CAI for 2006 5.3

[kirkg1]

Has anyone here put a CAI on a 06 5.3? I would like a K&N, but it only list up to 2005. Is there a diffrence from 05 to 06? Or should I just do the K&N filter?
thx

[Clayton]

I've searched this a lot on here...looks like the 63 Series is popular for the 2006 5.3L

That's what I'll be doing in the next month or so...along with Exhaust and headers.

[Spong]

I highly recommend the MAC intake. Much nicer than the K&N plastic pos.

http://images8.fotki.com/v160/photos/4/41590/3295654/DSC04037-vi.jpg

[Envoy Fan]

Vector Motorsports makes a good one also. Uses the stock air box. :yes:

[wakeenvador]

I installed the Volant in my 06 5.3 TB, which has made a huge improvement in HP, haven't seen any gains in MPG. I will also be installing the AirRaid TBS today. I called AirRaid directly has I had problems finding a TBS for a 06 5.3L TB. If anyone is interested in purchasing one, its AIR 200-606. I ordered it from AJUSA for $99. I will keep you updated on any performance/mileage increases.

Is it just me or are others having a hard time find after market performance parts for the 5.3 TB?

[Spong]

I installed the Volant in my 06 5.3 TB, which has made a huge improvement in HP, haven't seen any gains in MPG. I will also be installing the AirRaid TBS today. I called AirRaid directly has I had problems finding a TBS for a 06 5.3L TB. If anyone is interested in purchasing one, its AIR 200-606. I ordered it from AJUSA for $99. I will keep you updated on any performance/mileage increases.

Is it just me or are others having a hard time find after market performance parts for the 5.3 TB?


The aftermarket for the 5.3 TB isn't the best. There are a few different CAI's available. PCMforless makes a great tune and also a E-fan kit (I've got their tune and some E-fans but haven't installed the fans yet). There really isn't much else aftermarket for the 5.3 you really need. Maybe headers. :undecided

[MrNorthFace]

I went with the TrueFlow kit & it's is nice, but the orange color is a bit gaudy.

I did notice an improvement in throttle response & with all that I have done, my mileage is up over the 14/18 that the window stickers suggesting.
I am normally getting at least 16-17 around town....when my foot isn't in it :D



http://files.automotiveforums.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=40096&password=&sort=1&size=medium&cat=500&page=1

This is a picture of the CAI I have:

[brazenisgod]

I dunno guys, Spong's MAC CAI looks pretty hawt... I might go with that one.

:undecided

[MrNorthFace]

Aaawwww come on.....don't you like the pumkin orange? :laugh: :no:

[DRudi2]

The mac is a cool intake, but the local speed shop is backordered.

I looked at a TBSS and the setup looks the same as the 5.3. From what I read on this site, the TB is the same size and the oem plastic intake. Is this correct or does someone have other info. I'm installing the 63 K&N model next week.

[wakeenvador]

I had the same concern before I ordered my CAI, that is why I ended up with the Volant, they make one specifically for the 5.3l.

[blueblazer5_3]

The cold air kits that fit the 6.0 SS will fit the 5.3 The 5.3 uses the same air box as the SS. I have the SS K+N kit and like it. I would say for R+D purposes that the MAC intakes are a great guy. I just didn't like the "outthere" chrome look (would like it now though!!!!)

Anyway, the 5.3 and 6.0 are the SAME BLOCK. Anything that fits a 5.3 and 6.0 is available.

Don

[StvsDenaliXL]

I went with the TrueFlow kit & it's is nice, but the orange color is a bit gaudy.

I did notice an improvement in throttle response & with all that I have done, my mileage is up over the 14/18 that the window stickers suggesting.
I am normally getting at least 16-17 around town....when my foot isn't in it :D



http://files.automotiveforums.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=40096&password=&sort=1&size=medium&cat=500&page=1

This is a picture of the CAI I have:

:undecided I've been looking into getting TrueFlow, what was the model # you purchased?, whenever I visit their site they don't show it available for a 2005 5.3L and I've emailed the company and they said that they don't make a CAI for my year and engine :confused: they just make the filter, the same goes for Volant.......BTW I don't mind the pumpkin orange :p

[JLFitzpatrick]

I also went with the True Flow as it was the ONLY CAI available at the time I bought my 2003 Envoy XL XLT 5.3L. Model Number is 10505, and you'll need to get their Maintenance Kit, which like K&N includes their proprietary cleaning and oil products. I also transferred the GMS MAF Sensor from the prior vehicle, a 2000 Sierra XLT 5.3L 4-Door Club Cab, which both work well together. I like the look of the MAC CAI posted here, but a little too much bling for my tastes (or maybe it's my age). As mentioned elsewhere in this topic, the 5.3L and 6.0L share the same block external dimensions. In fact, the 5.3L can be bored to become a 5.7L using the same Cylinder liners and 5.7L Pistons, according to an in-depth LS-1 based article in Hot Rod Magazine a year or so ago (based on the OEM Engine code designations). So, a 5.7L or built 383 transplant is also possible, which these are more common and less expensive than factory 6.0L LS-2's. You'll just need to use the Trailvoy intake, exhaust, and probably accessory drives. Lastly, this extended version of the GM 360 platform is the same used for the Chevy SSR, and so SSR pieces will also work. Primarily the SSR supercharger kits (Like the Magnuson intercooled) and likely the exhaust systems should bolt right up. Then there's also underdrive pulleys, electric fans, etc. Other mods include Torque Converters and Shift Kits, in addition to Computer Tuners, which these vehicles use an electronically actuated Throttle Body and are known for a lazy off the line response based on the Factory's Torque Management parameters. So there's a few more things to think about for these vehicles.

[Dave]

I think there was some high flow heads for the 5.3 also. I think it was built for the W series cars though (Grand Prix).

[ennzzo]

If you go with a aftermarket intake, do you have to have a tune?:undecided

[ScarabEpic22]

If you go with a aftermarket intake, do you have to have a tune?:undecided

This has been answered numerous time, please search next time.:thx

Short answer:

4.2L I6 and 5.3L V8 do not need a tune, but it is really not smart to get a CAI and not tune for it, especially with tunes being as cost-effective as they are.

The 6.0L LS2 V8 requires a tune for most good intakes; the K&N and Volant are good but there are better ones out there for the SS.