filter on the end of it IN the engine compartment area

Cold Air Intake. Usually is right in front of the tire, completely isolated from fan heat and engine temps and draws air from near the front.

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

Errr... The more air you can cram into the engine, the more power it makes. This what a supercharger or a turbo do.
Wrong, those units are compressing the air, a ram air intake only brings air in at atmospheric pressure.

[GRRRR8]

Wrong, those units are compressing the air, a ram air intake only brings air in at atmospheric pressure.

Correct Dr. :)

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

Like I said earlier, when I installed the Spectre intake I noticed my car had more power, specially above 5000 RPM's, which is where the stock airbox becomes very restrictive. If I were to install the Vararam intake, I doubt that I would feel any difference compared to my Spectre. If I were to add headers and a cam, then the Vararam would show a significant increase in power compared to my Spectre. You guys are talking about 10hp difference on a stock motor, as you add more mods then the difference becomes more apparent.

[Mike@NewEra]

I would guess that any system that allows for a pressure build up in the air box (greater than atmospheric pressure that is) could be a common sense definition of a ram air system, couldn't it? I don't think any system that has been mentioned has the potential of actually building pressure, except perhaps the Vararam and possibly the New Era cai that sits directly in front.

Correct on the definition of "ram air", but, The New Era OTR intake or Vararam will not build up pressure, or should I say a greater kpa value than what is in the intake manifold no matter how fast you are going, to establish this you would pretty much have to take your hood off (or have a custom hood with a large scoop)and build a bigger air scoop to catch or "trap" the air prior to the filter that is also very short, in other words, it isn't gonna happen so "ram air" is not a true definition. This is simply my opinion (pretty good one), take it as you will.

[GRRRR8]

Although the Vararam did reach 100kpa on a flow bench.

[Mike@NewEra]

Honestly, this means nothing, not trying to knock it. Way too many variables there.

[GRRRR8]

It means other systems didnt. No your OTR wasnt tested. If #s dont matter then dyno #s dont mean shit, but we already knew that. :)

[Mike@NewEra]

Talk to the best engine buiders in the business and ask them about a flowbench number, then ask them about a dyno number.

[GRRRR8]

Talk to the best engine buiders in the business and ask them about a flowbench number, then ask them about a dyno number.

Very true. But we were talking about flow. If 2 components are tested equally on a flow bench then the results are conclusive. Now take the components off the flow bench and test them on the engine on a dyno and those tests are conclusive factoring tuning was maximized for both products. Now test these 2 products with the same car in the same EXACT conditions and these tests are less conclusive as it is hard to get exact at the track, but on a dyno or flow bench it is. If said product is notably better on the engine dyno, short of smoking the tires, weight, temp etc. A conclusion should be able to made that said product produced a gain.

[wyldman]

One big thing that is not getting brought up is the heat soaked MAF. If you put an HSRK in any of these Air Intake Systems, this is almost as big a gain as the intake in hot weather.

When someone *hint* (Charlie) *hint* figures out where to put this he needs to make a separate post about it.

[Mike@NewEra]

Valid point wyldman...

[Mike@NewEra]

Very true. But we were talking about flow. If 2 components are tested equally on a flow bench then the results are conclusive. Now take the components off the flow bench and test them on the engine on a dyno and those tests are conclusive factoring tuning was maximized for both products. Now test these 2 products with the same car in the same EXACT conditions and these tests are less conclusive as it is hard to get exact at the track, but on a dyno or flow bench it is. If said product is notably better on the engine dyno, short of smoking the tires, weight, temp etc. A conclusion should be able to made that said product produced a gain.


Valid point, but a kpa measurement... Common, as stated, too many variables. All you stated was 100 kpa, what was it ambient? Plus what was the kpa measurement on the car? and at what speed vs. the brand "X". Then physics really comes into play here, I can really go on and on, and at that point, things will start to become obsolete as this "super" intake is most likely not "super". And I am not saying it isn't good, but the hype a little bit absurd.

