One of the quickest and easiest ways to improve horsepower and torque on '05-'09 Mustangs is to replace the factory induction system with a performance version from AiRaid. Designed to supply the engine with cooler, denser air, the AiRaid system also incorporates a premium high-flow air filter that is reusable when cleaned with AiRaid's cleaning kit. AiRaid claims a dyno-proven 17 hp and 21 lb. ft. of torque for Mustang GTs, with similar gains for V6 cars.
While many aftermarket cold-kit kits require a custom-tune for proper operation and performance, the AiRaid kit comes with a removable Modular Venturi Tube. With the MVT installed in the induction tube, the system does not require custom tuning for the factory computer. However, if you're looking for maximum horsepower and torque, the MVT can be easily removed, although a custom-tune is required for safe operation.
The AiRaid package comes with...
The AiRaid package comes with everything needed to add cold-air induction to an '05-'09 Mustang GT: air dam, molded induction tube with AiRaid's Modular Venturi Tube, cleanable performance filter, silicone couplers, and mounting hardware. A version is available for V6 Mustangs as well.
We installed the AiRaid induction system in online editor Greg Clark's '08 Mustang GT. The installation is simple and easy, requiring only a minor modification to the factory breather tube.
After disconnecting the negative...
After disconnecting the negative battery cable, begin the removal of the factory induction system by loosening the clamp that secures the induction tube to the throttle body. Also, disconnect the breather hose, mass air sensor wiring connector, and any other connections to the factory induction system.
Use a 10mm socket to remove...
Use a 10mm socket to remove the bolt that secures the factory airbox to the fender. The bolt will be reused for the installation of the AiRaid air dam.
With everything disconnected...
With everything disconnected and unbolted, you can lift the factory airbox away from the car, then pull the induction tube off the throttle body to completely remove the factory induction system. Make sure the pair of rubber grommets remain in place in the sheetmetal under the airbox; they are needed for the AiRaid air dam installation.
Use the provided #20 Torx...
Use the provided #20 Torx bit to remove the pair of screws that retain the mass air sensor inside the factory airbox and pull the sensor out. It will be reused with the AiRaid induction.
To prepare for the AiRaid...
To prepare for the AiRaid installation, you'll need to remove the anti-lock brake bracket bolt, install a grommet and sleeve, and assemble the air filter adaptor to the air dam. All of the steps are spelled out in the AiRaid instructions.
The AiRaid cold-air induction...
The AiRaid cold-air induction comes with a Modular Venturi Tube, which installs into the induction tube. With the MVT in place, the AiRaid system does not require reprogramming of the factory computer. However, for optimum horsepower, the MVT can be removed provided the car is custom tuned. Removal also makes the AiRaid system illegal for California emissions.
Slide the factory mass air...
Slide the factory mass air sensor into the AiRaid induction tube and secure with the original Torx screws.
AiRaid's Cool Air Dam installs...
AiRaid's Cool Air Dam installs in place of the factory airbox. With the hood closed, it prevents warm engine compartment air from entering the air filter.
Install the provided silicone...
Install the provided silicone couplers, one on the throttle body side of the induction tube and the other on the air filter adaptor at the air dam.
Install the AiRaid induction...
Install the AiRaid induction tube between the throttle body and air dam, then tighten the clamps.
The AiRaid air filter slips...
The AiRaid air filter slips onto the adaptor inside the air dam.
Reconnect the mass air sensor...
Reconnect the mass air sensor wiring and factory breather hose, which must be modified slightly to adapt to the AiRaid system.
A weatherstrip is provided...
A weatherstrip is provided to seal the air dam to the hood. It simply slips over the edges of the air dam.
Poweraid
While the induction...
Poweraid
While the induction system was apart on Greg Clark's '08 Mustang GT, we installed AiRaid's PowerAid throttle body spacer, which is designed to enhance off-idle and low-speed torque with AiRaid's Helix Bore technology. According to AiRaid, the spacer, which installs between the throttle body and intake manifold, creates a spinning action of the incoming air to enhance off-idle and low-speed torque.
To install the PowerAid throttle...
To install the PowerAid throttle body spacer, first remove the four nuts that secure the throttle body to the intake manifold. If your Mustang GT is equipped with the intake cover, it will need to be removed as well. Make sure the orange gasket in the intake stays in place.
Install the four studs, which...
Install the four studs, which provide the added length needed for the spacer.
Install the throttle body...
Install the throttle body and space onto the studs, then secure with the supplied nuts.