Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit

Brett

Cold Air Intake
Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit
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Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Desgined to Increase Horsepower: Fits 1999-2007 CHEVROLET/GMC/CADILLAC (Silverado, Avalanche, Suburban, Tahoe, Sierra, Yukon, Escalade) SPE-9900

Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit

The Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit (SPE-9900) is a popular upgrade for various 1999-2007 Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac models, including the Silverado, Avalanche, Suburban, Tahoe, Sierra, Yukon, and Escalade. It’s designed to increase horsepower and throttle response by improving the air intake system’s efficiency, helping your engine breathe easier. Here’s a closer look at what this intake kit offers and what to consider when installing it.

Key Features of the Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit (SPE-9900):

  1. Increased Airflow for More Power:
    • The main advantage of upgrading to this Spectre intake is the potential increase in horsepower and torque. By improving the airflow into the engine, the intake can help the engine breathe more efficiently, which can lead to better combustion and, ultimately, more power. Spectre claims the kit provides gains in both horsepower and acceleration.
  2. High-Quality Construction:
    • The kit comes with a high-flow air filter that is washable and reusable, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The air filter is typically made from cotton gauze, which helps to trap dirt and debris while allowing for better airflow than standard paper filters.
    • The tube is designed to reduce restrictions and turbulence, which results in more consistent airflow into the engine.
  3. Simple Installation:
    • One of the selling points of the Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit is its relatively easy installation. Most people can install the kit at home using basic tools. It usually comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions for a direct fit, which means it won’t require any special tuning or modifications.
  4. Improved Throttle Response:
    • With the increased airflow and better filter design, you can expect improved throttle response. The engine can more quickly respond to your inputs, which is particularly noticeable when you’re accelerating.
  5. Enhanced Engine Sound:
    • Another benefit of a cold air intake system like this one is that it can give your engine a more aggressive, sporty sound when accelerating, especially when you open up the throttle. It might not be as loud as some performance intakes, but you’ll definitely notice a deeper intake growl.
  6. Fits a Range of Models:
    • This specific Spectre air intake kit is designed to fit a range of GM trucks and SUVs, including:
      • Chevrolet Silverado (1999-2007)
      • Chevrolet Avalanche (2002-2007)
      • Chevrolet Suburban (2000-2007)
      • Chevrolet Tahoe (2000-2007)
      • GMC Sierra (1999-2007)
      • GMC Yukon (2000-2007)
      • Cadillac Escalade (2002-2007)
  7. Street Legal in Most States:
    • Unlike some performance intake kits that may not be street legal in certain areas due to emissions regulations, the Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit is designed to be street legal in most states (with the exception of California, where more stringent emissions standards exist). It’s a great option for those who want a performance upgrade but still need to pass emissions tests.

Benefits:

  • Increased horsepower and torque for better performance.
  • Improved fuel efficiency: A more efficient air intake can sometimes result in better fuel economy, though this benefit is more noticeable on highway driving rather than city driving.
  • Enhanced engine performance: A cold air intake helps provide cooler, denser air, which burns more efficiently and can improve overall engine output.
  • Improved throttle response for better acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.
  • Easier to install: It’s a direct-fit replacement, so there’s no need for professional installation (unless you prefer it).

What to Expect After Installation:

  • Performance Gains: While the gains in horsepower and torque might not be as extreme as larger performance mods (like a camshaft or turbo kit), the Spectre intake will still provide noticeable improvements, especially if you’re running a stock engine. On average, you might expect around 10-15 horsepower gains.
  • Sound: After installation, you’ll hear a slight difference in the engine’s intake note. It’ll generally be a deeper, more aggressive growl when you put your foot down, which many people find appealing. However, it’s not as loud as some other aftermarket intakes, so it’s a good balance for daily driving.

Things to Consider:

  1. Tuning: While the Spectre intake kit itself doesn’t require tuning, if you have other performance mods (e.g., headers, exhaust, cam), a custom tune might be beneficial to fully maximize the gains from the intake and ensure the engine runs optimally.
  2. Maintenance: Since the intake comes with a reusable filter, you’ll need to clean and re-oil it regularly to maintain its performance. Spectre typically provides instructions for cleaning, which involves using a filter cleaning kit designed for their cotton gauze filters.
  3. Cold Air vs. Short Ram: This kit is a cold air intake, meaning it’s designed to pull cooler air from outside the engine bay (rather than hot engine air) for better performance. Some kits are “short ram” intakes, which take air from within the engine bay. Cold air intakes generally provide better performance, but they can be slightly more challenging to install because they often need to route through tighter spaces.
  4. Emissions Regulations: Always check your local emissions regulations before installing any aftermarket performance parts, particularly if you live in states with strict laws, like California.

Installation Tips:

  1. Preparation: Make sure the engine is off and cool before starting installation. Have a clean, well-lit workspace, and keep track of all the bolts and hardware as you remove the stock intake.
  2. Follow Instructions: The kit should come with step-by-step instructions. It’s best to follow them carefully to avoid errors during installation. Most people report that installation takes around 1-2 hours.
  3. Check for Leaks: After installation, double-check that everything is tightened properly and that there are no air leaks around the intake seals. Leaks can affect the air-to-fuel ratio and performance.

Final Thoughts:

The Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit (SPE-9900) is a solid upgrade if you’re looking to improve the performance and sound of your 1999-2007 GM vehicle. It provides noticeable improvements in power and throttle response without being too aggressive or difficult to install. If you want a relatively simple and affordable way to enhance your truck or SUV’s performance, this is a great option. Just be sure to consider your local emissions laws and any other mods you may have when planning your installation.

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