[r33pwrd]

in all reality what is the vararam doing the the new era OTR is not? The fancy scoop they added is no different than the hood is it? the hood should deflect air to the new era OTR....

correct me if im worng but a flow bench will only show you the efficiceny of the intake not relative to anything to do with the car?? (IE where the air is coming from and how much air is fed to the filter?)

[GRRRR8]

Valid point, but a kpa measurement... Common, as stated, too many variables. All you stated was 100 kpa, what was it ambient? Plus what was the kpa measurement on the car? and at what speed vs. the brand "X". Then physics really comes into play here, I can really go on and on, and at that point, things will start to become obsolete as this "super" intake most likely not be "super". and I am not saying it isn't good, but the hype is rediculous.

I know where you are coming from and I will just say business is business, new products will continue to come out everyday and how products are marketed and perform as well as a companies previous products results is where hype comes from. Hype.....Rotofab......Pedders.....ARH.......Cams.. ....etc, I think many of us including you like hype just because its something new to test/install/buy/sell.

[majesticix]

Good to know we've got some smart people behind these products. I couldn't build my way out of a paper bag.

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

They wouldn't be producing them if they didn't know about the product. I've been a tool & die maker for 30 years, I think that indicates I know quite a bit about making custom parts and the properties of various metals.

[jbradsh1]

Well, I don't want to beat this subject up much more here but, from a commons sense and especially a layman's point of view, a ram air system implies that when you go faster and faster you are actually shoveling more air into the intake and thus the engine than would otherwise be possible with a regular intake. Thus the term "ram air". If the intake isn't building some additional pressure in the intake, above normal atmospheric pressure, then I don't think anyone could honestly call it a ram air system. Just my educated but inexperienced opinion.

[jbradsh1]

Wrong, those units are compressing the air, a ram air intake only brings air in at atmospheric pressure.

If that's the case, there is no such thing as a ram air system. I mean if it's not bringing in more air than a normal cai or other intake would then why even have the term "ram air". Who dreamed up this term and concept anyway, it's beginning to sound like hype to me.

[GRRRR8]

If that's the case, there is no such thing as a ram air system. I mean if it's not bringing in more air than a normal cai or other intake would then why even have the term "ram air". Who dreamed up this term and concept anyway, it's beginning to sound like hype to me.

You are comparing the effects of supercharging to an air intake. Even at 7 am thats not a good to thing to do. :)

[locrzn#92]

Concerning the salt or water into the intake which someone said could happen to the Newera OTR. I've not had that problem. I've had mine at the power wash and driven in the rain. The only water that could get into the filter is when you lift the hood and residual water is at the front of the hood and can drip down on the filter. That can happen to any of the long tube intakes also. The seal on the bottom of the hood will take car of incoming water. I don't think it can come thru the girll and up to the intake, at least it hasn't on mine. If you remove the seal on the hood, it could definetly get to the filter and into the intake.

[jbradsh1]

You are comparing the effects of supercharging to an air intake. Even at 7 am thats not a good to thing to do. :)

Well, I did manage to get some coffee made before I dreamed up that post.

[GRRRR8]

Well, I did manage to get some coffee made before I dreamed up that post.

I am just starting the gulping process now and have been at work for over an hour! :hang:

[jbradsh1]

I am just starting the gulping process now and have been at work for over an hour! :hang:

Yea, but you love it.

[johnh]

The seal on the bottom of the hood will take car of incoming water.

That's my point it doesn't 100%, I have seen water/salt streaking on the stock airbox and engine cover all behind that seal.

That being said:
It doesn't sound like its enough to cause any concern about the NEP OTR, based on real world experiences.

Charlie, it sounds like there was some R&D done on the flow of the Vararam and that it flowed well? Anyone know if there's gonna be some dyno numbers on it? I too would expect it to be very similar to the NEP OTR.

This a good debate...and thanks to all the vendors for stepping up with products for us and putting up with our questions.

[Steve@Vectormotorsports]

Talk to the best engine buiders in the business and ask them about a flowbench number, then ask them about a dyno number.

