Thread: 68 H/O
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Old August 4th, 2008, 10:03 AM   #26 (permalink)
joe_padavano
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mugzilla View Post
I think the main advantage is getting "cold" air to the carb ...

They called it ram air because it sounded cool ...
Well, Olds DID pride itself on locating the air inlets at the areas of highest pressure differential. Many of the other manufacturer's "ram" air systems had inlets located in areas that were actually LOWER pressure than ambient. The Ford shaker scoops were among the worst. The reality is, however, that by the time the air flow makes it's way through the convoluted 4" tubes on the 66-69 O.A.I. systems, there's probably precious little pressure differential at the carb. The air temp difference is the real source of the HP increase. Opening the air cleaner element under the hood negates both any pressure differential AND the lower inlet temperature.

On a related note, I continue to laugh at the "cold air" systems for the ricers where the factory outside air inlet (which really does suck colder air) is replaced by an open element air filter under the hood, usually right next to the exhaust manfold and right behind the radiator. DOH!
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