I would very much have to agree with you mike. We should be getting our Vararam earliy this week, Kirk and I both are very excited to get testing and get our new tunes developed.

[locrzn#92]

Just drove mine home in the rain, no problem with water.

[breakinparts]

That's my point it doesn't 100%, I have seen water/salt streaking on the stock airbox and engine cover all behind that seal.

That being said:
It doesn't sound like its enough to cause any concern about the NEP OTR, based on real world experiences.

Charlie, it sounds like there was some R&D done on the flow of the Vararam and that it flowed well? Anyone know if there's gonna be some dyno numbers on it? I too would expect it to be very similar to the NEP OTR.

This a good debate...and thanks to all the vendors for stepping up with products for us and putting up with our questions.
Hmm, I assume we are all worried about hydrolocking. Well, using water injection, and doing many differnet sea foam cleanings sucking in liquid in the upper intakes of cars, I haven't seen it to be a problem unless you are just plain sucking up A LOT of water into the engine. Then, :poof: But then again, I'm not worried about it because I don't really drive my car in the rain, even if I did, I am not worried at all.

[johnh]

hydrolocking

Nope, more concerned with salt/salt water getting inside the engine....its extremely corrosive. I don't think you'd hyrolock unless you tried to be a boat.

[GRRRR8]

Just about impossible to have any of these issues, unless you are in 3ft of water, then YOU are the issue not any air intake kit.

[johnh]

YOU are the issue not any air intake kit.

lol the infamous "Bad Driver Mod"...

[GRRRR8]

lol the infamous "Bad Driver Mod"...

LOL! That is one mod we can do without!! :hang:

[mpostr]

Correct on the definition of "ram air", but, The New Era OTR intake or Vararam will not build up pressure, or should I say a greater kpa value than what is in the intake manifold no matter how fast you are going, to establish this you would pretty much have to take your hood off (or have a custom hood with a large scoop)and build a bigger air scoop to catch or "trap" the air prior to the filter that is also very short, in other words, it isn't gonna happen so "ram air" is not a true definition. This is simply my opinion (pretty good one), take it as you will.

i hate to tellyou this and call you out - but you are wrong - i graduated georgia tech and played with fluid dynamic tables frequently - these guys arent just mechanical they are engineers and the set up is a ram air by definition - with the knowledge you have you should know that the air at speed does create a boost like process of air, because of the design and scoop location. A dyno will never show this so on paper you will look correct and all the people who dont educate themselves but just listen to other peoples WORDS will follow like sheep in the wrong direction for true horsepower. Again, Im not calling you out but there are a few of us on here that have been in the 1000hp scene many times and understand what hype not believe based on actual real life testing

[r33pwrd]

iwith the knowledge you have you should know that the air at speed does create a boost like process of air,


well do you have ANY proof that the vararam does this???

[DRCUSTOMPARTS]

The added boost (if any) is so minimal, it's hardly noticeable on our engine. And it's nowhere near the amount of boost you get from a supercharger or a turbo.

[norm8332]

IMO you will not get actual boost, but it may increase the pressure slightly in the intake manifold/cylinders. The pressure will still be lower than the ambient pressure though.

[r33pwrd]

well its pretty simple hook a vacuum gauge up to the intake (after the filter) and see if you have possitive pressure at 90 mph... really doubt you will with any intake avaliable for the G8...

[jbradG8GT]

IMO you will not get actual boost, but it may increase the pressure slightly in the intake manifold/cylinders. The pressure will still be lower than the ambient pressure though.

that's actually not correct...this system is over 100% efficient and the pressure is above atmospheric pressure

[johnh]

well its pretty simple hook a vacuum gauge up to the intake

We all have one its called a MAP sensor. A good air intake will show up as higher MAP (manifold absolute pressure).

[Mike@NewEra]

i hate to tellyou this and call you out - but you are wrong - i graduated georgia tech and played with fluid dynamic tables frequently - these guys arent just mechanical they are engineers and the set up is a ram air by definition - with the knowledge you have you should know that the air at speed does create a boost like process of air, because of the design and scoop location. A dyno will never show this so on paper you will look correct and all the people who dont educate themselves but just listen to other peoples WORDS will follow like sheep in the wrong direction for true horsepower. Again, Im not calling you out but there are a few of us on here that have been in the 1000hp scene many times and understand what hype not believe based on actual real life testing

I understand your points, and I don't mind being called out. But, I agree with this statement "with the knowledge you have you should know that the air at speed does create a boost like process of air, because of the design and scoop location" and only if the design is right, and if the design is right, it will also make more rwhp on a dyno than the side style intakes do just like our OTR intake does. I do also understand that at the track, this type of induction sytem along with our OTR system will perform even better than what the dyno number states due to the extra airflow. I HAVE done a lot of real life testing, we don't just make intakes at New Era Performance, I too have built a few 1000hp cars recently even, but I am sure you already know that. If you don't want to listen to my words, then don't. All you have to do is listen to what makes sense to you, and you will get what you are looking for. I am not the only one talking here, many others are too, in both directions.

[norm8332]

that's actually not correct...this system is over 100% efficient and the pressure is above atmospheric pressure

No I'm Sorry YOU ARE WRONG. The cylinders never reach outside pressure on the intake stroke unless you have FI or maybe a massive ram-air intake.

[GRRRR8]

No I'm Sorry YOU ARE WRONG. The cylinders never reach outside pressure on the intake stroke unless you have FI.

I think what he is saying is the Vararam itself was over a 100%.

[norm8332]

Maybe you could get positive pressure with a massive ram-air intake, but the vararam will not introduce positive pressure in the intake manifold. $1000 to the first person to show positive pressure!:spank:

[r33pwrd]

We all have one its called a MAP sensor. A good air intake will show up as higher MAP (manifold absolute pressure).

but it wont show you positive pressure.

[mpostr]

The added boost (if any) is so minimal, it's hardly noticeable on our engine. And it's nowhere near the amount of boost you get from a supercharger or a turbo.

you are correct but boost is boost

[r33pwrd]

you are correct but boost is boost

there is no way this or any intake for the g8 makes "boost"

[mpostr]

some of you will understand this and it addresses many statements in this thread - A ram-air intake is any intake design which uses the dynamic air pressure created by vehicle motion to increase the static air pressure inside of the intake manifold on an engine, thus allowing a greater massflow through the engine and hence increasing engine power.

The ram air intake works by reducing the intake air velocity by increasing the cross sectional area of the intake ducting. When gas velocity goes down the dynamic pressure is reduced while the static pressure is increased. The increased static pressure in the plenum chamber has a positive effect on engine power, both because of the pressure itself and the increased air density this higher pressure gives.

At low speeds increases in static pressure are however limited to a few percent. Given that the air velocity is reduced to zero without losses the pressure increase can be calculated according to:

dP / P = (v2) / (2RT) - get out your calculators:boxing:

[Mlozano]

No... "your!" wrong.

[-Ray-]

Ram air is a marketing term. Cold air is a marketing term.
Anytime the air path is not obstructed in any way, Ram air is an appropriate term.
Anytime the air path is not likely to receive warmer air from under the hood, Cold air is an appropriate term.
IMHO

[jbradsh1]

Wrong, those units are compressing the air, a ram air intake only brings air in at atmospheric pressure.

Seems like the term "ram air" is a misnomer and is made up just for fun, IMO. I mean, if the air isn't being rammed into the intake to some degree then it's like so what? And speaking of ram air, if you have a filter that is blocking the ram air effect, as is the case with all ram air systems mentioned, then it's not really a ram air intake at all, it's a cold air intake, is it not?

[mpostr]

No... "your!" wrong.

you r entitled to say this but a little more words added besides what you wrote (which is the intellect of my three year old son) would be nice - do the equation and prove me wrong - all of my schooling cant be that off:)